Yes, but only on certain PS3 models. Sony’s Japanese support pages identify the CECH-A00 and CECH-B00 series as able to play PS2 game discs; Sony says other PS3 series do not support PS2-format software. Those are Japanese model codes, so check your console’s exact model number against Sony documentation for your region before relying on compatibility.
Which PS3 models play PS2 games?
Sony’s Japanese support guidance says that only the CECH-A00 and CECH-B00 series support PS2 game discs. Its disc-support information also says PS2-format software does not run on other PS3 series. Sony manuals for CECH-2101, CECH-2501 and CECH-K01 models likewise state that PS2-format software cannot be played on those systems.
The CECH-A00 and CECH-B00 identifiers are Japanese regional model codes, not a universal list of equivalent numbers for every country. Consult Sony’s PS3 compatibility guidance, model comparison and disc playback information, and use documentation for your market to confirm the model you have.
How to check whether your PS3 is compatible
- Find the full model number printed on the console. Check the label on the system itself rather than relying on its appearance or a seller’s description.
- Look up that exact number in Sony’s documentation for your region. Do not assume that a Japanese model code has a direct equivalent in another market.
- Confirm that the documentation explicitly supports PS2-format discs. A listing that says only “PS3” or “backward compatible” is not enough unless it identifies the model and its compatibility.
Color, size and hard-drive capacity are not substitutes for checking the actual model number. If you are considering a used console, ask for the model identifier and confirm it before buying.
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Can a PS3 Slim play PS2 discs?
Do not assume that a PS3 Slim can play PS2 discs. Compatibility depends on the exact model, and Sony’s guidance says PS2-format software does not run on PS3 series outside the supported CECH-A00 and CECH-B00 Japanese series. Check the Slim’s complete model number against Sony’s documentation for its market; its shape or product name alone does not establish compatibility.
Does a virtual memory card make PS2 games work?
No. A virtual memory card is for saving game data after you have a PS3 that can run the game; creating one does not add PS2 playback support to an incompatible system.
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On a compatible PS3, Sony’s instructions describe creating a virtual memory card in console storage and assigning it to a virtual slot for PS2 or original PlayStation saves. Follow Sony’s virtual memory card instructions to set it up.
Will every PS2 game work on a compatible PS3?
Sony’s cited guidance establishes which model series support PS2 discs, but it does not provide a complete, current game-by-game compatibility assessment across regions. Model support therefore does not establish that every individual title behaves perfectly. If a particular game matters to you, check for title-specific information before purchasing a console or disc.
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Digital availability is separate from disc compatibility and varies by storefront. Sony’s sources do not establish which PS2 Classics are currently available in each region, so check the PlayStation Store in your territory for a specific title.
Sony’s US notice says PS3 Store closure in the user’s region will start in July 2027. A separate Sony announcement published July 1, 2026 says closures begin in select markets during 2026, followed by global closures in 2027. The dates are region-dependent; check Sony’s current notice for the schedule that applies to you. Sony says that after a regional closure, new purchases through the PS3 Store will no longer be possible; its 2026 announcement says previously purchased content will remain downloadable for the foreseeable future. Existing content may still depend on the game’s features and service availability.
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What to look for when buying a PS3 for PS2 discs
- Exact model number: Ask the seller for a clear photo of the console’s model label and verify it with Sony’s regional documentation.
- Regional code: The CECH-A00 and CECH-B00 examples are Japanese codes. Do not infer compatibility from a similar-looking code in another market without confirmation.
- Condition and disclosure: Confirm the console’s working condition and that the listing identifies the exact model. A general claim that a PS3 is backward compatible does not establish that the specific unit supports PS2 discs.
- Disc or digital access: If you plan to use discs, the console must be a supported model. If you plan to buy digital titles, check your local store’s current availability and closure notice.
Update the PS3 system software for general system maintenance. Sony notes that a current update renews the Blu-ray player encryption key, but this is not a way to add PS2 compatibility to an unsupported model. See Sony’s PS3 system software guidance.
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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.
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