Best setup for playing PS1 Games

[DuckTalesNES]

So I realized all I want in my bedroom is to be able to play SNES and PS1 RPGS. What version of the PS1 is best (original or slim) or should I get a PS2 to play them on? I only want to play the PS1 games, so I'd only get a PS2 for that purpose.

[kedawa]

PS2 has the option to speed up load times and add some type of texture filtering, so it's at least as good as a PS1 for playing those games.
I'm not sure how it compares with PS3, though.

[DuckTalesNES]

One other advantage of the PS3 is the built in memory cards. But I kind of don't want a system that is going to fail and get yellow lights of death and all that crap. I have a PS3 for my living room, but just want something simple for PS1 gameplay.

Regarding the PS2, the slim is a much more reliable console than the fat one right?

[Aussie2B]

I'd personally advise against a PS2. Since you want to play RPGs, a lot of PS1 RPGs use sprites to some extent, and the PS2 can do wonky things to 2D graphics, like produce visible boxes around sprites. Some might not notice or care, but it's pretty ugly to me. I want my games to look exactly how they're supposed to, so I stick with an original PlayStation with s-video. The model doesn't really matter, besides avoiding the launch model.

[samspade]

I enjoy playing my PS1 games on my PS3. I like how it has all the advantages of playing it on the PS2 plus virtual memory cards. I hate fucking with old memory cards.

The PS2 is a really good option though since there's lots of great RPGs for it. Gives you the most options anyway. As for any issues, I've never encountered an issue with my PS2 in terms of playing PS1 games on it and it's the same one I bought new back in the day. It's held up pretty damn well for over 10 years.

[Red Earth]

i think those visible boxes you mention only occur when you set the PS2's smoothing option on for PS1 games, otherwise it simply plays the game as it would play on PS1. PS2 is more reliable and i would play my PS1 games on small PSone system or a slim PS2 for best results, using your best video connection available on a CRT.

[sloan]

I guess I am what you might call a gaming purist. I enjoy my PSX collection best on an old gray original PSX console, preferably one with the composite jacks out the back (earlier systems). I even prefer the original, non-analog, controllers before dual shock came along. sentimental value, I guess.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Any model PS3 is excellent for playing PS1 games.

HDMI output is really nice, even in 480 it keeps PS1 graphics looking clean. The wireless Dual Shock 3 is great if you're in a bedroom where cords aren't optimal, it has virtual multi-tap support if needed, the smoothing and full screen options are nice and help some games that are jaggy-heavy.

Also, as mentioned above, you'll have an endless supply of virtual memory cards with BOTH ports available and switching digital cards out on the fly is possible.

Of course, you can get a PS1 for under $20 these days, and even a used PS3 is going to run you a decent bit of cash.

PS2 doesn't offer any considerable advantages and is more expensive than a PS1, so I'd say either a PS1 and a good wireless controller like the Logitech Dual Shock 2 OR a PS3.

[Aussie2B]

i think those visible boxes you mention only occur when you set the PS2's smoothing option on for PS1 games, otherwise it simply plays the game as it would play on PS1. PS2 is more reliable and i would play my PS1 games on small PSone system or a slim PS2 for best results, using your best video connection available on a CRT.

I don't know if it makes a difference for some games, but I'm pretty positive that you can still see boxes even with smoothing and fast loading off. I don't think I've ever used smoothing since I don't like how that kind of stuff makes games look, but I've definitely seen the boxes. Off the top of my head, I know it's bothersome in Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Valkyrie Profile. No matter what your settings are, the PS2 can't play games exactly like a PS1 because it's not the exact same hardware. There are even a small number of games that won't work on a PS2 at all.

[boxpressed]

I'd go PS2 for only one reason: wireless controllers (either Katana or Logitech).

[BoomerRaid]

For me with PS1 games, I use emulation. Specifically for playing SOTN, Parasite Eve, FF9, and currently with Dragon Quest 7, I use PSXfin on my laptop, plus the roms found.

