PiStation 2 is a custom conversion that replaces the computing hardware inside a full-size PlayStation 2 shell with a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. It keeps the console’s familiar exterior while turning it into a Linux computer and retro-gaming system, with the original front-panel buttons repurposed for the Pi.
What is PiStation 2?
Farizno’s PiStation 2 is a Raspberry Pi project built into a non-slim Sony PlayStation 2 case. The original console motherboard is removed; the Raspberry Pi 4 becomes the system’s computer. The result is not a way to run original PS2 games through the PS2 motherboard. It is a Pi-based system that uses emulation software and can also run Linux applications.
The build combines Raspberry Pi OS with RetroPie and Kodi. Hackster also describes a custom interface offering multiple operating-system options, including Kodi and EmulationStation. It can be used as a retro-gaming appliance, a media system, or a Linux computer, depending on the installed software.
How the original PS2 controls and case are reused
Power and eject buttons
The original PS2 power and eject buttons are wired to the Raspberry Pi rather than left as decorative parts. In the reported build, pressing power initiates a safe Pi shutdown. The eject button controls an LED strip. The buttons therefore provide functions suited to the new system, even though there is no PS2 disc drive to eject.
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- Includes Raspberry Pi 4 4GB Model B with 1.5GHz 64-bit quad-core CPU (4GB RAM)
- Includes Pre-Loaded 32GB EVO+ Micro SD Card (Class 10), USB MicroSD Card Reader
- CanaKit Premium High-Gloss Raspberry Pi 4 Case with Integrated Fan Mount, CanaKit Low Noise Bearing System Fan
- CanaKit 3.5A USB-C Raspberry Pi 4 Power Supply (US Plug) with Noise Filter, Set of Heat Sinks, Display Cable - 6 foot (Supports up to 4K60p)
- CanaKit USB-C PiSwitch (On/Off Power Switch for Raspberry Pi 4)
Fan and lighting
The PS2 fan is controlled with PWM, with its speed adjusted according to CPU temperature. RGB lighting is visible through the front vent, and the original button LEDs are integrated as part of the project. Farizno described the controls, fan, and lighting as features that “round the project out” in the Hackster project coverage.
Rear ports and controllers
A custom 3D-printed mount positions the Raspberry Pi’s ports at the rear of the PS2 shell, making the Pi’s connections accessible from outside the case. The system supports USB and Bluetooth controllers, including PlayStation and Xbox controllers.
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- 2. 4 GHz and 5. 0 GHz IEEE 802. 11b/g/n/ac wireless LAN, Bluetooth 5. 0, BLE
- 2 × USB 3. 0 ports, 2 x USB 2. 0 Ports
- 2 × micro HDMI ports supproting up to 4Kp60 video resolution
- Micro SD card slot for loading operating system and data storage
What parts does the documented build use?
| Part or feature | Role in the project |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4 Model B | Replaces the original console’s computing hardware and runs the system. |
| 1TB SSD | Storage in the featured configuration reported by Tom’s Hardware in 2021. That capacity describes this build, not a requirement for every PiStation-style project. |
| Full-size PS2 shell | Retains the original console’s exterior in Farizno’s conversion. |
| 3D-printed rear-port mount | Aligns the Pi’s ports with openings at the back of the shell. |
| PS2 fan, front buttons, and LEDs | Repurposed for temperature-based cooling, power and lighting functions. |
| USB or Bluetooth controller | Provides game controls; the reported project supports PlayStation and Xbox controllers. |
The available descriptions establish the main components and integrations, but do not specify a complete bill of materials, wiring diagram, or step-by-step construction guide. In particular, they do not establish a universal parts list for converting every PS2 revision. Treat the table as a summary of documented features, not a guaranteed shopping list.
Can a Raspberry Pi replace the PS2 motherboard?
Yes, in the sense that a Raspberry Pi can serve as the computer inside a PS2 case after the original console hardware is removed. That is what this conversion does. It does not turn the Raspberry Pi into a drop-in replacement motherboard that runs PS2 discs or uses the original PS2 electronics unchanged. PiStation 2 runs Raspberry Pi software, with RetroPie and EmulationStation providing retro-gaming interfaces and Kodi available for media playback.
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- Broadcom BCM2711, Quad core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz
- 1GB, 2GB, 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM (depending on model)
- 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz IEEE 802.11ac wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, BLE Gigabit Ethernet
- 2 USB 3.0 ports; 2 USB 2.0 ports.
- Raspberry Pi standard 40 pin GPIO header (fully backwards compatible with previous boards)
Is the original-console conversion the only option?
No. Adafruit’s 2025 post documents a separate PS2-themed enclosure designed for Raspberry Pi 4 Model B and Raspberry Pi 5. It is printed in four parts, with supports recommended for the top section. This printable case evokes the PS2 shape but is not Farizno’s original gutted-console conversion: it does not require sacrificing a working PS2 shell.
| Consideration | Original PS2-shell conversion | Printable PS2-themed enclosure |
|---|---|---|
| Authenticity | Uses a real full-size PS2 shell. | Uses a newly printed enclosure styled after the PS2. |
| Cutting and wiring effort | Requires adapting the original shell and integrating buttons, lighting, fan, and ports. | Avoids modifying an original console shell; assembly and printing are still required. |
| Rear-port access | A custom mount aligns the Pi ports with the shell’s rear. | Not stated in the cited Adafruit description. |
| Cooling headroom | The documented build uses a PS2 fan with temperature-based PWM control. | Not stated in the cited Adafruit description. |
| Controller connectivity | USB and Bluetooth controllers are supported in the reported build. | Not stated in the cited Adafruit description. |
| Storage expansion | The featured build uses a 1TB SSD; broader expansion details are not stated. | Not stated in the cited Adafruit description. |
| Reversibility | Modifying a real console shell may be difficult to reverse, depending on the work performed. | Does not require altering an original PS2 shell. |
| Printable files | Not stated in the cited coverage. | Adafruit documents a four-part printable design for Pi 4 Model B and Pi 5. |
Which approach makes sense?
- Choose a real PS2 shell if using original console hardware and retaining its authentic exterior are central to the project, and you are prepared to handle custom mounting and wiring.
- Choose a printable enclosure if you want a PS2-inspired case for a Pi 4 Model B or Pi 5 without modifying an actual console.
The two approaches share a visual idea but answer different practical needs: one transforms a console shell, while the other starts with a purpose-made printed case.
Quick Recap
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- Includes Raspberry Pi 4 4GB Model B with 1.5GHz 64-bit quad-core CPU (4GB RAM)
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- 9-PART KIT WILL HAVE YOU READY TO GET UP AND RUNNING: Kit Includes 1. Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Board 2. Case With Easy to connect Built-in fan 3. 64GB Micro SD card Preloaded with RP OS 4. Vilros Pi 4 Compatible Power Supply with Inline on/off switch (power supply color may vary white/black) 5. Micro HDMI to Standard HDMI cable (5ft) 6. Micro SD to USB adapter to reflash card if desired 7. Neoprene Storage Bag to store all parts when not in use 8. Set of 4 Heatsinks 9. Vilros QuickStart Guide instruction booklet for Pi 4
- PASSIVE & ACTIVE COOLING: The included case is well-vented and the kit also includes a set of heatsinks with thermal stickers for easy application and a pre-installed fan to keep the board cool in any use.
- CONVENIENT ACCESSORIES: The power supply features an inline on/off switch neoprene bag that holds and protects all the parts when not in use and the QuickStart guide is updated and written for Raspberry Pi 4.
- IMPORTANT: Kit does NOT include Keyboard, Mouse or Monitor
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