The PlayStation 2, a console that revolutionized gaming, is nearing its 25th anniversary. To celebrate, we're revisiting the titles that solidified its legendary status. From PS2 exclusives like *Okami* and *Shadow of the Colossus* to mega-hits such as *Final Fantasy X* and *Grand Theft Auto: Vice City*, choosing the best PS2 games is a daunting task. However, we've curated a list of 25 exceptional games that pushed technological and cultural boundaries, remaining relevant and enjoyable today.
Presenting IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games ever!
The Best PS2 Games Ever
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**More on the best PlayStation Games of all time:**
Best PS4 Games
Best PS3 Games
Best PS1 Games
25. Guitar Hero II
**Developer:** Harmonix | **Publisher:** RedOctane | **Release date:** November 7, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Guitar Hero II review
Guitar Hero redefined party games, but *Guitar Hero II* truly peaked. Released when the franchise focused on "awesome rock/metal tracks," not diluted karaoke, Harmonix curated an incredible setlist. From Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, the soundtrack rocks.
24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves
**Developer:** Sucker Punch Productions | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** September 14, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Sly 2: Band of Thieves review
A delightful blend of action, stealth, and humor, *Sly Cooper 2* surpasses other entries. Its engaging story unfolds across diverse worlds, allowing players to control Sly's crew, including Murray and Bentley. Thrilling stealth mechanics make it a unique and memorable experience.
23. ICO
**Developer:** SIE Japan Studio | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** September 25, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's ICO review
Despite the often-maligned escort mission structure, *ICO* shines. Its clever puzzles and the evolving bond between the two protagonists, conveyed without dialogue, create a deeply personal connection. It's a masterclass in minimalist storytelling.
22. NBA Street Vol. 2
**Developer:** EA Canada | **Publisher:** Electronic Arts/NuFX | **Release date:** April 28, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review
Arcade basketball at its finest, *NBA Street Vol. 2* balances flashy visuals with accessible gameplay. The superb ball handling and all-star roster appeal to both casual and hardcore fans. Unlockable legends and multiple game modes provide endless replayability.
21. Kingdom Hearts II
**Developer:** Square Enix | **Publisher:** Square Enix | **Release date:** December 22, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Kingdom Hearts II review
A superior sequel, *Kingdom Hearts II* refines its predecessor's combat with magic, the Keyblade, and Sora's forms. It expands on the mythology, providing depth to characters and concepts. While not the ideal entry point, its world design, story, and combat are exemplary.
20. Tony Hawk's Underground
**Developer:** Neversoft Entertainment | **Publisher:** Activision | **Release date:** October 27, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Tony Hawk's Underground review
*Tony Hawk's Underground* enhances the series' strengths. Its fun, campy story, massive 70+ song soundtrack, and deep create-a-skater/park features are highlights. Even with mixed reactions to its story mode, it's a top-tier Pro Skater game.
19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
**Developer:** NIS | **Publisher:** Atlus (NA) | **Release date:** January 30, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review
An iconic PS2 title, *Disgaea: Hour of Darkness* offers deep tactical combat with diverse characters and skills. While the grind can be intense, its gothic themes, humor, and intricate combat make it a timeless classic.
18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
**Developer:** Insomniac Games | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** November 2, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal review
The *Ratchet & Clank* series excels with its characters, story, and weapons. *Up Your Arsenal* expands this formula with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. The sheer variety and creativity are unmatched.
17. Beyond Good & Evil
**Developer:** Ubisoft Montpellier | **Publisher:** Ubisoft | **Release date:** November 11, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review
Blending action and exploration, *Beyond Good & Evil* features a unique world and charming cast. Its world is brimming with secrets and lore, making it a truly unforgettable and unique experience.
16. Burnout Revenge
**Developer:** Criterion Games | **Publisher:** Electronic Arts | **Release date:** July 30, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Speed is the name of the game in *Burnout Revenge*. Short bursts of intense racing and chaotic crash mode provide hours of thrilling gameplay. The takedown system adds excitement, making it a standout racing experience.
