Jump to content

PlayStation 2

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from PS2 Slimline)
"PS2" redirects here. For other uses, see PS2 (disambiguation).

PlayStation 2
Left: Original PlayStation 2 with vertical stand
Right: Slim PlayStation 2 with DualShock 2 controller
Also known asPS2
DeveloperSony Computer Entertainment
ManufacturerSony Electronics, Foxconn
Product familyPlayStation
TypeHome video game console
GenerationSixth
Release date
4 March 2000
  • PlayStation 2
    • JP: 4 March 2000
    • NA: 26 October 2000
    • EU: 24 November 2000
    • AU: 30 November 2000
    • HK: 13 December 2001[1]
    • TW: 24 January 2002[2]
    • KR: 22 February 2002
    • RUS: 7 November 2002
    • IND: 13 August 2003[3]
    PlayStation 2 Slimline
    • EU: 29 October 2004
    • JP: 3 November 2004
    • NA: 25 November 2004
    • AU: 2 December 2004
    • CHN: 20 December 2004
    • IND: 10 September 2008[4]
    • BRA: 15 October 2009[5]
Introductory price
  • ¥39,800 (equivalent to ¥40,730 in 2019)
  • US$299 (equivalent to $550 in 2024)[6][7]
  • £299 (equivalent to £640 in 2023)[8]
Discontinued
  • WW: 4 January 2013[10]
Units sold≥160 million[11][12]
MediaDVD, CD
CPUEmotion Engine @ ~300 MHz
Memory32 MB RAM, 4 MB Video RAM
Storage40 GB hard drive (optional)
Removable storage
Display
GraphicsGraphics Synthesizer @ 150 MHz
Sound
Audio output formats
Controller input
Connectivity
Online servicesDeveloper-run servers
DimensionsOriginal: 3.1 × 11.9 × 7.2 in (78.7 × 302.3 × 182.9 mm)
Weight
  • Original: 4.85 lb (2.2 kg)
  • Slim: 1.98 lb (0.9 kg)
Best-selling gameGrand Theft Auto: San Andreas (17.33 million)[13]
Backward
compatibility		PlayStation
PredecessorPlayStation
SuccessorPlayStation 3
RelatedPSX

The PlayStation 2 (PS2) is a home video game console developed and marketed by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was first released in Japan on 4 March 2000, in North America on 26 October, in Europe on 24 November, in Australia on 30 November, and other regions thereafter. It is the successor to the original PlayStation, as well as the second instalment in the PlayStation brand of consoles. As a sixth-generation console, it competed with Nintendo's GameCube, Sega's Dreamcast, and Microsoft's Xbox.

Announced in 1999, Sony began developing the console after the immense success of its predecessor. In addition to serving as a game console, it features a built-in DVD drive and was priced competitively with standalone DVD players of the time, enhancing its value. Full backward compatibility with original PlayStation games and accessories gave it access to a vast launch library, far surpassing those of its competitors. The console’s hardware was also notable for its custom-built Emotion Engine processor, co-developed with Toshiba, which was promoted as being more powerful than most personal computers of the era.

The PlayStation 2 remains the best-selling video game console of all time, having sold over 160 million units worldwide, nearly triple the combined sales of competing sixth-generation consoles. It received widespread critical acclaim and amassed a global library of 10,987 game titles, with 1.54 billion copies sold.[14] In 2004, Sony revised the console with a smaller, lighter body officially known as the "Slimline". Even after the release of its successor, the PlayStation 3, in 2006, it remained in production and continued to receive new game releases for several years. Manufacturing officially ended in early 2013, giving the console one of the longest lifespans in video game history.

History

[edit]

Background

[edit]

Released in 1994, the original PlayStation proved to be a phenomenal worldwide success and signalled Sony's rise to power in the video game industry. Its launch elicited critical acclaim and strong sales; it eventually became the first computer entertainment platform to ship over 100 million units.[15] The PlayStation enjoyed particular success outside Japan in part due to Sony's refined development kits, large-scale advertising campaigns, and strong third-party developer support.[16] By the late 1990s Sony had dethroned established rivals Sega and Nintendo in the global video game market.[17][18] Sega, spurred on by its declining market share and significant financial losses,[19] launched the Dreamcast in 1998 as a last-ditch attempt to stay in the industry.[20] Fuelled by a large marketing campaign, it sold over 500,000 units within two weeks.[21][22]

Development

[edit]

Though Sony has kept details of the PlayStation 2's development secret, Ken Kutaragi, "the Father of the PlayStation",[23][24] reportedly began working on a second console around the time of the original PlayStation's launch in late 1994.[25][26] At some point during development, employees from Argonaut Games, under contract for semiconductor manufacturer LSI Corporation, were instructed to design a rendering chip for Sony's upcoming console.[27] Jez San, founder of Argonaut, recalled that his team had no direct contact with Sony during the development process. Unbeknownst to him, Sony was designing their own chip in-house and had instructed other companies to design rendering chips merely to diversify their options.[27]

By early 1997, the press was reporting that a new PlayStation was being developed and would have backward-compatibility with the original PlayStation, a built-in DVD player, and Internet connectivity.[28][29] However, Sony continued to officially deny that a successor was being developed.[30] Chris Deering, then-president of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) recalled that there was a degree of trepidation among Sony leaders to produce a console which would recapture or exceed the success of its predecessor.[31] As such, Sony aimed for a consecutive market success, noting that neither Nintendo nor Sega had achieved back-to-back console victories. Deering compared the goal to winning "two gold medals in two back-to-back Olympics".[31]

Sony officially revealed the first details of the PlayStation 2 on 2 March 1999,[32] confirming in a press release that its processor would ensure full backwards compatibility with original PlayStation software,[33] significantly boosted performance, four-fold increase in data transfer rates, and a 20-times faster serial interface.[34] Kutaragi affirmed that the new console would allow video games to convey "unprecedented emotions".[35][36] Indeed, Sony estimated the PlayStation 2 could render 7.5 million[37] to 16 million polygons per second, whereas contemporary independent estimates ranged from 3 million to 20 million,[38][39] compared to Sega's estimates of more than 3 million to 6 million for the rival Dreamcast.[40] Later in the year, Nintendo announced its next console, the GameCube, and Microsoft began development of its own console, the Xbox.[41][42][43]

Rumours soon emerged suggesting that, despite its technical capabilities, the PlayStation 2 was notably difficult to develop for. Capcom designer Shinji Mikami, known for creating the Resident Evil and Dino Crisis franchises, criticised the lack of adequate development tools provided by Sony.[44] Having worked on titles for multiple fifth-generation platforms, Mikami described the PlayStation 2 as the most challenging system he had encountered. Likewise, Konami's Hideo Kojima expressed disappointment with the console's power, feeling it had not met his expectations.[45]

"PlayStation 2's real-time graphics have no limitations. That's why I chose the colour black as it represents the infinity of the universe. The blue represents the intelligence and life spouting up."

