does the playstation 3 play playstation 1 and 2 games as well?

Question

I know they make a couple of different modelsand wondered if it mattered, also was curious if it was just memory ability or if it was something else different ?

Answer 1

This question is an often one, so that's my cut & paste answer:
1). 20GB has no chrome trim, no memory card reader and no wi-fi. Not manufactured anymore. Has the best backwards compatibility with PS2 games due to Emotion Engine (PS2's CPU) and Graphics Synthesizer (PS2's GPU) installed.
2). NTSC 60GB has the same backwards compatibility as 20GB version, also has memory card reader and wi-fi. Has a chrome trim.
3). 80GB - extended memory, but reduced backwards compatibility with PS2 games, it has only Graphics Synthesizer (PS2's GPU). Around 80% of PS2 games can be played. Available only in NTSC regions.
4). 40GB - can't play PS2 games at all (all PS2 chips were removed), has 2 USBs instead of 4, no memory card reader, has wi-fi. Avalable in black and white colors. White is on sale only in Japan. Uses 65nm technology (lower power consumption). Improved cooling system. It's the latest version.
5). PAL 60GB - reduced backwards compatibility with PS2 games. it has only Graphics Synthesizer (PS2's GPU). Around 80% of PS2 games can be played.
Wi-fi included in all models, except 20GB.

Answer 2

Only the 60gb and the 80gb will play Playstation 2 games. The 40gb doesn't have backwards compatibility

Answer 3

yes the 60 gig plays playstation 1 and 2 games but the 40 gig playstation 3 doesnt and 80 gig im pretty sure lets you play the old games too hope that helps good luck

Answer 4

Some of them do.

20GB (discontinued) - Plays both PS1 and PS2 games.
40GB - Plays ONLY PS1 games.
60GB (discontinued) - Plays both PS1 and PS2 games.
80GB - Plays both PS1 and PS2 games.

The 80GB is 95% backwards compatible and the 60GB is 98% backwards compatible.

Answer 5

yes