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How to Play PS2 Copied Games Without a Mod Chip

Sony designed the PlayStation 2 (PS2) gaming console for use with DVD discs encrypted with special algorithms meant to prevent the use of copied or burned games. It was not long, however, before PS2 enthusiasts discovered a way to "mod" (modify) the firmware chip on the PS2 to bypass the encryption. Modding the firmware in a PS2 overcomes the algorithms and allows PS2 owners to play copied versions of games from burned DVDs or even USB flash drives. Modding a PS2, though, takes a considerable amount of effort and voids the Sony warranty. Newer methods, though, make it possible to play copied game discs on the PS2 with the use of a "loader" CD.

Things You'll Need

Swap Magic, Game Shark or Free PS2 McBoot
Blank DVD-R disc
CD/DVD burning application

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase the GameShark or Swap Magic application. You can order the application CD or download the disc image to your computer. Alternatively, download the Free PS2 McBoot utility, which is a freeware utility that performs the same functions as the GameShark or Swap Magic applications.
- 2
  Open the CD/DVD burning application and burn the loader application to a blank DVD (if you did not purchase the disc version of the application or if using the Free McBoot utility).
- 3
  Power off the PlayStation 2 console. Open the PS2 disc tray and insert the "Free McBoot," "GameShark" or "Swap Magic" loader disc.
- 4
  Power on the PS2. Wait for the PlayStation 2 to boot to the loader disc and display the application menu screen on the TV. After the loader disc application menu appears, open the disc tray and remove the loader disc.
- 5
  Insert the copied PS2 game disc and close the disc tray. Press the "X" button the PlayStation 2 controller. Load and play the game just as you would when using an original PlayStation 2 game disc.

PlayStation 2