Sony provides developers with Linux stations

Software developers writing games for the next-generation PlayStation 2 console will use a proprietary, Linux-based workstation manufactured by Sony.

The vendor plans to ship the development workstation, which will include the same chipset as the Playstation 2, this autumn. The workstation has been designed to enable programmers to exploit the power of the second-generation console. Most games are developed on high-end PCs or Silicon Graphics workstations.

Sony confirmed it will sell the workstations - expected to be priced at under $20,000 - directly to developers. It believed that by opting for Linux, it will create a smooth transition from PlayStation 1 to 2.

Playstation 2 will be backwards compatible and is slated to ship by autumn 2000.

Nintendo's choice of operating system for Dolphin has not yet been named.

Sega's Dreamcast uses a cut-down version of Windows CE with DirectX, which has been customised for console gaming.