The PlayStation 2 continues to hold its status as the best-selling video game console in history, even 25 years after its initial launch. Recent data from TechGaged.com reveals that the PS2 has achieved a remarkable total of 160.01 million lifetime units sold, solidifying its position at the top of global hardware rankings as of 2025. This enduring dominance can be attributed to a combination of timely market entry, broad affordability, and a vast library of games that appealed to multiple generations of players.
The impact of the PS2 is still felt today, having reached markets that had previously never owned a gaming console. Analysts suggest that the console’s legacy is unlikely to be surpassed in the near future. Despite the emergence of new hardware and increased competition, few systems have managed to replicate the PS2’s blend of scale, longevity, and cultural significance.
PlayStation 5 Sales Surge Ahead of Black Friday 2025
While the PS2 remains untouchable, the PlayStation 5 is rapidly climbing Sony’s sales ladder. The latest figures indicate that the PS5 has reached 82.53 million units sold, making it the company’s fifth best-selling console. As sales momentum builds, the PS5 is closing in on the legacy of the PlayStation Portable and the PlayStation 3.
Analysts are particularly optimistic about the upcoming Black Friday sales period in 2025. With competitive pricing, exclusive bundles, and a strong lineup of current-generation titles, the PS5 is poised for a significant boost in sales during the festive season. According to projections from TechGaged, if the current sales trend continues, the PS5 could enter Sony’s top three consoles within the next two years, potentially becoming the second most successful home console behind the iconic PS2.
Rarity of Ultra High Volume Consoles
TechGaged’s analysis also highlights the rarity of consoles that achieve sales exceeding 150 million. Historically, only three consoles have crossed this threshold: the PlayStation 2, the Nintendo DS, and the Nintendo Switch. Currently, the Switch has achieved 152.34 million lifetime unit sales, placing it among the most widely adopted gaming devices ever. Nevertheless, the PS2 maintains a substantial lead, underscoring its lasting global appeal.
Rokas B., lead analyst at TechGaged, emphasized that the PS2’s exceptional performance represents a unique phenomenon in the gaming industry that may never be replicated. He also noted that the PS5’s accelerating momentum indicates that Sony is not only preserving its legacy but also forging a new chapter in gaming history.
As 2025 progresses, the console market reflects a dynamic mixture of enduring legends and fast-evolving platforms. The influence of the PS2 remains significant, while the PS5 continues to carve out its own strong position. The upcoming holiday season and the early months of 2026 will likely be pivotal in determining whether the PS5 can ascend into the ranks of Sony’s all-time top consoles. Current data suggests that both PlayStation’s past and present are thriving, indicating a promising future for the brand.
For additional insights and detailed charts, visit TechGaged.com for their complete analysis on console statistics in 2025.
