Only a few specific “fat” PS3 models can play actual PS2 game discs; all others need downloaded PS2 titles from PSN instead.

Quick Scoop: What PS3 Plays PS2 Games?

For physical PS2 discs , you’re looking for the early launch models that have PS2 hardware or hybrid emulation built in.

The main backward‑compatible models are:

  • 20GB “fat” PS3 – model code CECHBxx (North America/Japan)
  • 60GB “fat” PS3 – model code CECHAxx (North America/Japan)
  • 60GB “fat” PS3 – model code CECHCxx (Europe/PAL, partial software emulation)
  • Early 80GB “fat” PS3 – model code CECHExx (North America, partial software emulation)

Key points:

  • If your PS3 is a Slim or Super Slim , it does not play PS2 discs natively, but can run “PS2 Classics” downloaded from the PlayStation Store (where still available).
  • Compatibility is region‑locked : NTSC PS2 games need an NTSC PS3; PAL games need a PAL PS3.
  • Even on compatible models, a small number of PS2 games have glitches or freezes; Sony and fan wikis maintain long lists of which titles work best.

How to Quickly Check Your PS3

  1. Look at the sticker on the back or bottom of your console.
  2. Find the model code (starts with “CECH”).
  3. If it starts with CECHA , CECHB , CECHC , or early CECHE , you likely have some level of PS2 disc support.
  1. Any Slim (CECH-20xx, 21xx, 25xx, 30xx) or Super Slim (CECH-40xx) will not read PS2 discs, only PS2 Classics downloads via emulation.

Simple rule of thumb

  • Big, glossy “fat” launch PS3 with the right model code = yes for PS2 discs (with some caveats).
  • Slim or Super Slim = no PS2 discs, only digital PS2 Classics from PSN.
TL;DR: If you’re searching “what ps3 plays ps2 games,” you want an early backward‑compatible fat model (CECHA/CECHB/CECHC/CECHE). Everything newer needs PS2 Classics downloads instead.
[8][9][10][6][3] Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.