The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The PlayStation 2, a revolutionary console, is nearing its 25th anniversary. To celebrate, we're revisiting the games 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 is no easy feat. However, we've curated a list of 25 titles that pushed technological and cultural boundaries, remaining relevant even today.

Presenting IGN's top 25 PlayStation 2 games of all time:

The Best PS2 Games Ever

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 2 review

Guitar Hero redefined party games, but *Guitar Hero II* represents the series' peak. Its focus was on killer rock and metal tracks perfect for plastic guitar shredding. Released before the music industry's licensing gold rush, Harmonix secured an incredible tracklist boasting Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, Danzig, The Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden, and Iggy and the Stooges – a true rock 'n' roll anthem collection.

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

The *Sly Cooper* series masterfully blends family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. *Sly 2: Band of Thieves* excels, offering a captivating story, diverse worlds, and playable characters including Murray and Bentley. Thrilling stealth gameplay makes it a unique and unforgettable Sony first-party title.

23. ICO

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

Despite relying on the often-maligned escort mission mechanic, *ICO* is exceptional. Clever puzzles and the beautifully developed bond between its two protagonists, conveyed without dialogue, create a deep emotional connection. It’s a masterful example of minimalist storytelling, showcasing the unique narrative potential of video games.

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 casual and hardcore basketball fans alike. Multiple game modes and unlockable NBA and street legends create a highly replayable experience filled with stylish crossovers and slam dunks.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

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

A prime example of a sequel exceeding its predecessor, *Kingdom Hearts II* boasts improved combat, enhanced world design, and satisfying story depth. While playing the first game is recommended, *Kingdom Hearts II* is a testament to the series' enduring appeal.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

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

Building upon the *Tony Hawk's Pro Skater* series' strengths, *Tony Hawk's Underground* adds a fun, campy story, a massive soundtrack (over 70 licensed tracks!), and intuitive create-a-skater/park/trick features. Despite mixed reactions to its story and humor, it's considered one of the best in the series.

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* features tactical combat, diverse characters, and a gothic aesthetic. While the grind can be intense, its humor, characters, 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 consistently delivers charming characters, epic stories, and wacky weapons. *Up Your Arsenal*, the largest installment yet, features a plethora of gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode.

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 memorable characters. Its diverse environments and hidden lore make it a standout PS2 classic.

16. Burnout Revenge

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

Built on speed, *Burnout Revenge* delivers intense racing, traffic-dodging, and chaotic crash mode. Its short bursts of action and takedown system make for a thrilling, highly replayable experience.

15. Psychonauts

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

A unique blend of coming-of-age story and psychic action-platforming, *Psychonauts* features memorable moments and inventive level design, showcasing its enduring quality.

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

One of the most influential action games, *Devil May Cry 3* offers challenging combat, a compelling story, and entertaining cutscenes. Its highly skilled combat system allows for incredible player creativity.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Absurd and chaotic fun, *Katamari Damacy* combines simple mechanics with a wildly imaginative presentation. Its silly scenarios and optimistic tone make it a truly unique and enduring experience.

12. Jak II: Renegade

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

A unique sequel that expands on the original *Jak and Daxter*, *Jak II: Renegade* introduces new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story. The introduction of Dark Jak adds a compelling power fantasy element.

11. Bully

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

A clever and humorous take on the coming-of-age story, *Bully* features a streamlined progression system and satisfying combat. Its satire and social commentary are hallmarks of Rockstar's style.

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 visually stunning boss fights, *God of War* masterfully blends combat, puzzles, and platforming within a compelling narrative. It laid the foundation for one of gaming's greatest action franchises.

9. Okami

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

The unique concept of playing as a wolf-god whose paintings come to life makes *Okami* a beautiful and cohesive work of art. Its artistic style, charming story, creative puzzles, and engaging combat make it a must-play.

8. Final Fantasy X

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

*Final Fantasy X* significantly changed the series, introducing a new leveling system and more accessible story. Its improved graphics and compelling narrative remain popular today.

7. Silent Hill 2

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

A disorienting and unsettling horror game, *Silent Hill 2* uses its nightmarish setting to reflect the protagonist's mental state. Its unreliable narration, multiple endings, and blend of the mundane and horrific make it a lasting classic.

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 player expectations. Its use of misinformation and thematic depth make it a forward-thinking stealth title.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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

Building on *Grand Theft Auto III*'s success, *Vice City* refines the open-world formula. Its compelling story, memorable characters (voiced by Hollywood stars), improved mechanics, and iconic soundtrack make it a gaming masterpiece.

4. Resident Evil 4

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

A significant departure for the series, *Resident Evil 4* shifts to an over-the-shoulder perspective and a more action-oriented gameplay style. Its unsettling atmosphere and memorable monsters remain impactful.

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

More puzzle game than action title, *Shadow of the Colossus* is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Its clever puzzles, understated storytelling, and iconic giant colossi create an unforgettable journey.

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: Snake Eater* expands on previous mechanics, adding survival elements and clever boss fights. Its complex story of honor, duty, and love is a standout.

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 for the open-world genre, *Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas* features a vast and vibrant world, diverse gameplay, and the introduction of RPG elements. It remains one of the most memorable open-world games ever created.

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 large catalog of PS2, PS3, PS1, and PSP games. For an updated list, visit our IGN Playlist page.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

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These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games. Share your favorites in the comments!

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time