Customer Reviews

Sony PlayStation 2 Combo Pack

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Personally, I'm not a fan of the Playstation 2 system. As a games retailer, I have long felt that Sony exploits gamers with their market dominance and incessant, unceasing add-ons. The PS2 system lags far behind both the Gamecube and the XBox when it comes to graphics and gameplay. Sony's philosophy for the longest time seemed to be that if you threw enough games onto the shelves--regardless of how lousy they were--you'll continue your dominance of the market. (Thankfully, they seem to have dropped that philosophy in light of greater competition from their rivals). In my store, PS2 games take up more shelf space than XBox and Gamecube combined, yet quality games--those worth buying at full-price, with excellent replay value--would only occupy a few shelves. True, they have exclusive rights to SOCOM, Ratchet and Clank, The Getaway (a poor man's Vice City), and a handful of other popular titles. Yet one of their trump cards in their war with the other systems--XBox in particular--has been their exclusive rights to EA Sports' online gaming world. That has changed since XBox now has rights to EA online, as well. The Playstation's seemingly endless array of required add-on accessories sometimes feels like exploitation. Even the recent Final Fantasy XI/HDD (hard-drive) bundle follows this pattern. Rather than finally following XBox's lead and adding a hard-drive for game saves, the HDD will only allow you to save the FFXI games (and a few others in development), so you'll still need memory cards (although you can transfer your memory card saves to the HDD--you just can't save or load directly to or from it).

(Trust me, I'm getting to the point).

Yet, in spite of its flaws, the PS2 continues to dominate the market, outselling the other systems combined. Why? Because Sony was shrewd enough to build a system and develop games that have a broader appeal than XBox (geared towards teens and adults) and Gamecube (mostly kid-oriented). Sony's wide array of titles give a fair amount of gaming choice, and even though there are a higher number of lousy titles by percentage for the PS2 than other systems, the large game choice means that every genre is well-covered with quality games and there's something to appeal to nearly everyone. Plus, there's backwards compatibility with PSOne games (though not with many of its accessories). Sony's decision to drop the price on not only its standard game system but also on its Online Bundle (formerly $30 more expensive) has led me to reassess the PS2.

Why? Because for the same purchase price as the standard PS2, you also get seventy dollars' worth of extras: The network adapter ($40 sold separately, required for online gameplay) and a decent game, ATV Offroad Fury 2 ($30). Just in case you were wondering, there are no differences between the systems in these separate packages: Both come with a single controller, an A/V (RCA) hookup for the TV, do not include any memory cards, and are progressive-scan DVD players. The game systems in the boxes are exactly the same; the only difference is that this bundle includes two quality extras. The network adapter allows one to hook up to the PS2 online gaming world using either a dial-up or high-speed connection. (A hint: If using high-speed, get a router and split the signal between your PC and PS2; this is the connection option with the fewest issues). Most online games are free at this time; there is a charge, however, for Everquest and for FFXI. Even if you don't need the network adapter, it's there if you ever want to go online. (Better to take it free now than have to pay $40 for it later). ATV Offraod Fury 2 is a decent title and probably was chosen because it is a respectable offline and online game. Now, I still have some issues with the PS2. But I have to respect Sony for taking the hit on this system in order to pass a good value on to its customers.

Suggested accessories (when possible, buy the Sony brand. They're the best when it comes to quality and reliability): Memory cards (required for game saves; available singly for around $25, though you can buy a double pack and save some money long-term), extra controllers (about $25; the system comes with a single black controller; they're also available in green, blue, and grey); if you want wireless controllers I STRONGLY suggest the Logitech brand; Pelican also makes a decent wireless controller; for DVD playback I recommend the DVD remote kit (about $15) which greatly simplifies DVD playback; racing wheels are an excellent choice if playing any of the Need For Speed, Midnight Club, Gran Turismo, or NASCAR games; once again, I recommend the Logitech brand; if your TV does not have A/V jacks (red, yellow, and white) on its front or back, then you'll need an RF adapter (about $15); if you have S-Video or Component jacks on your TV, you might want to upgrade your cables--both Sony and Monster Cable offer solutions; finally, if traveling with the system, I recommend the Intec 5.4" gamescreen.

(Sorry this was so long)

--Christian Wheeler

Watch your model numbers people, as there are several different PS2's out there. My review is for a newer model 97014/SCPH-50001. You can find this one by looking for the yellow "plus" sign in the corner of the box. Anyways, this model has some updated features compared to previous PS2 models such as a built-in IR receiver(for the DVD remote), DVD Progressive scan w/ DVD-/+RW capability and lower noise operation. I'm unsure if amazon offers the 97014 model or not. Sony finally reduced their prices to 149.99, thanks Sony...it's about time :) I'm so happy I waited and didn't spend 300$ for it when it first was released. I got a great deal on mine, I got this online pack which includes the on-line adapter(40$ value) built into the back of the machine and also the ATV offroad fury 2 game(40$ value), a 2 year warranty, and a Sony DVD remote for under 170$. Keep in mind this pack just recently was 200$ alone. Also, another word of warning...there are at least 2 different versions of the Sony PS2 DVD remote out there that I know of. Read your PS2 package(back) and make sure you get the one that is compatible. I'd also suggest you invest in a Monster Cable GameLink 300 S-Video cable, they are a little pricey but well worth it. Happy Gaming.

