PlayStation 2X Network Adaptor Reviews

• Online games with no fees!

  
  By on 2003-02-23
  Well so far the network adaptor is a great investment. I've already been playing Madden and SOCOM online for 2 weeks and everything has worked practically flawlessly. There have been some server issues with SOCOM(great game btw) initially, but they have since been ironed out for the most part. With Madden, I've tested both BB and 56k(my cousin has 56k only)and BB seems to be lag free for the most part in my area, but 56k chugged a bit in Madden at my cousin's house using his network adaptor, but remained playable. Setting up the Adaptor itself was pretty easy...probably took me no more than 5 minutes to install it and get up and running online. I'm sure it won't be that easy for everyone out there, but it was for me. The step by step interface was quite clean and easy to navigate and pretty helpful. There is also a little video to help you in case you're having difficulty. You'll also need just 137kb of free space on your memory card to save all your network settings. All in all, I'm quite happy with my experience so far. The adaptor was easy to setup, and comeswith two playable demos, Madden2003 online and Frequency online and also a few video only demos of THPS4, Automodelista and a couple others. And all these games are free to play online. No subscription fee's or the like, whch is the best part about it.You can play Tony Hawk 4, Madden 2003, SOCOM, ATV 2, NFL2k3, NBA2k3, Tribes, Twisted metal Black online on your PS2, all day for free. So, if you can find one, I recommend picking one up, espsecially broadband users. And to name some exiting upcoming online titles inlude Syphon Filter, Gran Turismo 4, DestructionDerby 3, Madden 2004, NBA2k4, NFL2k4, Automodellista, Final Fantasy XI, BiohazardOnline, to name a few. PS: You might see something that looks like an orange sparkin the front of the console near the vents when putting on the console. Don't worry, that is just an Orange LED that lights up when the adaptor is accessed. I never knew there was an orange LED in the front, so I was taken a back at first)
  
  

• Hard to find, easy to set up

  
  By A1NPICGI1CR2UJ on 2002-09-08
  What's there to say? This network adapter/modem just pops into the back of your PS2, then you spend about 5 or 10 minutes fiddling with the very easy-to-use setup disc. Assuming everything went well, you can test it out by playing one of the two included demos, Madden 2003 or Frequency.

  I liked that it was easy to install and configure, and I like the way it looks sticking out of the back of the PS2. I do wish that the console had come with a network adapter in the first place, especially since everyone is having such a hard time finding this item now. At least they give you a coupon for a free copy of Twisted Metal Black Online; that made shelling out for this a little less painful.

  This is definitely a good buy, and there are a lot of great online games coming out in the next few months.

  A few words of advice: rather than paying as much as twice the cost of the network adapter to get one from a private seller, just wait. By the time Sony is keeping up with the demand, there'll be a lot more games out. If you really can't live without online play, a few online Playstation games (for instance, Tony Hawk 3 and Madden) will work with a USB network adapter. Also, be sure to pick up a USB keyboard so that you can chat with your online friends and rivals.
  
  

• Best $40 I ever spent!

  
  By A2FIMXLZNI8TMC on 2003-10-03
  This is a high quality modem, I can tell simply because I have 18 years experience in the computer field. It is easy to install and set up and I have had no problems with this modem; I have logged over 200 hours on it since I bought it five months ago and use it every day! I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality online experience.
  
  

• Setting up your wireless home network with your PS2!

  
  By A2DW7VOA1ZVZCU on 2002-12-05
  To begin with, the PS2 Network Adapter is a must-have! As many of the other reviews have stated, chimps could walk through the ISP set-up. As long as you've had no serious head trauma that day, you'll be fine.

  Let's move on to an easy way to set up a wireless network. When I decided to go online, I knew that I didn't want 100' of CAT5e cable running through my house. Unfortunately, no one had any decent online ideas on how to set it up. So, here's the true story of my wonderful little wireless home network.

  First, you're going to need a wireless router. I purchased the Linksys BEFW11S4 and I've had no problems at all. It was very easy to connect the 2 desktop computers and the PS2. The BEFW11S4 uses the 802.11b wireless standard. (If you don't know what this means, that's ok....just make sure you purchase a wireless ethernet bridge with the same standard, but I'll get to that).

