Grand Theft Auto San Andreas
The Grand Theft Auto video game assigns different functions to the "L1" and "L2" buttons depending upon the situation that you are in. While standing, "L1" will reveal a statistical list of traits about your character "CJ," and "L2" will cycle through your weapons and allow you to select one as the active weapon. When you are in a car, pressing the "L1" button will engage a nitrous oxide boost if it is available, and the "L2" button will allow you to look to your left.
Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec
Gran Turismo 3 provides an options menu that allows you to assign the PS2 controller keys to suit the way that is most comfortable for you to play. The default assignment for the "L1" button is to access your rear view while driving. The default assignment for the "L2" button is to downshift a manual transmission gear while racing.
Smackdown vs. Raw
In the Smackdown vs. Raw wrestling game, the "L1" button is used to perform your most powerful wrestling maneuver--known as a "finishing move" (within a 20-second window of opportunity). Pressing the "L1" and "L2" buttons in tandem will allow you to save your finishing move to be used later in the match, if you are unable to perform the maneuver during the 20-second time span. Pressing the "L2" button alone will allow you to block strike attacks from your opponent while you are playing defensively.
Metal Gear Solid 3
Metal Gear Solid uses the "L1" button to aim a weapon, and to lock onto a target for shooting (in the first-person view). The "L2" button is used to access and select items currently in your backpack inventory.
Madden NFL 06
Madden Football is an example of a game where numerous functions are performed, depending upon the context in which you are playing. For example, the "L1" button performs spin moves to the left and the "L2" button performs a "stiff arm" maneuver while running with the ball on offense. The "L1" button is used to pass the ball and the "L2" button is used to intentionally throw the ball away during passing plays on offense.