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How to Play PS2 Games on a PlayStation 3

Many models of the PlayStation 3 game console can play games originally created for the PlayStation 2, although later models of the system removed the feature. If your system has the capability, many PS2 games should play without configuration, though peripheral and memory card support requires additional setup.

Instructions

- 1
  Check your PlayStation 3 model for PlayStation 2 backwards compatibility. Read the serial number on the back of your system. Only models with serial numbers ending in CECHB01, CECHA01 or CHECHE01 are compatible. These serial numbers are found on some older systems with 20GB, 60GB and 80GB hard drives. Your system may also have a notice regarding backwards compatibility printed on the underside of the console.
- 2
  Check your PlayStation 2 games for compatibility. Sony keeps a database of PlayStation 2 games that work with the PlayStation 3 system on their website. Note that compatible games requiring special peripherals may not operate correctly, as the PS3 system cannot correctly interface with the device.
- 3
  Connect a Sixaxis or DualShock 3 controller to the PS3 system. By default, the PS3 has no ports to accommodate a PS2 controller, although third-party adapters allow you to use older controllers.
- 4
  Save your game using the PS3 hard drive's "Internal Memory Card" feature, located in the "Memory Card Utility" section of the "Game" menu. Assign it to a virtual slot from the "Assign Slots" section of the card's "Options" menu. You can also transfer saves from a PS2 memory card using a physical memory card adapter.

PlayStation 3