Accessory guide · NexWave Games
PS1 and PS2 memory cards: which one do you need?
You start an old PlayStation game, play an hour and get the question if you want to save. Then it turns out the memory card in your PS2 isn't the right one. PS1 and PS2 cards look alike and fit in the same type of slot, but they do not keep the same game progress.
PS1 game? Use a PS1 memory card
If you play an original PlayStation game on a PS1, you'll need a PS1 memory card for your save games. If you play that PS1 game on a PlayStation 2, the rule remains the same: for playing and saving the PS1 game you use a PS1 card. So just inserting a PS2 memory card into your console is not enough. This is the most important control when playing two generations of games.
An ordinary original PS1 card stores saves in blocks. How much space a game needs differs. If you have a collection with multiple adventures or racing games, check the memory card menu for free blocks. A card that is full is not a broken card, but an annoying discovery just before an important save point.
PS2 game? Get a PS2 card
For PlayStation 2 games, you can use a PS2 memory card, usually identifiable on an original Sony card. A PS1 memory card cannot store PS2 game data. On a PS2 you can copy certain PS1 saves to a PS2 card for storage, but to play and save a PS1 game directly you still need the PS1 card. Copying and using directly are two different things.
If you buy a used console with memory card, ask which type of card is actually included. The map on an out of focus ad photo could be from the other generation. If in doubt, ask for a photo of the front and the storage screen.
Check used cards before you start
Carefully insert a memory card into the right slot and see if the console recognizes it. Check that existing saves are visible and that you can create and load a new test save. Don't just delete someone else's data: you can replace a full card first. For cards of other brands or with a large declared capacity, classification and operation may vary; therefore test such a card with your game.
When purchasing a complete set, note the number of controllers and memory cards. With two controllers you can play together, but not every game saves data in the same way. One fitting, working card is a better start than a handful of unknown accessories.
The simple rule
PS1 game means PS1 memory card, even when playing on PS2. PS2 game means PS2 memory card. If you want to play both generations, put a card of each type next to your console. That saves an interrupted game evening and makes a second-hand set a lot easier to judge.