Modder taught PS5 to run PS2 disc games - PS3 backward compatibility next

A hacked PS5 gained the ability to run games from PS2 and PS3 discs. The success of enthusiasts led to accusations against Sony of lying and unwillingness to add backward compatibility.

Modder Sword released PS5SX2, a special version of the PCSX2 emulator, allowing PS2 games to be run directly on the Sony console. The program requires a hacked PS5 to work.

The emulator supports original PS2 DVD discs, which can be launched via the built-in drive or an external USB device. Game images in ISO, CHD, CSO, and ZSO formats are also available. The exception is CD games, which the standard PS5 drive cannot read.

PS5SX2 allows resolution upscaling to 4K, image enhancement with filters including AMD FSR, running some games at 60 frames per second, and widescreen aspect ratios. Virtual memory cards, local four-player gaming, and network functions are provided.

Also, a solution for emulating PS3 games, one of the most difficult platforms for implementing backward compatibility, already exists on the modified PS5.

The successes of enthusiasts have drawn criticism towards Sony: players are unhappy that owners of hacked consoles gain access to old games, while on a regular PS5, it is still officially impossible to run their own PS2 and PS3 game discs.