Hobbies And Interests
Capabilities
The Sony PS2 Network Adapter is a must for the new age gamer. The device allows the PS2 console to access the Internet. This feature allows a gamer the ability to take his game play skills to the Internet and challenge other PS2 users. From head to head sports competition to Massive Multi-player Online games (MMO), the Sony PS2 Network Adapter opens up the world of gaming to any console using high speed Internet via an Ethernet port, or dial up access through a phone jack.
Design
The PS2 Network Adapter was developed by Sony, and released along side SOCOM: U.S. Navy Seals in August 2002. Taking the game to the next level, Sony released Final Fantasy XI, an MMO launched in Fall 2003, giving gamers a social network to not only meet other users, but to team up to defeat the creatures in the world of Vanadiel.
Originally designed to fit over a hard drive in the original PS2, the new "slim" PS2 system integrates the adapter into the unit. This has allowed more PS2 users to access online games without having to purchase an additional accessory. This new feature is great for saving space and money, however it takes away some options available to original design PS2 users.
Setbacks
Some games on PS2, most notably Final Fantasy XI (the MMO previously cited), require the PS2 HDD to play the games. The HDD is a hard drive that fits in the back of the expansion bay of the original design PS2. The new "slim" PS2 design lacks an expansion bay for the HDD. Therefore, in order to play Final Fantasy XI a gamer must either have an original design PS2, or purchase one online or a refurbished device at a store, such as Gamestop.
Price
The add-on PS2 Network Adapter is affordable. When looking at most Internet sites, or stores the price stays roughly at $14.99. Parents and PS2 owners will notice that this is probably the most inexpensive PS2 accessory available, and therefore a must-have.
For those that do not currently have a PS2, the slim version of the PS2 (now the only available new in box unit) retails from $99.99 to $129.99. These units are available at most electronic retailers. Again this price is small compared to the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii that retail from $249.99 to $499.99.
Conclusion
The benefits of the PS2 Network Adapter outweigh the setbacks. The majority of the games using online capabilities do not require the HDD device, and therefore the slim PS2 does not hamper use. The PS2 Network Adapter introduces gamers to new possibilities for play.