As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, it's clear that this console was revolutionary, boasting a catalog of games that defined an era. From iconic exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 has a vast selection of unforgettable titles. Here, we've curated a list of 25 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but continue to captivate players today.
So, without further ado, here is 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
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 epitomized the peak of the series, capturing the essence of rock and metal music with an unmatched selection of tracks from legends like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones. Before music games became mainstream, Guitar Hero 2 stood out as a pure celebration of "bitchin'" rock, offering an unforgettable gaming experience.
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 is a standout in the series, blending family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. With its engaging story and diverse worlds, it allows players to control Sly's entire crew, delivering a thrilling and unique experience that remains unmatched.
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 with its captivating puzzles and emotional bond between its characters. Its minimalist storytelling and labyrinthine castle setting offer an immersive experience that showcases the unique narrative potential of video games.
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 elevates arcade-style basketball with its flashy visuals and accessible gameplay. It appeals to both casual players and hardcore fans with its all-star lineup and enticing game modes, making it a timeless classic.
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 enhances the series with improved combat and deeper exploration of its mythology. Its blend of Disney magic and Final Fantasy depth creates a captivating world that continues to enchant fans.
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 expands on the beloved series with a fun, campy story and extensive customization options. Its large soundtrack and engaging gameplay make it a standout title in the skateboarding genre.
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 landmark tactical RPG with its deep combat and unique gothic humor. Its enduring appeal lies in its intricate gameplay and memorable characters, making it a classic worth revisiting.
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 expands the beloved series with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. Its innovative weapons and engaging gameplay make it a highlight of the PS2 era.
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 humor within its richly detailed world. Its innovative gameplay and memorable characters make it a standout title that fans eagerly await a sequel for.
Burnout Revenge
Image credit: EA
Developer: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Burnout Revenge delivers high-speed thrills with its exhilarating racing and iconic crash mode. It's a testament to the series' peak, offering hours of adrenaline-pumping gameplay that remains unmatched.
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 adventures, delivering a challenging and hilarious experience. Its imaginative levels and enduring appeal have solidified its place as a beloved classic.
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 masterpiece of action gaming, offering challenging combat and a compelling story. Its high skill ceiling and creative gameplay make it an enduring favorite among action game enthusiasts.
Katamari Damacy
Image credit: Namco
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy is a delightful blend of absurdity and joy, with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Its unique concept and optimistic tone have made it a beloved classic that continues to charm players.
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 new combat and traversal mechanics, set against the backdrop of Haven City. Its dynamic story and engaging gameplay make it a thrilling adventure that stands out in the trilogy.
Bully
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre, blending humor with social commentary. Its engaging story and innovative gameplay have made it a standout title in Rockstar's catalog.
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 gaming's greatest action series with its technical prowess and compelling story. Its mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming remains a benchmark for the genre.
See our guide to playing the God of War games in order for more.
Okami
Image credit: Capcom
Developer: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review
Okami is a visually stunning and creatively rich experience, blending action and puzzles within its painterly world. Its unique gameplay and charming story make it a must-play for any PS2 enthusiast.
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 reinvents the series with its Sphere-grid system and cinematic storytelling. Its engaging narrative and memorable characters have cemented its place as a beloved classic.
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, exploring themes of guilt and redemption. Its atmospheric tension and multiple endings make it a haunting experience that continues to resonate with players.
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 brilliant and divisive game, challenging players with its themes of misinformation and identity. Its innovative gameplay and compelling narrative 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 Games
Developer: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: Oct 29, 2002 | Review: IGN's GTA: Vice City review
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City perfects the open-world formula with its engaging story and iconic 80s setting. Its memorable characters and exceptional soundtrack make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire.
See our guide to the GTA games in order for more.
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 revolutionizes the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its iconic enemies and memorable moments have made it a landmark title in gaming history.
See our guide to the Resident Evil games in order for more.
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 unique and emotionally resonant experience, blending puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its minimalist storytelling and stunning visuals continue to captivate players.
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: Snake Eater is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the series, with its innovative survival mechanics and compelling narrative. Its complex story and engaging gameplay make it a must-play for fans.
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
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is the ultimate open-world experience, with its vast world and innovative gameplay. Its engaging story and memorable characters make it a timeless classic that defines the PS2 era.
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, this tier offers access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP, alongside a catalog of PS4 and PS5 games. 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.
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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
These 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.
### The Best PS2 Games Of All Time
