PlayStation 2
Best-selling console ever
The PlayStation 2 dominated gaming with 155 million units sold, DVD playback, and a library spanning every genre imaginable.
Overview
The PlayStation 2 achieved unprecedented success through smart positioning and an overwhelming game library. Launching as an affordable DVD player when standalone units cost more, it entered homes beyond gaming enthusiasts. Sony’s third-party relationships delivered exclusive content while backwards compatibility preserved PlayStation 1 libraries. No console before or since has matched its 155 million sales.
Fast facts
- Manufacturer: Sony Computer Entertainment.
- Release: March 2000 (Japan), October 2000 (NA/EU).
- Units sold: 155+ million (best-selling console ever).
- Library: 4,000+ titles.
- Production ended: 2013.
Hardware specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU | Emotion Engine, 128-bit, 294 MHz |
| GPU | Graphics Synthesizer, 147 MHz |
| RAM | 32 MB main, 4 MB video |
| Media | DVD-ROM, CD-ROM |
| Storage | 8 MB Memory Card |
| Outputs | Composite, S-Video, component |
The DVD advantage
Trojan horse strategy:
- DVD players cost 300+ dollars in 2000.
- PS2 launched at 299 dollars with DVD playback.
- Families bought it for films.
- Gaming became secondary benefit for some.
- Accelerated DVD adoption.
Backwards compatibility
PlayStation 1 support:
- Play existing PS1 library.
- Use PS1 memory cards.
- Preserve investment.
- Smooth generational transition.
Controller evolution
DualShock 2:
- Analogue buttons (pressure sensitive).
- Refined DualShock design.
- Improved ergonomics.
- Became industry standard shape.
Network Adapter
Online gaming introduction:
- Separate peripheral required.
- SOCOM, Final Fantasy XI online.
- Laid groundwork for PS3 networking.
- Limited but significant adoption.
Defining game library
| Genre | Notable titles |
|---|---|
| Action | God of War, Devil May Cry |
| RPG | Final Fantasy X, Kingdom Hearts |
| Stealth | Metal Gear Solid 2/3 |
| Racing | Gran Turismo 3/4 |
| Sports | Pro Evolution Soccer, FIFA |
| Horror | Silent Hill 2, Resident Evil 4 |
| Sandbox | GTA III, Vice City, San Andreas |
Third-party dominance
Publisher relationships:
- Square Enix exclusive RPGs.
- Konami Metal Gear and Silent Hill.
- Capcom exclusive period.
- Rockstar GTA timed exclusives.
- Everyone published on PS2.
Hardware revisions
| Model | Year | Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | 2000 | Original design |
| Slim | 2004 | Smaller, built-in ethernet |
| Later slim | Various | Further refinement |
Regional variations
Market differences:
- Japan: RPG focus.
- America: Sports, shooters, GTA.
- Europe: Football games dominant.
- Worldwide success across cultures.
Competition defeated
Console war position:
- Dreamcast withdrawn 2001.
- Xbox strong but couldn’t match library.
- GameCube third place.
- PS2 market leader entire generation.
Longevity
Extended lifespan:
- New games until 2013.
- Budget market in developing regions.
- 13-year production run.
- Supported longer than PS3 initially.
Legacy
The PlayStation 2 set records that may never be broken. Its DVD strategy, overwhelming library, and smart positioning created the template for console market dominance. Every subsequent console launch references its success.