The Playstation 2. GREAT system. Wonderful games, 100's of developers, 2 different models, one BIG problem. Before i say anything else i wish to mention one thing. I am a true gamer. I am not biased against any system or genre. i pretty much love everything there is about games but this thing is like an obsessed girlfriend. as much as you love her, shes just a (...) to have around.

This system breaks people. i have had three and they have all stopped working eventually. the only thing I can say to whoever buys this system is to follow my homemade guideline.

1. unplug the system whenever its not in use.

2. if you have a playstation 1, use that system to play your old games and not the ps2

3. if you have another DVD player, use that to watch the movies and not the ps2.

4. If you have other systems, wich share titles with the system, buy the titles for the other system.(they don't break, and they look better to)

5. Last but not least, get the best warrenty you can for this thing. you'll be glad you did. and keep it standing on its side. thats the way they wanted it and it usually works better that way.
Other than sony's poor craftsmenship, the system is a home for some of the best exclusives you can get. Final Fantasy 10-11, ATV series, Metal gear solid 2, Virtua fighter 4 and many many others. but if your looking for a stable system, with the best craftsmenship and also great games, get an XBOX. That system wins this current console generation in MY opinion.

First off let me start by saying, this is NOT going to be a PS2 bashing. Though we all have our opinions on the three systems, the fact is that they are all great systems in their own right. That is to say you won't go wrong no matter which one you choose.

Let me reiterate, this is not a bad system. It has several great games (Final Fantasy X & X2, Grand Theft Auto, WWE Smackdown Series and several others). Though it must be noted that Gamecube and XBox both have great exclusive titles. The graphics are outstanding and they may not even be the best of the three, but they are great, certainly better than anything we had just a few short years ago. They definitely have more benefits than everybody else (free online gaming, the Eyetoy, and more games. As far as controllers go, I like Gamecube's a bit better, but this controller works wonderfully well too and is well laid out. (You won't be searching for the buttons like you do on XBox controllers, that is my one true complaint with that system) Anyway Playstation 2's biggest downfall is in the fragility of the system itself and though I have experienced no problems personally, I have heard of a few from close friends.

1. Disc Reading Error (You've seen this many times, I will comment no further.)

2. Malfunctioning Disc Door (It just stops opening when the button is pressed. You then have to pull it out and push it in manually which can cause it ultimately to break.)

3. The power cords tend to wear out faster than average. (Not a big deal, the cords are fairly cheap, but it could present a fire hazard.)

None of these things would be a huge deal except that the PS2 comes with a measly 90 day warranty (Do I hear 1 year anyone?)

I'm not trying to say this system is junk. It does have durability issues more than anything. I personally prefer Gamecube but only by a small margin. All of you who immaturely spout "PS2 rules, Gamecube & XBox suck" are not only lying to yourselves, you're doing a great disservice to the readers who depend on these reviews to make an important decision.

The bottom line is the Playstation 2 is a great system and definitely worth the money, but it is not gaming perfection as some make it out to be. Try Gamecube & XBox as well. All three are extremely fun!!!

This review is for the system, not the game (although the game would get a 4 star by itself). This is a great deal on this system. Not only do you get the PS2 (149 bucks by itself), but they are throwing in a Network adapter ($40) and free game ($30-50). You can't beat that. The PS2 has the widest selection of games available for any current generation console. They also cover the most game genres, from FPS to RPG, Platformer to Action, Strategy to Puzzle. There is something here for everyone.

I have often seen people bashing about Xbox and Gamecube but let me tell you one thing . The only thing that is better on Xbox are graphics and speed. NOTHING ELSE. About games Ps2 wins.Like car simulation show me a game which is better than Gran Turismo. Like Shooting games. Show me a game that is better than Metal Gear Solid. The only game which XBOX has got is Halo. But thats it. November 2004 is even going to be for PS2. Why? Metal Gear Solid 3 and Grand Theft Auto San Andreas only coming on PS2 platform.However let me also tell you another thing. If you are above 20, like violence and abusive language get an XBOX. If below 10, like childish games get a Game cube. But if you are between 10 to 20 yrs old, like all types of games, and want to play DVDs on your console, get a PS2. Belive me you wont be sorry. I have 7 yrs of gaming experience

The game slot doesnt open or close right, the system will not play DVDs and it overheats!

This was a replacement PS2 as our son took one to college with him. Shipment came fast, and there were no problems with merchandise. Good seller

PS2 is the best system, hands down because all of the games to choose from, but i still say, there is no reason to buy a PS2 unless you get GTA3,Vice City or San Andreas because those games are best games ever invented. PS2 gets a bad rap because they say it doesn't have updated graphics but people only that when praising the stink box and the gaycube. PS2 has the best games like GTA, Manhunt and Max Payne. Just a overall fun system, can u believe it once cost $300.00 and it is such a small item.

This is a Great deal for the PS2 cant beat it and just to set some people straight I own the Xbox and PS2 not to mention about 9 other gaming consoles but when it comes to pure Power and Abilities Xbox Stomps on PS2 but most of Xbox games suck where PS2 has a ton of Games which most suck to but way more better games then xbox. But this is a great deal even if you own other systems this is a must buy.