15. Psychonauts
**Developer:** Double Fine Productions | **Publisher:** Majesco Entertainment | **Release date:** April 19, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Psychonauts review
*Psychonauts* blends a coming-of-age story with psychic action. Its challenging gameplay and memorable levels, each reflecting a unique psyche, make it a standout title.
14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening
**Developer:** Capcom Production Studio 1 | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** February 17, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening review
An influential action game, *Devil May Cry 3* offers challenging combat, a compelling story, and entertaining cutscenes. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system remain impressive.
13. Katamari Damacy
**Developer:** Namco | **Publisher:** Namco | **Release date:** March 18, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Absurd and chaotic fun, *Katamari Damacy* is simple yet endlessly entertaining. Its ridiculous scenarios and optimistic tone create a unique and joyful experience.
12. Jak II: Renegade
**Developer:** Naughty Dog | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** October 14, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Jak II: Renegade review
A unique sequel, *Jak II* retains the charm of the original while introducing new elements. The shift to Haven City brings new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story. The introduction of Dark Jak enhances the power fantasy.
11. Bully
**Developer:** Rockstar Vancouver | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** October 15, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Bully review
*Bully* cleverly blends a coming-of-age story with social mechanics and combat. Its satire, streamlined progression, and satisfying combat are highlights.
10. God of War
**Developer:** Santa Monica Studio | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** March 22, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's God of War review
A technical marvel with impressive boss fights, *God of War* combines combat, puzzles, and platforming. Its compelling story and action laid the foundation for a legendary franchise.
9. Okami
**Developer:** Clover Studio | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** April 20, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Okami review
The unique concept of a wolf god whose paintings come to life works beautifully. *Okami*'s painterly style, charming story, creative puzzles, and fun combat make it a masterpiece.
8. Final Fantasy X
**Developer:** Square | **Publisher:** Square Electronic Arts (NA) | **Release date:** July 19, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's Final Fantasy X review
*Final Fantasy X* made significant changes to the series, improving accessibility with its Sphere Grid and story clarity. Its improved visuals and memorable story remain popular.
7. Silent Hill 2
**Developer:** Konami | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** September 25, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's Silent Hill 2 review
A disorienting and unsettling experience, *Silent Hill 2* uses its nightmarish town to reflect the protagonist's mental state. Its unreliable narration, multiple endings, and blend of mundane and horrific elements create a lasting impact.
6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
**Developer:** KCEJ | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** November 13, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty review
A brilliant and divisive game, *Metal Gear Solid 2* constantly subverts expectations. Its use of misinformation and the replacement of Solid Snake with Raiden were initially controversial but have since been lauded for their thematic depth.
5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
**Developer:** Rockstar North | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** Oct 29, 2002 | **Review:** IGN's GTA: Vice City review
Building on *GTA III*, *Vice City* perfected the open-world formula. Its compelling story, memorable characters, and fantastic soundtrack make it a timeless classic.
4. Resident Evil 4
**Developer:** Capcom Production Studio 4 | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** January 11, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Resident Evil 4 review
*Resident Evil 4* revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-focused gameplay. Its unsettling atmosphere and memorable monsters remain terrifying.
3. Shadow of the Colossus
**Developer:** SIE Japan Studio | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** October 18, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Shadow of the Colossus review
A unique blend of puzzle and boss battles, *Shadow of the Colossus* is a melancholic and unforgettable experience. Its bleak world, clever puzzles, and epic boss fights remain impactful.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
**Developer:** KCEJ | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** November 17, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater review
Often considered the best in the series, *Metal Gear Solid 3* expands on previous mechanics, adding survival elements. Its complex story of honor, duty, and love is a highlight.
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
**Developer:** Rockstar North | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** October 21, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's GTA: San Andreas review
A massive leap forward, *Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas* features a vast, detailed world and enhanced gameplay. The addition of RPG elements and a compelling story solidify its place as a gaming legend.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
While PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, PlayStation Plus Premium offers streaming access to a selection of PS2 games. This membership provides access to a large catalog of games from various PlayStation consoles.
PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog
This is an up-to-date listing of the entire PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. You can browse, sort, and tag the titles and use them to build your own playlists. Sort by "Recently Added" to see the newest additions to the catalog.
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These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games. What are your favorites?
