The PlayStation 2 was Sony's second home video console, released as a follow-up to its extremely successful original PlayStation system. Since its release in 2001, Sony has sold over 90 million units of its slim black video game system. Such impressive numbers were achieved due to a number of killer titles that gamers around the world simply had to play.

At launch, the Sony PlayStation 2 cost a little under $300. For that price, gamers would receive only the console and Sony's updated version of its DualShock controller. No PS2 games came bundled with the system, so gamers had to choose from some of the many PS2 launch titles. These PS2 games included Madden 2001, SSX, and Street Fighter EX3, among others.

Without question, one of the most popular video game franchises on the Sony PS2 is the Grand Theft Auto series. Due to the games' violent content, the series was the topic of much controversy from parents and other concerned parties. This didn't prevent the Grand Theft Auto games from becoming best-selling blockbusters. If anything, it helped pique the curiosity of those unfamiliar with these PS2 games.

One feature of the PS2 that certainly made all PlayStation owners happy was its backwards compatibility. People could upgrade to the new PS2, but still have the ability to play many of their older PlayStation titles on their new PS2 consoles. Out of the box, the PS2 also came with support for playing DVD movies and audio CDs. Because the console was so versatile, the PlayStation 2 became the perfect all-in-one home entertainment solution for people on a budget.