Japan to receive PlayStation 2 MK.2
More efficient DVD playback, courtesy of onboard software
Sony has announced that it will be releasing a new version of the PS2 onto the Japanese market, version SCPH-18000. The only difference though between this new edition and the original is improved DVD playback (version 2.01). As you may recall, in Japan, users were expected to copy drivers for DVD playback from the utilities disc onto the memory card and boot with it. This was cumbersome and easily hacked to allow region-less play. Buyers are told to "expect better playback along with convenient features such as A-B repeat, slow motion, and increased track scanning ability". Also included will be a new wireless remote control, as well as the familiar Dual Shock controller. The price will remain quite high.