A PlayStation 2 recompilation project

The PS2,
recompiled.
For the web.

PS2 Web Recomp translates a game’s original CPU code into WebAssembly, then pairs it with a browser runtime. This site explains the project, its known demos, and what you need to build locally.

Bring your own legally acquired game disc image. Builds happen on your machine; this site does not host games or game files.

UPSTREAM PROJECT DEMO
PROJECT RECORDING

Gran Turismo 4 — project recording

A demonstration published by the upstream project

UPSTREAM / MP4

Under the hood

A different route to the browser.

Instead of interpreting a console instruction every time it runs, static recompilation translates the game’s main CPU code ahead of time. A purpose-built runtime handles the console systems that remain.

01 / 03

Translate the CPU

The PlayStation 2 Emotion Engine code is statically translated into C++ and compiled to WebAssembly.

02 / 03

Recreate the console

A WebAssembly runtime supplies the supporting PS2 systems and connects graphics work to WebGPU.

03 / 03

Build on your machine

You provide your own game data and build the project locally, then run the result in a compatible browser.

WebAssembly is not the same as a complete, universal PS2 emulator. The project is experimental and compatibility depends on each game and its use of console systems.

Compatibility, in progress

Two projects have been demonstrated.

The upstream README currently calls out these games. That is a snapshot of project testing, not a promise that every level or feature works.

See the game notes
GAME / 01 UPSTREAM DEMO

GT4 / PAL

Gran Turismo 4

Gran Turismo 4 (PAL) is one of the project’s showcased test titles. Check the upstream notes for the current build status.

PAL

PROJECT REFERENCE

Named in the upstream project README
GAME / 02 UPSTREAM DEMO

GOW II

God of War II

God of War II is also listed among the project demos. Compatibility is still work in progress.

DEMO

PROJECT REFERENCE

Named in the upstream project README

Other games may fail because required CPU instructions, IOP behavior, graphics features, or file access are not yet implemented.

Before you begin

A few things to know.

Open the guide
01Can I play a game directly on this site?

No. This site is an information guide. You need to build the project on your own machine and supply your own game data.

02Are game files included?

No. The project does not distribute game data. Use only a disc image you are legally entitled to use, and check the laws that apply where you live.

03What does my browser need?

The project relies on WebGPU, so you need a browser and graphics setup that support it. The upstream README has the current build and runtime requirements.

04Will every PS2 game work?

No. This is an experimental, game-by-game effort. The upstream demos are a small set, and other games may depend on unimplemented hardware behavior.

Start with the source

Read the requirements before you build.

The project changes quickly. Use its current README and build scripts as the source of truth for supported systems and game-specific steps.

See how to get started