What formats are supported by PS2?

The PlayStation 2 (PS2) supports a variety of formats for both games and media, but it has some limitations due to the hardware of the time. Below are the main formats supported by the PS2:

1. Game Formats:

  • DVD-ROM: PS2 games are typically stored on DVD-ROM discs. This was one of the key upgrades from its predecessor, the PS1, which used CD-ROMs.
  • CD-ROM: Some PS2 games were released on CD-ROM format, especially in the earlier years of the console's lifecycle, though the vast majority of PS2 games used DVDs.

2. Media Formats (For Viewing and Listening):

  • DVD-Video: The PS2 can play DVD movies (DVD-Video format) out of the box without any additional hardware or software needed.
  • Audio CDs: The PS2 can play standard audio CDs (CD-DA format).
  • MP3: PS2 can play MP3 audio files from CDs or DVDs (if burned in the proper format).
  • JPEG Images: The PS2 can view JPEG image files when burned to a CD or DVD.
  • DVD-R/RW: The PS2 can read recordable (DVD-R) and rewritable (DVD-RW) discs, though compatibility can be inconsistent depending on the type of media used and the burner.

3. Data Formats for Custom Content:

  • PlayStation 2 Memory Cards: The PS2 uses proprietary Memory Cards (8MB in capacity) to save game data. Some games may use these for storing game progress, custom settings, and user-created content.
  • USB Storage Devices: The PS2 has limited support for external USB storage, where you can store game data, music files, and images. This feature became more functional later in the console's lifecycle with the use of homebrew software and adapters.

4. Other Formats (Limited/Optional):

  • PS1 Game Discs: The PS2 is backward compatible with most PlayStation 1 (PS1) game discs, which are in CD-ROM format. This means you can play PS1 games on your PS2 as long as they are in the standard PS1 format.
  • VCD (Video CD): The PS2 can play Video CD (VCD) discs, although this functionality may require a special VCD playback disc to be installed or configured, and compatibility may vary.

Not Supported:

  • Blu-ray: The PS2 does not support Blu-ray discs, as Blu-ray was introduced with the PS3. Therefore, you cannot play Blu-ray movies or games on the PS2.
  • HD-DVD: The PS2 also does not support HD-DVD, which was a competing format to Blu-ray during that era.

In summary, the PS2 supports DVD-ROMs, CD-ROMs, DVD-Video, MP3 files, and JPEG image files. It offers backward compatibility with PS1 game discs and limited media support for DVD-R/RW, audio CDs, and Video CDs. However, it does not support modern formats like Blu-ray or HD-DVD.

Back to blog