Sony could be working on a new PS2 emulator for PS4 and PS5

The PlayStation rumor mill is spinning once again, this time around a potential new PlayStation 2 emulator for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The introduction of a new PS2 emulator would support Sony's initiatives for game preservation and backward compatibility, which are currently primarily upheld through games available via PlayStation Plus.

Throughout the console generations of PS4 and PS5, Sony has faced some criticism regarding their approach to backward compatibility. In comparison to Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation does not offer the same extent or accessibility when it comes to playing classic games - a notable departure from the PS3 and PS2, which were fully backward compatible with all PS1 games. What the PS4 introduced was PS Now, later rebranded as PS Plus Extra and PS Plus Premium. These services allow PlayStation owners to stream or download a selection of classic titles from the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP generations, but the selection is somewhat limited.

While there are many new PlayStation games on the horizon, according to YouTuber Mystic, the platform could expand its support for classic titles. In a recently released video discussing the state of Sony's classic game catalog, Mystic addressed some issues related to the current options for accessing PS2 and PS1 games on PS4 and PS5. He mentioned that he had learned from a reliable source that Sony is working on a new emulator for PS2 games to enhance the value of the PS Plus subscription program.

While this is just a rumor, it holds relative credibility. Mystic has been a reliable source of information regarding PlayStation in the past, and his confidence in this matter lends credibility to the idea. This rumor also aligns with Sony's current strategy. PS Plus is soon receiving a price increase, and the focus of the service is to compete with Game Pass, a more affordable and extensive subscription model. The upcoming price hike, coupled with a reduced game collection and the lack of access to exclusive titles on release day, doesn't shed a positive light on PS Plus. Therefore, a better and more extensive emulator for classic games could be just what the service needs.

Regardless of comparisons with Xbox, having better access to classic PS2 games on modern consoles can only be positive. The extensive library of the PS2 is full of successful games that countless players would love to have access to. If this rumor turns out to be true, it could further expand the PS Plus library or provide PlayStation owners with a better opportunity to experience PS2 titles.

Source: PlayStation Lifestyle