The PlayStation 2, typically stylized as PS2, is one of the most successful gaming consoles of all time. Sony’s platform brought on some of gaming’s most notable franchises including God of War and Kingdom Hearts. But, when did the PlayStation 2 actually come out?
When Was the PlayStation 2 Released?
It was released in the year 2000, with different release dates according to region. It was initially launched in Japan on March 4, 2000, followed by North America on October 26, 2000, Europe on November 24, 2000, and Australia on November 30, 2000.
The initial launch owed part of its success to its backward compatibility with PlayStation 1 games. That meant that fans who wanted to upgrade to the new console didn’t have to fear about not being able to play their old software. The other part of its success is owed to the fact that the console launched with games like Midnight Club, SSX, and Tekken Tag Tournament. This console also introduced players to the new Dualshock 2, despite also having backwards compatibility with the PS1’s controllers.
Because the PS2 also played DVDs, it doubled as an entertainment system for some families. However, the new Slim would come out not long after the console became a household name.
When Did the PS2 Slim Come Out?
The PS2 got a bit of a facelift in 2004 when the PS2 Slim came out. The console was no different from the large, bulky one, but it was much thinner and boasted a toploader CD tray instead of the one that came out after pressing the Eject button. Sony produced different color variations and models of the console over the years until it stopped production and support for anything PS2 in 2013.
During its lifetime, the PS2 paved the way for various projects that have come to be more refined in modern day. If you don’t remember, the PS2 is responsible for the EyeToy which essentially paved the way for what we know now as the PS VR.