Of course, I have an old PS2 that I use to play my other classics, which is never wrong, but my reasons for an emulation is:

-Quick load/save states.
-Ability to attach a PS1/2 controller with an adapter (old Pelikan adapter, rare nowadays) and play it without any qualms.
-adjustment to full screen so I can watch it on my 17 incher Dell.
-able to play PS1 games while traveling or waiting for other longer means of transportation during vacation time.

Obvious enough I do own all of the games mentioned above for legal and collection sakes. Otherwise, I have no problems playing it in my laptop.

To each his own, in the end, but when it comes to having a quick fix while out of the states, like I've already done several months ago, it never hurts to have something
nifty for the long waiting and/or enduring hours.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

I'd go PS2 for only one reason: wireless controllers (either Katana or Logitech).

PS2 wireless controllers will work fine on a PS1.

[InsaneDavid]

Since its launch I've primary used a PS2 but you know what, I really, really, reeaaallly missed the old PlayStation bootup sequence. It reminds me of that era of gaming and time in my life, crazily enough. To that end I've been using a PS1 and a "slim" PSone more and more. I sold my PS1 when the PS2 came out but like most of us I've come across them here and there since. I also have an old chipped PS1 I use for import gaming (mainly Densha de Go!, Pop'n Music, DDR and Mr. Driller G) although I'm going to go the route of a JPN PS2 for that sometime shortly. When playing PS1 games I use original PS1 DualShock controllers since the analog sticks have a looser feel and that's what the games were developed to use, aside from the awesome neGcon or Dual Analog Joystick - Treasures of the Deep and Colony Wars are great with it! Original DualShock is also my preferred PC gamepad due to its flexibility.

So for me, it's a classic PS1 for PS1 games although a PS2 will serve you well.

[DuckTalesNES]

So since the thread is heading this way...

I'll go with an original PS1. But I've seen a few interesting things about controllers here. Other than the standard dual shocks, what ones are really good for using with a PS1? Also, is there any big difference in the memory cards?

[Aussie2B]

If you guys do go wireless, say good-bye to games like Parappa the Rapper, UmJammer Lammy, and so on. The input lag completely ruins those games.

[Leo_A]

PS2 doesn't offer any considerable advantages and is more expensive than a PS1

My PSOne doesn't work with all my PS2 wireless controllers. The Force 2 pads only work on my PS2 as I recall (Just my Logitech controller works on my PSOne). So full compatibility with wireless PS2 pads is a plus, particularly for those that are fans of the Katana designed pads like I am (They feel almost just like a Dual Shock and they seem to be better built than the Logitech's).

And you also get component output, something you can take advantage of on the many high quality standard definition CRT's produced in the early to mid 2000's. You won't get that on any model of the original Playstation and it does make for a noticeable improvement.

That said, I do all my Playstation gaming on my redesigned Playstation that I bought new for $50 back around 2003 or so. Love the looks of the PSOne, it still looks nice hooked up via S-Video (Albeit not as nice as component), and it saves wear and tear on my PS2 or PS3. But I certainly see some benefits to using a PS2 for playing original Playstation games just as I do with a PS3 (Virtual memory cards, the ability to improve image quality if using an HDTV, and official wireless Dual Shock's in the PS3 instance).

Don't think someone could go wrong with any of the three choices.

[Camp]

I enjoyed reading a thread where everyone is saying PS1 and not PSX.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

My PSOne doesn't work with all my PS2 wireless controllers. The Force 2 pads only work on my PS2 as I recall (Just my Logitech controller works on my PSOne). So full compatibility with wireless PS2 pads is a plus, particularly for those that are fans of the Katana designed pads like I am (Feel just like a Dual Shock and they seem to be better built than the Logitech's).


Hmmm that's interesting, I haven't encountered that with any that I've tried, I wonder what would prevent them from working.

I have Logitech, Pelican and MadCatz wireless PS2 pads that I've used on my PSOne and Playstation systems with no problems.

[Leo_A]

Only thing I can think of is the reciever isn't getting adequate power from the controller port of the PSOne.

[InsaneDavid]

So since the thread is heading this way...

I'll go with an original PS1. But I've seen a few interesting things about controllers here. Other than the standard dual shocks, what ones are really good for using with a PS1?

