Sony themselves have said that there is still some PS2 hardware even in the 80 GB model, so can we let the "pure software emulation" myth die?

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,2099538,00.asp

Q: Does this mean that the PS2 hardware chips have been removed completely and replaced with software-only emulation?

A: The original PS3 used the Emotion Engine/Graphics Synthesizer to emulate PS2 titles. With the latest European specification we have removed the Emotion Engine, retaining the graphics chip.

 okay, now do we have a quote or proof that this has neither of these? A direct quote confirming no PS2 compatibility or no EE AND no GS?

Until it comes from the horses mouth its probably something lost in translation because we have no proof that the BC is gone, and to be honest it seems the greatest selling console of all time would drive PS3 sales if its games could be played on it.....but that type of marketing just wont happen because it makes too much sense.

It would be nice steverhcp02, but I think we'll have to wait a while longer for that one! I trust Play.com though...

NJ5, I have stated on more than one occasion that the 80GB PS3 still has the the PS2 GPU. So, I'd keep that quote handy if I were you.

I say when a $399.99 ps3 is released its all over O_O/sarcasm

Yeah, I've probably said it like 20 times :S I'll definitely keep this quote near me at all times now... But most people think that emulation is in fact software only (and I don't blame them, I thought so too some time ago). They'll be pissed off at Sony for sure...

That would seem a real disappointment. Right now one of the best features of the PS3 is that it has the PS2 library as back up, which is extremely strong and diverse and if your a PS3 owner who is looking for titles to play you can most certainly find a PS2 title for you even if there is not a PS3 title in that genre. I hope this is just a rumor with no basis.

Right this the info as far as well know at the moment:

The 60Gb US models come with the EE and GS for PS2 emulation.  The 80Gb US models and 60Gb European models come with the GS only.  The rumours are that the new 40Gb will come without the GS chip as well, removing 2 usb sockets and the card readers, thus allowing for the reduction of the motherboard.

Now we know that PS1 games are played entirely though emulation.  Why can't PS2 games do the same.  I just reckon, Sony need to create a software only emulator for the PS2 games.  Surely this can be possible using the power of the PS3?  If the EE can be emulated by the PS3 for the 60Gb Euro and 80Gb US models, then surely the GS can be emulated as well?

Anyway, memory card slots aren't important.  The PS3 comes with a hard drive and I'm pretty sure you can pick up a USB card reader for under $10.  Expect Sony to release one as well.  2 USB's are adequate as well.  By the sounds of it, the Wifi is better as well.

If Sony cannot do this, then it WILL be a major problem for them.  PS2 BC IS important to gamers. 

I bet they only removed all of the PS2 hardware and can emulate PS2 games on cell+rsx now. BC always was a main feature for Sony and I don't believe they will throw it away just like that.

http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=84670

Wasn't sure which PS3 40 gb thread to post this in so I just picked the one nearest the top. Anyway, those friendly Italians have given the details of the EU pricing EUR 399 (£277). It will also come bundled with two games for EUR 499.