Open-source emulator PCSX2 is the most amazing way to play PlayStation 2 games, proudly saying that it supports “over 98% of the original PS2 library”. It’s never been a looker, however, with a barebones UI that often sends gamers off in search of a different frontend launcher. That’s changed with the first public release of PCSX2 that uses the GUI framework Qt.
The new interface comes with a grid view for showing off box art as well as a more traditional list view, a dark mode option, and a row of clear icons across the top. The UI will look familiar to users of PS1 emulator DuckStation, and that’s probably thanks to contributing developer Stenzek, who was DuckStation’s primary developer.
To get your library-looking Schmick, download box art from somewhere like The Cover Project, rename the files so they match the relevant .iso files, and pop them in a covers folder in your PCSX2 directory. Then select Game Grid from PCSX2’s View menu and voila, all your Burnout and Silent Hill, and Metal Gear Solid titles will be ready to stare at.
Other advancements in PCSX2’s Qt release include per-game settings, native support for DualShock 4 and 5 controllers (no more relying on DS4Windows or Steam), and future updates will download automatically.
Before you race to download the new build, be aware that only Windows 10 and 11 are currently supported, and as this is an in-development build, you may encounter some problems. If you’re into problem-reporting go ahead, but as the PCSX2 team explains, “these releases are intended for those who want to, or require, being on the bleeding edge. They may contain unresolved bugs or issues, use at your own discretion with this in mind.”