Playstation 2 trimmed down

Sony has announced the release next month of the trimmed down Playstation 2. While inheriting the basic functions and design philosophy of the current PlayStation 2 (SCPH-50000), the internal architecture has been completely redesigned, resulting in a slimmer and more lightweight design. Internal volume has been reduced by 75%, weight has been halved, and thickness trimmed down to 2.8 cm (thickness of current model is 7.8 cm). Equipped with an integrated Ethernet port for network gaming, the new PlayStation 2 sets new standards in the fusion of design and functionality.

Since its launch in November 2000, PlayStation 2, now in its fifth year has reached a consumer installed base of nearly 24 million units in the PAL territories. The exciting new design, combined with the price reduction in August to €149 will position PlayStation 2 for ever greater success over the next half of its life.

The new design PlayStation 2 will be supported by a lineup of exciting and innovative new titles, scheduled for launch in time for the peak Christmas period.

Michael Ephraim, Managing Director, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia / New Zealand said, "We are constantly developing new experiences for PlayStation 2 owners and this Christmas we will deliver an unparalleled game line-up," said.

"We will be launching 'best of' established game franchises and completely new console applications such as EyeToy: Chat that essentially transforms your console in to a videophone," added Mr Ephraim.

There are already over 1,000 games titles already available for PlayStation 2, and many more scheduled for launch before the end of the year, including SCEE published titles such as Gran Turismo 4, The Getaway: Black Monday, Singstar Party, Eye-Toy Play 2 and Killzone, and over 150 more titles from leading third party publishers.

Commenting at the launch of the new design, David Reeves, President of SCEE said, "We did it for PlayStation and now this time for PlayStation 2. This totally redesigned, network ready model will demonstrate that PlayStation has once again the design flair and innovation that has made PlayStation the world's best loved and most successful games console. We are confident that the combination of a new, more affordable price point, the great Christmas lineup and now this stunning new PlayStation 2 model will encourage a whole new generation of consumers to experience the fun of PlayStation".