The Dual Analog Joystick (the BIG twin grip joystick) works great for games specifically designed for it as the long throw and movement of each stick is something that cannot be replicated with a thumbstick. The Colony Wars games and Treasures of the Deep are what I primarily use it for. Yes, the PlayStation Analog Controller (the DualShock looking one that came out before the DualShock) has a similar mode as well but it doesn't properly replicate the movement distances of the joystick. However the "analog to digital" mode where the left stick can be used as a digital pad replacement (not true analog control) is handy for some games such as Resident Evil that use "tank controls" and is a feature many third party analog pads featured. I know an old MadCatz pad I had years ago contained that feature.

If you can get into using it the neGcon is a spectacular controller for the Ridge Racer series as well as a decent amount of other driving and racing games.


Also, is there any big difference in the memory cards?

PS1 games need to be saved on a PS1 memory card, even on a PS2.
PS2 games need to be saved on a PS2 memory card.

PS1 saves CAN be transferred over to a PS2 memory card in the PS2 browser but ONLY for archival storage as the games cannot access the data directly. To use the data you will have to copy it back over onto a PS1 memory card.

If your question was about manufacturers then the first party Sony stuff has held up better but your mileage may vary. I have third party cards that are still working fine and a few that have lost data and a couple multi-page cards that are beginning to have page selection issues.

[Tanooki]

Personally to me, and this is from someone who didn't even get a PS1 up until 2001, is the slim. My first one I grabbed when I was working for Midway back in the day and it was the LCD+System combo box set. I had seen and lightly used a PS1 before, but Sony disgusted me at the time so I still stuck with Nintendo. PS1 always looked like crap to me with the poor textures on polygons, usually slathered with annoying little squares on them they passed off as detail, and shit was jaggy like crazy too so on a tv of 20" or better it just was meh. The PSOne LCD though really stood out, even the third party latch on units sucked for being dark, bad refresh, whatever the case. The Sony one was like totally fine tuned to make PS1 appear better than it should. It softened up the visuals so the textures looked far less nasty, jaggies just kind of smoothed away some (though the small LCD played into both those factors) and the condensed audio on those two nice stereo speakers was just good stuff. It also would allow proper lighting, solid high res images to work, and shadows wouldn't mess up and looked great.

Later on I did try out the PS1 on a LCD tv and it was pretty terrible. Like the Saturn and N64 they all were f'n cheats using the mechanics of CRT tvs in the day to get away with stuff that won't fly on LCDs. Games ended up looking way too dark, some graphics will jack up a little to a lot, and some lighting effects using the CRT just fail completely. THough it's N64 for example Rogue Squadron is downright unplayable on a LCD. Any of the planetary stages with a night effect or dark sky are just fubar. All the lighting drops out and it's just black other than drawn on lights on buildings so you just ram yourself to death. And then high res images like the pics on your save files get some static but also have dropped lines every other pixel row since it's looking for a CRT with scanlines that LCDs don't hav.

Just something I felt to add to keep in mind with that generation of systems. I'm happy I have a CRT tv now (Sharp NES TV) as I have my N64 and SMS jacked into it and they work great.

[dao2]

I enjoyed reading a thread where everyone is saying PS1 and not PSX.

Well it is a PS1, the experimental should not have stuck :<

[DuckTalesNES]

Personally to me, and this is from someone who didn't even get a PS1 up until 2001, is the slim. My first one I grabbed when I was working for Midway back in the day and it was the LCD+System combo box set. I had seen and lightly used a PS1 before, but Sony disgusted me at the time so I still stuck with Nintendo. PS1 always looked like crap to me with the poor textures on polygons, usually slathered with annoying little squares on them they passed off as detail, and shit was jaggy like crazy too so on a tv of 20" or better it just was meh. The PSOne LCD though really stood out, even the third party latch on units sucked for being dark, bad refresh, whatever the case. The Sony one was like totally fine tuned to make PS1 appear better than it should. It softened up the visuals so the textures looked far less nasty, jaggies just kind of smoothed away some (though the small LCD played into both those factors) and the condensed audio on those two nice stereo speakers was just good stuff. It also would allow proper lighting, solid high res images to work, and shadows wouldn't mess up and looked great.

