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Here are the 25 Best PS2 Games of All Time:
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Carl Johnson standing in front of a Ferris wheel in the PS2 game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is considered by many to be one of the best open-world games ever made. Set in the early Nineties, the game takes place in the fictional state of San Andreas, comprised of takes on Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas, which provides the ideal backdrop for a tale of corrupt cops and gang warfare.
San Andreas offered an enormous map, new gang warfare features, and extensive customization, establishing its place in gaming history. The game sold 17.33 million copies and is the console’s best-selling game.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Naked Snake in the jungle holding a gun to his face in one of the best PS2 games, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, set in the Sixties, follows Naked Snake. Emphasizing stealth over combat, the game is packed with clever touches.
Metal Gear Solid 3 placed a heavier emphasis on survival, requiring you to manage Snake’s hunger and tend to injuries. The later Subsistence edition improved with full camera control and a range of extras, establishing MGS3 as one of the best stealth games of its era.
3. Shadow Of The Colossus
Wander riding a black horse in the PS2 game Shadow Of The Colossus.
Shadow Of The Colossus is considered to be one of the best adventure games ever created. Taking down the majestic giants of Shadow Of The Colossus never feels quite right, as satisfying as it can be to work out how to do it, and that mood is frequently reinforced with periods of silence and the ever-present desaturated color palette.
While the PS2 sometimes struggles to keep itself together while running this, its impact is undeniable. Shadow of the Colossus allows you to embark on a journey filled with mystery and awe.
4. Resident Evil 4
Leon getting hit with a chainsaw in his arm in the PS2 game Resident Evil 4.
Resident Evil 4 brought fresh ideas to the series. By getting rid of the zombies and introducing Los Ganados, who were clever and could even use weapons, Capcom took a bold step.
The over-the-shoulder perspective meant you were much closer to the action, which made the action-packed QTE scenes intense and engaging. The switch to a more action-oriented approach to the series was a huge success and influenced countless other games, and it stands as one of the best horror games on PS2.
5. Silent Hill 2
James Sunderland looking into a mirror during the PS2 game Silent Hill 2.
Silent Hill 2 truly established the series as a major name in survival horror. Instead of revisiting the first game’s cast, new protagonist James visits the town after receiving a letter from his wife, who died three years prior to the start of the game.
Silent Hill 2 focuses on psychological horror rather than gore and tackles some pretty taboo themes in ways that video games rarely approach, which sets it apart from other games in the genre. There’s no debating it: Silent Hill 2 is one of the best survival horror games ever made.
6. God Of War
Kratos pulling the head off a green monster in the PS2 game God of War.
God of War introduced players to Kratos. Everything is dialed up to eleven, from the detail of the scenery and dramatic musical score to the size of the bosses and, of course, the level of violence on display.
Kratos will pluck the wings from smaller enemies and plunge the Blades of Chaos deep into larger foes, often as part of some wonderfully choreographed QTE sequences. According to user reviews on Metacritic, the game received a score of 94/100.
7. Final Fantasy 10
A close-up of Lulu looking down in one of the best PS2 games, Final Fantasy 10
Final Fantasy 10 starts with the city of Zanarkand being attacked by Sin, and suddenly, our hero, Tidus, finds himself in the world of Spira. With no idea what’s going on, the talented Blitzball player sets out to discover what happened and prevent it from happening again, meeting plenty of friends along the way.
Final Fantasy 10 made revolutionary changes to the presentation of the series. For the first time, it was possible to explore fully 3D environments, and key cutscenes featured both detailed real-time character models and the introduction of full voice acting, drawing you into the story. There’s a good reason why FF10 is considered to be one of the best Final Fantasy games of all time.
8. Ico
Ico standing in a green field during the PS2 game Ico.
Ico is frequently cited as one of the best single-player games of all time. Ico’s basic design takes a lot from the likes of Prince Of Persia, with a mixture of platforming, puzzles, and combat at the heart of the action. Ico’s unique feature is that its titular character is tasked with the protection of a captive girl named Yorda, whose difficulty in traversing the environment is a key part of the game’s puzzles.
