Sony has confirmed that it has sold over 160 million PS2s worldwide-the best-selling console of all time. This amazing achievement marks the 30th birthday of the PlayStation brand on December 3rd.
Originally launched in Japan on March 4, 2000, the PS2 went on to enjoy a long lifespan of over twelve years with new releases continuing until the launch of the PS4.
Its success was no accident, either: the system had top-class titles coming to it unceasingly, which included God of War, Shadow of the Colossus, Ico, Ratchet and Clank, and Killzone, among the many others; it also could run backwardly compatible games with the original PlayStation, an integrated DVD player that made it a real multi-tasking solution not only for gamers but even for consumers of home media.
Recent sales figures for Sony bring out the fact that the PS2 simply dominates the gaming market. Following, but far from closing, in are the Nintendo DS at approximately 154 million sales and the Nintendo Switch hot on its heels at 146 million sales. But both systems have a long way to go if they ever hope to catch this total.
Console Sales Comparison
| Console | Sales | Approx. Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 2 | 160 million | 2000 |
| Nintendo Switch | 130 million | 2017 |
| PlayStation 4 | 117 million | 2013 |
| Xbox One | 51 million | 2013 |
| Xbox Series X/S | 20 million (est) | 2020 |
| PlayStation 5 | 40 million (est) | 2020 |
Further updated Sony sales figures reveal that over 102 million PS One machines were sold, while around 87 million PS3 consoles were sold, the current generation predecessor PS4 realized more than 117 million units moved; meanwhile, the PS5 to date has shifted 65.6 million units alone worldwide – a number more than twice the combined sales figure in comparison to Microsoft’s two next-generation Xbox Series X|S consoles.
The PS2, with 146 million units sold, hasn’t been topped yet-although a next-year launch for its successor would no doubt make this console generation even more interesting, the Nintendo Switch hot on its heels.
Recent sales figures from Sony show that the PS2 remains the greatest console of all time in terms of sales. This is followed closely by Nintendo DS and Nintendo Switch, which are both at around 154 million and 146 million in sales, respectively. However, both have a long way to go if they hope to catch up with the impressive total of the PS2.
The Nintendo Switch is powering its way through, and this makes the competition tight in the world of gaming. In fact, its hybrid nature, combined with a solid library of games, explains why it surged in popularity. There is a whisper for a new console from Nintendo that should come soon, which again would shake things up. As it stands now, though, the PS2 stands tall.
Sony is releasing a PS One-themed limited edition PS5 console and accessories to commemorate such an incredible achievement. The nostalgic twist is definitely something long-time fans and collectors would look forward to.
As we look back on how the PS2 fared, there is little doubt it has left a mark in the gaming world. With its library of more than 3,800 game titles, there was something for every gamer-from the casual player to the enthusiastic one. It couldn’t be just great marketing and technological innovation that it’s still so popular; rather, it’s about the memories and experiences it would bring to millions of gamers across the world.
The PlayStation 2 held the place of being one of, if not the, highest-selling consoles because it cut across many users-a reason described by the innovation the brand brought on board. The library was rather huge, plus attributes that can suit most categories of uses. The PS2 remains special in gaming memory. Which are your fondest moments with the PS2?
