The PlayStation 2 stands as a revolutionary console, and as it celebrates its 25th anniversary, we're reflecting on the games that defined its legacy. From exclusive titles like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts a rich library. We've curated a list of 25 exceptional PS2 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their era but continue to captivate players today.
So, let's dive into IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.
The Best PS2 Games Ever
26 Images
More on the best PlayStation Games of all time:
Best PS4 GamesBest PS3 GamesBest PS1 Games25. Guitar Hero 2
Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review
Guitar Hero revolutionized party games for the next decade, but it was Guitar Hero 2 that captured the essence of the series at its finest. Developed during a time when the franchise focused on rocking out to authentic tracks on a plastic guitar, Guitar Hero 2 offered an unmatched selection of songs. From Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, the game was a treasure trove of rock and metal classics, ensuring every session was a thrilling experience.
Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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, and Sly 2: Band of Thieves stands as the pinnacle of the franchise. With its engaging narrative, diverse worlds, and the ability to play as Sly's entire crew, including the formidable Murray and tech-savvy Bentley, the game offers a thrilling and unique experience. Its core stealth mechanics make it a standout title in Sony's first-party lineup.
ICO
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review
Despite its reliance on the often-criticized escort mission, ICO is a remarkable achievement. The game excels through its well-crafted puzzles and the deep emotional bond between its protagonists, conveyed without dialogue but through shared navigation of a labyrinthine castle. It's a testament to minimalist storytelling and showcases the unique narrative potential of video games.
NBA Street, Vol. 2
Image credit: EADeveloper: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts/NuFX | Release date: April 28, 2003 | Review: IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review
NBA Street, Volume 2 epitomizes arcade-style basketball at its best. Its visually stunning and easy-to-execute gameplay appeals to casual and hardcore fans alike. With four game modes and the chance to unlock street and NBA legends, the game offers endless excitement. Nothing beats the thrill of going head-to-head with a friend and attempting to outmaneuver them on the court.
Kingdom Hearts 2
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square Enix | Publisher: Square Enix | Release date: December 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review
Kingdom Hearts 2 exemplifies how sequels can surpass their predecessors. While the first game sets the stage, the sequel elevates the combat with a blend of magic, Keyblade use, and Sora's form changes. Its expanded mythology adds depth to the characters and world, making Kingdom Hearts 2 a beloved entry for fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and its unique charm.
Tony Hawk's Underground
Image credit: ActivisionDeveloper: Neversoft Entertainment | Publisher: Activision | Release date: October 27, 2003 | Review: IGN's Tony Hawk's Underground review
Tony Hawk's Underground enhances the beloved series with a fun, campy story, an expansive soundtrack, and deep customization options. While the community had mixed feelings about its narrative and humor, the game remains a standout title for its gameplay, creativity, and the sheer joy of unlocking and playing as Iron Man.
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Image credit: NISDeveloper: NIS | Publisher: Atlus (NA) | Release date: January 30, 2003 | Review: IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains a standout title from the PS2 era. Its isometric battlefields, diverse characters, and intricate combat system offer endless tactical possibilities. Despite its grind, the game's gothic themes and humorous characters make it a timeless classic, perfect for revisiting.
Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Insomniac Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 2, 2004 | Review: IGN's Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal review
The Ratchet & Clank series has always been exceptional, and Up Your Arsenal is its grandest installment. With a plethora of new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode, the game offers a fun and expansive experience. Who can resist the joy of using a Suck Cannon to turn enemies into bolts?
Beyond Good & Evil
Image credit: UbisoftDeveloper: Ubisoft Montpellier | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 11, 2003 | Review: IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review
Beyond Good & Evil stands out with its unique blend of action, exploration, and a diverse cast of characters. Its world, filled with quirky locales like dive bars and hovercraft repair shops, is brimming with secrets and lore. The game's charm and depth have kept fans eagerly awaiting a sequel for years.
Burnout Revenge
Image credit: EADeveloper: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Burnout Revenge is all about speed, whether you're racing, weaving through traffic, or causing chaos in crash mode. Its short bursts of action are addictive, and the Takedown-infused racing adds an extra layer of thrill. As the last Burnout game with a crash mode, it remains unmatched in its genre.
Psychonauts
Image credit: Majesco EntertainmentDeveloper: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review
Psychonauts combines a classic coming-of-age summer camp story with psychic-powered espionage, creating a harmonious and unique experience. Its challenging action-platforming and imaginative levels, each reflecting a character's twisted psyche, make it a memorable and enduring game. The release of Psychonauts 2 in 2021 further cemented its legacy.
Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: 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 not just influential; it's one of the best action games ever made. Its challenging yet rewarding combat, gripping story of familial bonds, and entertaining cutscenes set it apart. The game's high skill ceiling and creative combat system continue to inspire action games today.
Katamari Damacy
Image credit: NamcoDeveloper: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy is the epitome of joyful absurdity. Its simple mechanic of rolling up objects to grow your ball is paired with an insane, whimsical world. The game's relentless optimism and fun gameplay have kept it beloved by players for over two decades.
Jak 2: Renegade
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: October 14, 2003 | Review: IGN's Jak 2: Renegade review
Jak 2: Renegade reinvents the series while maintaining its charm. Moving from the colorful Sandover village to the gritty Haven City, the game introduces new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story. With additions like gunplay and hoverboarding, Jak 2 stands as the best entry in this iconic trilogy.
Bully
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully offers a unique coming-of-age story where you fight against bullying and build social connections. Its smart and funny narrative, combined with Rockstar's biting satire, makes it stand out. The game's streamlined progression and satisfying combat set a new standard for the studio.
God of War
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 visually stunning boss fights and a compelling mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming. Its story of Kratos, the angry Spartan, laid the groundwork for one of the greatest action game series of all time.
See our guide to playing the God of War games in order for more.
Okami
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review
Okami's concept of a wolf-god using a celestial brush to paint life into the world is brilliantly executed. Its painterly style, engaging story, creative puzzles, and enjoyable combat make it a masterpiece that stands the test of time on both PS2 and modern consoles.
Final Fantasy 10
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts (NA) | Release date: July 19, 2001 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 10 review
Final Fantasy 10 introduced significant changes to the series, including the Sphere-grid system and more accessible storytelling. Its realistic cutscenes and compelling narrative, including the famous question "Is Blitzball good?", have kept it beloved by fans.
Silent Hill 2
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill 2 review
Silent Hill 2 is a chilling experience that lingers long after playing. It explores the protagonist's mental state through the eerie town, offering multiple endings and a haunting blend of the mundane and horrific. Its impact is so significant that a remake was released in 2024, yet the original remains unmatched.
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: 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 masterclass in shifting player perceptions and using misinformation. Despite initial backlash over the protagonist switch to Raiden, it has aged beautifully and remains one of the best stealth games ever made.
See our guide to the Metal Gear games in order for more of the series.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: Oct 29, 2002 | Review: IGN's GTA: Vice City review
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City refined the open-world formula established by GTA 3. Its compelling narrative, memorable characters voiced by Hollywood actors, and iconic 80s soundtrack make it a timeless classic. Even today, it remains one of the best PS2 games and a gaming landmark.
See our guide to the GTA games in order for more.
Resident Evil 4
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Capcom Production Studio 4 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: January 11, 2005 | Review: IGN's Resident Evil 4 review
Resident Evil 4 transformed the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-heavy gameplay. Despite the shift, it retained its horror roots with unforgettable monsters and eerie atmosphere. The phrase "what're ya buyin?" became iconic, and its 2023 remake reaffirmed its status as a survival horror landmark.
See our guide to the Resident Evil games in order for more.
Shadow of the Colossus
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 unique puzzle game disguised as a boss-fight experience. Its melancholic tone and clever puzzles, combined with understated storytelling and dynamic music, create an unforgettable experience. The 2018 remake further enhanced its legacy.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: 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 often regarded as the best in the series. It expanded on MGS2's systems, introduced survival elements like hunger and camouflage, and featured some of the most memorable boss fights. Its story of honor, duty, and love is both self-contained and integral to the series, making the upcoming remake highly anticipated.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 21, 2004 | Review: IGN's GTA: San Andreas review
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is a monumental leap in open-world gaming. Its expansive world, based on three major cities, offers endless opportunities for adventure, from gang shootouts to high-speed chases. The introduction of RPG and survival elements, like CJ's diet and workouts, adds depth, making San Andreas the pinnacle of the PS2 gaming experience.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but PlayStation Plus' Premium membership offers a solution. For $17.99/month, subscribers gain access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP, alongside PS4 and PS5 titles. To see the latest additions to the Classic Catalog, check out 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
Star Ocean: The Last HopeTri-Ace
Dragon's Crown ProVanillaware
Twisted Metal 2Singletrac
Star Ocean: First Departure RSquare Enix
Star Ocean: Till the End of TimeTri-Ace
Gravity Crash PortableJust Add Water Developments
Twisted MetalEat Sleep Play
Herc's AdventuresLucasArts
Killzone: LiberationGuerrilla Games
WormsTeam17 SoftwareThese are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever - what made your list that wasn’t on ours? Let us know in the comments, or rank these games on your own Tier List below. And be sure to check out the best games on PS5 for what to play right now.