Despite being a full-game escort mission, Ico is worth it, as few titles are as captivating as this one. According to the Entertainment Software Association, puzzle games like Ico are an enduring favorite for players of all ages.
9. Devil May Cry
Dante holding a purple glowing sword above his head in one of the best PS2 games, Devil May Cry.
Devil May Cry sees Dante’s first outing, originally conceived as a new direction for Resident Evil. The game design became an original project incorporating a mixture of gunplay and close-range sword fighting, with emphasis on stringing together stylish combinations of attacks.
The action is as smooth as the combos, and the game immediately establishes Dante as one of Capcom’s most beloved characters. Be sure to check out the third game, too.
10. Burnout 3: Takedown
A red car crashing into the road during the PS2 game Burnout 3: Takedown.
Burnout 3: Takedown made combat a key part of the racing. Nothing was off-limits – you could slam your rivals into walls, run them into oncoming traffic, or even drop down on them from above, all in the name of winning a race.
It was incredibly fast and graphically spectacular, of course, but the cathartic release of aggression was always the highlight. Burnout 3: Takedown is one of the best racing games ever as a result.
11. Beyond Good & Evil
Jade holding a gun while moving through the city at night in the PS2 game Beyond Good & Evil.
Beyond Good & Evil sees you play as Jade, whose planet is under assault from the DomZ, alien creatures that kill or enslave other creatures that they encounter. After being sought out by resistance forces, she finds herself uncovering the true nature of the DomZ.
While the game design was perfectly good, what really stood out was the quality of the storytelling as well as Jade’s appealing character. According to a survey by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) in July 2025, narrative is an important factor for gamers when choosing what to play.
12. Jak And Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
Jax and Daxter walking through a desert land with three enemies in the background during the PS2 game Jak And Daxter: The Precursor Legacy.
Jak & Daxter is exactly the kind of collect-’em-up platformer that had been very popular in the previous generation but had the kind of open 3D environments that those older machines just couldn’t have achieved.
Of course, it still featured the polished game design we’ve grown to expect from Naughty Dog, and the charismatic characters were expertly brought to life in the game’s plentiful in-engine cutscenes.
13. Okami
Okami racing through a healed village in the PS2 game Okami.
Ōkami puts players in control of Amaterasu, a sun goddess in wolf form whose goal is to save the land from darkness. The game’s unique visual style, inspired by classical Japanese artwork, gave it a cult appeal that ultimately saw the game converted to many other platforms despite the disappointing sales of the PS2 original.
This is arguably the closest thing to The Legend Of Zelda series that Sony’s console has and gives Nintendo’s classics a run for their money.
14. Amplitude
A screenshot of three ships racing along a neon track during a level in one of the best PS2 games, Amplitude.
Amplitude tasks you with trying to get a song to auto-play by successfully playing certain sections of notes, across up to six instruments.
This frantic juggling act was enhanced greatly by the eclectic soundtrack, taking in the likes of David Bowie, Run DMC, Blink-182, Slipknot, and Garbage. Although the remake for PS3 and PS4 is out there, we think it’s hard to top the musical selection here.
15. SSX Tricky
A screenshot of a snowboarder performing a trick in the air during the PS2 game SSX Tricky.
SSX Tricky remixed the original game’s courses and added a couple of extra ones for good measure, while the showboating became even more outlandish with the addition of new Uber tricks.
Beyond that, everything that players loved about the first game made the cut the second time around, be it the vibrant characters or the boisterous racing action. The fact that it’s still in the conversation for the best snowboarding game ever says it all, really.
16. Katamari Damacy
The King projecting a rainbow out of his mouth in the PS2 game Katamari Damacy.
Katamari Damacy starts with The King Of All Cosmos getting drunk and breaking the sky. It’s your job to go down to Earth and fix it by rolling up objects into progressively larger balls, which are launched into space to create new stars.
The core action of accumulating larger and larger objects, from batteries to boats, is very satisfying indeed, but just as much fun comes from the game’s oddball sense of character.
17. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
Rachet firing guns at robots in the PS2 game Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal.
In Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal, The Tyhrranoids are attacking Veldin, and Ratchet’s not going to stand for seeing his home planet besieged. However, he quickly discovers that there’s more to this invasion than meets the eye, chiefly because of the manipulations of Dr. Nefarious.
By this point, the balance between platforming and shooting has definitely tipped in favor of the latter, but when it looks and plays like a dream, who’s complaining?
18. Kingdom Hearts
Sora staring up at the sky in one of the best PS2 games, Kingdom Hearts.
Kingdom Hearts smashes the beloved characters of Disney together with one of the most popular Japanese RPG series. Square came up with this brilliantly presented and excellent action RPG.
It’s a delight to see Mickey and Donald visiting worlds like Agrabah and Halloween Town, as well as interacting with the likes of Tidus and Cloud from Final Fantasy.
19. Tony Hawk’s Underground
Benjamin Franklin doing a skating trick in the PS2 game Tony Hawk’s Underground.
Tony Hawk’s Underground pushed the series in a bold new direction by incorporating a more free-roaming style of play and a substantial story element that hadn’t existed in previous games.
While the game was clearly at its best when you were on your board, the ability to walk around and pick up challenges on the fly refreshed a series that was potentially in danger of becoming a little bit stale.
20. Gran Turismo 4
A white racing car zooming on a racing track in one of the best PS2 games, Gran Turismo 4.
Gran Turismo 4 focused on improving the things that had made the series so popular to begin with.
With over 700 cars and more than 50 tracks to race on, Gran Turismo 4 is a game of truly mammoth proportions and one that looks absolutely phenomenal. The new B-Spec racing management mode was a fine addition to the on-track action, too.
21. Dragon Quest 8: Journey Of The Cursed King
Yangus and Hero being guided by a green monster in the PS2 game Dragon Quest: Journey of the Cursed King.
Dragon Quest 8 remains an expression of the core of the genre and was a perfect introduction for European players who got this as their first official game in the series.
It’s a simple game, and even by the standards of the series, it has a straightforward plot. But there’s a value in being brilliant at the basics, and this game nails that in every aspect, from Akira Toriyama’s attractive cel-shaded character designs to the top-notch localization.
22. Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution
Sarah Bryant kicking Goh Hinogami in the face in the PS2 game Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution.
Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution smoothed out the graphics, added a couple of extra fighters, and topped it off with substantial single-player content.
The result was one of the best fighting games of its time, whether you were beating your friends down or facing off against foes in the virtual arcades of Quest mode, based on real-life pro players.
23. Sly 2: Band of Thieves
Sly 2: Band of Thieves
Sly 2: Band of Thieves follows the Cooper gang as Sly Cooper, turtle Bentley, and hippo Murray try to collect the pieces of the robot owl Clockwerk (aka the bad guy from the previous game). You get to control each character on certain heists, and all of them have different abilities that play into classic stealth game tropes.
Sly 2 is also much bigger than the first game in the series, lasting eight stages and five worlds. There is also freeform gameplay, giving you tons to explore and do outside of the main mission.
24. OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast
A screenshot from the PS2 game OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast, showing a red car skidding on a round with smoke coming out of its wheels.
OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast sees you drive wonderful Ferrari cars through absolutely beautiful scenery, taking advantage of one of gaming’s most satisfying drift mechanics as you go.
Sumo Digital’s conversion adds so much more through the Coast 2 Coast mode, with all sorts of driving challenges to keep you busy. If you like arcade racing games, you won’t find many that are as joyous as this.
25. SOCOM 2: US Navy Seals
A sniper shooting a gun in the PS2 game SOCOM 2: US Navy Seals.
SOCOM 2: US Navy Seals improved on just about every aspect of the original game. The single-player experience featured better AI, more varied objectives, and additional weaponry over the course of its 12 missions.
Those who experienced it back in the day know that the real fun was to be had online, as it was one of the best-networked experiences available on Sony’s console.
What Were the Key Factors That Made These PS2 Games Stand Out?