Later on I did try out the PS1 on a LCD tv and it was pretty terrible. Like the Saturn and N64 they all were f'n cheats using the mechanics of CRT tvs in the day to get away with stuff that won't fly on LCDs. Games ended up looking way too dark, some graphics will jack up a little to a lot, and some lighting effects using the CRT just fail completely. THough it's N64 for example Rogue Squadron is downright unplayable on a LCD. Any of the planetary stages with a night effect or dark sky are just fubar. All the lighting drops out and it's just black other than drawn on lights on buildings so you just ram yourself to death. And then high res images like the pics on your save files get some static but also have dropped lines every other pixel row since it's looking for a CRT with scanlines that LCDs don't hav.

Just something I felt to add to keep in mind with that generation of systems. I'm happy I have a CRT tv now (Sharp NES TV) as I have my N64 and SMS jacked into it and they work great.

Yes I'm planning on having a CRT in my bedroom for this setup for just SNES and PS1 for that reason. I'll have the nice HDTV in the living room with the modern video game systems.

[CRTGAMER]

However the "analog to digital" mode where the left stick can be used as a digital pad replacement (not true analog control) is handy for some games such as Resident Evil that use "tank controls" and is a feature many third party analog pads featured. I know an old MadCatz pad I had years ago contained that feature.
Actually, both sticks can emulate the DPad on certain older PS1 controllers. The Tank Control works better when you use the RIGHT Analog stick. Hold forward on the DPad while turning with the Right Analog stick at the same time.


So I realized all I want in my bedroom is to be able to play SNES and PS1 RPGS. What version of the PS1 is best (original or slim) or should I get a PS2 to play them on? I only want to play the PS1 games, so I'd only get a PS2 for that purpose.
The older grey PS1 with the parallel port is my favorite for PS1 games. With an instant load cheat cart to bypass the startup screen, the Game Shark cheats and a better memory card manager.

[BlastProcessing402]

If all you care about is PSX games, then I'd go with a PSOne. Doesn't take up much room and only does what you need it to do. Looks nicer than a PSX, too, IMO, not that the PSX is ugly or anything.

I don't know why anyone would want just PSX instead of PSX and PS2, but that's your business, if that's what you want, I say PSOne all the way.

[Tokimemofan]

The Dual Analog Joystick (the BIG twin grip joystick) works great for games specifically designed for it as the long throw and movement of each stick is something that cannot be replicated with a thumbstick. The Colony Wars games and Treasures of the Deep are what I primarily use it for. Yes, the PlayStation Analog Controller (the DualShock looking one that came out before the DualShock) has a similar mode as well but it doesn't properly replicate the movement distances of the joystick. However the "analog to digital" mode where the left stick can be used as a digital pad replacement (not true analog control) is handy for some games such as Resident Evil that use "tank controls" and is a feature many third party analog pads featured. I know an old MadCatz pad I had years ago contained that feature.

If you can get into using it the neGcon is a spectacular controller for the Ridge Racer series as well as a decent amount of other driving and racing games.



PS1 games need to be saved on a PS1 memory card, even on a PS2.
PS2 games need to be saved on a PS2 memory card.

PS1 saves CAN be transferred over to a PS2 memory card in the PS2 browser but ONLY for archival storage as the games cannot access the data directly. To use the data you will have to copy it back over onto a PS1 memory card.

If your question was about manufacturers then the first party Sony stuff has held up better but your mileage may vary. I have third party cards that are still working fine and a few that have lost data and a couple multi-page cards that are beginning to have page selection issues.

I'd clarify even further, there are a few PS2 games that can import save data from a PS1 game (Suikoden III comes to mind) you need to transfer the save to a PS2 memory card, the game can't see a PS1 card.

[Rickstilwell1]

The PS One is a bit quieter when loading games too. I would go with those just because they are newer and seem like they would last longer than the original model would.

[MarioMania]

If all you care about is PSX games, then I'd go with a PSOne. Doesn't take up much room and only does what you need it to do. Looks nicer than a PSX, too, IMO, not that the PSX is ugly or anything.

