16 Using PCSX2 via CLI

Command Line Options

PCSX2 can be launched from a command line on both Windows and Linux systems.

Usage: pcsx2.exe [parameters] [--] [boot filename]

 -help: Displays this information and exits.
 -version: Displays version information and exits.
 -batch: Enables batch mode (exits after shutting down).
 -nogui: Hides main window while running (implies batch mode).
 -elf <file>: Overrides the boot ELF with the specified filename.
 -disc <path>: Uses the specified host DVD drive as a source.
 -bios: Starts the BIOS (System Menu/OSDSYS).
 -fastboot: Force fast boot for provided filename.
 -slowboot: Force slow boot for provided filename.
 -state <index>: Loads specified save state by index.
 -statefile <filename>: Loads state from the specified filename.
 -fullscreen: Enters fullscreen mode immediately after starting.
 -nofullscreen: Prevents fullscreen mode from triggering if enabled.
 -bigpicture: Forces PCSX2 to use the Big Picture mode (useful for controller-only and couch play).
 --: Signals that no more arguments will follow and the remaining
   parameters make up the filename. Use when the filename contains
   spaces or starts with a dash.

Legacy documentation (including for WX builds and using Steam as a launcher) can be found at the PCSX2 Wiki.