Which Fat PS3 Models Can Play PS2 Games?
As an avid retro gamer and PlayStation enthusiast, this is a question I‘ve researched extensively. In short – the original 20GB and 60GB PS3 models with 4 USB ports have full backwards compatibility with 99% of PS2 games through hardware emulation.
A Breakdown of PS3 Backwards Compatibility
When the PlayStation 3 launched back in 2006, Sony built the hardware to be fully compatible with the previous PlayStation 2 console as a major selling point. This was achieved through including the PS2‘s emotion engine processor inside the PS3.
However, as manufacturing costs increased over time, Sony began removing PS2 backwards compatibility from newer PS3 revisions in 2007 and beyond:
| PS3 Model | PS2 Compatibility | Key Details |
| Original 20GB | Full Hardware Emulation | Fully PS2 backwards compatible through hardware |
| Original 60GB | Full Hardware Emulation | Fully PS2 backwards compatible through hardware |
| Early 80GB | Software Emulation | Partial compatibility, later removed |
| All Later Models | None | No hardware or software compatibility |
As you can see, only launch 20GB and 60GB PS3 systems contain the actual PS2 processor required for stable hardware emulation. Early 80GB units had software emulation which was removed in 2008 to cut costs.
So in 2024, your best bet for playing PS2 games on a PS3 is tracking down one of those original "fat" launch models.
Identifying a Backwards Compatible PS3
Luckily, it‘s very easy to visually tell whether a used PS3 will play PS2 discs or digital games purchased from the PlayStation Store.
Check the number of USB ports:
- 4 USB ports – Hardware compatible model
- 2 USB ports – Not compatible
As a nostalgic gamer myself who thinks the PS2 has one of the best gaming libraries ever, I‘ve been specifically hunting for one of these elusive PS3s with 4 USBs to unlock that sweet backwards compatibility!
Why Were PS2 Chips Removed?
Back in 2007, estimates indicated that Sony was losing over $300 per 60GB PS3 sold. Between the PS2 processor, Blu-Ray drive, Cell broadband engine and other cutting edge tech – the PS3‘s Bill of Materials was through the roof!
By stripping out non-essential components like PS2 backwards compatibility, Sony could substantially bring down costs and slowly move the console into profitability.
As a result, later PS3 Slim and Super Slim models lost all PS2 support. Sony did continue selling select PS2 games digitally over PSN, utilizing software emulation. However the performance and compatibility of these downloadable titles has issues on non PS2-hardware PS3 consoles.
The Benefits of Owning a Fully Compatible PS3
For retro enthusiasts like myself, having full access to the PlayStation 2‘s legendary library is worth hunting down one of those premium 20GB or 60GB PS3 models. And yes – they can get pricey on eBay and secondary markets!
Beyond nostalgia, there are definite benefits gamers receive when playing PS2 titles on an original FAT PS3:
Enhanced Visuals – Higher resolution up to 1080p over HDMI. Improved texture filtering and anti-aliasing not seen on base PS2 hardware.
Trophies + Online – PS2 classics you purchase digitally allow you to unlock trophies. Some also work online which wasn‘t originally available.
Convenience – Play disc-based PS1, PS2 and PS3 games all on a single console. No need to hook up old hardware!
For retro collectors, owning the coveted 20GB or 60GB PS3 is the definite way to play your PS2 library with enhancements. While pricier than a base PS2, they offer more features and the knowledge your purchase preserves PlayStation history.
Closing Thoughts
Hopefully this breakdown gives you a crystal clear answer around "which PS3 can play PS2 games" – the original 20GB and 60GB PS3 models!
Their full hardware emulation offers the most accurate and problem-free way to access the incredible PS2 game library. I know I‘ll continue searching to add one to my personal collection soon.
As both a passionate gamer who loves preserving retro titles, while also creating content around PlayStation – I‘m happy to provide this thorough guide to PS3 backwards compatibility. Please let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always glad to chat more about keeping PlayStation history alive!
