It is also possible to choose whether to use directX or openGL to render graphics, but this has little impact on performance in my experience. Keep in mind this may cause slow down issues with games that use certain types of 3D rendering.

Software Mode is generally more accurate and will likely display missing layers and play cutscenes properly.

GSdx supports several different rendering modes that have a great impact on how the emulator performs. Go to: Config -> Video GS -> Plugin Settings -> Click Adapter Drop Down -> Select GPU or CPU In fact PCSX2, like many emulators, relies on CPU to do most of the work and users with a high quality CPU may get better results. The flip side can also be true depending on your hardware and the game you are trying get running, so try using CPU if GPU is not effective. Going into the GSdx Plugin and enabling your Graphics Card/GPU (if your computer has one) can make a drastic difference in the quality of your gaming experience. Unfortunately, this is also the cause of many graphical issues on the PCSX2 for some people. PCSX2 is set by default to use your computer’s CPU with the GSdx Plugin, which is what generates graphics for PS2 games in the emulator. There are several ways to fix these issues, but the availability of some of these solutions depends on your computer. Some games may even experience flickering, strange shapes known as garbage or artifacts and even discoloration. You may notice things like layering effects, recticules or even text missing from games running on the PCSX2. Missing, Distorted Graphics, and/or Garbage (Artifacts). You’ll undoubtedly run into problems if you are trying to run the 64-Bit version of PCSX2 or if you are using an outdated version of the emulator.

Make sure your machine is using the most compatible and up to date version of PCSX2 as well. Keep in mind that much of the info on the wiki is old. PCSX2 has a compatibility wiki which can be helpful, since those who maintain the wiki took time to publish notes on how well many titles work with the emulator. It also helps to make a record of settings that work, because they will often apply to other games. Some of the solutions listed in this FAQ may cause more problems than they solve and having an idea of what you original settings were will make fixing them easier. Make a note of your PCSX2 settings before changing anything. PS2 emulation is rather subjective and data provided by other users can go a long way towards improving this guide. Feel free to ask questions if an issue isn’t addressed here or if the prescribed methods do not work for certain titles. Many common problems have several solutions, which will be listed in order of effectiveness.

Someone running PCSX2 on a mid to high end machine with a graphics card will be able to play a greater number of games with accurate emulation than someone using a weak computer. It is important to understand that results will vary from game to game and with different computers. This guide addresses some of most common problems associated with PCSX2 and offers quick solutions to them. Consequently, new users may feel a bit overwhelmed when they try to play their favorite games with PCSX2 for the first time. The PCSX2 is currently the best PlayStation 2 emulator available, but it is not terribly user friendly. Click here to return to the Emulator Guides page.

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