PS2 Backward Compatibility Depends on Your PS3 Model

Not all PlayStation 3 consoles can play PlayStation 2 games. Whether yours can depends entirely on which PS3 model you own. Sony released three hardware versions of the PS3, and only the earliest ones included the components needed to run PS2 discs.

The 20GB and 60GB PS3 models (released in 2006) have full backward compatibility with PS2 games. These consoles contain the actual PS2 processor chip inside, so they can read and run PS2 discs the same way a PS2 would. If you own one of these models, you can insert a PS2 game disc and play it directly.

The 80GB PS3 model (released in 2007) has partial backward compatibility through software emulation rather than hardware. It can play most PS2 games, but some titles may not work or may have glitches. The 40GB model and all later PS3 versions have no PS2 support at all.

Key Takeaways

  • Only the 20GB, 60GB, and 80GB PS3 models support PS2 games, and you can find your model number on the back of the console or in the system settings.
  • The 20GB and 60GB models play PS2 discs without any setup, while the 80GB model uses software emulation that works for most but not all games.
  • PS2 memory cards do not work in a PS3, so you cannot transfer saves from your old console.
  • PS1 games work on all PS3 models, but you need to check Sony's compatibility list for PS2 titles on the 80GB model.

How to Identify Your PS3 Model

The easiest way to know whether your PS3 plays PS2 games is to check the model number. Look at the back of your console — you will see a label with the model number printed on it. The numbers you are looking for are CECH-H01, CECH-H02, CECH-H03 (these are 80GB models), CECH-B01, CECH-C01 (60GB models), or CECH-A01 (20GB model).

If you cannot find the label or prefer to check inside the system, go to Settings > System Information on your PS3 menu. The model number will appear on the screen. Any model number starting with CECH-K, CECH-L, CECH-M, or CECH-N means your console has no PS2 support.

Playing PS2 Discs on a Compatible PS3

If you own a 20GB or 60GB PS3, playing a PS2 game is straightforward. Insert the PS2 disc into the console just as you would a PS3 game. The system will recognize it and launch the game. You do not need to install anything or change any settings.

On an 80GB PS3, the process is the same, but not every PS2 game will work. Sony published a compatibility list for the 80GB model that you can search online. Before you buy a used PS2 game, check that list to see whether it is known to work. Some games run perfectly, others have minor sound or graphics issues, and some do not start at all.

Keep in mind that PS2 games will display in their original resolution, which is lower than PS3 games. On a modern high-definition television, PS2 games will look noticeably less sharp. The PS3 does not upscale PS2 graphics to HD.

PS2 Memory Cards and Save Files

Your old PS2 memory cards will not work in a PS3. The console has no slot for them, and the save file format is different. If you want to continue a game you started on a PS2, you cannot transfer your progress to the PS3 version.

Some PS2 games have been re-released as PS3 versions with updated graphics and features. If you own one of these remakes, you may be able to start fresh on the PS3 version, but your original PS2 saves will remain on your PS2 console only.

PS1 Games and PS3 Compatibility

All PS3 models, including the newer ones with no PS2 support, can play original PlayStation 1 games on disc. This is because PS1 emulation is built into every PS3 system. You can insert a PS1 game disc and play it on any PS3 model without any issues.

Like PS2 games on a PS3, PS1 games will not be upscaled to HD and will display at their original resolution. The gameplay and controls work exactly as they did on a PS1 console.

Digital PS2 Games Through the PlayStation Store

Sony has released a selection of PS2 games as digital downloads through the PlayStation Store. These versions are designed to work on any PS3 model, regardless of whether your hardware supports PS2 discs. You purchase and read them just like PS3 games.

The digital versions are not the same as the disc versions — they are emulated versions optimized for the PS3. The selection is limited compared to the full PS2 library, and they cost money to purchase. Check the PlayStation Store on your PS3 to see which PS2 titles are available in your region.

Troubleshooting PS2 Games That Do Not Work

If you own an 80GB PS3 and a PS2 game will not start, first check the official compatibility list to confirm whether that title is known to have issues. If the game is listed as compatible but still will not run, try these steps: restart your PS3 completely (not just sleep mode), clean the disc with a soft cloth, and check that the disc has no cracks or deep scratches.

If the game still does not work after those steps, it may be a known incompatibility with your specific console. Some games have regional restrictions — a PAL-region PS2 game may not work on a PS3 that was sold in an NTSC region, for example. Check the back of your game case and your console's region code to make sure they match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play PS2 games on a PS3 Slim or PS3 Super Slim?

No. The PS3 Slim (released in 2009) and PS3 Super Slim (released in 2012) have no PS2 support. Only the 20GB, 60GB, and 80GB models can play PS2 discs. If you want to play PS2 games, you need one of those earlier models or a PS2 console itself.

Will my PS2 controller work with PS2 games on a PS3?

Yes. PS2 controllers are compatible with PS2 games running on a PS3. You can connect a PS2 controller via a USB adapter and use it to play PS2 titles. However, the PS3 controller (DualShock 3) also works with PS2 games on compatible consoles.

Do PS2 games run faster or slower on a PS3?

PS2 games run at the same speed on a PS3 as they do on a PS2 console. The 20GB and 60GB models use the actual PS2 hardware, so performance is identical. The 80GB model uses software emulation, which may occasionally cause minor slowdowns in demanding games, but most titles run normally.

Can I use a PS3 hard drive to store PS2 game saves?

The PS3 cannot read or store PS2 save files. Your PS2 memory card saves exist only on the memory card itself. If you want to keep those saves, you must keep your PS2 console and memory cards. The PS3 has its own separate save system for PS3 games.

Is it cheaper to buy PS2 games or PS3 remakes?

Used PS2 games are often cheaper than PS3 remakes, but prices vary widely depending on the title and condition. Some popular PS2 games have become expensive as collectors seek them out. PS3 remakes usually cost more upfront but may offer improved graphics and features. Compare prices for the specific games you want before deciding which version to buy.