  Secondly, you'll need the above mentioned wireless ethernet bridge. I used the Linksys WET11 and the bandwith is superb. (It also uses the 802.11b wireless standard, so it'll work just fine with the BEFW11S4.) Some people knock it in their online reviews, but for online gaming it is more than adequate. There's NO WAY you'll need anymore bandwith playing online than what the WET11 offers. Basically, this little devil plugs into the wall by your PS2. You then run some network cabling (CAT5e) from the WET11 to your PS2 and BAM, you're almost there.

  Almost there...you'll have to add the WET11 to your home network, but it's also quite simple installation. The BEFW11S4 will auto-detect the WET11 if it's powered up. Then all you have to do is run through the rather brainless ISP (Internet Service Provider) setup.

  TAA-DAA....you're done! Now go pickup Madden 2003, or SOCOM and get playing!

  (All products mentioned in this review are available here on Amazon.com and I suggest you get them here. I did MASSIVE comparison shopping when I set this up in October 2002, and Amazon.com had the best pricing...)
  
  

• A great product, but maybe not neccessary!

  
  By A39DVMA952M64P on 2002-09-09
  While I do not own the PS2 Adapter myself, I have seen it, and have used it with a friend's PS2. It was of excellent quality, to say, we connected to the internet with no problem. From that point, your internet connection determines the quality of your gaming experience, not your network adapter.

  The funny thing is, the PS2 seems to be compatible with OTHER network adapters, not just the official one from Sony. I connected to the internet using a SOHOware NUB100 10/100 network adapter, plugging it into the USB port of my PS2, and it worked just fine. Obviously Sony doesn't tell you that the PS2 is compatible with other cards because they want you to buy their own...but there it is. I was able to play NFL2k3 without any problems whatsoever. And, this adapter is much cheaper than the asking price for the Sony adapter.

  I guess what I am saying is the Sony product is a good one, but you don't really need it. If you want to play online, you can do just as well for yourself by buying a regular USB network adapter, and using it.
  
  

• Stop the insanity.
  By A2V12GW5MEWI49 on 2004-11-19
  Sheesh. Don't worry about some of the reviews here...this product performs flawlessly. If your dial-up connection is worth its weight, it'll work okay, but DSL and cable work perfectly. Online gaming is especially fun for the older clique, wherein it gets harder to round up your buds to play...or, if you're the ultra-competitve type that thinks they'll rule the gaming world (until you get totally owned by a 11 y.o. in Duluth). I'll use this review answer some questions here, and hopefully some that haven't yet been asked. Before I begin, please do some research before littering every web page you see with posts that you'll never come back to check, you actually learn stuff when you figure it out yourself. And if you really need help, ALL CAPS IS A GOOD WAY FOR SOME ONE TO JUST IGNORE WHAT YOU'VE POSTED. First off, playing online for most games is FREE, check a publisher's website if you want a definite answer. Your internet connection is not free, Sony can't help you out on that. But if you have a pre-existing ISP account and a PS2 equipped with a network adapter, all that is required from you is simply loading up the setup disc, setting your internet configs and it's time to rock and roll. If you've got a problem setting the configuration, read the instruction manual...most manufacturers actually put useful info in these things. If that's no help, call your ISP, if you get any answer other than the one you need, you're not asking them correctly. If they tell you they don't know anything about the PS2, tell them it's just like a computer and read exactly what you see on the screen to them. They can help on the prompts. Secondly, you don't need a router or $200 worth of equipment to hook this thing up. It plugs directly into your phone line for a dial-up connection, or plugs in via ethernet to your DSL or cable modem. Routers are for networking, or in layman's terms, for hooking up a buncha stuff at once. If you don't use a router, simply disconnect your cable from the computer and hook up your PS2. NOTE: Your computer will not be connected to the internet if you do this, simply unplug from the PS2 and reconnect the computer to return things to normal. If the cable doesn't reach, i.e. the modem is in your office upstairs and your TV is downstairs, buy a length of ethernet cable that will do the trick. Those with technical proficience in the matter will make their own cable from rouged or bargain bin materials for a small sum. Those of you with wireless routers: you've already (whether you know it or not) paid for a wireless card installed your computer that allows you to use your wireless router. The PS2 has only ethernet and a phone line input. Nuff said.
  
  
• Online gaming the way it's supposed to be
  By A26GSUZ0TSEKWR on 2003-01-17
  What's not to like about this product? If you can find it, it costs only 40.00$ and it's worth every penny. It comes with a bulit in 56k modem jack for websurfers still in the stone age, and right next to that is a broadband ethernet jack.

