The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The PlayStation 2, a console that revolutionized gaming, is nearing its 25th anniversary. To celebrate, we're revisiting the titles that cemented 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 a delightful challenge. We've curated a list of 25 titles that pushed technological and creative boundaries, remaining relevant and enjoyable even today.

Here are IGN's top 25 PlayStation 2 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 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* perfected the formula. Its focus on "bitchin' rock/metal tracks" was a winning strategy, and the game's massive tracklist, featuring artists like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones, remains iconic.

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

A delightful blend of action, stealth, and humor, *Sly Cooper 2* is the series' high point. Its varied environments, engaging story, and playable supporting characters 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 the often-maligned escort mission mechanic, *ICO* transcends its limitations. The game's puzzles and the powerful bond between its characters create a minimalist yet deeply moving experience.

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

Arcade basketball at its finest, *NBA Street Vol. 2* blends flashy visuals with accessible gameplay. Its diverse roster and multiple game modes offer endless replayability, making it perfect for both casual and hardcore fans.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

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

A significant improvement over its predecessor, *Kingdom Hearts II* boasts refined combat, a deeper story, and expanded exploration of its unique mythology. While not the ideal starting point, it showcases the series' charm and 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 series' strengths, *Tony Hawk's Underground* delivers a fun, campy story, a massive soundtrack, and deep customization options. Its create-a-skater and create-a-park features remain highly engaging.

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* offers deep tactical combat, a memorable cast of characters, and a darkly comedic story. Its intricate gameplay and gothic aesthetic remain captivating.

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

Expanding on the series' charm, *Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal* delivers a massive amount of content, including a huge arsenal of wacky weapons 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

A unique blend of action and exploration, *Beyond Good & Evil* features a memorable world and diverse cast of characters. Its quirky humor and intriguing lore 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

Pure speed and thrilling crashes define *Burnout Revenge*. Its intense racing and iconic Crash mode remain incredibly fun and addictive.

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-adventure, *Psychonauts* features memorable characters, inventive level design, and a compelling narrative.

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

An influential action game, *Devil May Cry 3* offers challenging combat, a compelling story, and memorable cutscenes. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system remain unmatched.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Absurd and endlessly entertaining, *Katamari Damacy* is a simple yet uniquely enjoyable experience. Its ridiculous scenarios and optimistic tone make it a timeless classic.

12. Jak II: Renegade

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

A bold sequel, *Jak II: Renegade* expands the series with new combat, traversal mechanics, 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 smart and funny coming-of-age story with satisfying combat, *Bully* delivers a unique and memorable experience. Its satirical humor and refined gameplay mechanics set a new standard for Rockstar.

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* delivers a compelling blend of combat, puzzles, and platforming. It laid the foundation for one of gaming's greatest action series.

9. Okami

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

A beautiful and expertly crafted game, *Okami* features a unique art style, a charming story, and creative gameplay mechanics. Its innovative celestial brush mechanic adds a unique dimension to its action and puzzle elements.

8. Final Fantasy X

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

A groundbreaking entry in the series, *Final Fantasy X* introduced significant changes to the gameplay and storytelling, making it more accessible while retaining its epic scope and emotional depth.

7. Silent Hill 2

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

A disturbing and unforgettable horror experience, *Silent Hill 2* uses psychological horror to create a deeply unsettling atmosphere. Its unreliable narration and multiple endings add to its lasting impact.

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 expectations. Its innovative gameplay and meta-narrative elements make it a landmark title in the stealth genre.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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

Refining the open-world formula established by *Grand Theft Auto III*, *Vice City* delivers a compelling story, memorable characters, and an iconic 80s soundtrack. Its gameplay improvements and satirical narrative solidify its place as a gaming classic.

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* introduced over-the-shoulder shooting and a more action-oriented approach while maintaining its chilling atmosphere and memorable monsters.

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

A masterpiece of atmosphere and understated storytelling, *Shadow of the Colossus* blends puzzle-solving with epic boss battles, creating a memorable and emotionally resonant experience.

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 installments with new survival elements and a compelling story of honor, duty, and love.

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 detailed world, engaging gameplay, and the addition of RPG elements. Its scale and depth make it a landmark achievement.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

While PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription grants access to a streaming library including many PS2 classics. For the latest list, visit our IGN Playlist page.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

This catalog is updated regularly. You can browse, sort, and filter titles to create custom playlists. Check the "Recently Added" section for new games.

These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games. What are your favorites?

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time