The much delayed PlayStation 2 hard disk, which includes not only 40GB of storage space, but also an Ethernet adaptor and 56Kbps modem, will be released in Japan on the 19 July, Web site The Magic Box is reporting.

The external model will cost ¥19,000 yen (£108) while the internal model will cost slightly less, at ¥18,000 (£102). Units will be sold through the Japan PlayStation online store and a revised vertical stand will be released with space for the external hard disk.

The reason for the two different versions is the distinction in Japan between versions of the PS2 itself. Several models exist, and between the two, the internal and external drives cover them all.

Seven games have been confirmed as compatible, including Final Fantasy X, also due out in Japan on the 19 July, and Capcom Vs SNK: Millionaire Fighting 2001, due out in September. Only a couple of compatible titles (Atelier Lilie and A-Train 2001) have already been released.

Snooping around the Japanese PlayStation store, we found the various details on this page. Apart from a nice snap of the nex hard drive unit, you can also see pictures of the external drive, the adjusted stand and what looks to be a brand new USB mouse and keyboard. ®

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