The PS5 didn't break my save files... because it broke the ability to even load into the game.

For reference, I own a PS4 disc version of the Special Edition. I was able to download the PS5 digital version for free when it came out, but it still requires the disc to run.

I, being oh-so-naïve thinking the new update wouldn't cause as much trouble as others in the past, let it install and tried to boot up the PS5 version of the game. More fool me, because it got (and continues to get) stuck at the initial splash screen, with the silver logo and black leather background.

I thought maybe it was a disc problem, so I took it out, cleaned it, re-inserted and tried again. No dice.

Then I thought maybe it was a problem with all the Skyrim console versions. I still have the PS4 version installed, so I tried that. Lo and behold, booted up fine. What in the name of Akatosh?

So, until a new fix comes out, methinks I've just lost 21 characters and an unbookmarked mod list.

Conclusion: Bethesda, stop trying to "fix" what's not broken with "better" methods. Go suck Dagon's undoubtedly-disgusting schlong until the force of his load blows out the back of your skull.