It is a well-known fact that the PlayStation 2 holds the title of being the best-selling gaming console of all time. Launched in 2000, it had a remarkable lifespan that lasted until 2012, setting a record unparalleled by any other console in history. The PlayStation 2 gave rise to numerous iconic franchises that continue to thrive today, and it dominated the gaming industry worldwide for years. Recently, former PlayStation executive Jim Ryan disclosed the impressive sales figures of the PlayStation 2 during its ten-year run.
Initial estimates suggested that the PS2 had sold 155 million units between 2000 and 2012. This estimate was not far off from the final tally revealed by Jim Ryan in an interview with the Official PlayStation Podcast. According to Ryan, a total of 160 million PS2 consoles were sold worldwide.
The Incredible Legacy of the PlayStation 2
Even as late as 2009, Sony was still introducing the PlayStation 2 to new markets. With an extensive library of games, including some that are hailed as all-time greats, the PlayStation 2 attracted tens of millions of users worldwide. Whether you were a fan of Silent Hill, Gran Turismo, Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, or more niche titles, the PlayStation 2 had something for everyone.
It seems unlikely that any other console will surpass the monumental success achieved by the PlayStation 2. While there have been claims that the PlayStation 5 could potentially outperform its predecessors, the latest figures indicate that 50 million units of the PS5 have been sold since 2020. Although this puts it ahead of the PS2 in terms of sales, it is doubtful that the PS5 will have the same enduring impact.
Even today, many retro gaming enthusiasts maintain that the PlayStation 2 stands as the greatest console of all time. Personally, I still have my trusty PlayStation 2 connected and ready to play, and I am certain it will be the first console my son appreciates, despite his current interest in newer gaming options. Do you have any cherished memories of the PlayStation 2?
For the latest gaming news, keep following Esports.net