PlayStation Link Cable


The PlayStation Link Cable is a peripheral cable for the first generation PlayStation console. Utilizing the serial I/O port found on the back of most PlayStation models, it allows for two consoles to be connected in order to play compatible multiplayer games on separate consoles and displays. The cable is an 8-pin inline serial cable and was a fully supported Sony accessory for the market life of the console. It is not compatible with the redesigned PS one or newer PlayStations.
The accessory was released in 1995 retailing for ¥2000 in Japan or $40 in the United States; it was released later than expected due to the delay of Metal Jacket, which was supposed to be the first title to take advantage of the cable. The main advantage to using the cable is that a split-screen would not be necessary for multiplayer, increasing each player's screen size and potentially increasing game performance. However, the use of this cable requires two televisions, two PlayStations, and two copies of the game being played. This expense was impractical for most consumers, and by the end of 1997 most retailers were no longer carrying the PlayStation Link Cable.

List of compatible games

;Real-time strategy
  • Command & Conquer: Red Alert
  • Command & Conquer: Red Alert: Retaliation
  • Dune 2000
;First-person shooters
;Third-person shooters
  • Armored Core
  • Armored Core: Project Phantasma
  • Armored Core: Master of Arena
  • Metal JacketJP
  • Mobile Suit Z GundamJP
;Flight simulation/combat
  • Bogey Dead 6 / Raging Skies / Sidewinder
  • Independence Day
  • Wing Over
  • Zero PilotJP
;Vehicular combat
  • Assault Rigs
  • Destruction Derby
  • Red Asphalt / Rock N' Roll Racing 2
  • Rogue Trip: Vacation 2012
  • Twisted Metal 3NA
;Racing
;Other genres