Can a PlayStation 3 read PlayStation 2 discs?

The PlayStation 3 (PS3) is capable of reading PlayStation 2 (PS2) discs, but only on certain models, specifically the original 60GB and 20GB launch models, which have PS2 chips that enable backwards compatibility. These models allow players to enjoy their favorite PS2 games on the PS3 without needing to keep their old PS2 consoles.

FAQs about PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 2 Compatibility

General Compatibility

1. Can I play PS2 discs on PS3?: Yes, but only on the original 60GB and 20GB launch models that have PS2 chips.
2. How to Tell if You Can Play PS2 Games on Your PS3: Check if your PS3 has four USB ports on the front, which indicates it is a backwards compatible model.
3. Are PS2 discs backwards compatible?: Not all PS2 discs are backwards compatible, and later models of the PS2 console may not play all games released for prior versions.

PlayStation 3 Models and Backwards Compatibility

4. What PS3 is backward compatible with PS2 discs?: The original 60GB and 20GB launch models are backwards compatible with PS2 discs.
5. Can a PS3 play all PS2 and PS1 games?: Every PS3 is backwards compatible with PS1 games, but only certain models, such as the original 20/60GB PS3s and the MGS4/80GB PS3s, can play PS2 games.
6. Which PS3 can play PS1 and PS2 games?: The original 20/60GB PS3s and the MGS4/80GB PS3s can play both PS1 and PS2 games.

Other PlayStation Consoles and Backwards Compatibility

7. Can PS4 play PS3 and PS2 discs?: No, the PS4 disc drive and hardware cannot read PS2 or PS3 discs.
8. Will PS2 discs work on PS4?: No, PS2 discs will not work on PS4, but players can access their favorite old games using a PlayStation Plus Extra or Deluxe membership.
9. Can PS5 play PS2 discs?: Some PS2 games can be played on the PS5, but not using the original CDs or DVDs.

Modifications and Workarounds

10. How do I make my PS3 backwards compatible with PS2 games?: If you don’t have a backwards compatible PS3, you can purchase and download PS2 games from the PlayStation Store or jailbreak your PS3, which will void your warranty and may result in a ban from the PlayStation Network.
11. Is Jailbreaking a PS3 illegal?: Yes, jailbreaking a PS3 is illegal and can give companies legal grounds for litigation, especially in matters of piracy.
12. What is a modded PS3?: A modded PS3 is a PS3 with modifications that can add cheat codes, new content, or replay value to games.

Digital Storefronts and Game Availability

13. Is the PS3 store still up?: Yes, the PS3 store remains online, although Sony had previously announced plans to shut it down.
14. Can I play PS2 games on PS3 without a PS2 controller?: The PS3 does not natively support PS2 controllers, but players can use a dongle to connect their PS2 controller to the PS3.
15. Why was PS2 emulation removed from PS3?: PS2 emulation was removed from the PS3 to cut down on costs, as the PS3 was initially very expensive to produce, with an estimated cost of $850 at launch.