  All three major consoles are online right now, The PS2 with this product (the PLaystation 2 network adapter), XBox with it's XBox live service, and Gamecube with it's modem peripherals. The gamecube only has 1 online game though, Phantasy Star Online, and it's very good. Xbox has a good service but it has a few catches in it that makes sony's online setup more likeable. First off, XBox live is a service, when you pick it up, it comes with a Headset to talk to other players, a few demos, and a year subscription to Live. If you wanna play after your first year, you have to pay another 50$ and you can only pay nd setup your account with your credit card. Also, it's Broadband only, meaning the majority of people who want to play games online (56k is still the majority of what people surf with) are left out with no other chance for online play on the XBox. The games for live are pretty decent, but none really stand out, the ones I'd recommend are Mechassault and Unreal Champuionship, don't listen to your friends, Ghost Recon is horrid. And you can talk to anyone you want to in any xbox live game, so that's cool.

  So why is Sony's online plan better? It caters to everybody with a PS2 and an ISP, You can play with your dialup service, or your broadband service. Setup is much easier also, screw this device into the expansion bay on the backside of your PS2 and then all you have to do is pop in the setup disc, with a few taps of the X button on your Dualshock controller and your done. As for games, well theres plenty of really good ones. If you bought this product then you might as wel get SOCOM too, it's the best online game on any console, Tony hawk 4 and Madden are great too.
  
  

• PS2 Online (Beta Tester)
  By on 2002-09-02
  My experience from the beta testing was great and if didn't get a network adapter for free I'd definitely buy it. First off the installation took me about 45 seconds. The ISP set up took about 5 mins and the required save was about 130 kb.
  About the games, I used my phone line (56k) to play and could play 2 out of the 3 games. I couldn't get the football game to play though. You have to create a user name and then login to server/lobby. You can talk in the chat room go play a game and then come back to the chat room, pretty cool.
  The network adapter is simply the best to me b/c I can use my parent's existing narrow band ISP and still play games w/out having to pay a fee (unlike XBOX) and when I figure out a way to brain wash my parents into paying [money] for a cable modemn I won't have to buy anything else (unlike GameCube who is releasing 2 seperate adapters for narrow and broadband connections). Plus it comes with a mail in offer for twisted metal black online for free!
  
  
• Wonderful, simply wonderful
  By A2C9OER789RGAS on 2002-10-15
  Have you ever played a console game and said to yourself "I wish this game was online"? Well, ask no more. This little wonder makes all your dreams come true. Have madden 2k3 and want the updated rosters for 2004? Just download them to your memory card. Want to play against millions of people around the world? Turn on SOCOM and hit online. This adapter also features BOTH a Dial-up (phone-line) port as well as a broadband (cable/dsl) port. While I have never used the dial-up port, the broadband port work like a dream. The adapter hasn't caused any problems and works just as fast as your ps2 does. While there are relatively few games out now that are compatible with the adapter, sony has a whole lineup of games coming out next year that will take advantage or the adapters capabilities (Resident Evil Online anyone?).

  Where does this thing go? Right in the back of your PS2. It takes up very little space and can be used when the ps2 is in either upright or laying down position. Don't have an internet provider to go online? A disc comes with the adapter to set up an account for you if you don't have an online provider already.

  Definately buy this adapter if you want to play with or against people around the world.
  
  

• Sony's Promises actually are true -- an add-on worth buying!
  By A2Q0VHZLNXY7QB on 2002-08-29
  After many broken promises from various video game systems through the years, one finally comes trues -- a add-on component thats actually worth buying. Granted, PC gamers have had online gaming for quite some time now, but this is the first serious venture into console land (yes the Dreamcast was there already, but where's the dreamcast now?) My new PS2 Network Adapter was online in about 5 minutes - from out of the box to bumping helmets in Madden 2003. The setup was pretty simple, and the directions weren't too intimidating. It does help if you're a little bit of a techno-head, cause you won't be nervous about what you're doing - but you remove a cover here, plug in here, plug in there, insert disc and away you go. One thing - make sure you have space on your memory card (I think its 137kb) or you won't be able to save your setup, and well, that's just no good at all. Two sore thumbs up from here! You're gonna want to add this to your PS2 and also look into installing a coffee pot nearby...
  
