80GB PS3 has limited backwards compatibility

We're still attempting to confirm what the new red light means on the PS3 controller from Sony*, but what we can confirm is that the new 80GB PS3 will have limited backwards compatibility. Clearly stated on the box, the system has apparently gotten rid of the chip previously used for US backwards compatibility and switched over to the European software version.

The box states: "This product has limited backwards compatibility with PlayStation and PlayStation 2 format software ... visit www.us.playstation.com for system software update." We're attempting to find out if the new 60GB versions rolling off the assembly line will also switch over to the BC software. So, if you're really into your old PS and PS2 games, might want to check and see if they are compatible with the software or get a system currently available before the switch.

*Update: From Dave Karraker, Sr. Director, Corporate Communications regarding the red light: "It is just a lighting trick. Nothing different or new about it."

Reader Comments (60)

I thought the EE PS3 didn't do the upscaling that the emulated version does??? Or did I make that up?

I've not used my PS3 for old games anyway, so it doesn't bother me at all.

Everytime I hear news about this, I find it hilarious since a few months ago Sony was bragging saying that every ps1 and ps2 game would be playable on the ps3.

Wait, if the 60 GB model has the Emotion Engine chip, and the 80 GB PS3 uses software emulation, shouldn't the 80GB be the cheaper system?

I'm curious, does the new 60 GB model at $499 will have the software emulation, or will it retain the Emotion Chip? The statement above from Rivithed isn't quite clear on that. The SCEA representative stated "current 60 GB" models, not the upcoming $499 one. So, I'm a bit confused.

you all knew the b/c issue would come to NA when they implemented it in europe.

Also, pricedrop is always a good thing... right?

It probably has limited BC so they can sell more games on their online shops to the PS3.
But this really, really pisses me off. I just got a couple new games for my PS2 (Rouge Galaxy and GrimGrimoire) and my PS2 decides that it can no longer read any discs and starts scratching them...
So ya, I was planning on getting a PS3 or a PS2slim when the cheaper one comes out.

I just bought a PS3 a few weeks ago, and I've never owned a PS2 though I've considered it. I have an old second-hand Playstation and only a few games. I'm not sure I will care about PS2 games or not, I bought the PS3 for high definition games and movies.

Come forth yee 'ol fanboy harpies that once upon a time ragged the 360 for it's flimsy BC abilities and rest in the knowledge that now you're in the same boat.

I specifically held off on the ps2 after learning of ps3 bc - and instead got a camecube after Nintendo's promise of Mario 128 releasing on GC - laugh's on me on both counts now, I guess. I might actually get a ps2 slim and turn my nose up at the new gen for a few years which is too bad because I'd really waited for the ps3 WITH full bc.

OMG i can't believe you still dont have a ps2. they are soooooo awesome. so many great games for em, ratchet/clank, god of war, guitar hero, kingdom hearts, and about 50 others

80GB PS3 has limited backwards compatibility

Reader Comments (60)

Posted: Jul 9th 2007 5:56PM DarthPaul said

Posted: Jul 9th 2007 6:23PM Vegeta has a ps3 said

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Posted: Jul 9th 2007 11:18PM JDM said

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Posted: Jul 15th 2007 1:20AM (Unverified) said

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