The real deal is worlds apart from emulation and if you don't have a PS2 then do yourself a favour and get one. Seriously.Don't get me wrong... I don't actually own a PS2, because (pcsx2).
I was a Gamecube guy back when it was first out but I bought one a few months back and I can't say I regretted the purchase - it's easily THE console when it comes to quality games, the stream of great titles is never-ending.