Top PS2 Emulator for Android: Which One to Choose?

Once considered the Holy Grail of portable emulation, PlayStation 2 emulation on Android is now a reality. With the right Android PS2 emulator, you can relive your favorite PlayStation 2 games on the go—provided your device has the necessary power. But what is the best Android PS2 emulator, and how do you use it? Let’s dive in and find out!

Best Android PS2 Emulator: NetherSX2

In the not-so-distant past, AetherSX2 was hailed as the top PS2 emulator. However, times have changed, and active development on AetherSX2 has stopped, making it unavailable on Google Play. Beware of scam sites claiming to offer the latest versions, as they often lead to malware rather than the emulator you're seeking.

Instead, we recommend joining the AetherSX2 Fan Community Discord. Here, you'll find up-to-date links to archived versions of AetherSX2, along with the latest and greatest, NetherSX2. This emulator is a reverse-engineered version of AetherSX2 but has managed to sidestep some of the later downgrades and even surpass its predecessor in several ways.

What Are The Alternatives?

If you're looking for other options, “Play!” is a viable alternative PlayStation 2 emulator for Android. Although it's still in development and offers only basic emulation, it's free and worth a try if you're patient. Keep in mind, though, that most games are currently unplayable on this platform.

On the other hand, we strongly advise against using DamonPS2. Despite being the first emulator you'll encounter on the Play Store, it's notorious for its poor quality. There are also numerous reports suggesting that the developers have used stolen code, which raises serious concerns about its legitimacy. Stick with our recommended emulators for a safer and more enjoyable experience.

For more on emulation, check out our feature on the best Android DS Emulator!