Highlights
The discovery of a working backward compatible PS3 console outside a dumpster is a lucky find for a gamer, as these consoles are sought-after by PlayStation fans.
Newer models of the PS3 lack the ability to play PS2 games.
A father of a gamer stumbled upon a functional PlayStation 3 console that supports backward compatibility while it was abandoned near a dumpster in their apartment complex. The initial release of the PlayStation 3 took place in 2006. The early PS3 models stood out for multiple reasons, one being their ability to play games from the previous two generations of PlayStation consoles.
The backward compatible PS3 systems allowed PlayStation gamers to enjoy their PS1 and PS2 games on the new console, which was a highly convenient feature that unfortunately got phased out in later models. Although PS1 backward compatibility was still available on all PS3 consoles, support for PS2 BC was discontinued. As a result, the backward compatible PS3 consoles have become highly sought-after among PlayStation fans.
If anyone is interested in purchasing a backward compatible PS3, they should expect to spend a few hundred dollars online. However, one lucky gamer managed to obtain one for free. According to Reddit user kushmaster805, their dad discovered a backward compatible PS3 outside a dumpster at their apartment building. Surprisingly, the console was in working condition and fully functional for playing PS2 games. As a test, the Reddit user played the PS2 game Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex on it. Although the PS3 displays some cosmetic damage like scratches, it is puzzling why someone would dispose of it when it works perfectly fine.
Unfortunately, the lack of backward compatibility seen in later PS3 models carried over to the PlayStation 4. This means that the PS4 cannot play PS3 games, with the exception of using the cloud streaming service provided by PS Plus Premium to play them on the console. However, the PS4 is capable of playing certain digital PS1 and PS2 games, some of which have been enhanced with improved graphics and support for trophies.
Sony deserves credit for ensuring that the PS5 is backward compatible with the PS4. Thanks to services like PS Plus Premium, PlayStation gamers can easily enjoy their favorite classic games. While there are a few PS4 games that are not compatible with the PS5, the majority of PS4 games can be enjoyed on the new console.
Sony's upcoming console, the PlayStation 6, is not expected to be released for several years. However, according to official court documents, it may be launched in 2028. Should this speculation hold true, the question arises as to whether the PlayStation 6 will offer backward compatibility or any means of enabling gamers to play older titles on the new system. Unfortunately, fans will have to exhibit patience as more information regarding this aspect remains unknown.
