If you’re unfamiliar with the term, an emulator is hardware or software enabling your computer to behave like a different system. Typically, an emulator allows the host system to run the software.
Otherwise, it uses peripheral devices explicitly designed for the guest system. Emulators are used primarily for gaming and running different operating systems. You can even use an emulator to run macOS on your Windows PC.
However, if you’re looking for a PS3 emulator for booting all known games for your PlayStation, you’re at the right place. Please keep reading to find out the top 5 picks and their system requirements.
Top 5 Emulators for PS3
Here are the top 5 emulators that can emulate all PS3 available games on your mobile devices.
RetroArch
RetroArch is at the top of our list for many reasons, and it’s safe to say that this is the best emulator compatible with your PS3. This emulator is multifunctional and super versatile, but it’s also mighty.
Firstly, it runs on nearly every platform, including Linux, Windows PC, macOS, iOS, and Android. Furthermore, since it’s available on the App Store and Google Play Store, you can easily download it.
The best part is that the PS3 isn’t the only console it can emulate but also emulates other consoles. Lastly, you can enjoy valuable tools that optimize your streaming and recording process using RetroArch.
System Requirements
- CPU: At least Intel Pentium 4
- RAM: At least 32 GB.
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7
- GPU: Any compliant OpenGL 2. x or Direct3D11.
- Pixel Shader and Vertex Shader: 2.0.
Playstation Now
PlayStation Now isn’t precisely a PS3 emulator, but it will help you play all PS3 games and titles without interruptions. This cloud-based gaming service does come with a monthly fee, but it’s worth it.
The best part is that you can even play titles from a past version like PS2 or newly released consoles like PS4 and PS5. To use this emulator, you’ll need to use a DualShock 3, 4, or Xbox controller. To download and connect, you’ll need a high-speed Internet connection.
System Requirements
- CPU: 3.5 GHz Intel Core i3 or 3.8 GHz AMD A10.
- Storage: At least 300 MB.
- RAM: At least 2GB.
- Operating System: Windows 7, 8.1, or 10.
- Sound card and USB port.
RPCS3
RPCS3 is an open-source emulation service that gives you access to all PS3 games with the best performance. In addition, its open-source emulation ensures that bugs are fixed faster, along with quicker updates and gameplay.
That means all developers and testers can work on this platform at once. More importantly, it’s compatible with BSD and Linux PC while providing a user-friendly interface. Although this emulator is very powerful, it doesn’t require a robust CPU or a lot of ROM to run.
The best part is that there are zero games in the Nothing status on RPCS3. As a result, all applications and PS3 games at least boot on this platform without any ongoing regressions that could prevent games from booting.
System Requirements
- CPU: X86-64.
- GPU: OpenGL 4.3 or Vulkan Graphics.
- RAM: At least 3 GB.
- PlayStation 3 .pup system software file.
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable.
PPSSPP
PPSSPP is another popular and accessible option in the PS3 emulator world. While providing emulation for any console like PS2, PS3, and PS4, it’s also an excellent option for your PSP, Nintendo, or portable console.
Unfortunately, you may experience lags and glitches occasionally, but that’s expected with free control-mapping emulators.
Downloading PPSSPP is also effortless since it’s available on the Google Play Store. Unfortunately, PPSSPP doesn’t have pre-included PS3 games, so you’ll have to search for and save the games you want.
System Requirements
- CPU: 3.3GHz Intel Quad-core.
- GPU: Any compliant with OpenGL 2.0.
- Operating System: At least Windows Vista or Windows 7.
ESX PS3 Emulator
Lastly, the ESX PS3 emulator made its way onto our list due to its simplicity. However, this emulator is still in beta, limiting the number of games on it. So, if you’re looking for PS3 games, you’re in luck.
It will efficiently run all games exclusive to PS3 at the native graphics. Plus, there will be no audio stuttering, frame rate drops, or other glitches. Luckily, emulating your controller on ESX is also super simple.
All you have to do is map your keyboard using the configuration tab. Once the controller shows up, select the button you need to map and press the key you prefer. Then, you’re ready to insert the disc.
System Requirements
- CPU: 3.2 GHz Intel or AMD Quad Core.
- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 660 or ATI Radeon HD7870.
- RAM: At least 2 GB.
- Operating System: Windows 7.
Other Emulators
For other emulators, you can try out our Bizhawk, S NES 9X, EPSXE, Mednafen, Vortex Cloud Gaming, and PSeMu3. However, these emulators won’t offer the same variety of titles and compatible platforms.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct emulator for your PlayStation 3 can be challenging since many options are available. Remember to factor in your budget and the system requirements of the emulator.
Whether running a Mac, Windows PC, or Android, you’re bound to find an emulator that fits your requirements perfectly. So take your pick from any options on our list to access all exclusive games on your PS3.