—Teiyu Goto reflecting on the PlayStation 2's aesthetics[46]

The PlayStation 2 was officially unveiled at the Tokyo Game Show on 20 September 1999,[47] in the presence of around 1,500 journalists. Although no physical console was shown and the name had yet to be finalised, Sony presented a series of visually striking—if somewhat overstated—technical demonstrations that generated considerable media attention.[31] A press release issued the same day described the hardware as featuring "the world’s fastest graphics rendering processor", capable of producing "movie-quality 3D graphics in real time".[39] One of the event's most symbolic moments came when Sony president Norio Ohga expressed pride in formally associating the Sony name with the PlayStation brand—a notable reversal from the company’s cautious stance during the development of the original console, when concerns about entering the video game industry had led executives to distance the corporate brand from the project.[48][49] By this point, the PlayStation had sold over 50 million units worldwide and become one of Sony’s most profitable divisions, accounting for roughly a quarter of their operating income. Shortly after its unveiling, Sony announced a major restructuring that included workforce reductions and a shift in focus towards PlayStation as a core part of the company’s future. Kutaragi, once considered a maverick for championing the original PlayStation, remarked: "We’re just going to be forced to educate the Sony Corporation a bit".[50]

On 1 April 1999, Sony and Toshiba established a joint venture in Nagasaki Prefecture to manufacture the PlayStation 2’s central processor, known as the Emotion Engine.[50][48] Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) held a 49 per cent stake in the new company, which was formed to ensure a steady supply of the chip and avoid production issues similar to those faced by rivals such as Sega and NEC. The Emotion Engine was central to Kutaragi’s vision for the console. Designed specifically for gaming, it featured strong floating-point performance and could deliver 6.2 gigaflops at 300 MHz—twice the speed of the leading PC processors at the time. Kutaragi envisioned the chip as enabling more lifelike and emotionally resonant gameplay. According to then-Worldwide Studios head Phil Harrison, the processor’s architecture was initially met with scepticism when presented at a chip design conference, with some experts doubting it could be manufactured at scale. Sony ultimately invested over $1 billion in production during the console’s first two years. The ultimate success of the Emotion Engine helped elevate SCE's profile from a game developer to a serious player in semiconductor design.[50][51]

Incorporating a DVD player in the console proved to be a pivotal decision. While Sony presented it primarily as a gaming device, the DVD functionality would prove influential in expanding its appeal.[52] Ray Maguire, then-managing director of SCE UK, later said that although the DVD feature was acknowledged in marketing, the focus remained on games. In contrast, Deering noted that in regions such as Southern Europe, where gaming was less prevalent, the DVD capability was to be promoted more heavily. This strategy proved successful in increasing console penetration in markets like Spain, where the PS2 significantly expanded the installed base of video game hardware.[50][53]

Launch

[edit]

Japan

[edit]

Sony launched the PlayStation 2 in Japan on 4 March 2000, at a price of ¥39,800. Reported scenes of "hysteria" contrasted with the relatively subdued launch of the original PlayStation in 1994.[48] More than 10,000 people queued across Tokyo on its launch day, some of whom had started waiting four days earlier. Demand was exceptionally high, with all one million launch units selling out over the course of the first weekend.[50] A black market had quickly opened up in Akihabara, with most consoles on eBay selling in excess of $2000 each.[50][32] One Japanese man committed suicide after failing to purchase one.[48] Despite very strong hardware sales, the Japanese launch was not without issues. Software sales were initially low, with reports suggesting that many consumers purchased the console primarily for its DVD playback capabilities. Additionally, early complaints about faulty memory cards contributed to a dip in Sony's stock price on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in the days following the release.[48]

We were awfully unprepared [...] because of the fast transition between PS1 and PS2, we had no idea how the industry manages these things.

—Shuhei Yoshida, speaking at a conference in 2018.[54]

Former Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida acknowledged that Sony had been “awfully unprepared” for the transition from the original PlayStation, noting the company’s limited experience in managing generational console launches. Due to a lack of launch software, much of the early consumer interest centred on the console’s ability to play DVDs. According to Yoshida, in Japan, the best-selling title during the launch period was not a game, but a DVD of The Matrix.[55] He remarked that while standalone DVD players were still expensive at the time, the PlayStation 2 offered comparable functionality at a significantly lower price point, contributing to its immediate commercial success.[50] The PlayStation 2 launched with eleven "underwhelming" titles, including Ridge Racer V, Tekken Tag Tournament, and Street Fighter EX3.[48][50][56] By 31 March 2000, the PlayStation 2 had sold its entire inventory of 1.4 million units in Japan.[32]

North America

[edit]

The United States launch on 26 October 2000 received a mixed reception. Sony reduced its initial shipment from one million units to approximately 500,000 due to supply constraints and manufacturing issues with a new, smaller version of the Graphics Synthesiser chip,[57] leading to widespread shortages. This sparked rumours of intentional stock manipulation to drive hype, especially as small supplies remained available in Japan. Retailers, who had taken pre-orders based on the higher estimates, were forced to cancel many reservations. Despite the frustration, the scarcity created a media frenzy, with widespread coverage of long queues and eager buyers camping outside stores.[58] Technology analyst Michael Gartenberg remarked that “you could not get a PlayStation 2 in the US in that first holiday season”, and felt that its demand could have harmed Sony's image when consumers were looking to purchase, but ultimately could not.[32]

However, the launch was supported by a broader selection of games compared to Japan. Electronic Arts sold 40,000 copies of Madden NFL 2000 prior to the console's release, and Rockstar Games saw early success with Midnight Club: Street Racing and Smuggler's Run. Despite some criticism of the launch itself, Rockstar’s Sam Houser remarked that it marked the "beginning of a new era" for the video game industry.[48] American sales of the console generated $250 million on the first day, beating the $97 million made on the first day of the Dreamcast.[59] Sony’s strategy of shipping approximately 100,000 PlayStation 2 units per week to the American market did little to ease consumer frustration. While the console was readily available in Japan, it remained largely sold out in the United States until March 2001 due to manufacturing delays.[32][60]

Europe

[edit]

The PlayStation 2 had a yet more troubled launch in the United Kingdom and rest of Europe on 24 November 2000. The BBC's consumer advocacy programme Watchdog criticised the console's £299 price as part of a "Rip-off Britain" segment. Additionally, some media outlets speculated that Sony had deliberately limited supply to create artificial demand. This perception was intensified by the decision to allocate only 80,000 preorders to the European market, despite Sony having previously identified Europe as its largest PlayStation territory, with 28 million original PlayStation units sold—compared to 27 million in North America and 17 million in Japan.[48] Particularly serious were complaints about faults with the new consoles, many of which purportedly failed to work on Christmas Day.[61]

The European launch of the PlayStation 2 was marked by stock shortages, which led to an unusual scene on release night as journalists searched unsuccessfully for the kind of large-scale consumer queues seen in Japan and the United States. Early resale attempts online saw ambitious asking prices of up to £1,500, though most units ultimately sold for closer to £500. Post-launch criticism emerged online, with some gaming outlets focusing on the console’s lack of anti-aliasing and developers voicing frustration over the system's programming complexity. At the time, Phil Harrison dismissed the backlash as indicative of the “worldwide cultural significance” of the console's arrival.[48]

Market domination

[edit]

Despite its problematic launch, the PlayStation 2 was an immediate financial and competitive triumph. Its success at the end of 2000 compounded Sega's serious financial issues; having sold 6.5 million Dreamcast consoles over a period of 22 months, Sony managed to ship 10 million PlayStation 2 units in under 15 months, with sales continuing to accelerate. As the PlayStation 2 increasingly dominated the market, and with Nintendo and Microsoft preparing to enter with new consoles, Sega chairman Isao Okawa made the decision to exit the hardware business.[62] The Dreamcast was discontinued on 31 March 2001.[63] On the same day, Sony announced that over 10.6 million units had been sold worldwide.[64]

A PlayStation 2 display in Taipei, Taiwan.