The best PS2 games stood out due to several key factors:
- Innovative Gameplay: Many titles introduced fresh mechanics and pushed the boundaries of what was possible on consoles.
- Compelling Stories: Games like Silent Hill 2 and Metal Gear Solid 3 offered deep, engaging narratives that resonated with players.
- Technical Achievements: Titles like Gran Turismo 4 and Shadow of the Colossus showcased the graphical capabilities of the PS2.
- Lasting Impact: These games influenced future titles and remain beloved by gamers today.
How Have These PS2 Games Influenced Modern Gaming?
These PS2 games have left an indelible mark on modern gaming:
- Open-World Design: Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas set the standard for open-world games, influencing titles like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Action-Adventure Mechanics: Games like God of War and Devil May Cry pioneered combat systems that are still emulated today.
- Narrative Depth: The storytelling in games like Silent Hill 2 inspired a new wave of narrative-driven games like The Last of Us and Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice.
What Made the PS2 Such a Successful Console?
The PlayStation 2 achieved its iconic status and commercial triumph due to a confluence of factors that distinguished it in the gaming industry:
- Extensive Game Library: The PS2 boasted a vast and diverse library of games, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From action-packed adventures to immersive RPGs and thrilling sports simulations, the console offered something for everyone, ensuring its appeal to a broad audience.
- DVD Playback Capability: The PS2 was one of the first consoles to feature a built-in DVD player, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to consolidate their entertainment devices. This functionality not only added value to the console but also helped drive its adoption among mainstream audiences.
- Strong Developer Support: Sony cultivated strong relationships with game developers, both large and small, providing them with the tools and resources they needed to bring their creative visions to life on the PS2. This robust developer support resulted in a steady stream of high-quality games that kept players engaged and coming back for more.
- Online Gaming Initiatives: While online gaming was still in its early stages during the PS2 era, Sony made significant strides in this area with the introduction of PlayStation Network (PSN). This online service allowed players to connect with friends, compete in multiplayer matches, and download additional content, laying the foundation for the modern online gaming ecosystem.
Why Are Retro Games Still So Popular?
The ongoing allure of retro games can be attributed to a mix of nostalgic sentiments, straightforward gaming experiences, and distinctive artistic aesthetics:
- Nostalgia: For numerous gamers, retro titles evoke cherished memories from their youth, transporting them back to simpler times filled with joy and camaraderie. Revisiting these classic games provides a comforting sense of familiarity and allows players to relive formative experiences.
- Simple Gameplay: In contrast to contemporary games that often boast intricate mechanics and expansive open worlds, retro games typically offer more streamlined and easily accessible gameplay experiences. This simplicity can be a refreshing change of pace for gamers seeking a break from the complexities of modern titles, providing instant gratification and uncomplicated fun.
- Unique Art Styles: Retro games are renowned for their pixelated graphics and chiptune soundtracks, which possess a distinctive charm and character that sets them apart from modern games. These artistic styles evoke a sense of nostalgia and creativity, offering a unique aesthetic experience that appeals to players seeking something different from the polished visuals of contemporary titles.
- Preservation of Gaming History: Retro games are crucial artifacts of gaming history, offering valuable insights into the evolution of the medium and the cultural contexts in which they were created. By preserving and celebrating these classic titles, gamers can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate the rich heritage and artistic legacy of the gaming industry.
Are There Any Remakes Or Remasters Of These PS2 Games Available On Modern Consoles?
Yes, many of the best PS2 games have received remakes or remasters for modern consoles, and they include:
- Resident Evil 4: This game received a full remake with updated graphics and gameplay.
- Shadow of the Colossus: Got a remaster for the PS3 and a remake for the PS4, featuring enhanced visuals.
- Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster: This includes improved graphics and additional content.
- Devil May Cry HD Collection: Features the first three Devil May Cry games with enhanced graphics.
- Kingdom Hearts Series: Available on modern consoles through various HD collections.
How Can I Play These PS2 Games Today?
There are several ways to enjoy these classic PS2 games today:
- Original Hardware: Dust off your old PlayStation 2 console and original game discs.