  
• Beta tested product
  By AZQ8HGO3Z4T on 2002-08-08
  The beta version of the Network adapter was very well designed and implemented. It was simple to install and setup was easy, so no networking experience is necessarily required. The product worked great with only minor hiccups which come with all networking products and games. I used it with my DSL Belkin router with no problems and on a PPPOE DSL connection as well. Worked great. The game Twisted metal black online is packaged with this and is a fun game to start with, but other games to come will really make this product fly. Tribes Arial Assault is one! Thus we should get the adapter and a valued game. Not really too bad.

  This product is for those who want to get beyond single player action and try their skills against many other humans around the world. Computer AI is limited currently and unable to mimic what we do as humans during gameplay. Online multiplayer games have revolutionized the PC and should do so as well with the consoles.
  
  

• Ordered it Nov. 2nd, still waiting
  By on 2002-11-26
  They dont tell you when you order, but they dont have them in stock. The estimated delivery date keeps on getting kicked back- now it says some time around mid december!
  
  
• Online games with no fees!
  By A10IJF7UD9I86G on 2002-12-22
  Well so far the network adaptor is a great investment. I've already been playing Madden, THPS4 and SOCOM online for about a month and everything has worked practically flawlessly. There have been some server issues with SOCOM(great game btw) initially, but they have since been ironed out for the most part. With Madden, I've tested both BB and 56k(my cousin has 56k only)and BB seems to be lag free for the most part in my area, but 56k chugged a bit in Madden at my cousin's house using his network adaptor, but remained playable. THPS4 was smooth throughout. Setting up the Adaptor itself was pretty easy...probably took me no more than 5 minutes to install it and get up and running online. I'm sure it won't be that easy for everyone out there, but it was for me. The step by step interface was quite clean and easy to navigate and pretty helpful. There is also a little video to help you in case you're having difficulty. You'll also need just 137kb of free space on your memory card to save all your network settings. You also get a coupon to receive Twisted Metal Black: Online for FREE. All in all, I'm quite happy with my experience so far. The adaptor was easy to setup, you get a free game and comes with two playable demos, Madden2003 online and Frequency online and also a few video only demos of THPS4, Automodelista and a couple others. And all these games are free to play online. No subscription fee's or the like, whch is the best part about it. The most fun games online for PS 2 are, SOCOM, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4, Madden 2003, NFL2k3, NBA2k3, Tribes, ATV Offroad Fury 2, Twisted Metal Black, Frequency. Also, some upcoming online games include GT4, Final FantasyXI, Automodellista, HSG online, ResidentEvil Online, WSB2k3, ASB2003, and V&B to name a few. Anyway, if you can find one, I recommend picking one up, espscially broadband users. PS: You might see something that looks like an orange spark in the front of the console near the vents when putting on the console. Don't worry, that is just an Orange LED that lights up when the adaptor is accessed. I never knew there was an orange LED in the front, so I was taken a back at first)
  
  
• Problem Free Gaming (4.5 Stars)
  By A175TPTHMNS7S4 on 2005-02-25
  I've owned the PS2 Network Adapter for almost 2 years and I can honestly say that I've NEVER had any major problems with it. Installation requires nothing more than a little common sense, but for those that lack it, there's an instruction disc that makes installation almost impossible for you to screw it up. Gameplay has been very smooth for me. Of course, you're going to have your occasional server issues and your typical freezing every now and then, but that's to be expected, no product is flawless. I have a broadband connection, so if I play against someone with a slower connection things can drag a little bit. But for the most part my gaming experience with the PS2 Network Adapter has been problem free. I'd reccomend it to anyone.
  
  
• No tech support
  By A2NH6XSE79X3VY on 2005-02-23
  The online adaptor works great with any online game that came out before 2004. DSL is not compatible with this adaptor on ALL games created after 2004. Do not fall for these other reviews. I have DSL and I was able to play Madden 2004 online, but Madden 2005 IS NOT COMPATIBLE, I called EA Sports and a recording tells you DSL is not compatible with ANY EA games sold after 2004. I tried calling my ISP as well as Sony but found absolutely no tech support on this subject. How can you have 10 million users who have DSL and possibly make games that are not compatible with DSL I ask you? Sony found a way. Oh and don't think you'll be able to play SOCOM II online with DSL either, I repeat all newer games will not work with DSL. Don't get me wrong, I love the PS2, but man did they drop the ball with the online adaptor!!!
  
