Understanding the PS2 Controller: What It’s Called and Everything You Need to Know
The PlayStation 2 (PS2) controller is officially called the DualShock 2 Analog Controller (SCPH-10010). This controller is an evolution of the original DualShock controller that was first introduced for the PlayStation (PS1). While it maintains a very similar external design to its predecessor, the DualShock 2 features some internal improvements and minor cosmetic changes. Its primary purpose was to provide a more immersive and intuitive gaming experience by leveraging analog sticks, pressure-sensitive buttons, and vibration feedback technology.
The Evolution of the DualShock
To fully grasp the significance of the DualShock 2, it’s important to understand its lineage. The original DualShock (SCPH-1200) for the PS1 was groundbreaking, introducing analog sticks and vibration motors, revolutionizing gamepad design. Sony continued this legacy with the DualShock 2, improving upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. The DualShock 2 retained the core functionality of the original, featuring two analog sticks, a directional pad (D-pad), four face buttons (Triangle, Circle, X, and Square), four shoulder buttons (L1, L2, R1, and R2), and the Start and Select buttons.
The name “DualShock” comes from the dual vibration motors inside the controller, which provide rumble feedback. The term was trademarked as DUALSHOCK or DUAL SHOCK and has become synonymous with PlayStation controllers. While later controllers, like the DualShock 3 and DualShock 4, retained the “DualShock” name, the specific PS5 controller moved to a new naming convention: DualSense. However, the core idea of dual analog sticks and vibration feedback is still a fundamental aspect of these controller designs.
Design and Functionality of the DualShock 2
Visually, the DualShock 2 is very similar to the original DualShock. Both controllers have the same basic button layout and overall shape. The DualShock 2 (SCPH-10010), however, features some subtle differences, including different screw positioning on the back and one less screw. Internally, it had pressure-sensitive face buttons, allowing for more nuanced gameplay inputs. This meant how hard you pressed a button could influence in-game actions. Also, the “Analog” button, used for switching modes, is raised rather than recessed, making it easier to accidentally press. One notable difference between the PS1 DualShock and the PS2 DualShock 2 was that the analog mode on the PS2 controller cannot be changed or locked by software, unlike the PS1’s original DualShock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the PS2 Controller
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the PS2 controller to provide you with a broader understanding:
What is the PlayStation 1 controller called?
The original PlayStation controller was called the DualShock Analog Controller (SCPH-1200). Before the DualShock, there was the original PlayStation controller without analog sticks and vibration.
Can PS2 controllers work on PS1?
Yes, a PlayStation 2 controller is generally compatible with the PlayStation 1 system. This makes it convenient for users to play PS1 games without the need for separate controllers.
What is the difference between the DualShock and DualShock 2?
The DualShock 2 is an evolution of the original DualShock. Key differences include pressure-sensitive buttons on the DualShock 2 and minor design alterations like screw placement. The DualShock 2 also has a raised Analog button compared to the recessed button on the original.
What is a V2 controller?
The term “V2 controller” typically refers to the second version of the DualShock 4 controller for the PlayStation 4. These controllers have a light bar on the touchpad and grey buttons and analog sticks instead of black, as opposed to the original V1 controller. This is not related to PS2, as PS2 did not have a “V2”.
What is the DualShock 3 controller?
The DualShock 3 is the wireless controller for the PlayStation 3. It introduces SIXAXIS motion-sensing technology along with the standard pressure-sensitive buttons and rumble function.
What is the DualShock 4 controller?
The DualShock 4 is the controller for the PlayStation 4. It features a touchpad, light bar, built-in speaker, and share button in addition to analog sticks, buttons, and vibration feedback.
What is the PS5 controller called?
The PlayStation 5 controller is called the DualSense Wireless Controller. It introduces features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
Why did the PS3 not have rumble initially?
Initially, the PS3 did not have rumble feature because Sony president Phil Harrison believed it was a “last generation feature.” Sony later reintroduced rumble with the DualShock 3.
Why are PlayStation controllers called DualShock?
PlayStation controllers are named DualShock because they incorporate two vibration motors (dual) to provide vibration feedback during gameplay.
What does the “Analog” button do on PS2?
The “Analog” button on the PS2 controller is used to switch between analog and digital input modes, although the analog mode cannot be changed or locked by software as it could with the DualShock controller for the PS1.
Which button is R2 on a controller?
The R2 button is a shoulder button located on the top right back of the controller, closer to the back than R1. It’s usually a larger trigger button compared to R1.
Can all PS2s play PS1 games?
The PlayStation 2 is designed to be backward compatible with most PlayStation 1 games. However, not all PS1 games work on all PS2 models, and some later PS2 models had compatibility issues.
Can PS3 play PS2 and PS1 discs?
Some early models of the PlayStation 3 (specifically the 60GB version) had backward compatibility with most PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 1 games. Later models removed this feature.
What is DualShock 2 pressure sensitivity?
The DualShock 2’s pressure sensitivity refers to the analog nature of its buttons, allowing for varied levels of input depending on how hard you pressed them. This could affect speed, intensity, or other actions in games that supported it.
What is the purpose of the light bar on PS4 controller V2?
The light bar on the PS4 controller V2 is used for player identification, in addition to its use with the PlayStation Camera to track player movements for motion-controlled games. It also allows the user to know which color corresponds to their player on the game they are playing.
Conclusion
The DualShock 2 Analog Controller (SCPH-10010) is the definitive controller for the PlayStation 2, carrying on the legacy of the original DualShock and further refining the design and functionality of gamepads. Its impact on gaming is undeniable, paving the way for future controller designs in the PlayStation ecosystem. Understanding the design, functionality, and history of the DualShock 2 provides a better appreciation of the evolution of console gaming controllers.