At the heart of the PlayStation 2 is the 128-bit Emotion Engine processor, which combines lightning-fast game play and unprecedented graphics power with DAT-quality stereo sound. The system was designed as an improvement on the original PlayStation's design; the disc-based software and Dual Shock 2 controllers will be immediately familiar to PlayStation devotees. Also, owners of the original PlayStation need not discard their existing game collection, because the PS2 is designed to be compatible with the software for the original PlayStation.

The PS2 builds on its home-entertainment value by doubling as a DVD player, which allows it to play thousands of feature-length movies and other video programmes, and outdo the VHS format in both audio and video quality. Most DVD movies allow you to select alternate audio tracks, supplemental footage and a host of extra features. Like the original PlayStation, the PlayStation 2 also will play audio CDs.

The PlayStation 2 was designed with future expandability in mind. The unit comes with two USB ports and a Type III PCMCIA expansion slot--the latest standards in PC communications. It also comes with Sony's own i.Link interface, which can connect it to a variety of high-tech Sony products--from digital cameras to notebook computers.