Thats not what Popeye was stating. He wasn't talking about third party controllers. There is a difference between the PSX ( PS1, Playstation, i.e. not the PS2) controllers other then the color. He is saying that if you us a PSX controller with your PS2 you might get the issues you are having with some games. In fact I rememder something about this myself.

try checking the ribbon cable.

Yeah, the PS2 controllers (Dualshock 2) are analogue (enabling them to be pressure sensitive). PSOne Dualshock are digital pads (i.e. you either move or not). Most PS2 games require the analogue pads, hence the reason why some games appear not to work with a PSOne controller, but with a PS2 controller, things are fine...

Just a follow up, Medal of honor is one such title that will not allow you to start the game with a PSX controller attached.....I nearly pulled my hair out with that one....

You guy's called it! Went out and bought a SONY PS2 controller, as I couldn't find the one the system came with. Plugged it and the games that gave me the controller lockout are now working fine. Thanks much for the help. Not sure I would have ever thought to plug in a PS2 controller, as I thought they were all the same- atleast they look identical. Good thing, as I was ready to break down the system and check the install. I just knew it wasn't the install, but really had no other direction.

lol, glad it worked out.

Player 2 control doesnt work
 

I have a v7 with a duo2se tried nfsu2 works fine 1 player but wont allow use of the start button player 2. Put in Fifa 2005 two player works fine.