Sony soon faced a new challenge from Microsoft’s entry into the gaming sector with their release of the Xbox in November 2001. Internally, Sony executives recognised the scale of the threat, aware that Microsoft held significantly greater financial resources.[44] While the Japanese team was less alarmed, SCEE's Chris Deering anticipated intense competition and took a cautious approach. However, Microsoft’s US-centric strategy resulted in the Xbox struggling to gain traction outside North America, despite hiring talented staff. Sony's emphasis on building strong relationships with third-party publishers, and attractive incentives such as reduced platform fees, marketing support, and access to advanced development kits, secured key exclusives that helped maintain its market lead. This initiative was heavily emphasised by Ken Kutaragi, who advocated for a diverse ecosystem of software support. He advised that Sony should not dominate more than a third of its own software market to avoid alienating third-party developers.[31]

By 2001, Sony had established a commanding lead in the gaming market, bolstered by the breakout success of Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto III and Konami's Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty.[65][66][67] The game's open-world design captured the attention of a broad audience and marked a turning point in the PlayStation 2’s momentum.[48] The console's growing library reflected the same wide-ranging appeal that had defined the original PlayStation, offering something for "every type" of consumer. Sony also positioned itself at the forefront of innovation. Early trade show demonstrations showcased the PlayStation 2’s USB capabilities, with developers experimenting with motion controls long before they became industry standard. This experimentation would eventually lead to the release of the EyeToy, a camera-based peripheral that introduced a new form of interactive play and inspired a wave of titles aimed at broader, non-traditional audience.[48]

Many analysts initially predicted a close three-way matchup among the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. While the Xbox boasted the most powerful hardware, and the GameCube least expensive of the three, the PlayStation 2 continued to rapidly outsell both platforms. By October 2002, it had sold 40 million units worldwide.[68] Market research firm In-Stat projected that Sony would sell 120 million consoles by 2006, reaffirming the platform's commercial dominance. The report highlighted the expanding scale of the video game industry, characterising it as an increasingly significant segment of the consumer electronics market.[68][69] Sony cut the price of the console in 2002 from $299 to $199 in North America, undercutting both the Xbox and GameCube.[70] Further price drops in Japan followed in the following year.[71]

By early 2004, Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) reported over 25 million PlayStation 2 units sold in North America. Of these, approximately 2.6 million were equipped for online play, with one million users actively engaging in online gaming services. While hardware sales were expected to decline as the PlayStation 2 entered its post-peak sales period, software sales remained strong. Analysts projected continued growth in the platform’s game library and online engagement, particularly as new online-compatible titles were released and existing users looked to extend the utility of their consoles.[72]

In September 2004, Sony revealed a newer, slimmer model of the PlayStation 2 dubbed the "Slimline".[73] An apparent manufacturing issue and underestimated demand caused initial slowdown in producing the new unit caused in part by shortages between the time Sony cleared out the old units and the new units were ready. The issue was compounded in the United Kingdom when a Russian oil tanker became stuck in the Suez Canal, blocking a ship from China carrying PlayStation 2s bound for the Port of Felixstowe. During one week in November 2004, British sales totalled 6,000 units—compared to 70,000 units a few weeks prior. Sony remedied the issue by hiring Russian Antonov AN-24 cargo planes to airlift units twice a week.[74] There were shortages in more than 1,700 shops in North America on the day before Christmas.[75]

It became the fastest game console to sell 100 million units by 2008, accomplishing the feat within 5 years and 9 months from its launch; though this was surpassed 4 years later when the Nintendo DS reached 100 million shipments in 4 years and 5 months from its launch.[76]

Later years and discontinuation

[edit]

The PlayStation 2 remained the best-selling and most played console by 2008, even surpassing the PlayStation 3.[77] By July 2009, the system had sold 138.8 million units worldwide, with 51 million of those units sold in PAL regions.[78] Later that year, Sony announced that it had discontinued all console colours, however sales remained consistently strong.[79] In 2010, Sony introduced a Bravia television with a built-in PlayStation 2.[80][81]

Sales dropped significantly to 600,000 units by the beginning of 2012, partly due to the global launch of the PlayStation Vita a few months prior.[82] By 31 March 2012, twelve years after its launch, over 155 million units were sold worldwide.[83] Sony officially stopped supplying updated sales numbers of the system in the same year.[84] Production was officially discontinued on 4 January 2013 after almost thirteen years of production—one of the longest lifespans of any video game console. Sales in the fourth quarter of 2012 reached an "astonishing" 1.6 million units, totalling to 5 million units sold that year, surpassing the previous year's sales of 4.1 million units.[10] New games continued to be made until the end of 2013, including Final Fantasy XI for Japan, and FIFA 14: Legacy Edition for North America and South America.[85] The last game ever released for the system was Pro Evolution Soccer 2014 for the United Kingdom on 8 November 2013.[86] Repair services for the system in Japan ended on 7 September 2018 due to a shortage of parts.[87]

In February 2024, Jim Ryan (CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment) confirmed on the Official PlayStation Podcast that the PlayStation 2 had sold over 160 million units worldwide.[88] This statement was not directly corroborated by Sony themselves until eight months later, when this figure officially appeared on the PlayStation 30th Anniversary website in November that year.[89]

Hardware

[edit]

Technical specifications

[edit]
Main article: PlayStation 2 technical specifications
Emotion Engine CPU
Emotion Engine CPU
PlayStation 2 graphics synthesiser
PlayStation 2 graphics synthesiser
I/O processor
I/O processor
Emotion Engine CPU
Graphics synthesiser
I/O processor
memory controller
memory controller
SCPH-10000 motherboard
SCPH-10000 motherboard
SCPH-70001 motherboard
SCPH-70001 motherboard
Scratchpad memory controller
An early SCPH-10000 motherboard
A late SCPH-70001 motherboard

The main central processing unit (CPU) is the 64-bit R5900-based "Emotion Engine", custom-designed by Sony and Toshiba.[90][c] The Emotion Engine consists of eight separate "units", each performing a specific task, integrated onto the same die. These units include a central CPU core, two Vector Processing Units (VPU), a 10-channel DMA unit, a memory controller, and an Image Processing Unit (IPU). There are three interfaces: an input output interface to the I/O processor running at a clock speed of 36.864 MHz, a graphics interface to the graphics synthesiser, and a memory interface to the system memory.[91] The Emotion Engine CPU has a clock rate of 294.912 MHz (299 MHz on newer versions) and 6,000 MIPS, with a floating point performance of 6.2 GFLOPS.[92][93][94][95] The system's I/O processor was based on the PlayStation's CPU and was designed to provide full backward compatibility with the PlayStation.[34] The system has 32 MB of RDRAM.[92]

