When was the Last PS2 Sold?
The PlayStation 2 (PS2) is one of the most successful consoles in the history of the gaming industry. Released in 2000, it went on to sell over 155 million units worldwide, making it the best-selling console of all time. But, when was the last PS2 sold? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some interesting facts about the PS2’s lifespan.
Discontinuation of the PS2
The PS2 was discontinued in 2012, after a remarkable 12-year production run. Sony announced that it would stop producing the console in Japan on December 28, 2012, and worldwide on January 4, 2013. This marked the end of an era for the PS2, which had become a staple in many gaming households.
Last Official Online Server Shutdown
The last official online server for the PS2, which was for Final Fantasy XI, was shut down on March 31, 2016. This effectively ended the PS2’s online gaming capabilities. However, some unofficial servers continued to operate, allowing gamers to play their favorite PS2 games online.
PS2 Server Shutdown Timeline
Here is a timeline of the PS2 server shutdowns:
- March 31, 2016: Last official online server for Final Fantasy XI shut down
- April 4, 2016: DNAS (Dynamic Network Authentication Service) shut down, affecting several remaining unofficial servers
PS4 Sales vs. PS2 Sales
The PS4, which was released in 2013, has sold over 111 million units worldwide as of May 2020. While the PS4 is a successful console, it still lags behind the PS2 in terms of sales. The PS2 sold over 155 million units during its lifetime, making it the best-selling console of all time.
Comparison of Xbox and PS2 Sales
The Xbox, which was released in 2001, sold around 24 million units worldwide during its lifetime. In comparison, the PS2 sold over 155 million units. This highlights the significant gap in sales between the two consoles.
PS2 Sales by Region
Here is a breakdown of PS2 sales by region:
| Region | Sales |
|---|---|
| Japan | 21.91 million |
| North America | 50.94 million |
| Europe | 48.17 million |
| Other regions | 34.88 million |
PS2’s Legacy
The PS2’s legacy extends beyond its impressive sales figures. It played a significant role in popularizing gaming and introducing many people to the world of console gaming. The PS2 was also home to many iconic games, including Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, God of War, and Shadow of the Colossus.
Conclusion
The last PS2 sold was in 2012, when Sony discontinued production of the console. The PS2’s online capabilities were shut down in 2016, marking the end of an era for the console. While the PS4 has sold over 111 million units, it still lags behind the PS2 in terms of sales. The PS2’s legacy continues to be felt in the gaming industry, and it remains one of the most beloved consoles of all time.