How to remove deleted games from your PlayStation 5 home screen

You uninstalled the game, deleted the save, and the icon is still sitting on your home screen. It happens when the PS5's database doesn't update after a removal.

You don't need to factory reset to remove it. A few quick steps in settings is all it takes.

• Icon for a game you already uninstalled?
• A game in your library with a download arrow that leads nowhere?
• "Recently Played" showing games you haven't opened in years?

Here's how to remove them.

Method 1: Restore licenses

This is the quickest option. It forces your PS5 to check in with Sony's servers and re-verify what should be on your screen. For many people, that's enough to clear the leftover icons.

1. Go to Settings (the gear icon).
2. Select Users and Accounts.
3. Select Other.
4. Select Restore Licenses.
   
5. Select the game or games you want to restore.
6. Select Restore.
   

Tip: Your screen might flicker briefly while it updates. That's normal.

Method 2: Re-download and delete

Sometimes the icon won't let you delete it until the PS5 recognizes the file again. Starting a download (even a partial one) re-links the icon to the system, which makes the Delete option available.

1. Start downloading the game.
2. Back out of the download screen.
3. Select the game.
4. Press the Options button on your controller.
5. Choose Delete.
   

Notes:

• You may need to wait until the download reaches about 25% before the Delete option becomes available.
• If a game has been refunded or removed from your account, this method won't work. When you press the button, it will take you to the PlayStation Store to View Product instead.

Method 3: Rebuild Database

If the other methods didn't work, your PS5's file index may be corrupted. Rebuilding the database forces the console to scan the SSD and reorganize its files, which clears out orphaned icons.

1. Make sure the PS5 is completely powered off. No white or blue lights.
2. Press and hold the power button for 6–8 seconds until you hear a second beep.
3. Once Safe Mode appears, plug your controller in with a USB cable.
4. Press the PS button on your controller.
5. Choose Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
6. Choose Rebuild Database.
   
7. Select OK.

It says it might take a few hours, but in my experience it only takes a minute or two. The PS5 will restart when it's done. Wait for the login screen.

If the game was on disc

If the game you deleted was a physical disc, the icon will stay on your screen as long as the disc is in the drive. The PS5 shows it as "Ready to Copy" because it still sees the disc.

The fix: Eject the disc. The icon should disappear immediately.

Related:

How to fix PS5 software problems: Troubleshooting guide

How to rebuild your PS5 database | Fix lag & crashing

How to clear your PS5 cache | Fix UI lag & crashing

How to restore licenses on your PS5 to fix locked games

Fix PS5 padlock icons, missing games & buy again errors

How to stop your PS5 from turning on with your TV

How to stop your PS5 from going into rest mode automatically

PlayStation 5

References:

https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/safe-mode-playstation/