PlayOnline and PlayStation 2 online detailed

Sony solidifies online hardware strategies

Posted by Staff
PlayOnline and PlayStation 2 online detailed
When the PlayOnline adapter was unveiled by SquareSoft, it was widely assumed that it would be the first of many such devices specific to a single company. There are several branded modems available in Japan already, and it was assumed that the PlayOnline Adapter would only work for Square PS2 titles.

This has been proven to be false. The unit is actually a generic NEC Aterm ISDN Terminal Adapter with PlayOnline branding on the side. The hardware itself has not been modified in any way and will function with Windows, PS2 and Mac OS.

An SCEA spokesman commented to the GIA that "Tony Hawk 3 was just released in the US with support for USB analog modems and USB Ethernet adapters. USB ISDN Terminal Adapters are just another option for the Japanese PS2 market." The Sony rep was then asked if this shift in support towards USB online devices signified a change in Sony’s online policy. “There is nothing here that indicates a shift in the online strategy. The official Network Adapter Ethernet/Modem won't cover the ISDN market segment, so there is a market for third-party USB hardware. For Tony Hawk 3, USB hardware fills the need while the official Network Adapter is unavailable."

For reference, Sony is currently in the initial stages of development for making the PlayStation 2 online across Europe, with major testing being carried out in Germany, the UK and France.
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