More PlayStation 2 details released

[10.18.99] » Exceedingly nifty news on backwards compatability.

   The latest issue of Japanese Playstation magazine has revealed new information about the PlayStation 2, including lots of details on backwards compatability:

• When a regular PSX disc is inserted into a PlayStation 2, the drive will only spin at 2x speed, meaning no increase in loading times.
• When running a regular PSX game with a Dual Shock 2, all the Dual Shock 2 features will be disabled and it will function like a regular Dual Shock.
• Regular PSX game data cannot be saved onto the new 8MB memory cards. For PlayStation games, old PlayStation memory cards must be used.
• When the PlayStation 2 is booted, it enters either PlayStation or PlayStation 2 mode depending on the disc inserted. You cannot switch between modes without cycling the power on and off. This means that one CD cannot contain both PSX and PSX2 games.
• The PlayStation 2 will not support the PlayStation's little used link cable, which was used to connect two systems for multiplayer in the few games that supported it.
• The PocketStation will be compatible with both PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games. So far Sony has yet to announce plans to make an enhanced PocketStation.
• The analog buttons on the Dual Shock 2 will each be capable of detecting 256 distinct levels of pressure.

   Basically, it seems that the PlayStation 2 will not enhance PlayStation games at all, not even with faster loading times, and PlayStation 2 accessories will either not work with PlayStation games or not provide any new features. Nevertheless, unless you actively use a link cable, a PlayStation 2 will be capable of doing everything that your regular PlayStation can.