In 2018, Sony hopped on the "mini console" bandwagon with the PlayStation Classic (PS Classic). On paper, it was a dream: a ⅔ scale replica of the iconic PS1, complete with two original-style USB controllers. In reality, the launch was a disaster.

In 2026, the PS Classic can be found used for $20–40 USD. For that price, you get a charming mini console, two decent USB controllers (which also work on PC), and a plug-and-play emulation box after 15 minutes of setup.

9/10 Rating (stock console): 3/10

Fast forward to today, and the PS Classic has found a second life—not through Sony, but through a dedicated community tool called . If you have one of these mini consoles gathering dust, this is the software that turns it into the retro powerhouse it always should have been. What is Project Eris? Project Eris is a modding suite (a "kernel exploit") designed specifically for the PlayStation Classic. Unlike the earlier, more barebones BleemSync mod, Project Eris offers a polished, user-friendly interface with features that Sony never intended.

This means no more audio crackling, no more frame-skipping, and significantly less input lag—crucial for games like Street Fighter Alpha 3 or Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater . It’s not all perfect. Because the PS Classic’s front USB ports are notoriously low-power (only 100mA), you often need a powered USB hub or a specific low-power flash drive to get Project Eris to work. Many users struggle with "slow" flash drives that draw too much current.