Hi all, first time poster here

I’ve played Hydro Thunder since I was very young and upon finishing uni I’m back into it, and considering posting times soon, but I’ve always had a big problem where it can’t save my progress, I lose everything upon powering off. Most tracks need progressing before I unlock Blowfish, which I’ve driven now but earning it every time (is fun but) takes a while, but more critically I can’t save my lap times.

I now know that because I use a later PS2 (75003, v14 PAL/UK spec slim) with a PS1 disc (also is this allowed?) with a later BIOS version, this BIOS apparently removes save compatibility on some old games. If this is or isn’t the problem, does anyone have advice to how I can get around this? Someone online mentioned save states, or I have thought about emulation but never tried either. Thing is I’ve got the originals so if I can get it working that would be amazing. Family friends of mine do have a PS1 in their loft and I’ve always thought about making an offer for it, so that’s also an option.

Any help appreciated. Thanks in advance.