Although it does not use the same USB controllers as its successors, the PlayStation 2 nonetheless features USB ports on the console. A number of PlayStation 2-specific accessories make use of that port, such as the Eye Toy and a Sony headset.
PlayStation EyeToy
One of the most well-known PlayStation 2 accessories, the EyeToy uses a USB port and comes with additional software to install. After connecting the device, you'll need to run the disc it arrives with on the PlayStation 2. When the EyeToy is ready, it will display an LED indicator. Like the Kinect, you need to step at least six or seven feet back to use the EyeToy. Some games were made exclusively for the EyeToy, such as "EyeToy: Play," while others use the accessory to enhance existing games, such as "The Sims 2," in which you can create a Sim using your own face.
Using a Headset
Having a headset gives you the ability to chat without occupying your hands. In the PlayStation-exclusive "S.O.C.O.M." series, players received a headset as part of the bundle for their purchase. Using an available USB port, you can plug in the headset and use it in a supported online game. This allows you to chat without having to take your hands off the controller to type.
Keyboard and Mouse Accessories
Although an official keyboard and mouse set was released by Sony, it is possible to use any compatible USB keyboard and mouse setup with the PlayStation 2. Although some games allowed you to play online, only a few support the use of keyboards, such as the aforementioned "S.O.C.O.M." series. One purpose of using a keyboard and mouse would be to aim more finely than possible with the controller joystick.
Game-Specific Accessories
Some games, such as the "Rock Band" and the "Singstar" series, require the use of a microphone to measure your voice while singing. Official microphones come with USB cables, allowing you to plug them into your console without sacrificing an available controller port.
Final Fantasy XI External Hard Drive
The first cross-platform MMO, "Final Fantasy XI," rounds out the list as it released with an external hard drive required to play the game; in fact, it's the ponderous size of the game that prevented its release on the original Xbox console. In addition to its considerable size, the game had to ship with its own custom hard drive because the console won't recognize standard hard drives.
Writer Bio
Seth Amery is a long-time writer whose specialties extend to all areas of video games, having written thousands of tutorials, fully-featured strategy guides and reviews across all platforms. His experience also includes one-on-one relationships with major gaming publishers to write previews on upcoming games, establish interviews with game designers and hold early game giveaways.
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