  
• Why didn't Sony include this with the PS2 console?
  By A3HOE5R7UY41N5 on 2002-10-01
  This is a necessary piece of equipment if you intend to play Playstation 2 games online. It's great because it is a multifunction device, being both an ethernet adapter and a v.90 modem all in one. It took less than a minute to install the hardware, and less than five to go through the installation program and get it working with my network. It also comes with a coupon for a free copy of "Twisted Metal Black: Online" if you buy it before the end of the year.

  I intend to buy Final Fantasy XI, Tribes Aerial Assault, SOCOM, and a few other games that are made for online play with this. It's much better than sitting behind a computer screen at a desk to play these games.

  It's functionality is really easy to use once you set up the ISP. It is black and has many functions, which makes it the Batman utility belt of the gaming world. BUY IT!
  
  

• Warning check your model before buying
  By A1KSG7C1Q7PPDS on 2007-01-17
  You DON'T need this network adaptor for the PS2 slim editon (SCPH-70012) this unit aready has a built in network adaptor.
  
  
• Simple Set Up, Fun to Use
  By on 2002-08-29
  The set up was super simple, and easy to get going. I had no problems setting it up on my home network and using my cable internet access to get online. I plugged the PS2 into my hub and am behind a DLINK cable router. Probably took 10 minutes in total to set up (including putting the adaptor into my PS2). Very cool...
  
  
• Simple - Easy - Yes you can go Wireless - Yes it works!
  By AYE9XF8B4IOXI on 2004-01-03
  To answer a few of the issues below:

  a) The thing hooks up to the back of the PS2. You would really have to work at it to screw up the physical install.

  b) Yes, you can go wireless. I recommend the Linksys WGA11 adapter. However, that notwithstanding, here's how you go "wireless" without that product. You hook up the PS2 adapter to your PS2. Then run a cable from your network out on the PS2 to a wireless bridge of some sort (Linksys makes one, but I'd suggest the WGA11 versus the bridge... why pay extra? Otherwise, Netgear, DLink, and Microsoft all have wireless bridges).

  c) If you want to "wired" hook the ethernet out on the PS2 adapter to the router of your wired network. I don't know the speed on the adapter, but, I am guessing it's 10b-T versus 100b, so don't hook it into a 100b router and then be shocked it doesn't work. Either use a 10/100 switch or a 10b hub.

  d) Does it work? Yes, Virginia, it works... I haven't tried the modem thing, but, I suspect that works too. Personally, I'd skip buying this thing if you don't have broadband. Gaming via a 33.6 or a 56K connection is like watching paint dry - and about as fun. Make sure you have the PS2 adapter firmly installed and make sure you run a nice CAT5 cable from your adapter to the bridge (wireless or otherwise)

  The real issue, however, is that the games available for the PS2 that use the adapter are pretty sparse at the moment. I play MOH and a few others... they are all broadband play (which means you need ADSL or cable). However, this sucker fits on very nicely and works slick... and considering I don't know of any competitors for the adapter product... I guess it's irrelevant since you can't connect any other way...

  To recap, if you want to play on the net... I recommend:

  a) the adapter
  b) a bridge of some sort (wireless) the Linksys WGA11 is excellent, but any wireless bridge will work
  c) alternatively, for wired, you need the router and an available slot on the hub.

  Good luck.
  
  

• worth the money
  By A1MENBEGTGI6T1 on 2002-11-15
  the PS2 network adapter is definatly worth the $40.00. i own it, but the only game i have played on it is tony hawks pro skater 4. i have a very slow internet connection (28.8kb/s), but it does not seem to effect the gameplay at all. the only thing it effects is the loading times. the Playstation 2 in my opinion is easily the strongest system when it comes to online play.
  
  
• I wish I only knew.
  By on 2002-11-19
  They keep selling them, but they don't deliver them. If you want an adapter, go somewhere else.
  
  
• PS2 Network Adapter
  By A3SRVW46ISV81S on 2002-11-27
  For... this is definately worth it. It took me about 2 minutes to install and then i was playing madden 2003 online. I have a dial-up modem, but it didn't seem to make a difference and i was playing with perfect connection. There wasn't even the delay that i thought i was going to get, like with sega net and dreamcast. If you have the money and a game to play online, this is definately worth the money.
  
