Playing PS2 Imports on a US Machine

[Gruce]

I have just bought a US machine and I'd like to be able to play UK and JAP games on it, whats the best way? I've seen these flip card things on eBay, they seem ok, but what else do they require? Are they dangerous etc? How much are mod chips, who can fit one for me? Please help this noobie out.

Thanks

Jack

[sj33]

Easiest method is the flip tops. Piss easy to install, it's essentially a replacement upper shell for you machine, a top-loading flip top. You use them in conjunction with boot discs. Load up boot disc, swap the discs using the flip top, and your sorted. Easy to install, easy to use. Probably the safest method, as you don't actually mess around with the electronics.

The other way is modchips. Certainly the best way, as you ultimately end up with a machine that can do anything. DMS4 and Matrix Infinity are arguably the best. There is a solderless mod called the DMS4 EZI, but it's still pretty difficult to install.

To be honest, if you just wanna play the odd PAL game now and again, you may as well stick to the flip top. The minor compatibility issues will more than likely never effect most people, and the inconvienience of having to use the boot discs is good price to pay for the ease and safety of them.
That said, if you know someone trustworthy who can install modchips...