Nearly a quarter century after its launch, the PlayStation 2 (PS2) continues to dominate the gaming world. New research from TechGaged.com confirms that Sony’s iconic console has sold 160.01 million units worldwide, securing its position as the best-selling video game console of all time. From its 2000 debut to today, the PS2’s mix of affordability, advanced technology, and broad game library helped it capture the hearts of multiple generations, creating a legacy that still influences hardware trends in 2025.
The TechGaged study notes that the PS2’s global reach and cultural impact remain unparalleled. Its success spanned decades, introducing players to groundbreaking franchises like Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy, and Gran Turismo, while also supporting DVD playback—an innovation that helped make the system a centerpiece of entertainment in households worldwide. “The PlayStation 2’s staying power is something the industry may never see again,” said Rokas B., lead analyst at TechGaged.
Meanwhile, Sony’s current generation continues to make waves. The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has achieved 82.53 million lifetime sales, positioning it as the company’s fifth best-selling PlayStation console. Analysts are watching closely as Black Friday 2025 approaches, projecting that holiday promotions could push the PS5 into Sony’s top three home consoles within the next two years. With a growing library, new exclusive titles, and expanded global distribution, the PS5 is carving out its own legacy alongside the PS2’s historic dominance.
TechGaged’s report also highlights the rarity of consoles surpassing 150 million units. Only three systems have reached this milestone: the PS2, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo Switch. Even with the Switch’s 152.34 million units sold, the PS2’s lead remains significant, emphasizing its enduring popularity and cultural relevance.
“The PS5’s momentum in 2025 shows that Sony is not just preserving a legacy — it’s actively building a new one,” Rokas added.
As the gaming industry looks forward, the PS2’s record stands as a benchmark of long-term success, while the PS5’s rapid ascent signals that Sony’s hardware story is far from complete. Between the console that defined a generation and the one shaping today’s gaming landscape, Sony continues to set standards in both innovation and player loyalty.