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 a delightful challenge. We've curated a list of 25 titles that pushed technological and cultural 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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25. Guitar Hero II

**Developer:** Harmonix | **Publisher:** RedOctane | **Release date:** November 7, 2006 | **Review:** IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review

Guitar Hero redefined party games, but Guitar Hero II was the series' peak. Its focus was on killer rock and metal tracks, a formula perfected before the music industry flooded the market. The soundtrack boasts legendary acts like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones—a true rock 'n' roll anthem.

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 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 make it a standout Sony title.

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 shines. Its clever puzzles and the deeply moving bond between the two protagonists, conveyed without dialogue, make it a masterpiece of minimalist storytelling.

22. NBA Street V2

**Developer:** EA Canada | **Publisher:** Electronic Arts/NuFX | **Release date:** April 28, 2003 | **Review:** IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review

NBA Street V2 delivers arcade-style basketball at its finest. Its flashy visuals and easy-to-execute game-breakers appeal to casual players, while its nuanced ball-handling and star-studded roster captivate hardcore fans. The diverse game modes and unlockable legends make it endlessly replayable.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

**Developer:** Square Enix | **Publisher:** Square Enix | **Release date:** December 22, 2005 | **Review:** IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review

Kingdom Hearts II elevates its predecessor in every way. The enhanced combat system, featuring magic, the Keyblade, and Sora's various forms, is a highlight. The story expands on the mythology of the first game, providing satisfying depth to its characters and ideas.

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 campy story, an expansive soundtrack with over 70 licensed tracks, and intuitive yet deep create-a-skater and create-a-park features.

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 title. Its tactical combat, diverse characters, and darkly comedic themes create an endlessly entertaining experience, even with its occasional grind.

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 with 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 populated by a memorable cast. 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 mechanics, and chaotic crash mode provide exhilarating, short bursts of action that are incredibly addictive.

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 secret agents, creating a unique and memorable experience. Its challenging gameplay and imaginative level design remain impressive.

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 and chaotic fun. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with its wildly imaginative visuals and optimistic tone, makes it an unforgettable 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 the charm of its predecessor. Its shift to Haven City introduces new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story.

11. Bully

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

Bully offers a clever and humorous coming-of-age story with satirical elements. 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, featuring stunning boss fights, engaging combat, and a compelling story. 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

Okami's unique concept—playing as a wolf god whose paintings come to life—is brilliantly executed. Its stunning visuals, charming story, and creative gameplay make it a masterpiece.

8. Final Fantasy X

**Developer:** Square | **Publisher:** Square Electronic Arts (NA) | **Release date:** July 19, 2001 | **Review:** IGN's Final Fantasy 10 review

Final Fantasy X revolutionized the series with its Sphere Grid leveling system and streamlined story. Its improved visuals and accessible gameplay made it a huge success.

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 experience. Its unsettling atmosphere, unreliable narration, and multiple endings create a truly unnerving journey.

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 thought-provoking themes make it a landmark title.

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 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 monsters 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 breathtaking experience. Its unique gameplay, melancholic story, and awe-inspiring colossi create an unforgettable journey.

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 is widely considered the best in the series. Its refined mechanics, survival elements, and complex story make it a masterpiece of stealth action.

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. Its vast world, engaging story, and innovative RPG elements make it an unforgettable experience.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, but you can stream select PS2 games via PlayStation Plus Premium ($17.99/month). This tier offers a catalog of over 300 games from PS3, PS2, PS1, and PSP. For an updated list, visit our IGN Playlist page below.

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!

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These are our top PS2 games. What are your favorites that didn't make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time