The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

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 blockbuster hits such as *Final Fantasy X* and *Grand Theft Auto: Vice City*, choosing the best PS2 games is a delightful challenge. We've curated a list of 25 exceptional games that pushed technological and creative boundaries, remaining relevant and enjoyable even today.

Here's IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games ever:

The Best PS2 Games Ever

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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 perfected the formula. Its focus on "bitchin' rock/metal tracks" predated the genre's saturation, resulting in an unparalleled tracklist featuring Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, Danzig, The Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden, and Iggy and the Stooges, delivering a truly rocking experience.

24. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus

**Developer:** Sucker Punch Productions | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** September 14, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Sly 2: Band of Thieves review

The Sly Cooper series masterfully blends family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. Sly 2: Band of Thieves excels, offering a captivating story, diverse environments, and the ability to play as Sly's entire crew. Thrilling stealth gameplay makes 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-criticized escort mission mechanic, ICO shines. Its clever puzzles and the development of the bond between the two main characters, conveyed through gameplay rather than dialogue, create a deeply personal and moving experience. 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

NBA Street Vol. 2 is arcade basketball at its finest. Visually stunning and easy to pick up, it appeals to both casual and hardcore basketball fans. With multiple game modes and unlockable legends, it's a stylish and endlessly replayable experience.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

**Developer:** Square Enix | **Publisher:** Square Enix | **Release date:** December 22, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Kingdom Hearts II review

Kingdom Hearts II elevates its predecessor with improved combat, incorporating magic, the Keyblade, and Sora's different forms. The deeper exploration of the mythology adds satisfying layers to the story, making it a beloved entry in the series.

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 expands on the series' strengths with a fun and campy story, an extensive soundtrack (over 70 licensed tracks!), and deep create-a-skater/park/trick features. Despite mixed reactions to its story mode, it's considered a top-tier entry.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

**Developer:** NIS | **Publisher:** Atlus (NA) | **Release date:** January 30, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review

Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains an iconic PS2 title. Its tactical combat, diverse characters, and gothic aesthetic create an endlessly entertaining experience, despite the occasional grind.

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

Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal expands on the series' charm with a massive amount of new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. Its wacky weapons and fun gameplay make it a standout title.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

**Developer:** Ubisoft Montpellier | **Publisher:** Ubisoft | **Release date:** November 11, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review

Beyond Good & Evil blends action and exploration in a unique world with a diverse and memorable cast. Its rich lore and secrets make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

16. Burnout Revenge

**Developer:** Criterion Games | **Publisher:** Electronic Arts | **Release date:** July 30, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Burnout Revenge review

Burnout Revenge is all about speed. Its intense racing, takedown system, and crash mode provide thrilling and addictive gameplay, making it a standout arcade racer.

15. Psychonauts

**Developer:** Double Fine Productions | **Publisher:** Majesco Entertainment | **Release date:** April 19, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Psychonauts review

Psychonauts cleverly blends a coming-of-age story with psychic action-adventure. Its creative level design and memorable moments make it a standout title, further cemented by the release of its sequel.

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

Devil May Cry 3 is a highly influential action game, renowned for its challenging yet rewarding combat, compelling story, and entertaining cutscenes. Its deep and creative combat system remains unmatched.

13. Katamari Damacy

**Developer:** Namco | **Publisher:** Namco | **Release date:** March 18, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's Katamari Damacy review

Katamari Damacy is absurd and chaotic fun. Its simple mechanics and wildly imaginative visuals create an endlessly optimistic and hilarious experience.

12. Jak II: Renegade

**Developer:** Naughty Dog | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** October 14, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's Jak 2: Renegade review

Jak II: Renegade successfully reinvents the series while retaining its charm. The shift to Haven City introduces new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story.

11. Bully

**Developer:** Rockstar Vancouver | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** October 15, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Bully review

Bully offers a smart and funny coming-of-age story with satisfying gameplay mechanics and a unique social system.

10. God of War

**Developer:** Santa Monica Studio | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** March 22, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's God of War review

God of War is a technical marvel with impressive boss fights, blending combat, puzzles, and platforming in a compelling story. It laid the foundation for one of gaming's greatest franchises.

9. Okami

**Developer:** Clover Studio | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** April 20, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Okami review

Okami's unique celestial brush mechanic, gorgeous art style, charming story, and fun combat make it a visually stunning and creatively satisfying experience.

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 and featuring more realistic visuals. Its story and characters remain popular to this day.

7. Silent Hill 2

**Developer:** Konami | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** September 25, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's Silent Hill 2 review

Silent Hill 2 is a disturbing and unforgettable horror game, using the unsettling atmosphere and psychological horror to create a truly unnerving experience.

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

Metal Gear Solid 2 is a brilliant and divisive game, constantly subverting expectations. Its innovative gameplay and thematic depth make it a landmark title in the stealth genre.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

**Developer:** Rockstar North | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** Oct 29, 2002 | **Review:** IGN's GTA: Vice City review

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City perfected the open-world formula established by its predecessor, offering a compelling story, memorable characters, and an iconic soundtrack.

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, while still maintaining its signature horror elements.

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

Shadow of the Colossus is a masterpiece of atmosphere and unique gameplay, presenting a memorable and impactful experience.

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

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is widely considered the best in the series, expanding on previous mechanics and adding survival elements to create a compelling and memorable experience.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

**Developer:** Rockstar North | **Publisher:** Rockstar Games | **Release date:** October 21, 2004 | **Review:** IGN's GTA: San Andreas review

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas set a new standard for open-world games with its vast map, diverse gameplay, and memorable story. It remains a landmark achievement.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, but PlayStation Plus Premium offers streaming access to a catalog of PS2, PS3, PS1, and PSP games (over 300 titles). This service costs $17.99/month. For an updated list, visit our IGN Playlist page below.

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. See All

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These are our top PS2 games. Share your favorites in the comments! Check out the best PS5 games for current recommendations.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time