If Sony Thinks “Dynamic” Pricing Won’t Make Me Consider PS1 Over New-Gen Consoles, It Should Think Again

Hardware
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PS5 surge pricing at all. Dusting off a PS1 (or even a backward-compatible PS2/PS3) and pairing it with a modern upscaler is a perfectly valid route—and, honestly, often way more fun than chasing digital discounts.

Here’s a concise roadmap for going full retro PlayStation:

1. Pick your console

  • PS1: Cheap, classic library, authentic experience.

  • PS2: Backward compatible with most PS1 discs; slightly better video output.

  • PS3 (CECHA01/CECHB01): Can play PS1 and PS2 games (early 20GB/60GB models); HDMI output makes modern TVs simpler.

2. Connect to modern displays

  • OSSC (Open Source Scan Converter) – $111.90

    • Line-doubles retro video to 1080p. Works over RGB SCART or component.

    • Excellent for crisp, sharp visuals.

  • GBS-C – $89.90

    • Motion-adaptive deinterlacing for jitter-free output.

    • Cheaper, simple HDMI conversion.

3. Control options

  • For PS1 or PS2, you can still use classic DualShock controllers.

  • Optional: 8Bitdo Retro Receiver – $24.99

    • Lets you use modern Bluetooth controllers (DualSense, Switch Pro, etc.) with original consoles.

4. Keep it physical

  • Buy disc-based games instead of digital downloads to dodge dynamic pricing entirely.

  • Physical libraries can often be found on eBay or Amazon for pennies compared to new PS5 digital titles.

5. Bonus

  • If you want portability without losing the retro feel, some retro handhelds can play PS1 games via emulation while supporting original discs or ROMs legally obtained.

The takeaway? You can enjoy decades of PlayStation classics—Super Puzzle Fighter, MediEvil, Oddworld, Resident Evil 2—and not stress about whether Sony decides to charge you 17% more next week. Retro hardware + proper upscaler = timeless gaming.