Play PS2 Games on PS3

The levels of comparability with Sony PS2 games vary, depending on the model of the Sony PS3.

Model: Sony PS3 – 20GB and 60GB NTSC.

These models of the Sony PS3 have the best backwards comparability with the Sony PS2.

These models contain PS2 circuitry in their hardware. More specifically they contain a full PS2 Emotion Engine (EE).

The sad thing is that this hardware-based approach was very expensive, so Sony discontinued the 60 gig NTSC PS3 shortly after it came out.

Sony PS3 – 40 Gig Model

This model has compatibility with the PS1, but it does not have any backwards compatibility with the PS2.

Sony PS3 – 80 Gig Model and 60GB PAL Model

The 80 gig Sony PS3 uses software emulation to support PS2 games.

This emulation not very good in the beginning, but Sony has improved it with regular firmware upgrades.

If you cannot run your PS2 games, you should upgrade the firmware to the latest generation.

The same goes for the The 60GB PAL model, which also utilizes software emulation.

Check PS2 Game Comparability

You can find the current status of backwards compatibility for your favorite PS2 video games. by checking Sony’s Playstation 3 Backwards Compatibility Status database.