Under the hood, the PS3 hides a library of can’t-miss games.

Released in 2006, this console marked a seismic shift in gaming technology, introducing Blu-ray discs.

Fast forward to 2025, and many gamers wonder: Is the PlayStation 3 console still worth it?

With the PS5 dominating headlines and the PS4 still holding strong in many homes, the PS3 might seem like a relic. 

But there’s a lot more life in these machines than you might think, especially for retro gaming enthusiasts.

And this is what this expert guide is all about.

Quick Tips for 2025 Buyers

• Go for slim or super slim models; fat models carry a higher YLOD risk..
  
  

• Only buy a fat CECHA model if you truly need full hardware PS2 compatibility.
  
  

• Consider HEN/CFW for homebrew and media flexibility.
  
  

• Replace thermal paste on older systems.
  
  

• Use WebMAN Mod for fan and temperature management.
  
  

• Upgrade HDD to 1TB for maximum game storage.

Why Consider Buying a PS3 in 2025?

You might wonder why anyone would even think about buying a PS3 in 2025. 

The reasons are surprisingly solid:

• Game Library: From Uncharted to God of War, LittleBigPlanet, Demon’s Souls, and Red Dead Redemption, there’s no shortage of classics that the PS3 hosts.
  
  

• Cost-Effectiveness: Used PS3 consoles are incredibly affordable in 2025. You can pick up a slim model for a very low price, depending on condition.
  
  

• Media Capabilities: Beyond gaming, the PS3 is an excellent DVD and Blu-ray player. Its media playback capabilities, especially for H.264 or MKV files, are still competitive.
  
  

• Backward Compatibility: Certain models (CECHA 60GB, for instance) can play PS2 and PS1 games natively. Slim and Super Slim models rely on software emulation for PS2, which works well for most games.

Modding vs. Emulation: Which is Better?

By 2025, PS3 emulation has improved significantly because of RPCS3, a PC emulator capable of running many PS3 titles at higher resolutions than the original hardware. 

But emulation isn’t perfect:

• Compatibility Issues: Some games refuse to run correctly or crash entirely. Titles like Sonic 06 or certain PS2-era ports can behave unpredictably.
  
  

• Input Lag & Experience: Even with strong PCs, playing on emulation can’t fully replicate the sensation of original hardware. Certain games feel “right” only on a real PS3 console.
  
  

• Hardware Requirements: To emulate effectively, you’ll need a high-end PC. Think Ryzen 7800x3D and Nvidia 4070ti-level specs, basically a mini supercomputer. Not everyone has that lying around.

So if you can, buying a PlayStation 3 console in 2025 and modding it with custom firmware (CFW) or HEN can be a better experience. 

This way, you’ll get:

• Original hardware performance
  
  

• Full PS3 library access
  
  

• Media playback and retro compatibility
  
  

• Homebrew apps and utilities

Choosing the Right PS3 Model in 2025

Not all PS3 consoles are equal in features and performance. 

Your choice will drastically affect your experience. 

Here’s a breakdown:

Watch and make an informed decision: PS3 Fat vs SFlim vs Super Slim

WARNING!

Fat models with 90nm RSX chips are prone to GPU failure over time. These retro gaming consoles may suddenly fail (YLOD) or slowly degrade, especially if thermal paste hasn’t been replaced over the years. Keeping it clean and dust-free is crucial.

Maintenance and Longevity Tips for PlayStation 3 Console

Owning a restored PS3 in 2025 isn’t just plug-and-play; you need to care for it, especially if you buy older models. 

Here’s a practical checklist:

• Dust Management: Keep the console elevated for airflow. Dust is the silent killer of vintage electronics.
  
  

• Thermal Paste: Replace it every few years for fat and slim models to prevent overheating.
  
  

• Fan Control: Use mods like WebMAN to monitor and control fan speeds.
  
  

• Storage Upgrade: Max internal HDD size is 1TB. You can use external drives (CFW only) in exFAT/NTFS formats for extra space. SSDs are optional but not game-changing.

Explore an expert PS3 maintenance guide. 

Games You Can Only Experience on PS3

One of the main reasons a retro gamer might want to buy a PS3 in 2025 is the exclusive library. 

There are simply some games you can’t get anywhere else:

• Demon’s Souls (original)
  
  

• The Last of Us
  
  

• Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
  
  

• Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch
  
  

• 3D Dot Heroes
  
  

• Red Dead Redemption

PlayStation 3 Consoles as a Media and Retro Hub

Beyond gaming, the PS3 still shines as a media center. You can:

• Play DVDs, Blu-rays, and even HD remastered discs
  
  

• Run RetroArch to emulate multiple consoles
  
  

• Use PSP, PS1, and PS2 titles
  
  

• Store and play music or videos directly from the console

Even in 2025, a PS3 can function as a lightweight home theater system. It’s like getting a retro gaming console and media player in one box.

Modding, HEN, and CFW

If you plan to buy a PS3 in 2025, modding is practically a rite of passage. 

You have two main options:

1. CFW (Custom Firmware): Full control over the system. Allows game backups, homebrew, and system mods. Best on 2000, 2100, or 2500 slim models.
   
   

2. HEN/HFW (Homebrew Enabler): Easier to install, supports PKGi for downloading games digitally, less risk than full CFW, but slightly limited in features.

Should You Buy PS3 or Rely on Emulation?

Let’s break it down:

• Buy a PS3 in 2025 if:
  
  

• You want an authentic hardware experience
  
  

• You want a plug-and-play media and gaming hub
  
  

• You have multiple PS3 exclusives in mind
  
  

• You don’t own a high-end PC for emulation
  
  

• Stick to Emulation if:
  
  

• You already have a strong PC
  
  

• You want to upscale graphics beyond the original hardware
  
  

• You’re okay with occasional compatibility glitches

Most retro gaming enthusiasts recommend owning both when possible. 

That way, you can enjoy original hardware while leveraging emulation for high-res experiences.

So, Is the PS3 Worth It in 2025? 

The PlayStation 3 console is far from dead. 

Despite being almost 20 years old, it still offers:

• A massive game library with timeless classics
  
  

• Media capabilities that rival older standalone players
  
  

• Flexibility through modding, HEN, and CFW
  
  

• Backward compatibility for PS1 and PS2 (via hardware or emulation)

If you want a true retro gaming console experience, a PS3 is still worth it. 

Whether you aim for a CECH-25xx slim, a Super Slim, or an original PS3 fat model for PS2 purists, RetroFam has all of them.

We offer expertly refurbished PS3s in excellent condition, along with all your favorite titles, ready to play right out of the box.