It used to be impossible to play mastered video games on a PlayStation 2 (PS2) without installing a modification chip. These devices, which must be connected to the motherboard with a soldering iron, are difficult to install and can damage the laser of the optical drive. In some countries, modifying your PS2 is even illegal. Today, thanks to the magic of software changes, you no longer need to insert new hardware into your console. You can read CDs burned with your PS2 thanks to a program called Swap Magic and a small plastic tool called Slide Card. For this method to work, you will need to remove the front cover of the CD / DVD drawer, but you only need two small ones to do so. screwdrivers.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting the Tools You Need
Step 1. Get the Swap Magic 3.6 program
This application allows you to play games burned on your regular or Slim PlayStation 2 (PS2) without resorting to installing a chip. You can buy it at stores that sell used video games or those that offer computer repairs. You can search for it on the internet too, but make sure the source is trustworthy, like Amazon.
- You must purchase a CD or DVD copy of the program and you will not be able to create your own. All sites that charge for Swap Magic digital download try to scam you. Buy the application only from sources you trust.
- Swap Magic 3.8 also allows you to play video games not available in your country. Make sure you are familiar with the applicable laws before playing a video game not intended for use in your country.
Step 2. Get a Slide Card
Together with Swap Magic, this tool allows you not to use a chip. It is a small piece of plastic designed to open the PS2 while a disc is spinning, in order to change the game. Swap Magic 3.6 and later versions have a Slide Card inside the box (and these tools are universally compatible), however, if your copy of the program does not come with it, you can almost always order one from the same store that has you. sold the software.
Step 3. Tidy up the area where you will work
You need a small Phillips screwdriver, a small flat screwdriver and a well-lit surface. You will only need to remove the front cover of the PS2 DVD player, so you won't need to open the entire console.
Part 2 of 3: Remove the DVD Player Cover
Step 1. Turn on the PS2 and press the “Eject” button
The DVD drawer will slide out, in the ideal position to remove its cover.
Step 2. Turn off the console and unplug it from the power
Use the switch on the back of the system, as the one on the front will cause the player to close. Unplug the console from the wall outlet.
Step 3. Move the console to a well-lit flat surface and turn it upside down
The screws you need to remove are located on the bottom of the DVD player drawer.
Step 4. Unscrew the screw on the DVD tray
It holds the cover (which you will remove) together with the drawer. Use the small Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw in the lower right corner of the drawer. Keep it handy, because you'll soon be putting it back in its place.
Step 5. Separate the cover from the clips that hold it in place
This is the front of the DVD player, secured by two small clips on the right and left. Using a small flat screwdriver or nail, gently separate the cover from both clips, pulling it towards you. Don't use too much force or you will break the plastic. If a piece comes off, you can fix it with glue.
Step 6. Put the screw back into the DVD player
Use the Phillips screwdriver to do this.
Step 7. Turn the console over again and turn it on
You will need to reconnect it to the plug and to the television.
Part 3 of 3: Play
Step 1. Insert the Swap Magic 3.6 (or later) disc into the PS2
In the package of the program you will find a CD and a DVD. If the burned game you want to play is on CD, insert the Swap Magic CD into the console. If it is on DVD, insert the application DVD.
Step 2. Turn on the PS2 and wait for the on-screen instructions to appear
Once the console has loaded the Swap Magic disc, the words “Insert Disc” will appear on the television.
Step 3. Remove the CD / DVD using the Slide Card
With the arm of the tool facing right, insert it under the DVD player, from the left side. You should see 2 cm of distance between the Slide Card and the left side of the reader. Once the plastic strip is in place, firmly grasp the reader drawer and slide it to the right. The drawer will open. Remove the Swap Magic disc.
Step 4. Insert the burned game into the player
Once done, gently push the reader drawer into the console.
Step 5. Slide the Slide Card back under the reader, always facing right
The following steps are slightly different than the ones you took to remove the Swap Magic disc.
- Slide the Slide Card to the right, but this time, when the reader opens slightly, release some of the pressure on the plastic tool and continue to drag it to the right. This slight movement allows the Slide Card to move the locking mechanism to activate correctly.
- Slide the Slide Card to the left again. The player will close. Once the disc is inside the console, you can take the plastic tool back.
Step 6. Press “X” on the joystick
The burned game should start, whatever it is.
Advice
- When burning a PS2 game, set the write speed as low as possible for best results.
- If you have a good dexterity, you can create a Slide Card yourself from a credit card.
Warnings
- There are other programs that allow your console to play burned games, but it is difficult to find reliable sources on the internet. Experts recommend Swap Magic because it is safe and easy to use.
- Although you can find modified PS2s on the market, these models are not covered by warranty and can break at any time.
- In some countries, installing a modification chip is illegal.