The GPU is likewise custom-designed for the console, named the "Graphics Synthesizer". It has a fillrate of 2.4 gigapixels per second, capable of rendering up to 75 million polygons per second.[96] The GPU also runs with a clock frequency of 147.456 MHz (which is half the clock speed of the Emotion Engine), 4 MB of DRAM is capable of transmitting a display output of 1280 x 1024 pixels on both PAL and NTSC televisions.[97] The PlayStation 2 has a maximum colour depth of 16.7 million true colours.[98] When accounting for features such as lighting, texture mapping, artificial intelligence, and game physics, the console has a real-world performance of 25 million polygons per second.[97] The PlayStation 2 also features two USB ports, and one IEEE 1394 (Firewire) port for SCPH-10000 to 3900x models only. A hard disk drive can be installed in an expansion bay on the back of the console, and is required to play certain games, notably the popular Final Fantasy XI.[99] The system has 4 MB of Video RAM in the form of eDRAM.[100][101]

Software was distributed primarily on DVD-ROMs,[102] with some titles being published on blue-tinted CD-ROM format. In addition, the console can play audio CDs and DVD films and is backward-compatible with almost all original PlayStation games.[97] The PlayStation 2 also supports PlayStation memory cards and controllers, although original PlayStation memory cards will only work with original PlayStation games[103] and the controllers may not support all functions (such as analogue buttons) for PlayStation 2 games. The standard PlayStation 2 memory card has an 8 megabyte (MB) capacity[104] and features MagicGate encryption.[105]

The PlayStation 2 can natively output video resolutions on SDTV and HDTV from 480i to 480p, and some games, such as Gran Turismo 4 and Tourist Trophy, are known to support up-scaled 1080i resolution.[106] The PlayStation 2 supports the following standards: composite video[107](480i), S-Video[108] (480i), RGB[109] (480i/p), VGA[110] (for progressive scan games and PS2 Linux only), YPBPR component video[111] (which display most original PlayStation games in their native 240p mode which most HDTV sets do not support[112]), and D-Terminal.[113] Cables are available for all of these signal types; these cables also output analogue stereo audio. Additionally, an RF modulator is available for the system to connect to older TVs.[114]

Models

[edit]
Main article: PlayStation 2 models
Rear of the slim model, showing its built-in networking

The PlayStation 2 underwent many revisions during its lifespan.[115]

The PS2 is primarily differentiated between models featuring the original "fat" case design and "slimline" models, which were introduced at the end of 2004. In 2010, the Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 was made available to consumers. It was a 22" HD-Ready television which incorporated a built-in PlayStation 2.[116][117]

The standard color of the PS2 is matte black. Several variations in color were produced in different quantities and regions, including ceramic white, light yellow, metallic blue (aqua), metallic silver, navy (star blue), opaque blue (astral blue), opaque black (midnight black), pearl white, sakura purple, satin gold, satin silver, snow white, super red, transparent blue (ocean blue), and also Limited Edition color Pink, which was distributed in some regions such as Oceania, and parts of Asia.[118][119]

In September 2004, Sony unveiled its third major hardware revision. Available in late October 2004, it was smaller, thinner, and quieter than the original versions and included a built-in Ethernet port (in some markets it also had an integrated modem). Due to its thinner profile, it did not contain the 3.5" expansion bay and therefore did not support the internal hard disk drive. It also lacked an internal power supply until a later revision (excluding the Japanese version), similar to the GameCube, and had a modified Multitap expansion. The removal of the expansion bay was criticised as a limitation to software, due to the existence of titles such as Final Fantasy XI, which required the HDD use.

Sony also manufactured a consumer electronic device called the PSX that can be used as a digital video recorder, and a DVD burner in addition to playing PS2 games. The device was released in Japan on 13 December 2003, and was the first Sony product to include the XrossMediaBar interface. It did not sell well in the Japanese market, and was not released anywhere else.[120]

Online support

[edit]
Main article: PlayStation 2 online functionality
See also: List of PlayStation 2 online games
A PS2 Network Adaptor shown by itself (top) and inserted to a console (North American Dial-up/LAN/broadband version; bottom)

The PlayStation 2 introduced optional online functionality via a dedicated network adaptor, which enabled both Ethernet and dial-up internet connections. The hardware component of the adaptor was compact—smaller than a standard paperback book—and installed easily into the expansion bay at the rear of the console. Once secured with two screws and connected to a telephone line or Ethernet cable, the adaptor was ready for use.[121] Sony did not operate its own subscription-based online service for the PlayStation 2, instead allowing users to connect through existing internet service providers. However, some providers, such as AOL, imposed additional charges for console connectivity—typically around $4.95 per month.[121]

A key distinction in Sony’s approach was its support for both broadband and dial-up connections, in contrast to Microsoft’s broadband-only requirement for the Xbox. While broadband provided a significantly smoother experience, Sony’s decision ensured greater accessibility for users with limited internet infrastructure. For households with established home networks, connecting the PlayStation 2 via Ethernet to a router was straightforward and efficient.[122] Sony also delegated the responsibility for online functionality to individual game developers and publishers. Each third-party developer was required to manage its own servers and infrastructure for their respective titles. This decentralised model meant that users often needed to create separate login credentials for each game, and the quality of online services varied depending on the developer’s expertise and resources.[121]

Controllers

[edit]
Main article: PlayStation 2 accessories

The PlayStation 2's DualShock 2 controller retains most of the same functionality as its predecessor, with several key enhancements. The most significant functional upgrade is the inclusion of pressure-sensitive inputs across all primary controls.[92] Unlike the original DualShock controller, which featured only digital input for the directional pad and face buttons, the DualShock 2 allowed for 255 levels of pressure sensitivity on the directional pad; four face buttons, and four shoulder buttons. Aesthetically, the DualShock 2 is distinguished by its black colour scheme and minor adjustments in weight and internal components. It is marginally lighter than the original, due in part to a reduction in the mechanical complexity of the vibration motors. The DualShock 2 maintained the overall layout and ergonomics of the original controller.[123] Like its predecessor, the DualShock 2 controller has force feedback, or "vibration" functionality.

Specialised controllers include light guns (GunCon), fishing rod and reel controllers, a Dragon Quest VIII "slime" controller,[124] a Final Fantasy X-2 "Tiny Bee" dual pistol controller,[125] an Onimusha 3 katana controller,[126] and a Resident Evil 4 chainsaw controller.[127]

Peripherals

[edit]
EyeToy
EyeToy
DVD remote
DVD remote
8MB memory card
8MB memory card
EyeToy camera
DVD remote
8MB memory card
PlayStation Multitap
PlayStation Multitap
40GB hard drive
40GB hard drive
Network adaptor
Network adaptor
Multitap
40GB hard drive
Network adaptor

Much like the original PlayStation, Sony released a series of peripherals to add extra layers of functionality. Such peripherals include memory cards, a DVD remote control, an internal or external hard disk drive (HDD), network adapter, horizontal and vertical stands, the Multiplayer Adapter (a four-player Multitap),[128] a USB motion camera (EyeToy), keyboard and mouse, and a headset.

Early versions of the PS2 could be networked via an i.LINK port, though this had little game support and was dropped. Some third-party manufacturers have created devices that allow disabled people to access the PS2 through ordinary switches, etc.

