PS2- weighing my options

[Dequibenzo]

I know this a generally Xbox aimed crowd, but, having just bought one, I'm starting to wonder about my next video game purchase (What can I say, I have a problem). It isn't that I don't like my Xbox- far from it, I love the thing, but I'm just thinking- are there enough, if any, PS2 exclusive games to warrant another two hundred greenbacks towards this unhealthy addiction of mine? I've heard good things about Jak and Daxter, Okage Shadow King and Monkey Island, but I just don't know. Anybody?

[One, Two, Middlesboogie]

Jak & Daxter rules. It's very short, though, so don't get it if you think you've finished with a game when you've completed it. Same goes for Rez and Zone Of The Enders, which has a very cool-looking sequel coming soon.

Monkey Island's good, but it freezes often (but that might just be because I have a duff disc), and it's on PC anyway. SSX Tricky, Crazy Taxi and Crash 4 are available on other platforms also, but they are very good. The PS2 version of SSX T also has more tricks, because PS2 controllers have more shoulder buttons than XBox or GC controllers.

WipEout Fusion is well worth getting; it'll take you ages to complete and it's great fun. It's also a great first title if you're new to the WipEout series.

The forthcoming Ratchet & Clank, Sly Raccoon, Vexx, Spyro 4, Dr. Muto, Freaky Flyers and Kingdom Hearts are looking good, and well worth saving your money for. There is also going to be a PS2 version of The Sims which will supposedly have features that the PC version didn't.

And of course there's the PS2 equivalent of Halo (desirability-wise, not gameplay-wise); Metal Gear Solid 2.

Don't forget that the PS2 is also DVD compatible staight out of thebox, and its hard drive and internet connection are coming soon.

A console is a big purchase, and you may find yourself with either a wonderful new toy or an expensive paperweight. Find out some more about the games I mentioned and try and borrow a PS2 or play one in the shops if you can, before you make up your mind.

[Alcar]

Ratchet & Clank. Can't wait, Insomniac always produce good games. And from what i've seen it's looking very good!

Alcar...

[One, Two, Middlesboogie]

Yeah, Ratchet & Clank is what I'm most looking forward to. Second is Spyro 4 and Sly Raccoon (a cel-shaded thief 'em up where you play a bad guy).

Here are some ace (and very hi-res) screenshots of Ratchet & Clank.

Screenshot 1
Screenshot 2
Screenshot 3
Screenshot 4

Also check www.gamescreenshots.com; they've got some excellent Jak & Daxter production art, amongst other things. Great place for finding screenshots of existing and forthcoming games.

[Gluk Schmuck]

If I were you I'd get a GameCube - cheaper with more superb games. But then you might prefer the PS2's line-up.

[dumboddrw2]

I THINKS (Personal Opinion) : Gamecube is the gayest thing in the world. Imay be small and cheap but the games are bent childrens games. When Mario comes out I'll probably change my mind though cause I love Mario.

GET A PS2!!! It has better games than any other console (Except MO )

Good Games include: GTA3,MGS2,TEKKEN4,TOMB RAIDER 6,CRASH 4,SPYRO 4,GT3,SSX TRICKY,THPS3 + 4,JAK AND DAXTER,KINGDOM HEARTS,ALIENS COLONIAL MARINES,QUAKE 3,FINAL FANTASY 10 (I personally hate FF10 btw),THE GETAWAY,BLACK AND WHITE and many more. Believe me,it is definately worth the £200 odd pounds you will pay.

[Danny]

I'm surprised nobody's mentioned GTA3 yet... Yes, it's on PC too, but you'd have to have a f*cking amazing machine to run it...