This long-form guide will break down every file type associated with AetherSX2, from game disc images to BIOS files and save states. By the end, you will know exactly how to organize your ROM library for optimal performance.
| File Type | Compression | Speed | Modding Support | Multi-Disc | Best For | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | None | 10/10 | High | Yes | High-end phones with extra storage | | .chd | High (lossless) | 9/10 | Medium | Yes | Best overall recommendation | | .cso | Medium (lossy?) | 7/10 | Low | Yes | Older phones with limited storage | | .bin/.cue | None | 9/10 | High (audio) | Tricky | CD-based PS2 games only | | .m3u | N/A (playlist) | N/A | N/A | Native | Mandatory for multi-disc games |
If you have a flagship phone with plenty of storage (512GB or 1TB) and you value zero-emulator-configuration, use ISO.
: You must legally dump this from your own PS2 console. Without it, the app will stay on a black screen. Game Save and Memory Card Formats