The PlayStation 2 (PS2) remains one of the most iconic gaming consoles ever made — but have you ever wondered:
How much did the PS2 cost when it first launched?
Let’s rewind to the year 2000 and see how much gamers had to pay to get their hands on this legendary system.
🗓️ PS2 Launch Date and Price
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Launch Date: March 4, 2000 (Japan)
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Launch Price: ¥39,800 (approximately $299 USD at the time)
The PS2 first debuted in Japan in March 2000, followed by North America in October 2000, where it was priced around $299.99 USD.
💰 What Did $299 Mean Back Then?
In the year 2000:
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$299 was considered a standard price for new gaming consoles—competitive with rivals like the Sega Dreamcast and the upcoming Xbox (released later in 2001).
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Adjusted for inflation, $299 in 2000 is roughly $500 USD in 2025 dollars. So while it seems cheap now, it was a significant purchase for many families.
🎮 What Did You Get for $299?
For this price, gamers got:
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The PS2 console with its signature slim black design
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One DualShock 2 controller
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Memory card for game saves
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AV cables to connect to your TV
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Ability to play not only PS2 games but also original PlayStation (PS1) games, adding huge value.
Plus, it doubled as a DVD player — a big selling point since standalone DVD players were still pricey.
📉 Price Drops Over Time
The PS2’s price gradually decreased over its 13-year lifespan, eventually dropping below $100 USD in later years, helping it reach wider markets and maintain strong sales.
🏆 Why the PS2 Was Worth the Price
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Massive game library of over 3,800 titles
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Backward compatibility with PS1 games
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DVD playback functionality
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Long lifespan and global availability
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Strong developer support and innovation
🛒 Looking for Classic Consoles?
You can still find refurbished PS2 consoles and accessories on sites like eBay, Amazon, or even explore modern retro gaming handhelds at YouWeiTrade.com for a nostalgic gaming experience.
🎮 Final Thoughts
The PS2’s $299 launch price was a solid investment in 2000, offering gamers a cutting-edge system with tons of features. Its success proves that the value it provided — in games, entertainment, and innovation — was worth every penny.