Some third-party companies, such as Joytech, have produced LCD monitor and speaker attachments for the PS2, which attach to the back of the console. These allow users to play games without access to a television as long as there is access to mains electricity or a similar power source. These screens can fold down onto the PS2 in a similar fashion to laptop screens.

There are many accessories for musical games, such as dance pads for Dance Dance Revolution, In the Groove, and Pump It Up titles and High School Musical 3: Senior Year Dance. Konami microphones for use with the Karaoke Revolution games, dual microphones (sold with and used exclusively for SingStar games), various "guitar" controllers (for the Guitar Freaks series and Guitar Hero series), the drum set controller (sold in a box set (or by itself) with a "guitar" controller and a USB microphone (for use with Rock Band and Guitar Hero series, World Tour and newer), and a taiko drum controller for Taiko: Drum Master.

Unlike the PlayStation, which requires the use of an official Sony PlayStation Mouse to play mouse-compatible games, the few PS2 games with mouse support work with a standard USB mouse as well as a USB trackball.[129] In addition, some of these games also support the usage of a USB keyboard for text input, game control (instead of a DualShock or DualShock 2 gamepad, in tandem with a USB mouse), or both.

Sony released a Linux-based operating system kit, Linux for PlayStation 2, which included a keyboard, mouse, Ethernet adapter and HDD. In Europe and Australia, the PS2 comes with a free Yabasic interpreter on the bundled demo disc. This allows users to create simple programs for the PS2. A port of the NetBSD project and BlackRhino GNU/Linux, an alternative Debian-based distribution, are also available for the PS2.

Game library

[edit]
See also: List of PlayStation 2 games (A–K), List of best-selling PlayStation 2 video games, List of cancelled PlayStation 2 games, and List of downloadable PlayStation 2 games

With a total of 10,987 game titles, the PlayStation 2 features a diverse global library.[14] Premier franchises include the Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy, and Metal Gear Solid series, most games of which were released exclusively for the console. Several prolific series first arrived on the console, including God of War (2005), Ratchet & Clank (2002), Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy (2001), Devil May Cry (2001), and Kingdom Hearts (2002). The best-selling PlayStation 2 game is Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, which sold 17.33 million units.[130] After the PlayStation 2's discontinuation in 2013, the cumulative software shipment was 1.54 billion units.[14]

Game releases peaked in 2004, but declined with the release of the PlayStation 3 in 2006. The last new games for the console were Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin in Asia, FIFA 14 in North America,[85] and Pro Evolution Soccer 2014 in Europe.

Reception

[edit]

The PlayStation 2 received critical acclaim upon release. Initial reviews commended its hardware and graphics capabilities, ability to play DVDs, and backward compatibility with games and hardware for the original PlayStation. Early points of criticism included the lack of online support at the time, its inclusion of only two controller ports, and the system's price at launch compared to the Dreamcast in 2000.[131][132] PC Magazine in 2001 called the console "outstanding", praising its "noteworthy components" such as the Emotion Engine CPU, 32 MB of RAM, support for IEEE 1394 (branded as "i.LINK" by Sony and "FireWire" by Apple), and the console's two USB ports while criticising its "expensive" games and its support for only two controllers without the multitap accessory.[133]

The inclusion of DVD playback was a major factor in the commercial success of the PlayStation 2. At launch, the PS2 was priced comparably to standalone DVD players, making it an attractive option for consumers. This multifunctionality also the increased console's appeal beyond traditional gamers and accelerate DVD adoption in households.[134][135]

There was, however, some concern about the system's abilities following the lack of anti-aliasing in the two most popular early titles, Ridge Racer V and Tekken Tag Tournament.[136] It was exacerbated for a period of time post-launch amid concerns about the relative lack of new quality software.[137] This situation was eventually turned around following a spate of big and highly acclaimed games in the final quarter of 2001.[66] Later reviews, especially after the launch of the competing GameCube and Xbox systems, continued to praise the PlayStation 2's large game library and DVD playback, while routinely criticising the PlayStation 2's lesser graphics performance compared to the newer systems and its rudimentary online service compared to Xbox Live. In 2002, CNET rated the console 7.3 out of 10, calling it a "safe bet" despite not being the "newest or most powerful", noting that the console "yields in-game graphics with more jagged edges". CNET also criticised the DVD playback functionality, claiming that the console's video quality was "passable" and that the playback controls were "rudimentary", recommending users to purchase a remote control. The console's two controller ports and the high cost of its memory cards were also a point of criticism.[138]

The slim model of the PlayStation 2 received positive reviews for its small size and built-in networking, but received criticism for easily overheating due to the exclusion of the original model's built-in fan. The requirement for a separate power adapter was criticised while the top-loading disc drive was noted as being less likely to break compared to the tray-loading drive of the original model.[139][140]

Legacy

[edit]

The PlayStation 2 overcame the earlier launch of the Sega's Dreamcast and then fended off competition from Microsoft's newcomer Xbox and Nintendo's GameCube.[141][142][143] Its immense success and failure of the Dreamcast were among the main factors which led to Sega abandoning the console market entirely.[144][145] Sony’s integration of a DVD player into the console not only positioned it as a cost-effective home entertainment device, but also helped broaden its reach beyond traditional gaming audiences. This feature contributed to the PlayStation 2’s widespread adoption, particularly as DVD technology was gaining popularity.[10]

Additionally, the console served as the exclusive platform for several early landmark titles such as Grand Theft Auto III (2001), Final Fantasy X (2001), and Metal Gear Solid 2 (2001), during a period marked by significant innovation in game design. This era saw the emergence of cinematic storytelling and expansive open-world gameplay, which further solidified the system’s appeal. According to Piers Harding-Rolls, a senior analyst at IHS Screen Digest, Sony’s marketing strategy—particularly its alignment with association football—was instrumental in securing strong market penetration in regions where console gaming had previously been underdeveloped. In its later years, the PlayStation 2 expanded its demographic by incorporating lifestyle and social games, further enhancing its longevity and appeal during the mid-2000s.[10]

The PlayStation 2 has often ranked among the best video game consoles. In 2020, Keith Stuart from The Guardian named it as the second best console, declaring that its "utter dominance" and technical prowess heralded a golden era in video gaming.[146] IGN ranked the PlayStation 2 in 2009 as the third best console, noting its diverse game library and appeal towards all audiences to be a strong testament to its "staying power".[147] In 2018, Retro Gamer named it the fifth best console, similarly crediting its large library and appeal to developers as key factors in gaining mass success, lauding it as a machine with "mad architecture".[148]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Progressive scan capable software only.
  2. ^ Also backwards compatible with original PlayStation Controller and original DualShock.
  3. ^ The Emotion Engine was referred to as a "128-bit" processor in marketing materials, referring to its SIMD instructions that operate on 128-bit wide groups of integers in a single instruction, but the customised variant of the MIPS III instruction set architecture implemented by the processor uses general registers with a size of 64 bits.