I don't know why anyone would want just PSX instead of PSX and PS2, but that's your business, if that's what you want, I say PSOne all the way.

We have a winner..1st guy said PSX

[Aussie2B]

Heh, "PSX" really is dying out. I remember around a decade ago pretty much everyone was using it, myself included. I prefer just "PlayStation" these days. Nobody really uses "PS", and I begrudgingly use "PS1" (I don't like adding "1" to titles that don't genuinely have it, unless we're talking about the PSone, of course).

[kedawa]

No matter what your settings are, the PS2 can't play games exactly like a PS1 because it's not the exact same hardware. There are even a small number of games that won't work on a PS2 at all.

The PS2 actually does contain the complete PS1 chipset. The compatibility problems you're referring to actually occur on certain models of the original Playstation as well.

[Zing]

I'd advise the PSone for two practical reasons:

1) It's the latest hardware and specifically designed to not break down as easily as the older hardware.
2) The PSone Dual Shocks are slightly different. The analog sticks are a little more tightly centered. They aren't as loose and feel more precise.

I'd advise against the PS2 because:
1) There are a few games that have glitches, especially on the later "PStwo" models.
2) The CD laser mechanism, for whatever reason, is far more prone to break down. Ask anyone who has had problems with "blue bottom" discs.

[Zing]

The PS2 actually does contain the complete PS1 chipset. The compatibility problems you're referring to actually occur on certain models of the original Playstation as well.

There are significant compatibility problems with the PS2. For example, games such as MK Trilogy and Tomba are essentially unplayable. Here is the wiki article regarding incompatible PSone games on the PS2:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_PlayStation_games_incompatible_with_PlaySt ation_2

I know of no original PlayStation models that have any compatibility problems with any licensed PlayStation games. I have seen no documentation of any compatibility or gameplay differences in any models, from the 1001 to the 9001. Likewise, even with significant hardware revision in the SCPH-101 (PSone), Sony managed 100% compatibility.

[FoxNtd]

Heh, "PSX" really is dying out.

I really hope so. It's about fucking time especially because it's insanely wrong. This is a PSX. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PSX_%28DVR%29)


Nobody really uses "PS"

Uh, no. That's standard in Japan. It's normal to use these acronyms in written Japanese, here are some of them: PCE FC FDS SFC MD PS SS and so on. Pretty much all the others match up with what we use, though nobody uses "GCN" and I don't even understand where that came from. I've always called it GC, which is also the shorthand for Gamecube in Japan too. "PS" is natural for me to use but if I know the listener is a foreigner with no clue how things are in Japan I may write "PS1" on purpose for emphasis. I never say PSX unless I am talking about the actual Sony PSX and how bloody heavy and expensive it is. :)



2) The PSone Dual Shocks are slightly different. The analog sticks are a little more tightly centered. They aren't as loose and feel more precise.

This doesn't apply to choosing one model over another at all. Playstation controllers are cross-compatible with other Playstations. Any controller made for PS or PS2 from any region/country should work with any PS or PS2.

[Aussie2B]

To be fair, "PSX" was commonly in use long before the actual PSX came out. Even industry people were using that. And when I said that nobody uses "PS" much, I was referring specifically to English speakers.

[FoxNtd]

To be fair, "PSX" was commonly in use long before the actual PSX came out.

Why? :confused:

[Leo_A]

Because that's what people referred to it as when using an abbreviation during the glory years of the system. If you want to nitpick about it, there's even some official references to lend credibility to it.

Acting like it's nonsense due to an obscure Japanese console release when the system was all but dead that used those three letters is strange.

[Aussie2B]

"PSX" was an internal code name before the PlayStation came out that somehow leaked out into the public and stuck. I guess the media must've started its spread. Supposedly the "X" stands for "Experimental".

[kedawa]

There are significant compatibility problems with the PS2. For example, games such as MK Trilogy and Tomba are essentially unplayable. Here is the wiki article regarding incompatible PSone games on the PS2:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_PlayStation_games_incompatible_with_PlaySt ation_2

I know of no original PlayStation models that have any compatibility problems with any licensed PlayStation games. I have seen no documentation of any compatibility or gameplay differences in any models, from the 1001 to the 9001. Likewise, even with significant hardware revision in the SCPH-101 (PSone), Sony managed 100% compatibility.

