Taken from
www.uk.playstation.com
Very little stands between you and a network of likeminded gamers. Here's a rundown of just what you'll need to get playing online.
In order to access the future of PlayStation 2, namely network gaming, you don't need much - three things, in fact. Those things are a PlayStation 2, a Network Adaptor, and a broadband Internet connection. Okay, we admit it, you need a network game too, like SOCOM: US Navy SEALs or Twisted Metal Black: Online. Erm, and you need yourself, too. Damn! I'll start again.
Seriously, this is all you need to get blasting, racing, roleplaying, skating and just plain having fun with network games. No tangle of DualShocks, no Multitaps, no i-Link cables and multiple TVs - just you and four simple things to get you started.
Item #1: You
The most important and highly advanced component of network gaming, the nerve centre, if you will. The ultimate game pilot and the ultimate opponent for other unwary gamers. This component may require copious amounts of pizza, crisps and caffeine-based beverages in order to operate at peak efficiency. Remember: always read the label.
Item #2: PlayStation 2
Along with a DualShock 2 and a Memory Card, the world's best selling console now gives you more than just a massive library of the best single and multiplayer games. Once connected you'll be able to play against more people that ever before, in games that will be more challenging than any gaming experience you've experienced.
Item #3: Network Adaptor (Ethernet)
This is the little black box that turns your humble PS2 into a network gaming dream machine. The Network Adaptor fits on the back of your PS2, is secured by a couple of screws, and allows you to connect your PS2 to your broadband Internet connection via an Ethernet cable. Along with the Network Adaptor you'll find the Network Access Disk, which takes you step-by-step through the process of configuring your connection settings. It also allows you to access Central Station, our exclusive news and games information portal that can only be accessed using your PlayStation 2.
Item # 4: A broadband Internet connection
Your Internet connection can be cable or ADSL, but it must be broadband. A traditional dial-up connection using a 56k modem (known as 'narrowband') or ISDN just isn't powerful enough to cope with the gaming wonders you're going to be piping to your PS2. Your Internet Service Provider may advertise a broadband connection as a 512Kbps connection, or "ten times faster than dial-up", or just high speed. Be careful to avoid products that are labelled as 'midband' or 'ADSL lite' or similar. When in doubt, check with your ISP to ensure the connection provided will be 512Kbps or above, which is adequate for PS2 network gaming. If you're concerned about getting a broadband connection, check with major Internet Service Providers in your area to see if you're eligible. A list of PlayStation 2 network partners is also available - see Related Articles below.
Item #5: A network game
This is what you're here for isn't it? Whether you're into skating, racing, chasing, flying, fighting, shooting, roleplaying or any other gaming genre there's a PlayStation 2 network game for you. From the strategic shooter SOCOM: US Navy SEALs, to the radical skate antics of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4, or the run-and-gun mayhem of Twisted Metal Black: Online, there's a game out there for you. This is just the beginning though - there are many, many more network titles on the way. Keep checking PlayStation.com - and Central Station, via your networked PlayStation 2 - for up-to-the-minute information on the latest network games.