The PlayStation 2 computer

You would think that Microsoft’s Xbox would be the one most friendly with computer peripherals, but that is not the case. Rather, it is the PlayStation 2 with its two standard USB ports can accommodate your computer’s mouse, keyboard, and even modem. Only now in the latter half of PlayStation 2’s reign is Sony putting those handy ports to use by releasing its own USB peripherals. It all started with the first SOCOM game and the bundled headset, which was manufactured by Logitech. Eventually, a USB headset was released on its own with game support from third parties.

I, Robot Eye, Toy

Today we are looking at one of the hottest game peripherals since the dance pad – the EyeToy – essentially, a USB webcam – for PlayStation 2. As brainchild of Sony Computer Entertainment’s Western divisions, the camera technology was developed in America and the software driving it is from Europe.

Launched first in the UK during summer of 2003, the EyeToy become a chart-topping sensation. Those of us on the other side of the pond raised our eyebrows, wondering what’s the fun in webcam gaming. I mean, you just sort of stand there and wave your arms! Then again, who thought moving your feet to arrows and beats would be so much fun?