PS2 vs. XBox backups
 

I want to get my kids a console gaming system for Christmas. One factor in my decision as to whether to get a PS2 or an XBox is whether it is possible to easily make backups of games. I have a Pioneer DVD-RW drive in my computer. Will either the XBox or PS2 allow me to use backup copies of games without installing a mod chip?

If a mod chip is necessary for both systems, is one system substantially easier than the other to install a mod chip?

With or without a mod chip, will either system allow you to simply insert the backup disc and have the game start up without having to go through any additional steps?

Thanks.

hey.. It is possible to play back-ups of a PS2 system without a mod. But by doing this you are Messing wit the gears and will most likly break your ps2 very quickly. I would recomend you buy a Pre-Mod PS2 system(already had a mod installed) with a messhia 2 pro mod-chip. i believe you would be best fitted to use a messiha because it boots ps2 backups jus like orignals. There are other mods, but like the DMS3 ( i believe it is teh altimate mod-chip) works the same as the messiha but has extra features which u will not need. you could also look for sites that sell pre-mod systems with a DUO chip. look around and tell us what u decide.

For little kids the xbox has the advantage of being able to keep games on your hard drive. That way you don't have to worry about scratched discs.

Any recommendations on where to get pre-modded PS2s in the US?

Hey Bighap, what is the best chip out right now? DMS3 or the Messiah 2 PRO?

Thanks.

Not that im bighap but i can answer your question just as well as he can. The DMS3 is teh best chip out there. with it you can update with a cd which you download from teh dms3 website, and you are able to run porograms off the memory card and also it has a quick load function which allows you to skip the browers menu for the quickest loading possible not to mention booting of ps2 backups from browser. The messiah is also a great chip that can boot from teh browser, but does not have the extra features the DMS3 has(quick load, updates and the running of promgrams off the memory card). If you realy like the extra features then without a doubt go for teh best mod out there (DMS3). if you are just using it for playing backups save some money and get the messiah which is just as realible as the DMS3. Hope this helps

Agreed. The DMS3 isn't necessary for your average gamer, but some people need/want the extra features. There are now many chips just as reliable as the Messiah 2 now for a better price. Apple Pro, Duo, and Smart Chip to name a few.

Just to be sure I understand...If I buy a premodded PS2 system (let's say with the Messiah 2), then I will be able to make backup copies of the original game DVDs on my PC DVD-RW drive, thereby storing the original DVDs safely away. I will not need to do anything else like networking the PS2 to my PC. Is that all correct?

Is there a ripping/burning program(s) that work best for this task?

Thanks.

ps2's are so cool the big pain in the ass is for xbox is that the pc cannot read xbox disks so you have to get a piece of software called evox then use the dvd rom in the xbox then transfer it via ethernet and burn to dvd its alot of hassle i would get a ps2 or a gamecube if its for little kids caus you get mario and so on

Correct. Once you get your premod all you have to do is burn the game with your dvd burner and play away. RecordNow Max is the best prog for backing up your games. Read the backup procedures sticky for specifics on how to do this.