If I try to play Mortal Kombat Trilogy on my PS2, it works, but locks up at the continue screen if I lose.
It does the exact same thing on my PS1. I believe it's a 7500, but I'm not sure since I replaced the shell years ago. It could be a 9000.

[123►Genei-Jin]

If I try to play Mortal Kombat Trilogy on my PS2, it works, but locks up at the continue screen if I lose.
It does the exact same thing on my PS1. I believe it's a 7500, but I'm not sure since I replaced the shell years ago. It could be a 9000.

A single game is not enough to say both systems have compatibility issues.
It might very well be just that specific disc (not the game) especially considering you're not having the exact same issue described as a compatibility issue (regular version not working at all or Greatest hits version freezing after finishing arcade mode).
Also, if I'm not mistaken, there were 3 different revisions of the game itself, so that wiki page may have incomplete info regarding compatibility with PS2 for all 3 known revisions.

[DuckTalesNES]

Thanks for all of the feedback. I actually found out that my friend who had my original PS1 from back in the day still had it, so I actually have my original system back, which is awesome. I will look into some of the later dual shock controllers though, those sound pretty awesome.

[BlastProcessing402]

We have a winner..1st guy said PSX

I've been saying PSX for longer than many high school students have been alive. I'm not gonna stop now!

[dra600n]

There are significant compatibility problems with the PS2. For example, games such as MK Trilogy and Tomba are essentially unplayable. Here is the wiki article regarding incompatible PSone games on the PS2:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_PlayStation_games_incompatible_with_PlaySt ation_2

I know of no original PlayStation models that have any compatibility problems with any licensed PlayStation games. I have seen no documentation of any compatibility or gameplay differences in any models, from the 1001 to the 9001. Likewise, even with significant hardware revision in the SCPH-101 (PSone), Sony managed 100% compatibility.

That list is wrong, at least for one of the games. I've played all the re-released Final Fantasy games on my PS2 (both fat and slim), and never had any issues aside from really slow load times.

[RCM]

What type of television are you using? If you have an HDTV use PS3. If not, go with a PlayStation.

[kedawa]

Thanks for all of the feedback. I actually found out that my friend who had my original PS1 from back in the day still had it, so I actually have my original system back, which is awesome. I will look into some of the later dual shock controllers though, those sound pretty awesome.

If you don't care about rumble, then I'd recommend the Dual Analog controller over any dualshock controller.
It has bigger handles and concave analog sticks that don't have that gross rubber on them.

[DuckTalesNES]

If you don't care about rumble, then I'd recommend the Dual Analog controller over any dualshock controller.
It has bigger handles and concave analog sticks that don't have that gross rubber on them.

Can I get a pic?

[theclaw]

Can I get a pic?

Sony made two unrelated dual-stick controllers without rumble. Both are scarce, you won't often find them by chance.

US PS1 got Dual Analog model SCPH-1180 (the different numbered Japanese relative can rumble).
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/35/PS1DualAnalogController.jpg/300px-PS1DualAnalogController.jpg

While US PS2 had the very boring named Analog Controller model SCPH-10520. (that's right, no word "Dual" for its official title) This sold in an unmistakable blue box. Rather than yellow as Dual Shock 2 did.
http://kdraper.fastmail.fm/pub/padhacking/scph-10520/box.jpg

[j_factor]

I'v never seen that PS2 one before. That's odd.

There was a third party controller that mimicked the original Dual Analog called the Barracuda pad. It has the concave sticks and flight stick compatibility mode. It had two versions, but I'm pretty sure the only difference is the shape:

http://i.imgur.com/ISVU8.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/9ik9D.jpg

[NayusDante]

Pretty much all the others match up with what we use, though nobody uses "GCN" and I don't even understand where that came from.

GCN came from Sweeden. Der GæmenCöoben, Børk! Børk! Børk!


Personally, I kind of like using a PS2 to play PSX games because you can use component cables to get a cleaner video signal, assuming your CRT has the input. That generally looks better than the emulation and post-output scaling you get on PS3.

