The PlayStation 2 (PS2), launched in 2000, is recognized as the best-selling console of all time, with over 160 million units sold according to Sony's recent announcements.

The success of PlayStation is largely attributed to its extensive game library, which included iconic titles like 'Ridge Racer', 'Metal Gear Solid', 'Final Fantasy VII', 'Resident Evil', and 'Tomb Raider', leveraging CD-ROM technology for reduced costs and faster production.

A major factor in the PS2's success was its Emotion Engine, a groundbreaking graphics processor developed in collaboration with Toshiba, which set new standards in gaming.

The PS2 was noted for significant advancements in home console gaming, including online play, DVD playback, and backward compatibility with original PlayStation games.

The launch of the PS2 saw intense demand that led to physical altercations among customers, notably at the Virgin Megastore on the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Over its lifespan, the PS2 released more than 4,000 titles, including iconic series such as 'God of War' and 'Ratchet and Clank', which continue to receive new installments today.

The design of the PlayStation controller, featuring the iconic triangle, circle, cross, and square buttons, reflects cultural differences, with the circle representing 'OK' in Japan and the cross meaning 'cancel', a practice that was reversed for Western markets but was abandoned in the PlayStation 5.

Hiroyuki Maeda, a video game historian, stated that PlayStation significantly changed the landscape of video games in terms of hardware, software, distribution, and marketing.

Despite a decline in popularity following pandemic-driven surges, Sony recently laid off hundreds of employees in its PlayStation division while launching an upgraded PS5 and planning a new handheld version to compete with Nintendo.

Over the past three decades, PlayStation has faced intense competition and technological advancements, particularly from Microsoft's Xbox and Nintendo's Switch.

The article highlights various trending topics in the gaming industry, including a lawsuit against Amazon influencers, Elon Musk's learning about EV charging, and significant Black Friday deals on streaming services.

Upcoming products include black versions of the DualSense Edge controller, Pulse Elite wireless headphones, and Pulse Explore wireless earbuds, along with a Helldivers 2 themed PS5 DualSense controller.