Actually, the BC on the 80GB were still partially hardware based. the 80GB model still has the PS2's GPU integrated in it's chipset. So it uses a mixture of software and hardware to emulate the PS2.

http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7441&Itemid=2

""The 40GB model, to be launched in Europe on October 10, is a new model and is not equipped with any of the semiconductors from the PS2, and backwards compatibility would therefore have to be achieved by software emulation alone.

"The sheer numbers of PS2 titles available, together with the increased complexity of using a software only solution for each and every title means that to ensure accurate software emulation for the majority would be technically challenging, time consuming and costly. As we have mentioned on several occasions, our engineering resources are now focused on developing new and innovative features and services for the PS3 and, as a result the 40GB model does not have backwards compatibility with PS2 titles."

So in other words, it's too costly to do full software emulation, and then get the majority of PS2 games working properly with it.

jt4mtb

That makes sense. Thanks for the reply.

And the other differences between the systems, the USBs and the memory card readers can be added to the 40GB system right??

Since the BC is not hardware related is there any way to alter the 40GB system to be able to play PS2 games? Like a patch or something along those lines?

I think I'm going to finally pull the trigger and just get the 40GB... I'm tired of waiting. I still don't understand why they discontinued the 80GB.

Basically the only other differences are the USB's... which can be fixed by buying extra adapters right?
and the memory card readers which can also be purchased with adapters correct?