You can play PS3 games on original PS3 hardware, stream selected titles through PlayStation Plus Premium in supported markets, use the RPCS3 emulator on PC, or play a PS4/PS5 remaster or remake when one exists. The right choice depends on the exact game and whether you need to use its original disc: a PS5 does not play PS3 discs.
Which way to play PS3 games should you choose?
| Route | Best fit | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| PS3 console | You own a PS3-format disc or want the original console experience. | Confirm the console reads discs and check compatibility for the precise model. |
| PlayStation Plus Premium streaming | Your game is included in the streaming catalog for your market, and you can play through the service. | Check the current catalog and regional availability before subscribing. |
| RPCS3 on PC | You want to try emulation and are comfortable checking a community compatibility resource. | Look up your exact game in RPCS3’s current compatibility list; a listing is not a guarantee of smooth play. |
| PS4/PS5 remaster or remake | The game has a separate newer release you can play on your console. | Check that the specific title has a newer version and that it is the edition you want. |
1. Play the disc on a PS3 console
If you have a PS3-format disc, a PS3 console is the straightforward option. Sony’s manual for the CECH-2501B model says it is designed to play PS3-format software and that inserting a disc starts the game. That manual applies to that model, not every PS3 configuration, and it cautions that not all PlayStation-format titles are guaranteed to work. Sony’s PS3 manual
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Sony Playstation 3 160GB System (Renewed) | $184.24 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 320 GB Charcoal Black Console (Renewed) | $216.06 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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PlayStation 3 Slim Console 120GB (Old Model) (Renewed) | $160.33 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
PlayStation 3 500 GB Super Slim System (Renewed) | $228.22 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Sony PlayStation 3 - 80GB System (Renewed) | $217.22 | Buy on Amazon |
In particular, the CECH-2501B manual says that model does not play PS2-format software. PS2 compatibility varies by PS3 model, so check the precise hardware version rather than assuming a feature of one console applies to all of them.
What to check when buying a used PS3
- Ask whether it powers on and reads game discs.
- Confirm it comes with a working controller and the power and video leads you need.
- Look for a clear return policy in case the console or disc drive does not work as described.
- Check the model number if you need a particular compatibility feature.
2. Stream a supported game with PlayStation Plus Premium
Sony’s PlayStation Plus guide lists selected PS3 games as streamable through PlayStation Plus Premium in select markets, including on PS4, PS5 and PC. The available games and service access depend on your market. Search for the exact title in your region’s current catalog before paying for a membership. Sony’s PlayStation Plus guide
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#1 Best Overall
- Internet Ready With Built-in Wi-Fi with a Cell Broadband Engine Advanced Microprocessor
- When starting up the system for the first time, hold the power button until a "screen display" message shows up on screen. Select the desired output, and the system will startup normally.
- 160GB system
- Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality
- The best high-definition viewing experience available
Streaming is access to a catalog game through the service; it does not make a PS5 compatible with your PS3 disc. You will also need an internet connection suitable for streaming.
Streaming versus a downloadable newer release
Sony distinguishes streamable original PS3 games from remastered or remade PS2/PS3 titles that can be downloaded for PS4 or PS5. Check whether the version you want is a streaming catalog title or a separate newer release; those are different ways to access a game.
Rank #2
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system, Wireless controller
- 320GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution.
3. Try RPCS3 on a PC
RPCS3 is a PC emulator for PS3 games. Its community compatibility list reports results by game, so search for the exact title you want rather than assuming that general compatibility means your game will run well. The list changes as users report compatibility, and a listing is not a promise of smooth or trouble-free play. RPCS3 compatibility list
Check the game’s entry before deciding whether this route is practical for you. The available compatibility information does not establish a particular PC specification or expected performance for every title.
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- HDMI + Bravia Sync functionality that provides both 1080p output resolution.
- A new 33% slimmer, 36% lighter PlayStation 3 entertainment system that is also more energy efficient.
- Includes a Dualshock 3 wireless controller and a built-in 120GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity anywhere and multiple media format compatibility.
- Free membership and access to all the events, as well as game, movie, TV and other media content available on the PlayStation Network (PSN).
4. Look for a PS4 or PS5 remaster or remake
Some PS3-era games have distinct remastered or remade releases for newer consoles. If your game has one, you can play that newer edition on PS4 or PS5, subject to the release’s availability and requirements. Sony describes certain remastered or remade PS2/PS3 games as downloadable releases for newer consoles in its PlayStation Plus guide.
This is not a way to use the original PS3 disc in a PS5. First confirm that the specific game has a PS4 or PS5 version, then check whether that edition meets your needs.
Rank #4
- Your Favorite Franchises Live Here: Dig into a huge catalog of exclusive games, including generation defining titles like The Last of Us and entries in popular franchises like LittleBigPlanet, God of War, Gran Turismo, and UNCHARTED.
- High-Definition Blu-ray player for the best movie experience. Plays DVDs and CDs
- 500GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Internet ready with built-in Wi-Fi
- Blu-ray player
Can you play PS3 discs on a PS5?
No. Sony’s support documentation says PS5 consoles do not support PS3 discs. A PS3 disc therefore needs a PS3 console; streaming a catalog title or buying a remaster is separate access, not disc compatibility. Sony’s PS5 backward compatibility information
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to gaming services and the Internet
- Built-in Blu-ray player to give you the best high-definition viewing experience and pristine picture quality
- 80 GB of hard disk storage for all your games, music, videos, and photos
- This product is NOT backwards compatible
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
