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 PS2 games is no easy feat. However, we've curated a list of 25 titles that pushed technological and cultural boundaries, remaining relevant even today.

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

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 was the series' peak. Released when the franchise focused on "awesome rock/metal tracks," not diluted karaoke, it boasted an incredible tracklist. Featuring artists like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones, Guitar Hero II delivered a rocking good time.

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 the ability to play as Sly's entire crew. Thrilling stealth mechanics make 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 relying on the often-maligned escort mission mechanic, ICO shines. Its clever puzzles and the deeply moving bond between its characters, conveyed without dialogue, create a minimalist storytelling masterpiece.

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 perfection. Its flashy visuals, accessible gameplay, and superb ball handling appeal to both casual and hardcore fans. Unlockable NBA and street legends, plus multiple game modes, ensure endless replayability.

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 significantly improves upon its predecessor. Featuring enhanced combat, a deeper exploration of its mythology, and memorable world design, it's a satisfying experience for fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and unique action RPGs.

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 builds upon the series' strengths. A fun, campy story, a massive soundtrack (70+ licensed tracks!), and deep create-a-skater/park features make it a standout skateboarding title.

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 game. Its tactical combat, diverse characters, and gothic themes, despite occasional grindy elements, create an endlessly entertaining 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

Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal expands on the series' charm, offering lovable characters, a vast story, and a plethora of wacky weapons. Its ambitious online mode was groundbreaking for its time.

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 filled with memorable characters. Its rich lore and secrets make it a standout classic.

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 chaotic crash mode deliver thrilling, short bursts of adrenaline-fueled action.

15. Psychonauts

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

Psychonauts uniquely blends a coming-of-age story with psychic secret agents. Its challenging gameplay, hilarious moments, and creative level design remain impressive today.

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 an influential and exceptional action game. Its challenging yet rewarding combat, compelling story, and entertaining cutscenes make it a timeless classic.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Katamari Damacy is absurd fun. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its wildly imaginative visuals and endlessly optimistic tone, creates a truly unique and joyful 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. Its shift to a darker setting, new combat mechanics, and compelling story make it a standout sequel.

11. Bully

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

Bully is a smart and funny game with a charming coming-of-age story. Its streamlined progression and satisfying combat raised the bar for Rockstar's games.

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, offering impressive visuals, engaging combat, and a compelling story. 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

Okami's unique celestial brush mechanic, gorgeous art style, charming story, and creative puzzles make it a truly unforgettable 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 modernized the series with its Sphere Grid leveling system and accessible story. Its improved visuals and engaging narrative remain beloved by fans.

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. Its unsettling atmosphere, unreliable narration, and multiple endings create a deeply unsettling 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 that constantly subverts expectations. Its innovative gameplay and thematic depth remain relevant today.

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. Its compelling story, memorable characters, 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

Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-oriented gameplay. Its unsettling atmosphere and memorable enemies remain terrifying.

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 unique and impactful experience. Its clever puzzles, understated storytelling, and memorable boss fights create a lasting impression.

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. Its expanded mechanics, survival elements, and compelling story make it a standout title.

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 represents a massive leap forward in open-world gaming. Its vast world, engaging story, and innovative RPG elements make it a truly unforgettable experience.

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 selection of PS2 games, alongside PS3, PS1, and PSP titles. For the updated list, visit our IGN Playlist page.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

This catalog is updated regularly. Browse, sort, and tag titles to create custom playlists.

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These are our top PS2 games. What are your favorites? Share in the comments! Also, check out the best PS5 games.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time