PlayStation Link Cable

The PlayStation Link Cable (SCPH-1040) 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 a 8-pin inline serial cable^[1] 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^[2] or $40 in the United States;^[3] 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.^[4] 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 (as only one view has to be rendered per console). However, the use of this cable requires two televisions, two PlayStations (with appropriate cables), and two copies of the game being played (with a few exceptions^[a]). This expense was impractical for most consumers, and by the end of 1997 most retailers were no longer carrying the PlayStation Link Cable.^[5]

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