Softmodding a (fat) PS2 in 2017

For any PS2 (slim or fat) with model number less than 9xxx, the simplest method is to obtain a memory card with Free MC Boot installed. The cost of such a memory card is around $10 (USD) on ebay. Once you have such a memory card, you can create new ones (I always have one as a backup that I have stored away safely). For owners of the fat PS2 consoles, you can also soft mod your PS2 to use your HDD (and even use Free HD Boot).

Yes, I am aware that many users are kind enough to provide a free...

Softmodding a (fat) PS2 in 2017