As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, it's clear that this console was a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of both technology and culture in the gaming world. From groundbreaking exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits such as Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts a rich library of titles. We've curated a list of 25 PS2 games that not only defined the era but continue to captivate players today due to their innovative gameplay and enduring appeal.
So, without further ado, here is 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 Games
Guitar Hero 2
Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review
Guitar Hero 2 captured the essence of what made the series so beloved, focusing on a core concept of rocking out to an impressive array of "bitchin' rock/metal tracks" that are fun to play on a plastic guitar. This game marked a peak for the franchise before the industry's rush into rhythm-action games diluted the experience. With a stellar selection of songs from bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden, Guitar Hero 2 remains a standout title for its pure, unadulterated rock 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
Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves perfectly encapsulates the charm and innovation of the series, blending family-friendly action, stealth, and witty dialogue into a cohesive and delightful experience. With its engaging story and diverse worlds, the game lets you play as Sly's entire crew, each bringing unique skills to the table. The thrilling stealth mechanics and the game's originality set it apart, making it a standout entry 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
ICO redefines the escort mission genre, transforming it into a compelling narrative about connection and companionship. Through minimalist storytelling and intricate puzzles, the game fosters a deep bond between its protagonists as they navigate the labyrinthine castle together. ICO's innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay showcases the unique potential of video games as a medium.
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, Vol. 2 offers a vibrant and accessible take on basketball, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. Its arcade-style gameplay, complete with flashy visuals and easy-to-execute moves, is complemented by a robust lineup of NBA and street legends. The game's four modes and the thrill of head-to-head competition make it an endlessly entertaining experience.
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 builds upon its predecessor with enhanced combat mechanics, including magic, Keyblade variations, and Sora's form states. The game delves deeper into its mythology, enriching the narrative and characters introduced in the first installment. Despite a lengthy intro, Kingdom Hearts 2 is a testament to why the series has garnered such a devoted following.
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 elevates the series with its engaging story, expansive soundtrack, and deep customization options. The game's create-a-skater, park, and trick features are user-friendly yet offer substantial depth. While the story mode may have been divisive, Tony Hawk's Underground remains a beloved entry for its innovative additions and overall polish.
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 stands as a hallmark of the PS2 era, offering intricate tactical battles and a rich, comedic narrative. Despite its grind, the game's gothic themes and diverse character roster keep players engaged. It's a classic that invites repeated playthroughs due to its depth and charm.
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
Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal expands the series with an array of new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. The game's whimsical weapons and engaging gameplay make it a standout title, offering players a mix of humor and action that is quintessentially Ratchet & Clank.
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 is a unique blend of action and exploration, set in a richly detailed world filled with memorable characters and intriguing lore. Its mix of humor, charm, and depth has made it a beloved classic, with fans eagerly awaiting a sequel.
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 and chaos, offering a thrilling racing experience with its crash mode and Takedown-infused gameplay. As the last Burnout game to feature a crash mode, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans, providing hours of adrenaline-pumping action.
Psychonauts
Image credit: Majesco EntertainmentDeveloper: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review
Psychonauts is a creative and humorous platformer that explores the psyche through its imaginative levels. Its blend of coming-of-age themes and psychic powers creates a unique and memorable experience that has only grown in acclaim since its release.
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 a pinnacle of action gaming, known for its challenging yet rewarding combat and a compelling story of familial bonds. Its high skill ceiling and entertaining cutscenes set it apart as one of the most influential games in its genre.
Katamari Damacy
Image credit: NamcoDeveloper: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy is a joyous celebration of absurdity, with its simple yet addictive rolling mechanics and whimsical scenarios. Its optimism and creativity have made it a timeless classic, beloved for its unique charm and gameplay.
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 with a darker, more mature narrative, while retaining the charm and platforming prowess of its predecessor. Its new combat and traversal mechanics, along with the introduction of Dark Jak, make it a thrilling and satisfying adventure.
Bully
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully offers a satirical take on school life, blending humor and social commentary with engaging gameplay. Its streamlined progression system and satisfying combat mechanics showcase Rockstar's ability to innovate within the genre.
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, featuring stunning boss fights and a mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming. Its compelling story and the introduction of Kratos laid the groundwork for one of the greatest action game series ever.
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 is a visually stunning game that combines a painterly art style with engaging gameplay. Its celestial brush mechanics, charming story, and creative puzzles make it a must-play title that stands the test of time.
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 revolutionized the series with its Sphere-grid system and realistic character models. Its engaging story and the iconic question of "is Blitzball good?" have cemented its place as a beloved entry in the franchise.
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 psychological horror masterpiece that delves into the protagonist's mind through its unsettling narrative and multiple endings. Its impact on the genre and its enduring legacy make it a standout title.
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 groundbreaking game that challenges players' perceptions through its narrative and mechanics. Its thematic depth and innovative approach to storytelling have made it a landmark title in the stealth genre.
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 perfected the open-world formula with its compelling narrative, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. Its satirical take on 80s culture and robust gameplay have made it a timeless classic.
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-oriented gameplay. Its memorable monsters and iconic dialogue have made it a landmark title in survival horror.
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 hauntingly beautiful game that blends puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its minimalist storytelling and emotional depth have made it a critically acclaimed title.
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 is often regarded as the best entry in the franchise, with its expanded mechanics, survival elements, and compelling story. Its innovative approach and emotional narrative have made it a fan favorite.
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 the pinnacle of the PS2 gaming experience, offering a vast and vibrant open world filled with diverse activities. Its introduction of RPG elements and its expansive narrative have made it one of the most iconic games ever.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but you can still enjoy some PS2 classics through PlayStation Plus' Premium membership. For $17.99/month, you gain access to a catalog featuring over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP. Visit our IGN Playlist page below for an updated list of available titles in the Classic Catalog.
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 Software
Those 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.
