Emulating PlayStation 2 games on Android devices has long been considered the pinnacle of mobile gaming emulation, and it's now within reach. With the right Android PS2 emulator, you can relive your favorite PlayStation 2 titles on the go, provided your device has the necessary power.

But which emulator stands out as the best for Android? And how do you get started with it? This article dives deep into these questions, so let's get started!

Best Android PS2 Emulator: NetherSX2

Previously, AetherSX2 was hailed as the top PS2 emulator for Android. However, times have changed, and active development on AetherSX2 has stopped, rendering it unavailable on Google Play. Beware of scam sites claiming to offer the latest version; they often distribute malware instead of the emulator.

To safely access AetherSX2, we recommend joining the AetherSX2 Fan Community Discord. This community provides reliable links to archived versions of AetherSX2, as well as access to NetherSX2, a new emulator that builds upon AetherSX2. NetherSX2 is reverse-engineered from its predecessor, avoiding some of the later downgrades and offering enhanced performance in several key areas.

What Are The Alternatives?

If you're looking for other options, "Play!" is another PlayStation 2 emulator for Android worth considering. Although it's still in the early stages of development, it's a free software project that offers basic emulation capabilities. Keep in mind that most games may not be fully playable yet, but it's an option if you're curious.

On the other hand, we strongly advise against using DamonPS2. Despite being prominently featured on the Play Store, it's considered the least reliable PS2 emulator available. Numerous reports online suggest that the developers may have used stolen code, though this isn't confirmed. Regardless, the quality of emulation is subpar, and better alternatives exist.

For more on emulation, check out our feature on the best Android DS emulator!