Can PS2 games be played on PS3?

PS2 games on PS3 would be a fantastic way to play your retro games on that platform. Unfortunately, the process is fairly complicated; here’s what we know.

Are PS2 games playable on PS3?

PS2 games can be played on specific PS3 consoles. The PS3 initially had support for backwards compatibility when it first launched, but this was removed on later models to cut costs. The backwards-compatible models you’d want to purchase include the initial 20GB and 60GB models. They have the same fatter shape as the pictured PS3 above, but they will have four USB ports at the front. According to Cultured Vultures, these are the model numbers you should look out for:

• CECH-Axx
• CECH-Bxx
• CECH-Cxx
• CECH-Exx

You should know these fetch more of a price from resellers on eBay and used game stores. All PS3 models, however, do have backwards compatibility with PS1 games. You can play classics like Spyro the Dragon, Ape Escape, and Digimon Rumble Arena perfectly on any PS3 model.

Even if you have a compatible PS3, some of the PS2 games won’t work on the system or have strange glitches. YouTuber Mystic shows that James’ leg disappears in Silent Hill 2 while idle, and there are some technical hiccups with Tomb Raider: Underworld like input delay. EverybodyWiki has a list of compatible PS2 games compiled by players.

There are HD compilations

Thankfully, most of the notable PS2 titles have been remastered for the PlayStation 3. To give a few examples, the Ratchet & Clank games, the Kingdom Hearts series, the Jak & Daxter adventures, the initial Devil May Cry trilogy, and the stealthy Sly Cooper series all have remasters for the PS3.