Diff: PlayStation 2
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'''PlayStation 2''', often abbreviated as PS2, is a home video game console developed by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]] and released on March 4, 2000, in [[Japan]]. It is the successor to the original PlayStation and is part of the sixth generation of video game consoles. |
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'''PlayStation 2''' ('''PS2''') is a home video game console developed by Sony Computer Entertainment. It launched in Japan on 4 March 2000, followed by North America and Europe later that year. |
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== History == |
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The PlayStation 2 was a highly anticipated release and quickly became a best-seller, with over 155 million units sold worldwide, making it the best-selling console of all time. It was released in Japan on March 4, 2000, followed by North America on October 26, 2000, and Europe on November 24, 2000. |
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The PS2 succeeded the original PlayStation and competed with Sega Dreamcast, Nintendo GameCube, and Microsoft Xbox. It became the best-selling video game console in history, with Sony later giving a lifetime figure of more than 160 million units. |
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== Features and Specifications == |
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== Launch and Position == |
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The PS2 arrived at a time when DVD playback was becoming important in homes. Its built-in DVD drive made it useful as both a games console and a DVD player, which helped its early appeal. |
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* CPU: The PlayStation 2 uses a custom-designed CPU known as the "Emotion Engine," which is capable of processing graphics and game logic simultaneously. |
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* Graphics: It has a custom-designed graphics synthesizer known as the "Graphics Synthesizer," which is capable of rendering realistic 3D graphics. |
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* Storage: The console uses 8MB Memory Cards for game saves and expansion. |
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* Optical Drive: It uses a DVD-ROM drive that can play DVDs and CDs. |
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The console was backwards compatible with many original PlayStation games and controllers. That gave it a large usable library from the start, alongside new PS2 releases. |
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== Games == |
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The PlayStation 2 was known for its extensive game library, which included a wide variety of genres and titles. Some of the most notable games for the system include: |
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== Hardware == |
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The system used Sony and Toshiba's Emotion Engine processor and a Graphics Synthesizer graphics chip. It used DVD-ROM and CD-ROM discs, with memory cards used for saves. |
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* Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas: An open-world action-adventure game set in a fictional state based on California. |
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* Final Fantasy X: A role-playing game (RPG) developed and published by Square Enix. |
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* Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec: A racing game developed by Polyphony Digital. |
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* Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty: A stealth-action game developed by Konami. |
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* God of War: An action-adventure game developed by Santa Monica Studio. |
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The original model was large and black with a vertical or horizontal setup. A slimmer model arrived later, reducing the size and weight and helping the console remain on sale late into its life. |
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== Game Library == |
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The PS2 library covered action, role-playing, racing, horror, rhythm, sports, fighting, simulation, and experimental games. Important titles included: |
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* ''Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas'' |
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* ''Final Fantasy X'' |
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* ''Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec'' |
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* ''Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty'' |
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* ''God of War'' |
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* ''Shadow of the Colossus'' |
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* ''Kingdom Hearts'' |
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* ''Resident Evil 4'' |
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The console also became a major platform for Japanese role-playing games, games based on film and television licences, sports games, and local multiplayer titles. |
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== Online and Peripherals == |
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The PS2 supported online play in some titles, although online functions were less unified than later PlayStation Network services. It also used peripherals such as the EyeToy camera, microphones for ''SingStar'', guitar controllers, dance mats, and steering wheels. |
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These accessories helped broaden the console beyond traditional controller-based games. |
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== Longevity == |
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The PS2 remained commercially active long after the PlayStation 3 launched in 2006. Its low cost, large library, and established manufacturing base kept it relevant in many markets. |
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Sony's company timeline records PS2 milestones across its early years, including major shipment points. The console's long life and unusually large library are central to its reputation. |
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== Legacy == |
== Legacy == |
The PlayStation 2 left a lasting impact on the gaming industry, helping to popularise DVD playback on consoles and establishing the PlayStation brand as a powerhouse in the industry. It was succeeded by the PlayStation 3 in 2006 but remained in production until 2013 due to its popularity. |
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The PS2 strengthened PlayStation as a global console brand. Its importance came from more than sales: it normalised DVD playback in consoles, gave third-party publishers a huge audience, and supported both mainstream blockbusters and unusual smaller releases. |
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== Reception == |
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The PlayStation 2 was highly praised for its expansive game library, impressive graphics, and innovative features. It received numerous awards and accolades during its lifetime and is considered one of the most influential and successful video game consoles in history. |
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== See Also == |
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* [[Xbox_360]] |
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* [[Sony_Computer_Entertainment]] |
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* [[Resident_Evil_2]] |
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* [[Grand_Theft_Auto_V]] |
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== Impact == |
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The PlayStation 2 had a significant impact on the gaming industry, helping to popularise DVD playback on consoles and establishing the PlayStation brand as a powerhouse in the industry. It was succeeded by the PlayStation 3 in 2006 but remained in production until 2013 due to its popularity. |
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== References == |
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* [https://www.playstation.com/en-us/playstation-history/2000-ps2-psp/ PlayStation: PlayStation 2 history] |
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* [https://sonyinteractive.com/en/our-company/expanded-company-timeline/ Sony Interactive Entertainment: Expanded company timeline] |
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* [https://www.playstation.com/en-us/playstation-history/1994-ps-one/ PlayStation: PlayStation history] |
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* [https://sonyinteractive.com/en/our-company/ Sony Interactive Entertainment: Our company] |
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[[Category:Video game consoles]] |
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[[Category:PlayStation]] |