Top PS2 Games Ever: A Retrospective

As the PlayStation 2 celebrates its 25th anniversary, it's time to reflect on the games that defined its legacy. The PS2 was home to iconic titles like Okami, Shadow of the Colossus, Final Fantasy 10, and GTA: Vice City, among countless others. Here, we've curated a list of 25 PS2 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but also continue to captivate players today.

So, without further ado, let's dive into IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.

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 2

Image credit: RedOctane
Developer: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review

Guitar Hero 2 stands as the pinnacle of the series, capturing the essence of rock and metal with its curated soundtrack. Featuring tracks from bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden, it offered an unadulterated rock experience that set the standard for rhythm-action games.

24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves

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

Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves epitomizes the charm and depth of the series. With its engaging story, diverse worlds, and the ability to control Sly's entire crew, it offers a unique blend of action, stealth, and humor that remains unmatched.

23. ICO

Image credit: Sony
Developer: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review

ICO redefines the escort mission genre with its compelling narrative and innovative gameplay. Its minimalist storytelling and deep emotional connection between characters showcase the power of video games as a storytelling medium.

22. NBA Street, Vol. 2

Image credit: EA
Developer: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts/NuFX | Release date: April 28, 2003 | Review: IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review

NBA Street, Vol. 2 delivers arcade-style basketball at its finest. With its flashy visuals, easy-to-master gameplay, and an all-star lineup, it appeals to both casual and hardcore fans, providing endless fun and competition.

21. Kingdom Hearts 2

Image credit: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix | Publisher: Square Enix | Release date: December 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review

Kingdom Hearts 2 builds on its predecessor with enhanced combat and a deeper exploration of its mythology. Its blend of Disney and Final Fantasy elements, along with engaging gameplay, makes it a standout sequel.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

Image credit: Activision
Developer: Neversoft Entertainment | Publisher: Activision | Release date: October 27, 2003 | Review: IGN's Tony Hawk's Underground review

Tony Hawk's Underground elevates the series with its expansive customization options, engaging story mode, and a massive soundtrack. It's the ultimate expression of the Tony Hawk experience, offering endless creativity and fun.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

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

Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains a beloved tactical RPG with its deep combat system and quirky humor. Its gothic themes and intricate gameplay make it a timeless classic that players can return to again and again.

18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

Image credit: Sony
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 amplifies the series' signature elements with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. Its inventive weapons and engaging story make it a standout entry in the franchise.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

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

Beyond Good & Evil offers a unique blend of action, exploration, and storytelling. Its richly detailed world and memorable characters have cemented its status as a cult classic, eagerly awaiting a sequel.

16. Burnout Revenge

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

Burnout Revenge epitomizes high-speed racing with its exhilarating gameplay and iconic crash mode. Its blend of speed and strategy makes it a thrilling experience that remains unmatched in the racing genre.

15. Psychonauts

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

Psychonauts combines a coming-of-age story with psychic powers and imaginative level design. Its challenging gameplay and memorable narrative have made it a beloved classic, with a sequel released in 2021.

14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

Image credit: Capcom
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 landmark action game with its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative gameplay have made it a benchmark for action games, influencing countless titles that followed.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Katamari Damacy is a whimsical masterpiece that captures the joy of rolling up everything in sight. Its simple yet addictive gameplay and absurdly charming scenarios have made it a beloved classic.

12. Jak 2: Renegade

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

Jak 2: Renegade reinvents the series with darker themes and new gameplay mechanics. Its engaging story and innovative combat system make it a standout sequel that pushes the boundaries of the franchise.

11. Bully

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

Bully offers a unique take on school life, blending satire with engaging gameplay. Its coming-of-age story and innovative progression system have made it a standout title in Rockstar's catalog.

10. God of War

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

God of War sets the stage for one of the greatest action game series with its compelling story and innovative gameplay. Its mix of combat, puzzle-solving, and platforming makes it a must-play classic.

9. Okami

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

Okami is a visual and gameplay masterpiece, blending action, puzzle-solving, and a unique art style. Its compelling story and innovative mechanics make it a timeless classic that remains relevant today.

8. Final Fantasy 10

Image credit: Square Enix
Developer: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts (NA) | Release date: July 19, 2001 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 10 review

Final Fantasy 10 revolutionizes the series with its Sphere-grid system and cinematic storytelling. Its compelling narrative and innovative gameplay make it a standout entry that continues to resonate with players.

7. Silent Hill 2

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

Silent Hill 2 is a psychological horror masterpiece that delves deep into its protagonist's psyche. Its unsettling atmosphere and multiple endings have made it a beloved classic, with a remake released in 2024.

6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

Image credit: Konami
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 groundbreaking game that challenges players' perceptions with its innovative storytelling and gameplay. Its themes and mechanics remain relevant, cementing its status as a timeless classic.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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

GTA: Vice City perfects the open-world formula with its engaging story, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. Its satirical take on the 80s and expansive gameplay make it a landmark title in gaming history.

4. Resident Evil 4

Image credit: Capcom
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: January 11, 2005 | Review: IGN's Resident Evil 4 review

Resident Evil 4 reinvents the survival horror genre with its action-packed gameplay and memorable monsters. Its innovative mechanics and iconic moments make it a landmark title that continues to influence games today.

3. Shadow of the Colossus

Image credit: Sony
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 poignant masterpiece that combines puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its emotional narrative and stunning visuals make it an unforgettable experience that continues to captivate players.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Image credit: Konami
Developer: KCEJ | Publisher: Konami | Release date: November 17, 2004 | Review: IGN's Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater review

Metal Gear Solid 3 is widely regarded as the best entry in the series, with its innovative gameplay and compelling story. Its survival elements and complex narrative make it a standout title that sets the standard for the franchise.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

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

GTA: San Andreas represents the pinnacle of the PS2 gaming experience with its vast open world and innovative gameplay. Its RPG elements and expansive story make it one of the most memorable games ever created.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but you can still enjoy some classics through PlayStation Plus' Premium membership. For $17.99/month, you gain access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP. Check out the updated list of available titles on 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.

Star Ocean: The Last Hope - Tri-Ace
Dragon's Crown Pro - Vanillaware
Twisted Metal 2 - Singletrac
Star Ocean: First Departure R - Square Enix
Star Ocean: Till the End of Time - Tri-Ace
Gravity Crash Portable - Just Add Water Developments
Twisted Metal - Eat Sleep Play
Herc's Adventures - LucasArts
Killzone: Liberation - Guerrilla Games
Worms - Team17 Software

Those are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. What games made your list that weren'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.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time