GAMESHARK SharkBoard USB Keyboard (Playstation 2 Compatible)

Circa 2004

A full-size keyboard specifically designed for the PlayStation 2 console and PC. MAD CATZ (which acquired the GameShark brand).

Use Case:

The primary use case was to dramatically speed up code entry for the GameShark cheat device software and to facilitate online gaming communication on consoles.

• GameShark Code Entry: Entering long lines of codes with a game controller was tedious; the keyboard made this process a "snap". Function keys on the keyboard were often mapped to console buttons (e.g., F5-F8 might correspond to the Cross, Circle, Square, and Triangle buttons) to further speed up interaction within the GameShark menus.

• Online Gaming: The keyboard provided instant messaging capabilities for early online PS2 games like Unreal Tournament and Final Fantasy XI, making communication much faster than using a virtual keyboard with a controller.

• Multi-Platform: It was advertised as the only keyboard available at the time that supported the PS2, GameCube, and PC in one unit.

Historical Significance:

Holds historical significance for several reasons:

• Console-Specific Peripheral: It represents a time when third-party accessory makers created specialized hardware solutions for game consoles to enhance specific software functionality (cheat devices and online chat).

• Bridging Platforms: It was a unique multi-platform peripheral that bridged the gap between PC and console gaming by offering PC-level input functionality on game consoles.

• The Peak of the GameShark Era: The keyboard was part of MAD CATZ's strategy to broaden the GameShark brand offering during the height of its popularity in the early-to-mid 2000s, before online connectivity and advanced console security measures made physical cheat devices obsolete.

NOTE: 2-Units available.

(H-2cm x W-44.5cm x D-14.5cm)