[FieryReign]

GCN came from Sweeden. Der GæmenCöoben, Børk! Børk! Børk!


Personally, I kind of like using a PS2 to play PSX games because you can use component cables to get a cleaner video signal, assuming your CRT has the input. That generally looks better than the emulation and post-output scaling you get on PS3.

My PS2 won't run PS1 games with a component cable, I have to switch to S-Video if I want to play a PS1 game. I didn't think it's possible. Tried it with a CRT and LCD, both would just show a scrambled mess on the screen. Or an all green screen. Are you using some type of adaptor?

[NayusDante]

Nope, just make sure your video output settings are configured for 480i. You might want to try switching between RGB and YPbPr modes.

[kupomogli]

Any model PS3 is excellent for playing PS1 games.

HDMI output is really nice, even in 480 it keeps PS1 graphics looking clean. The wireless Dual Shock 3 is great if you're in a bedroom where cords aren't optimal, it has virtual multi-tap support if needed, the smoothing and full screen options are nice and help some games that are jaggy-heavy.

If he plays it in 480i/p then HDMI would be fine, but when upscaled I heard on these forums that PSX and PS2 games have response issues. To me I never noticed it so didn't believe those who had said they experienced the issue, but then playing certain games I started to notice.

Because of this, I run my PS3 both HDMI and component. If it's a PSX or PS2 game, I'll switch it over to component and run the game at 720p or 1080i.

[FieryReign]

Nope, just make sure your video output settings are configured for 480i. You might want to try switching between RGB and YPbPr modes.

I don't see a way to configure your settings to 480i on the PS2? And if I switch it back to RGB mode there's no signal at all.

[theclaw]

I don't see a way to configure your settings to 480i on the PS2? And if I switch it back to RGB mode there's no signal at all.

PS2 displays PS1 games in their native 240p video mode using component. If your TV does not accept that combo, 99% of PS1 software will be utterly worthless.
Perhaps it's why PS1 games ported to PS2 were often up-converted to 480i. (check out Mega Man Anniversary Collection)

RGB mode is intended for SCART. The US PS1 and PS2 allow it despite few compatible TVs here.

[Aussie2B]

It's the same on my HDTV. I have my slim PS2 hooked up via component, and PS1 games won't display right. I've even had issues with a small number of PS2 games, like Art of Fighting Anthology.

[theclaw]

Yeah myself I've never encountered "won't display right". Only a signal not found type error. The worst affected TVs quite literally don't show on-screen signs of even attempting to process 240p from component.

[Aussie2B]

It depends on the game for me. Sometimes it displays nothing, but usually it splits the screen so that the PS1 game is displaying squashed and scrambled in the bottom half.

[Zing]

Yes, that is just the TV's lack of 240p support. There are a few PS2 games that use that mode as well (e.g. Ico).

[Zing]

That list is wrong, at least for one of the games. I've played all the re-released Final Fantasy games on my PS2 (both fat and slim), and never had any issues aside from really slow load times.
The issues with the Final Fantasy re-releases are not critical. They are simply display bugs (inverted colors occasionally on menus and such). The wiki list appears to me to be a straight copy from Sony's original official list.

[kedawa]

Sony made two unrelated dual-stick controllers without rumble. Both are scarce, you won't often find them by chance.

US PS1 got Dual Analog model SCPH-1180 (the different numbered Japanese relative can rumble).

While US PS2 had the very boring named Analog Controller model SCPH-10520. (that's right, no word "Dual" for its official title) This sold in an unmistakable blue box. Rather than yellow as Dual Shock 2 did.

It's actually pretty easy to restore rumble to the US dual analog controller, if you don't mind cannibalizing another Sony pad for the motors and doing some soldering.
What's the deal with the that PS2 controller? Does it not have rumble or something?

[theclaw]

Correct. That PS2 controller says right on the box, in black capital letters "does not support vibration".

No one's sure when they appeared (late 2007 seems plausible) or why they disappeared from shelves (maybe to avoid confusion?). Nonetheless I suspect those non-rumble controllers were gone again by fall 2008. Lego Batman bundle included Dual Shock 2.