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 today.

Here are 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 II review

Guitar Hero redefined party games, but *Guitar Hero II* represents the series' peak. Its focus was on killer rock and metal tracks, a formula perfected before music licensing became ubiquitous. Harmonix curated an incredible tracklist, featuring iconic artists like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones, delivering a truly rocking experience.

24. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus

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 in this blend, offering a captivating story, diverse environments, and the ability to play as Sly's entire crew. The thrilling stealth mechanics and unique gameplay made it a standout title in Sony's first-party lineup.

23. ICO

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

Despite being built around the often-maligned escort mission, *ICO* is a masterpiece. Its success stems from clever puzzles and the beautifully developed bond between its two protagonists. The game conveys a profound connection through subtle interactions, showcasing minimalist storytelling at its finest and demonstrating 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. Its visually stunning style and accessible gameplay appeal to casual players, while its nuanced ball handling and star-studded roster attract hardcore fans. With multiple game modes and unlockable legends, it's an endlessly replayable experience, perfect for head-to-head competition.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

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

A prime example of a superior sequel, *Kingdom Hearts II* refines its predecessor's formula. It features improved combat, enhanced exploration, and deeper storytelling. While playing the first game is recommended, *Kingdom Hearts II*’s combat, world design, and story solidify its place as a fan favorite.

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, adding a fun and over-the-top story, an extensive soundtrack with over 70 licensed tracks, and deep character and level customization options. Despite mixed reactions to its story mode, 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 enduring classic, *Disgaea: Hour of Darkness* offers deep tactical combat with a vast array of characters and skills. While it can be grindy, its gothic aesthetic, humorous characters, and intricate gameplay make it a timeless and endlessly replayable experience.

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 is known for its charm, expansive stories, and unique weaponry. *Up Your Arsenal* expands on this formula with a huge array of gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode, making it a standout entry in the series.

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 cast of characters. Its rich lore and secrets, along with its distinctive style, make it a truly unique and enduring 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 action with its signature takedown system and chaotic crash mode. The short, action-packed races are highly addictive, making it a standout arcade racer.

15. Psychonauts

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

*Psychonauts* blends a coming-of-age story with psychic action-platforming. Its challenging gameplay, memorable characters, and imaginative level design make it a standout title, further cemented by the release of its sequel.

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 yet rewarding combat, a compelling story, and memorable cutscenes. Its highly skilled combat system and creative freedom make it a classic.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Absurd and chaotic, *Katamari Damacy* is pure joy. Its simple mechanics and wildly imaginative visuals create an endlessly entertaining and optimistic 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, *Jak II* retains the charm of the original while introducing new elements. The shift to Haven City brings new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story, making it a standout in the trilogy.

11. Bully

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

*Bully* offers a satirical coming-of-age story with satisfying combat and a unique social system. Its clever writing and streamlined gameplay make it a memorable experience.

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 impressive boss fights, *God of War* expertly 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 *Okami*, where a wolf god's paintings come to life, is brilliantly executed. Its artistic style, charming story, and creative gameplay 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 X review

*Final Fantasy X* made significant changes to the series, enhancing accessibility and improving the narrative and visuals. Its compelling story and innovative gameplay systems 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 experience, *Silent Hill 2* uses psychological horror to create a lasting impact. Its unreliable narration, multiple endings, and unsettling atmosphere make it a true 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 title, *Metal Gear Solid 2* constantly subverts player expectations. Its innovative gameplay and thought-provoking themes make it a landmark stealth game.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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

*Grand Theft Auto: Vice City* perfected the open-world formula, adding a compelling story, memorable characters, and an iconic soundtrack. It remains 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

*Resident Evil 4* revitalized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-oriented gameplay. Its unsettling atmosphere and memorable enemies make it a standout survival horror title.

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 unique blend of puzzle-solving and boss battles, *Shadow of the Colossus* is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. Its melancholic story and epic scale make it a timeless classic.

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* expands on previous entries with survival elements and clever boss fights. Its compelling story of honor, duty, and love makes 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* set a new standard for open-world games with its massive map, diverse activities, and RPG elements. Its scale, depth, and memorable characters make it the pinnacle of PS2 gaming.

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 catalog of PS2 games (alongside PS3, PS1, and PSP titles). Check the IGN Playlist page for the latest catalog updates.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

This catalog is regularly updated. Browse, sort, and tag titles to create custom playlists. Sort by "Recently Added" to see the newest games.

See All

These are our top PS2 games. Share your favorites in the comments!

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time