Citations

[edit]
  1. ^ "报道：中国香港版PS2游戏机开始大幅降价_网络游戏新闻_17173.com中国游戏第一门户站". news.17173.com.
  2. ^ "PS2台灣專用機上市記者會". 巴哈姆特電玩資訊站.
  3. ^ "Sony launches PlayStation 2 in India". The Times of India. 13 August 2003.
  4. ^ "New PS2 model launches in India". VG247. 10 September 2008.
  5. ^ "Sony lança oficialmente o PlayStation 2 e jogos do PS3 no Brasil". Extra Online. 19 November 2009.
  6. ^ Perry, Douglas (11 September 1999). "Call It PlayStation 2". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Archived from the original on 22 October 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
  7. ^ "Sony announces PS2 launch date and price". Gamespot. San Francisco: CBS Interactive. 13 May 2000. Archived from the original on 22 October 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
  8. ^ Goodley, Simon (5 August 2000). "Sony delays UK launch of PlayStation 2". The Telegraph. London. Archived from the original on 22 October 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
  9. ^ プレイステーション2の日本国内での出荷が本日（2012年12月28日）で完了. Famitsu (in Japanese). Tokyo: Enterbrain. 28 December 2012. Archived from the original on 28 December 2012. Retrieved 28 December 2012.
  10. ^ a b c d Stuart, Keith (4 January 2013). "PlayStation 2 manufacture ends after 12 years". The Guardian. London, United Kingdom: Guardian Media Group plc. Archived from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 4 January 2013.
  11. ^ "2000 PlayStation 2 - PSP PlayStation Portable | PlayStation History timeline (US)". PlayStation history. 26 November 2024. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  12. ^ "FY 2012 Consolidated Financial Results" (PDF). Sony. 9 May 2013. p. 8. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  13. ^ Guinness (February 2009). Guinness World Records 2009 Gamer's Edition. Guinness World Records. pp. 108–109. ISBN 978-1-904994-45-9. GTA: San Andreas is the best-selling PlayStation 2 game, with a massive 17.33 million copies sold.
  14. ^ a b c "Business Data & Sales". Sony Interactive Entertainment. Retrieved 16 February 2025.
  15. ^ "PlayStation 2 Breaks Record as the Fastest Computer Entertainment Platform to Reach Cumulative Shipment of 100 Million Units" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment. 30 November 2005. Archived from the original (PDF) on 3 January 2006. Retrieved 8 June 2008.
  16. ^ Kent 2001, p. 504.
  17. ^ "Sony PlayStation vs Nintendo 64". Digital Spy. 9 December 2012. Archived from the original on 20 August 2014. Retrieved 19 August 2014.
  18. ^ "The Making Of: PlayStation". Edge. Bath: Future plc. 24 April 2009. p. 3. Archived from the original on 18 October 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  19. ^ "Sega Enterprises Annual Report 1998" (PDF). Sega Enterprises, Ltd. pp. 1, 7–8. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 May 2004. Retrieved 7 December 2014.
  20. ^ "State of the Game: August 1999". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. 10 August 1999. Archived from the original on 17 January 2022. Retrieved 17 January 2022.
  21. ^ "A Look Back at the Sega Dreamcast". Archived from the original on 18 January 2016. Retrieved 30 December 2016.
  22. ^ Whitehead, Dan (25 October 2011). "Dreamcast: A Forensic Retrospective Article". Eurogamer.net. Archived from the original on 15 October 2014.
  23. ^ Ashcraft, Brian (19 February 2010). "What's The Father of the PlayStation Doing These Days?". Kotaku. Bath: Future plc. Archived from the original on 1 October 2021. Retrieved 11 August 2010.
  24. ^ Magrino, Tom (11 November 2009). "'Father of the PlayStation' adopts new start up". GameSpot. San Francisco: Red Ventures. Archived from the original on 3 March 2010. Retrieved 11 August 2010.
  25. ^ "Letters". Next Generation. No. 22. Imagine Media. October 1996. p. 203.
  26. ^ Wojmar, Jason (8 July 2019). "10 Secrets Behind The Making Of The PlayStation 2". TheGamer. Valnet. Archived from the original on 8 July 2019. Retrieved 29 December 2021.
  27. ^ a b McFerren, Damien (26 November 2019). "The Team Behind Nintendo's Super FX Almost Made the PS2 CPU, And It Was Named After a Dog's Bits". Push Square. Brighton: Gamer Network. Archived from the original on 27 February 2021. Retrieved 29 December 2021.
  28. ^ "Saturn/PS-X Sequels". Next Generation. No. 27. Imagine Media. March 1997. p. 24.
  29. ^ "Gaming Gossip". Electronic Gaming Monthly. No. 93. Ziff Davis. April 1997. p. 28.
  30. ^ "Can Sony Stay on Top?". Next Generation. No. 37. Imagine Media. January 1998. pp. 11–12.
  31. ^ a b c d Gibson, Ellie (2 January 2013). "PS2: The Insiders' Story". Eurogamer. Bath: Future plc. Archived from the original on 13 May 2022. Retrieved 24 May 2022.
  32. ^ a b c d e "PlayStation 2 Timeline". GameSpy. p. 3. Archived from the original on 4 June 2004. Retrieved 19 December 2007.
  33. ^ "Backward Compatibility for PlayStation 2?". Next Generation. No. 39. Imagine Media. March 1998. p. 22.
  34. ^ a b "Announcement of I/O processor development". playstation.com. Sony Computer Entertainment America. 2 March 1999. Archived from the original on 11 November 1999. Retrieved 5 November 2023.
  35. ^ Kent 2001, pp. 560–561.
  36. ^ Parkin, Simon (25 June 2014). "A history of videogame hardware: Sony PlayStation 2". Edge. Archived from the original on 29 November 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  37. ^ "Reaching for the Limits of PS2 Performance: How Far Have We Got?" (PDF). Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2003. Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 December 2003. Retrieved 29 May 2022.
  38. ^ Casamassina, Matt (3 November 2000). "Gamecube Versus PlayStation 2". IGN. Archived from the original on 4 November 2014. Retrieved 14 November 2014.
  39. ^ a b Kent 2001, p. 560.
  40. ^ Johnston 1999, p. 26-27.
  41. ^ Kent 2001, pp. 563, 574.
  42. ^ DeMaria & Wilson 2004, p. 313.
  43. ^ Parkin, Simon (27 June 2014). "A history of videogame hardware: Xbox". Edge. Archived from the original on 21 November 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  44. ^ a b Kent 2001, p. 568.
  45. ^ Kent 2001, pp. 569–570.
  46. ^ Keeling 2000, p. 90.
  47. ^ Perry, Douglass C. (20 September 1999). "TGS 1999: Sony's Grand Showing". Archived from the original on 28 July 2017. Retrieved 30 December 2016.
  48. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k McCarthy, Dave (22 November 2006). "PlayStation - The total history". Eurogamer. Bath, Somerset: Future plc. Retrieved 3 June 2025.
  49. ^ Edge staff (24 April 2009). "The Making Of: PlayStation". Edge. Bath: Future plc. Archived from the original on 16 May 2012. Retrieved 7 March 2012.
  50. ^ a b c d e f g h Segaud Noel, Pierre (9 June 2020). "The story of PS2, Sony's crowning achievement". VGC. Retrieved 3 June 2025.
  51. ^ "The Sony Emotion Engine: Will PlayStation 2 replace your PC?". CNN. 1 February 2000. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
  52. ^ Fanneran, Vinny (28 June 2022). "Pivotal Decisions in Gaming History - PlayStation 2 and DVD Playback". TechStomper. Retrieved 23 April 2025.
