How to Play PS1 Games in 2026 (Beginner’s Guide)

The PS1 defined a generation, and in 2026 playing these classic games is easier than ever! Whether you want the real hardware feel or modern convenience, I am going to list out the top 5 ways for you to enjoy PlayStation 1 games today.

🔍 TL;DR — Pick Your Play Style

Method	Cost	Ease	Why Use It
PS1 + HDMI converter	$$$	Plug & play	Best nostalgia, original feel
PS2	$$	Very easy	Best value for disc play
PS3	$$	Very easy	Discs over HDMI + virtual memory cards
PS5/PS4 + PS Plus	$$	Super convenient	Digital-only, modern save features
PC Emulation	0–$	Medium setup	Highest quality, tons of features

No matter your budget or tech skills (my dad was able to get this setup), there’s a way to relive PS1 glory in high fidelity, or exactly as you remember it from back in the day. Let's just jump right in!

1. Original PS1 Hardware (with HDMI)

• Works great with the right converter
• Outputs composite, S-Video, or SCART (not component)
• Top converters in 2026:
  • RetroTINK 2X Pro – sharp 240p, zero lag
  • RAD2x Cable – 480p, plug-and-play simplicity
  • OSSC – customizable scaler for purists

Do you still have your PS1? If you do you're definitely in luck as this console was built to last. The only problem though is connecting to your modern TV, so you're going to need a quality up-scaler to get the job done. If you go the cheap route (like I did, big mistake), your converter could blur visuals and introduce lots of lag. I recommend the RetroTINK line, which is also beloved by the retro gaming community, for preserving the visuals of your games.

Memory Cards: Original ones still work, or upgrade to a MemCard Pro for microSD storage and Wi-Fi backups. It’s plug-and-play with modern convenience.

2. PS2 & PS3 Consoles (Disc-Based Simplicity)

✅ PS2

• Plays all PS1 discs
• Outputs component video
• Needs a physical PS1 memory card

I would have to honestly say that PS2's are cheaper and more reliable than PS1s in many cases, as they offer better video quality with component cables and broad compatibility. This option is fantastic for budget-minded players (such as myself).

✅ PS3

• Every model supports PS1 discs
• Uses virtual memory cards
• HDMI output, optional visual smoothing

The PS3 is a hidden gem for PS1 games. It doesn’t need converters and plays discs natively over HDMI, making it one of the easiest options for modern setups.

3. PS Vita & PlayStation TV (Legacy Option)

• Great portable experience (if you already own one)
• Re-downloads only — you can’t buy new PS1 games
• OLED screen makes PS1 RPGs shine

The Vita and PSTV still support PS1 Classics but only for titles you purchased before Sony shut down commerce functions. You can’t buy new games, but if they’re in your download list, you can play them.

Workaround: Add funds via PS5, PS4, or web and check for cross-buy entitlements to re-download on Vita or PSTV. It’s a bit clunky, but it works and the handheld experience is still unmatched thankfully!

4. PS5 & PS4: PS Plus Premium or Digital Buys

⚠️ PS1 discs won’t work on PS5 or PS4.

Two access routes:

• PS Plus Premium – Ongoing library of PS1, PS2, PSP games
• Individual purchases – Some titles still sold separately

Sony’s modern emulator adds welcome upgrades: save states, rewind, visual filters, and trophies for select titles! This is absolutely amazing for anyone looking to experience their classic games in 2026, as save states are a game changer. (no more running back to bosses) The PS Plus Classics Catalog is growing slowly, but includes some heavy hitters such as Tekken 2 and Ape Escape.

🎮 Confirmed PS1 titles on PS4/PS5 as of 2026:

• Resident Evil 1–3
• Tekken 2
• Syphon Filter series
• Wild Arms
• Twisted Metal 1–4
• Ape Escape, Jumping Flash, Mr. Driller

Great if you want to casually dip into retro games with no hardware fuss, but it has a limited library of games with more on the way eventually.

5. PC Emulation (The Powerhouse Method)

• ✅ DuckStation – Fast, accurate, 4K output, PGXP fixes
• ✅ RetroArch (Beetle PSX HW) – Deep filters + multi-system use
• 🟡 ePSXe – Still works but now outdated

Emulation gives you the sharpest picture, the highest level of customization, and the most modern quality of life features. Whether you want native widescreen support, CRT shaders, or fast forward options, emulation has it covered. The downside is that you need to dump your own BIOS files and rip your own discs, since downloading them from the internet is not legal. In my personal opinion, this option makes classic games look absolutely fantastic. Sometimes it is hard to believe just how good these games can look in 2026, and nothing compares to seeing your favorites in a way you never imagined back then.

Legal note:

• ✔️ Dump your own BIOS (e.g., SCPH1001)
• ✔️ Rip your own discs (ImgBurn, dd)
• ❌ Don’t download BIOS/ROMs online as its illegal

It works great with PS5 and PS4 controllers, 8BitDo Bluetooth pads, and even original PS1 controllers through USB adapters. You can use Nintendo-style controllers too, as long as they connect over USB or Bluetooth. Most off-brand controllers work the same way.

Controller Recommendations

Controller	Best For
Original DualShock + USB adapter	Authentic feel, emulation setups
DualSense (PS5)	PS5, PC emulators
DualShock 4	PS4, PC emulators
8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth	Best wireless for emulation

Use adapters like Mayflash or Brook to mix old and new seamlessly. Most modern controllers are plug-and-play in DuckStation or RetroArch.

Where to Buy in 2026

Finding retro PlayStation games in 2026 is easier than you might expect, but where you shop can make a big difference in price, condition, and peace of mind.

Online marketplaces like eBay, Mercari, and Facebook Marketplace are still the most active places to find used games and hardware. eBay offers the largest selection and buyer protection, but prices often run higher. Mercari can be great for deals if you are patient, while Facebook Marketplace is ideal for local pickups that avoid shipping costs. Always check photos carefully and read descriptions closely, especially for disc condition.

Local retro game stores are usually the safest option if you want to inspect or test a game before buying. Prices may be a bit higher than online, but you are paying for convenience, authenticity, and the ability to return something easily if there is an issue. Many stores also clean and resurface discs before selling them.

PriceCharting.com is an essential tool before making any purchase. It shows current market prices for loose discs, complete in box copies, and sealed versions, helping you avoid overpaying. Prices can change quickly, so checking recent sales is always a smart move.

Japanese imports are another option, especially if you are looking for cheaper copies or exclusive releases. Many PS1 and PS2 games are more affordable in Japan, but you need to be aware of region locking and language barriers. Japanese PS1 discs will not run on a North American console without a modchip or emulator, though they work fine in most emulation setups.

Used disc prices still fluctuate, particularly for RPGs and cult classics, but the retro resale market is very much alive. With a little patience and research, it is still possible to build a great collection without paying collector level prices.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re revisiting Final Fantasy VII, grinding in Digimon World, or just want to hear that startup chime again, 2026 gives you more access than ever!

• Original hardware? Still excellent.
• PS2/PS3? Affordable and reliable.
• PS5/PS4? Simple and modern.
• Emulation? Sharpest and most powerful.

🎯 Pick what fits your vibe, budget, and TV setup. There's no wrong way to enjoy the PS1, just your way.