  
• PS2 Online... SO, SO
  By ABFMCMZDV4J75 on 2002-12-30
  Of the two consoles currently participating in online gaming, microsoft has done a much better job than sony in my view. First off how can you have a good gaming expirience with dial up. I was a beta tester for xbox and have played on ps2 online. As a beta tester I found out quickly that this is one of the greatest things that has happened to the gaming system. For 50 bucks the xbox kit is well worth the price. Not only does it include the headset (which fits well and works great) but it also includes a whole year subscription to xbox live. You can also mute and adjust the volume on the communicator. For the price of a single game this is a great deal! I also think that the PS2 adapter is a great value but cmon you have to pay subscriptions to select games. So if you cant make that final decision I would reccomend xbox live, but if you only have a PS2 then go with PS2 online.
  
  
• Where is my Order
  By A1DIW5W8YRB1DG on 2002-12-04
  I keep getting the run around on my order. It still says it is will be delivered Nove 27. I am in the same boat as gamer. Now it says that they do not even stock them. I do not think i will ever see it. CS has been giving me the run around to
  
  
• Online Gaming Is The New Direction
  By A36OM8VHN0YDDY on 2004-01-02
  The network adapter. Retail it is 40 USD. It pops in easily into the back of your playstation 2. You do not even need the instructions. You then place the CD in the console and configure your system.

  Here are the answers. How does it work? Assuming you have broadband provided by your cable or phone company, a cable comes out of your wall. You plug it into your modem. From there, your cable modem plugs in via ethernet cable into the back of your PS2. You can even split the line from your computer if your PS2 is located near your computer. A little advice. Do not bother with this if you plan on using a phone line dial up service. Most games in the future will probably not support it and the lag is incredible. With the cable, you can play in real time against players from across the country. Also, I understand that the network adapter is not compatible with a wireless network. But there are easy ways around that problem that any network guy at a Radio Shack can answer for you.

  What are the costs? The costs are simple. You pay for the adapter, forty bucks. You may have to buy another modem ( 40-100 dollars depending on what your store has available) so you can play games away from your computer. Or you can split the line out of your computer's modem. Other than that, there are no hidden costs. Playing games online is free of charge, unlike some other consoles,( XYZ BOX ) which require a subscription. Also, if you have broadband, then it comes into every coaxiale cable in your house. Therefore, you can slit the line coming out of your wall into your modem and TV, setting yourself up for online play and cable television.

  There is a downside. The selection of games with online accesibilty are limited. T. Woods 2004, Madden, and of course SOCOM 2 are my favorites. Although the quantity of games may be lacking, the quality of game play within the titles certainly does not. And there are more great games to come.

  Some extra items that you will probably purchase are the USB keyboard that allows you to chat. You do not need to buy this because most games support a controller based chat. But it does make it easier to chat than typing in the letters one at a time. Another piece of hardware is the USB head set. ( 30 dollars) It is a mic and ear piece which allows real time voice chat. Game play w/out these two pieces is still fun, but they are definetly worth the extra bucks.

  Overall, this is a must have. They now sell the PS2 with the adapter and I wish I had heard of it early. It has taken my game play to a new level. My favorite game used to be Counterstrike on the PC. But now SOCOM 2 blows it away because there are more players, you are not locked into a non-controller keyboard game with a mouse, and the mic allows you to communicate with your fellow Navy Seals. I thought I was good at T. Woods 2004 until I played in my first tournament online. I shot a 47 which was a personal best. I was still 125th for the day out of everyone in the nation. Enjoy!
  
  

• PERFECT
  By A10EN9IKKOEY97 on 2005-01-22
  I have had my network adapter for 2 years now, and never have i had a problem with it. Ignore what the people are saying about how the adapter isnt worth it, take my word for it; it definitely is worth it!...It performs perfectly and allows me to enjoy numerous hours of gaming online...Very easy to install, especially because you can just hit *Auto* on half of the settings...so you cant really go wrong (If you do have troubles installing or it just isnt connecting, then just call sony helpline and they will get you up and running before you know it) HIGHLY recommended, great fun!
  