- Emulation: Use a PS2 emulator on your PC to play ROMs of the games.
- Remasters and Remakes: Purchase remasters or remakes of the games on modern consoles.
- PlayStation Store: Some PS2 classics are available for digital download on the PlayStation Store.
What Are the Rarest and Most Valuable PS2 Games?
Some of the rarest and most valuable PS2 games include:
- Rule of Rose: Known for its controversial content, this game is highly sought after.
- Silent Hill: Shattered Memories: A rare and expensive title due to its limited release.
- Haunting Ground: Another survival horror game that commands a high price among collectors.
What Are Some Hidden Gems Or Underrated PS2 Games That Are Worth Checking Out?
Here are some underrated PS2 games that deserve more attention:
- God Hand: A quirky and challenging action game with a unique combat system.
- Killer7: A stylish and surreal action-adventure game with a distinctive visual style.
- ** регулярно: A stealth-action game with a focus on puzzle-solving and atmosphere.
How Do I Troubleshoot Common Issues With My PS2 Console?
Common issues with the PS2 console can often be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps:
- Disc Read Errors: Clean the disc with a soft cloth or try a different game to determine if the issue is with the disc or the console.
- Controller Issues: Ensure the controller is properly connected and the batteries are charged (if applicable). Try a different controller to rule out a hardware problem.
- Overheating: Make sure the console has adequate ventilation and is not placed in an enclosed space.
- Power Problems: Check the power cord and outlet to ensure they are functioning correctly.
According to the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your console.
How to best maintain your PS2?
To maintain your PS2 and keep it in good working condition, follow these tips:
| Maintenance Task | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Dusting | Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the exterior of the console to remove dust and debris. | Weekly |
| Cleaning Disc Drive | Use a disc drive cleaning kit to remove dust and buildup from the lens. | Monthly |
| Controller Care | Store controllers in a safe place to prevent damage. Clean them with a slightly damp cloth as needed. | As Needed |
| Proper Ventilation | Ensure the console has adequate ventilation by placing it in an open area away from obstructions. | Always |
| Storing Games | Store game discs in their cases to protect them from scratches and damage. | After Each Use |
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FAQ About PS2 Best Games
- What is considered the greatest PS2 game of all time?
- Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is widely regarded as the greatest PS2 game, thanks to its expansive open world, engaging story, and innovative gameplay.
- Are there any PS2 games with online multiplayer support?
- Yes, several PS2 games offered online multiplayer support, including SOCOM 2: US Navy Seals and Final Fantasy XI.
- Can I play PS2 games on my PlayStation 5?
- The PlayStation 5 is not backward compatible with PS2 games. However, some PS2 classics are available as digital downloads on the PlayStation Store.
- What is the best way to emulate PS2 games on my PC?
- PCSX2 is a popular and reliable PS2 emulator for PC. You will need a compatible BIOS file and ROMs of the games you want to play.
- Are there any upcoming remakes or remasters of PS2 games?
- Konami’s Silent Hill 2 Remake release date is yet to be confirmed.
- What are some good co-op PS2 games to play with friends?
- Some excellent co-op PS2 games include Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal, Champions of Norrath, and Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance.
- How can I improve the graphics of PS2 games when playing on an emulator?
- PCSX2 offers various graphics settings that can enhance the visuals of PS2 games, such as increasing the resolution, applying anti-aliasing, and using texture filtering.
- What are some of the most challenging PS2 games?
- Some of the most challenging PS2 games include God Hand, Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne, and Ikaruga.
- How do I transfer my old PS2 save data to a modern console or PC?
- You can use a PS2 memory card adapter to transfer your save data to a PC, then use the emulator to access the saves.
- What are some lesser-known PS2 accessories that are worth collecting?
- Some interesting PS2 accessories include the EyeToy camera, the PS2 Network Adapter, and the various light guns and racing wheels.
Ready to dive back into the world of PS2 gaming? Remember, if you need assistance with any of your tech, polarservicecenter.net is here to provide expert support. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more.
