What Console was Popular in 2000?
The year 2000 was a pivotal time for the gaming industry, with the release of several iconic consoles that would shape the future of gaming. Among these consoles was the PlayStation 2, which would go on to become the best-selling console of all time. But how did it fare in 2000, its release year? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of 2000 gaming and answer the question: what console was popular in 2000?
The Rise of the PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2, developed by Sony, was first released in Japan on March 4, 2000. It was later released in North America on October 26, 2000, and in Europe on November 24, 2000. This console was a behemoth of a machine, capable of playing games in DVD format, as well as CDs and cartridges. The PS2 was the first console to incorporate a built-in DVD player, making it a massive hit among gamers and movie lovers alike.
The PS2 was also praised for its impressive graphics and sound capabilities, thanks to its 128-bit Emotion Engine processor and 32 MB of RAM. These features allowed for smoother, more detailed gameplay, making it a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the PlayStation.
The PS2’s Impact on Gaming
The PlayStation 2 had a profound impact on the gaming industry. It brought about a new era of gaming, with improved graphics, sound, and gameplay. This console was also the catalyst for the rise of motion controls, with games like "SSX Tricky" and "SSX 3" featuring innovative controls that allowed players to use gestures to control their characters.
The PS2 was also home to some of the most iconic games of the era, including "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas", "Shadow of the Colossus", and "God of War". These games would go on to become classics, and their influence can still be seen in modern gaming.
The PS2’s Competition
The PlayStation 2 wasn’t without competition, however. The Nintendo GameCube was released in 2001, and although it didn’t quite match the PS2’s sales figures, it still managed to carve out a loyal following. The GameCube was known for its family-friendly games, such as "Super Smash Bros. Melee" and "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker", which appealed to a younger audience.
The Sega Dreamcast, released in 1999, also continued to compete with the PS2, offering its own unique games and innovative features, such as online gaming. However, the Dreamcast’s poor sales and lack of third-party support ultimately led to its demise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the PlayStation 2 was the clear winner in the console wars of 2000. Its innovative design, impressive graphics and sound capabilities, and massive game library made it a must-have for gamers. The PS2’s success can be attributed to its ability to appeal to a wide range of gamers, from casual players to hardcore enthusiasts.
Here is a summary of the top 5 consoles of 2000:
Console | Release Date | Games |
---|---|---|
PlayStation 2 | March 4, 2000 (Japan), October 26, 2000 (North America) | God of War, Shadow of the Colossus, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas |
Nintendo GameCube | June 13, 2001 | Super Smash Bros. Melee, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker |
Sega Dreamcast | September 9, 1999 | Sonic Adventure, Crazy Taxi |
Nintendo 64 | September 29, 1996 | Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time |
PlayStation | September 9, 1994 | Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid |
In this article, we’ve seen how the PlayStation 2 rose to dominance in 2000, thanks to its innovative design and impressive features. The PS2’s impact on gaming cannot be overstated, and it remains one of the most beloved consoles of all time.