  53. ^ Calvin, Alex (6 January 2020). "How Sony's PlayStation 2 took the world by storm". GamesIndustry.biz. Brighton: Gamer Network. Archived from the original on 23 November 2021. Retrieved 24 May 2022.
  54. ^ Taylor, Ivy (11 July 2018). "Shuhei Yoshida reflects on the PS2 launch: "We were awfully unprepared"". GamesIndustry.biz. Retrieved 4 June 2025.
  55. ^ Kent 2001, p. 571.
  56. ^ "２０００年 テレビゲームソフト 年間売上 ＴＯＰ１００". 25 January 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2022. Retrieved 6 September 2024.
  57. ^ Kent 2001, p. 586.
  58. ^ Kent 2001, pp. 585–586.
  59. ^ "Sony Pulls in Over $250 Million at Launch". IGN. 17 June 2012. Archived from the original on 21 September 2013.
  60. ^ "PS2 history". gamesindustry.biz. 22 November 2006. Archived from the original on 11 October 2007. Retrieved 25 September 2007.
  61. ^ "Playstation 2 faults reported". BBC News. 12 January 2001. Retrieved 3 June 2025.
  62. ^ Kent 2001, pp. 582–583.
  63. ^ Ahmed, Shahed (31 January 2001). "Sega announces drastic restructuring". GameSpot. Archived from the original on 10 May 2015. Retrieved 9 December 2014.
  64. ^ "PlayStation 2 Cumulative Production Shipments of Hardware". Sony Computer Entertainment. 9 June 2012. Archived from the original on 9 June 2012. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  65. ^ Adams, Dan (21 April 2002). "Grand Theft Auto III Interview". IGN. Ziff Davis. p. 1. Archived from the original on 20 April 2016. Retrieved 20 March 2016.
  66. ^ a b "PlayStation 2". Edge. No. 106. January 2002. p. 59.
  67. ^ Morris, Chris (14 May 2002). "Sony slashes PlayStation prices: Preemptive move undercuts competition and could spark video game price war". CNN. Archived from the original on 30 November 2005. Retrieved 4 January 2006.
  68. ^ a b "Playstation 2 is 'console champion'". London: BBC News. 30 October 2002. Retrieved 5 June 2025.
  69. ^ Twist, Jo (3 December 2004). "Decade of dominance for PlayStation". London: BBC News. Archived from the original on 24 February 2018. Retrieved 3 December 2004.
  70. ^ Gaither 2002, p. 34.
  71. ^ Taylor 2003, p. 21.
  72. ^ Fahey, Rob (3 March 2004). "PlayStation 2 passes 25 million sales milestone in North America". GamesIndustry.biz. Gamer Network. Retrieved 4 June 2025.
  73. ^ Dunham, Jeremy (21 September 2004). "Sony Announces New PS2". IGNpublisher=Ziff Davis. Retrieved 4 November 2023.
  74. ^ Elliott, Valerie (9 December 2004). "Merry Christmas, your PlayStation 2 is stuck in Suez". Times Online. News International. Archived from the original on 16 March 2007. Retrieved 1 April 2007.
  75. ^ "2004 Holiday Sales Results Call". GameStop. Archived from the original on 5 May 2012. Retrieved 9 September 2006.
  76. ^ "Nintendo Ships 100 Millionth Portable Nintendo DS System". Nintendo. 11 March 2009. Archived from the original on 15 January 2020. Retrieved 11 March 2009.
  77. ^ "PS2 the most played console of 2008". Archived from the original on 26 January 2025. Retrieved 23 February 2025.
  78. ^ "Slimmer, Lighter PlayStation®3, new PlayStation®Network services, plenty of content and a great value price" (PDF). 2 September 2009. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2 September 2009. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  79. ^ "Ps2本体セラミックホワイト・サテンシルバー出荷完了へ メモリーカードやコントローラも".
  80. ^ Trenholm, Richard. "Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 TV with PS2 built-in parties like it's 2000". CNET. Archived from the original on 22 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
  81. ^ King, Rachel. "Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 LCD TV sports PlayStation 2". ZDNet. Archived from the original on 1 October 2021.
  82. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 May 2021.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  83. ^ "Cumulative Worldwide Hardware Unit Sales (Sell-In)". Sony Interactive Entertainment Business Development. Archived from the original on 27 April 2019. Retrieved 30 October 2019.
  84. ^ "SIE Business Development | Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc". www.sie.com. Archived from the original on 27 April 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  85. ^ a b "Chicharito es portada de FIFA 14". ESPN Deportes (in Mexican Spanish). 28 June 2013. Archived from the original on 24 June 2021. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
  86. ^ Jason Dunning (21 August 2013). "The Last PS2 Game to Launch for the System Might not be FIFA 14 as PES 2014 is Confirmed for PS2 & PSP". PlayStation LifeStyle. CraveOnline. Retrieved 7 November 2013.
  87. ^ "PlayStation 2 repair services close in Japan". London: BBC News. 4 September 2018. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  88. ^ Cripe, Michael (29 March 2024). "PlayStation Boss Jim Ryan Reveals PS2 Sold 160 Million Units Worldwide". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
  89. ^ Stedman, Alex (26 November 2024). "Sony Confirms the PlayStation 2 Has Sold Over 160 Million Consoles Worldwide". IGN. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
  90. ^ Copetti, Rodrigo (8 April 2020). "PlayStation 2 Architecture: A Practical Analysis". The Copetti site. Retrieved 28 March 2023.
  91. ^ Stokes, Jon (16 February 2000). "Sound and Vision: A Technical Overview of the Emotion Engine". Ars Technica. Archived from the original on 10 June 2018. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
  92. ^ a b c Keeling 2000, p. 92.
  93. ^ Diefendorff, Keith (19 April 1999). "Sony's Emotionally Charged Chip" (PDF). Microprocessor Report. 13 (5). Archived (PDF) from the original on 11 September 2006. Retrieved 22 June 2017.
  94. ^ Shiloy, Anton (26 February 2007). "Sony Removes Emotion Engine, Graphics Synthesizer from PAL PlayStation 3". X-bit labs. Archived from the original on 26 October 2016. Retrieved 7 May 2014.
  95. ^ Hennessy, John L.; Patterson, David A. (7 December 2017). Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Morgan Kaufmann Publishers. ISBN 978-0-12-811905-1.
  96. ^ Casamassina, Matt (3 November 2000). "Gamecube Versus PlayStation 2". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Archived from the original on 4 November 2014. Retrieved 14 November 2014.
  97. ^ a b c Keeling 2000, p. 93.
  98. ^ Leigh 2018, p. 201.
  99. ^ Kasavin, Greg (31 March 2004). "Final Fantasy XI Review for PlayStation 2 – GameSpot". GameSpot. San Francisco: CBS Interactive. Retrieved 11 November 2010.
  100. ^ Perry, Douglass (10 March 2000). "The Untapped Power of PlayStation 2". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Archived from the original on 18 February 2017. Retrieved 18 February 2017.
  101. ^ Leadbetter, Richard (21 July 2012). "Digital Foundry vs. PS2 Classics on PlayStation 3". Bath: Future plc. Archived from the original on 6 August 2012. Retrieved 19 February 2017.
  102. ^ Keeling 2000, p. 91.
