PlayStation 2 frenzy grows

Lines began forming yesterday outside US stores where PlayStation 2 game systems will be available for sale on Thursday. It is appropriate that the lines and the media coverage resemble so much the premier of a George Lucas movie as the video game industry now threatens to overtake Hollywood in sheer size and revenue. Many stores will open at midnight for those who most want the system, in short supply due to a cutback of the units shipped to the US.

Many analysts say the temporary shortage will not have a serious long-run negative impact on the PS2's success and it is even possible that the desperation of hardcore fans to get their hands on a limited number of systems could add to the allure of the console. Competing manufacturers are, of course, hoping that this isn't the case.

For more on the PS2 debut, read bloomberg.com, or zdnn.com. For information on Microsoft's efforts to position the Xbox against the PS2, read dailynews.yahoo.com.