One of the obsessions of the modder community is reducing the size of video game consoles – although sometimes they do the opposite – and the work that GingerOfOz has done is proof of this. The modder has created a portable version of the legendary PS2 in the best style of the Nintendo Switch.
The work, named “ PS2 Eclipse “, is simply amazing. It is a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing device, capable of running a wide variety of games compatible with the old Sony console, but in an extremely small device and without additional peripherals.
According to the YouTube video of GingerOfOz, the task of converting a conventional PS2 into a portable version has not been easy at all. The biggest challenge was to fit the original hardware within a very small space . Without an aggressive mod this was impossible, so he decided to cut the motherboard.
Dismembering the PS2
Venturing to cut the hardware of a video game console is not easy, either. Detailed knowledge is required to know which sections to divide without messing it up. To do this, GingerOfOz resorted to a guide developed by the well-known GmanModz, author of a small portable Nintendo 64 and other creations.
The young man failed on the first try, but managed to make a perfect cut the second time he tried. For the PS2 controls emulator, audio and peripheral control connected custom circuit boards manufactured by a third party based on public domain designs.
GingerOfOz also used a 3D printed case, a set of buttons from a PlayStation Vita , parts of a Joy-con from a Nintendo Switch , a screen from 480p 5-inch and a rechargeable battery. He also endowed his creation with a USB drive that allows him to transfer games easily.
PS2 Eclipse The modder explains that using a conventional disc player was unfeasible for several reasons. One is that there was not enough space for this piece of hardware. Another is that these types of units consume too much power. However, the USB drive also has disadvantages such as slow loading times and problems with some titles.
The PlayStation 2, released in November 2000, is considered one of the most successful desktop consoles in history. This platform was in charge of offering endless hours of fun from titles such as Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, GTA San Andreas, God of War 2: Divine Retribution, Persona 4 and Winning Eleven 7.
Now, thanks to the ingenuity of modders, precisely GingerOfOz, it comes back to life in a portable version. However, unlike other creations, it has all the original power since it is a real PS2 , with the modifications mentioned above, but working inside a smaller 3D printed case .