  
• Very Easy Setup!
  By ARHJ4I3I6R9LW on 2002-09-07
  I purchased my Network Adapter on Wednesday August 28th and 15 minutes from walking into my house, I was ready to go. All you have to do is remove the Expansion Bay cover, then take off the plastic "plug" on the connecter of the Network Adapter. Then put the adapter in the hole in the back of the Playstation 2. Put the setup disc in your PS2, and (or at least in my case) I pushed the X button 5 times, then waited 43 seconds, and I was setup.
  It is very easy, but please note that if you use Broadband, purchasing a Router may be an excellent idea. If you can't afford that then just take your Cable modem's cable out, and run another Ethernet cable (from the Back of your cable modem) to your PS2's Network Adapter.
  I would definatley purchase SOCOM: US Navy SEALS, with this because that is, in my opinion, the best game to play online right now.
  
  
• Lets get this straight
  By A26GSUZ0TSEKWR on 2003-01-22
  I already wrote a review for this product, see "online gaming the way it's suppposed to be" but what I don't get is all these XBOX FANBOYS coming in and MISLEADING SHOPPERS. You do NOT have to pay ANY monthly or subscription fees to play games online with your PS2, I have been playing SOCOM for 4 months now and haven't had to pay a PENNY, I didn't come and start to bash the live service, it's good, but it's Broadband only so the majority of gamers are left out, that's the main reason sony's plan is better it's 56k AND Broadband so what's not to like????? The only games that usually have a fee involved are MASSIVELY MULTIPLAYER ONLINE ROLE PLAYING GAMES or MMORPGS, you've heard of these before, star wars galaxies, EVERQUEST and others like Phantasy star Online, which isn't an MMORPG but still requires a fee (it's for gamecube and sega dreamcast) The reason for Fees is the Massive servers that are used to literally host thousands of players at the same time in the same place. PC gamers have been doing this for a long time, it's not a new concept. I'm not sure how many MMORPG's are coming out for the xbox but in know there's a few, one called Knights of the old republic (star wars) i know for sure. For PS2, Everquest, Final Fnatasy XI (yay!), and star wars galaxies are coming out.
  
  
• PS2 Network Adapter Review
  By A3AF7YKKJ00NPD on 2002-10-11
  The product itself is great. Playing online is awesome. I have used it with AT&T Dialup and CableSpeed cable internet with little noticeable speed differential. The only difference is it takes 1-2 minutes to download the roster update with dialup versus 10-15 seconds with cable.

  Here is the bad part of this review. The people that I play Madden 2003 against are often rude and quit if are beating them. Also, there is a ranking system when playing online. The ranked players (rankings go from 1-9999) are often unnecessarily arrogant and intolerant of unranked challengers. Also, the roster updates cannot be used when playing online. For example, Antonio Freeman is not on the Eagles. This makes a difference.

  Overall this adapter is great.
  
  

• Great for gaming, but what about web browsing?
  By A3VM0I7T67L1D4 on 2002-12-13
  Sony's foray into online gaming comes at perhaps the perfect time. With Microsoft rolling out (and heavily promoting) XBox Live, and Nintendo all set to release its own Broadband Adapter for the Gamecube, Sony's Network Adapter meets the rising need for online gaming. As much fun as video games can be, it's always more fun to play against someone else. With the Network Adapter (and a game that supports it), it's possible to play against a human opponent at any time, day or night.

  But the one golden flaw of the Network Adapter (besides its lack of ability right before Christmas, but I suppose kudos are in order for making such a popular product) is the lack of a web browser. Granted, anyone who would make use of this, especially a broadband user, already has a computer, and can easily fire up Mozilla or Internet Explorer to do that. But it seems that a web browser, even a simple one, is a good idea for an add-on, if for no other reason than making it easier to share saved games over the Internet.

  PS2 Network Adapters purchased before 12/31/02 will include an offer for a free online-capable game, Twisted Metal Black Online. All adapters include a demo disc with Madden 2002 and Frequency. Apart from that, only a handful of games released so far support the Network Adapter, but more are expected in 2003.
  
  

• PlayStation: The Official Magazine (1-year)
• Electronic Gaming Monthly
• Play
• Tips & Tricks Magazine

• PlayStation 2 USB Headset
• Final Fantasy XI Online - Includes 40 GB Hard Drive
• PlayStation 2 Memory Card (8MB)
• PlayStation 3 Logitech Vantage USB Headset
• PlayStation 2 Dualshock Controller Black