  103. ^ "Playstation 1 and Playstation 2 Compatibility". 6 December 2018. Archived from the original on 6 December 2018. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  104. ^ "Memory Card (8 MB) (for PlayStation 2)". 5 March 2016. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  105. ^ "Press Release - Sony Announces Memory Stick™ for Audio Application "Memory StickTM Walkman®" and "MagicGate Memory Stick™" To Be Launched". Sony Global. 22 September 1999. Retrieved 21 January 2019.
  106. ^ "Gran Turismo 4 - #9 Top PS2 Games". IGN. Archived from the original on February 26, 2016. Retrieved March 1, 2016.
  107. ^ "Amazon.com: TRADERPLUS 6FT AV to RCA Composite Cable Cord for Sony Playstation 2 (PS2), Playstation 3 (PS3): Video Games". Amazon. 6 September 2019. Archived from the original on 6 September 2019. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  108. ^ "Amazon.com: 6' S-Video Cable for PlayStation 2 (Black): Video Games". Amazon. 12 March 2015. Archived from the original on 12 March 2015. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  109. ^ "Sony Playstation RGB SCART lead Sync on Luma PS1 PS2 GROUNDED cable co | Retro Access". 15 July 2020. Archived from the original on 15 July 2020. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  110. ^ "Official Sony Genuine PS2 Linux VGA Cable Playstation 2 [VideoGameX] | eBay". 15 July 2020. Archived from the original on 15 July 2020. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  111. ^ "Amazon.com: Gam3Gear Component AV Audio Video Cable for PS3 PS2: Artist Not Provided: Electronics". Amazon. 27 February 2020. Archived from the original on 27 February 2020. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  112. ^ "240p — HD Retrovision". 18 November 2019. Archived from the original on 18 November 2019. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  113. ^ "Amazon.com: (PS3/PS2 for) D Terminal Cable: Video Games". Amazon. 28 February 2015. Archived from the original on 28 February 2015. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  114. ^ "PS2 – Installation using an RFU adapter" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 July 2015.
  115. ^ "PS2 Model Identification – PS2 Model Numbers". PS2Cover.com. 31 October 2019. Archived from the original on 31 October 2019. Retrieved 15 July 2020.
  116. ^ Trenholm, Richard. "Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 TV with PS2 built-in parties like it's 2000". CNET. Archived from the original on 22 February 2020. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
  117. ^ "The PS2 Isn't Gone, It's In This TV". Kotaku. 3 December 2010. Archived from the original on 1 October 2021. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
  118. ^ Calvert, Justin (4 November 2003). "PS2 Price Drop, New Colors for Japan". GameSpot. Archived from the original on 29 June 2011. Retrieved 10 July 2007.
  119. ^ Fahey, Rob (9 March 2004). "Sony Launches New PS2 Colors in Japan". GamesIndustry.biz. Archived from the original on 30 September 2007. Retrieved 10 July 2007.
  120. ^ "Sony PSX (DVR) | Video Game Console Library". VideoGameConsoleLibrary.com. 25 March 2019. Archived from the original on 25 March 2019. Retrieved 22 February 2020.
  121. ^ a b c Falcone, John (12 November 2002). "Sony PlayStation 2 Online Adaptor review". CNET. Archived from the original on 1 October 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2020.
  122. ^ Ahmed, Shahed (8 November 2000). "Sun-Denshi Discusses PS2 Modem". GameSpot. San Francisco: Fandom. Retrieved 23 October 2024.
  123. ^ Zdyrko, Dave (27 September 2001). "Dual Shock 2 Review". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  124. ^ Gantayat, Anoop (25 October 2004). "DQVIII Gets Slimy". IGN. Archived from the original on 21 April 2006. Retrieved 1 April 2024.
  125. ^ "Final Fantasy X-2 Tiny Bee Controller". Play-Asia. Archived from the original on 20 August 2016. Retrieved 1 April 2024.
  126. ^ Dunham, Jeremy (7 January 2004). "Onimusha 3 Soul Controller and Memory Card". IGN. Archived from the original on 21 February 2014. Retrieved 1 April 2024.
  127. ^ Wood, Rhys (25 October 2023). "Yes, the PS2's Resident Evil 4 Chainsaw Controller Really Is That Bad". TechRadar. Archived from the original on 25 October 2023. Retrieved 1 April 2024.
  128. ^ Layton 1997, p. 174.
  129. ^ "PlayStation Knowledge Center | Support – PlayStation.com". Us.playstation.com. 10 January 2011. Archived from the original on 26 November 2011. Retrieved 27 March 2011.
  130. ^ Glenday 2009, p. 48.
  131. ^ Marriott, Michel (26 October 2000). "PlayStation 2: Game Console as Trojan Horse". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Archived from the original on 13 July 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  132. ^ "Hardware Review – Sony PlayStation 2". www.thedigitalbits.com. Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  133. ^ Sarrel, Matthew D. (6 March 2001). "Sony Playstation 2". PC Magazine. Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  134. ^ "Top 10 PlayStations, ranked". Polygon. 3 December 2024.
  135. ^ Levy, Steven (14 November 2006). "Sony's Grand Game". Wired.
  136. ^ I. G. N. Staff (1 July 2000). "PS2: Aliased No More". IGN. Retrieved 8 September 2024.
  137. ^ Wehrfritz, George (17 December 2000). "Pow! Sony Gets Hit". Newsweek. Retrieved 8 September 2024.
  138. ^ Gladstone, Darren. "Sony PS2 review: Sony PS2". CNET. Archived from the original on 2 July 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  139. ^ Falcone, John. "Sony PlayStation 2 (slim form factor)". CNET. Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  140. ^ "Slim-line PlayStation 2 (PS2)". Pocket-lint. 28 January 2005. Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 30 August 2019.
  141. ^ "PlayStation is number 7". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. Archived from the original on 13 November 2012. Retrieved 27 October 2012.
  142. ^ McKinley Noble (31 August 2009). "5 Biggest Game Console Battles". PCWorld. Archived from the original on 28 May 2013. Retrieved 27 October 2012.
  143. ^ Edwards, Cliff (18 December 2000). "Sega Vs. Sony: Pow! Biff! Whack!". Bloomberg News. New York City. Archived from the original on 23 January 2022. Retrieved 7 March 2022.
  144. ^ Whitehead, Dan (9 September 2019). "Dreamcast: A Forensic Retrospective". Eurogamer. Bath: Future plc. Archived from the original on 15 October 2014. Retrieved 30 October 2014.
  145. ^ "The ten greatest years in gaming". Edge. 27 June 2006. Archived from the original on 22 October 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  146. ^ Stuart, Keith (16 July 2020). "The 25 greatest video game consoles – ranked!". The Guardian. London. Archived from the original on 5 January 2021. Retrieved 6 January 2021.
  147. ^ "Top 25 Video Game Consoles". IGN. Chicago: Ziff Davis. 21 July 2009. Archived from the original on 7 July 2018. Retrieved 6 January 2021.
  148. ^ "The 30 best video game consoles and systems of all time". GamesRadar. Bath: Future plc. 25 December 2018. Archived from the original on 1 November 2020. Retrieved 6 January 2021.

Bibliography

[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=PlayStation_2&oldid=1294308335"