Deciding Whether to Upgrade
The PS2 Slim comes bundled with the "Final Fantasy XI" game as of October 2010. This console does not permit hard disk expansion like the PS2 console does. The PS2 Slim can play all PS2 games, including the original PS games, because of its backward compatibility attribute. The PS2 Slim can play DVDs and audio CDs with Dolby Digital technology and DTS surround sound effects. Its ingrained online gaming connectivity also favors buying this version.
The sole extra benefit of upgrading to this version if you have a PS2 console already is the dispensation of your need for a separate online game adapter. Hence, it would be more cost-effective to buy the $40 adapter and $5 to $10 cables for the old PS2 console than to dole out $65 to $100, the price of a new PS2 Slim console.
Improving Graphics Quality
If you find that the quality of game graphics is not vivid enough when you use the A/V TV adapter that accompanies the PS2 Slim console package, you can use an S-video or component adapter available separately in stores.
Online Games
Besides the sleek design, the PS2 Slim enables online gaming. So owners can enjoy much sought-after PS2 online games like "Socom II," "Madden NFL 2005" and "Burnout 3" for free as Sony proffers its online PS2 gaming network membership facility at no cost. You will have to buy a PS2 memory card to save the console installation software's network configuration for each online game-title. To play online games in multiplayer mode, buy a PS2 Slim-compatible multitap accessory as the old versions cannot be attuned to this new console. Since the console has only two controller ports, an adapter will be required to use four controllers for multiplayer games.
Disc Reading Errors
Delays in loading and reading CDs or DVD9 -- a two-layer disk format used for PS2 video games such as "Guitar Hero 3" -- may be experienced in PS2 Slimline consoles. In such cases, you should clean the disc compartment with a can of compressed air. If that does not work use a DVD lens cleaner or a CD lens cleaner in your PS2 Slim. If the problem persists, have the laser lens replaced with a new lens specifically for the Sony PS2. If your PS2 Slim is under warranty, send it to Sony to be serviced.
Modification to Maximize Entertainment Experience
Modification permits playing imported games, DVD movies and audio CDs created by burning onto DVD+ Rs and CD+ Rs. For modification, buy a 3.6 Swap Magic disc for booting purposes and the V12 Slim tool, available as combo deals. This tool is an external plug-and-play technology for imports and does away with the need to open the console for installing mod chips, which will result in voiding the warranty. Using high-quality media give best results on the PS2 Slim.