PCSX2

Spec sheet

What it does

PCSX2 is a free, open-source emulator that lets users play PlayStation 2 games on a PC.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Support

The project directs users to its Discord server and forums for questions and troubleshooting.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

BIOS requirement

PCSX2 cannot play games without a BIOS, and the project says users must dump the proprietary BIOS from their own console.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Compatibility

The project provides a searchable compatibility database with game title, serial, CRC, status, and latest testing fields.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Controller support

SDL is the recommended cross-platform input source and supports automatic mapping for most controllers and operating systems.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Graphics APIs

The documentation lists Vulkan, OpenGL, Direct3D 12, and Direct3D 11 hardware rendering options, plus CPU software rendering.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Licensing

Unless otherwise stated, PCSX2 emulator components are licensed under GNU GPL version 3 or later.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Memory card limits

PCSX2 currently does not support multitapped memory cards.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Recording and patches

PCSX2 includes a patching system and an internal recorder for lossless quality at full speed.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Save state limitation

Save states are not guaranteed to work across different PCSX2 versions, and the documentation recommends memory cards for long-term saves.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Saving

PCSX2 supports virtual and shareable memory cards and save states.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Security limitation

The project warns that PCSX2 is not a sandbox and cannot protect a computer from malicious software run inside it.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Supported systems

The system requirements page lists Windows, macOS, and Linux, with requirements varying by performance tier.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Visual features

PCSX2 supports custom resolutions and upscaling.Read 5 Oct 2026 · pcsx2.net

Plans and prices

Every PCSX2 plan and price →

Where Specifiction places it

• Game Console Emulators#22 of 357.6
• Emulator Software#27 of 397.6