PS3 Backward Compatibility: No Model Plays All PS2 Games

Zero PS3 models are fully backward compatible with PS2 games.

The "BC" Models (Launch: Nov 2006 – ~Aug 2007)

• NA/Japan 20/60GB (CECHA/B/C/E): Hardware Emotion Engine (PS2 CPU) + Software GS (GPU) = ~90% compatibility.
• PAL 60GB (CECHC): No EE chip; Software EE + Software GS = ~70% compatibility, more glitches.
• 80GB MotorStorm Bundle (CECHE): Software EE + Software GS (same as PAL).

All Later Models (Sep 2007+)

• 40GB, 80GB (CECHG/K/L), 160GB, 250GB, 320GB, Slim, Super Slim: Zero PS2 playback. Hardware removed to cut cost.

Reality Check

• Even on launch models: Graphical glitches, sound issues, crashes, memory card incompatibility common.
• No PS2 classics on PS Store for PS3 (unlike PS4/PS5).
• PS4/PS5 also cannot play PS2 discs; only select PS2 Classics re-releases on PS4/PS5 Store.

For true PS2 library: Original PS2 (fat + FreeMCBoot + OPL/HDLoader) or PCSX2 emulation on PC.