(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)

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)