PlayStation 2

PS2-Versions

PlayStation 2 (PS2) is a home video game console developed and marketed by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was first released in Japan on March 4, 2000, in North America on October 26, 2000, and in Europe and Australia in November 2000. As the successor to the PlayStation, it is part of the PlayStation series of video game consoles. The PS2 is notable for being the best-selling video game console of all time, having sold over 155 million units worldwide.

Development

The development of the PlayStation 2 was announced in March 1999. The console was designed to be backward compatible with PlayStation games, a feature that contributed significantly to its early and sustained success. It was also the first console to utilize the DVD format as its primary storage medium, which offered a substantial increase in storage capacity over the older CD-ROM format.

Hardware

The PS2's hardware architecture was complex for its time, featuring a custom CPU known as the "Emotion Engine" and a graphics processing unit (GPU) called the "Graphics Synthesizer." This hardware allowed for advanced graphics and audio capabilities compared to its competitors, enabling the development of visually stunning and immersive games.

Software

The PlayStation 2 had a vast library of games, with over 3,800 titles released. It was home to many highly acclaimed games, including titles like Final Fantasy X, Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec, and Shadow of the Colossus. The console also supported a range of multimedia functionalities beyond gaming, such as DVD playback and CD audio playback, making it a versatile entertainment device.

Online Capabilities

Sony expanded the PS2's functionality by releasing a network adapter, enabling online multiplayer for some games. This addition marked Sony's first foray into networked gaming, laying the groundwork for the online services that would become standard in future console generations.

Legacy

The PlayStation 2's impact on the gaming industry and popular culture is significant. Its vast game library, backward compatibility, and multimedia capabilities helped it dominate the sixth generation of video game consoles. The PS2 was officially discontinued in 2013, but its influence persists, with many of its games and franchises continuing in new installments on later PlayStation consoles.

See Also

• PlayStation
• PlayStation 3
• Video game console
• History of video games