The PlayStation 2 was a revolutionary console, and as its 25th anniversary approaches, we're revisiting the games that solidified its legendary status. From PS2 exclusives like *Okami* and *Shadow of the Colossus* to blockbuster hits such as *Final Fantasy X* and *Grand Theft Auto: Vice City*, selecting the best PlayStation 2 games is no easy feat. However, we've curated a list of 25 titles that we believe pushed technological and cultural boundaries, remaining relevant and enjoyable even today.
So, without further ado, 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
Guitar Hero may have redefined party games, but Guitar Hero II truly perfected the formula. Released during a time when the franchise focused on exhilarating rock and metal tracks, it offered an unparalleled selection of iconic songs. From Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, the soundtrack alone cemented its place in gaming history. Guitar Hero II remains a high-water mark for the rhythm genre.
24. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
The Sly Cooper series masterfully blends family-friendly action, stealth, and witty writing, and Sly 2: Band of Thieves is the best example. The engaging story unfolds across diverse and captivating worlds, enhanced by the ability to play as Sly's entire crew, each with unique abilities. The thrilling stealth mechanics and original gameplay cemented its place as a standout Sony title.
23. ICO
Despite being built around the often-maligned escort mission, ICO transcends expectations. Its success stems from both its ingenious puzzles and the powerful emotional connection forged between its two protagonists. The minimalist storytelling, conveyed through gameplay and atmosphere, remains a masterclass in interactive narrative.
22. NBA Street Vol. 2
NBA Street Vol. 2 is arcade basketball at its finest. Its visually stunning style and accessible gameplay appeal to casual fans, while the refined ball handling and all-star roster satisfy hardcore enthusiasts. With multiple game modes and an impressive roster of unlockable legends, NBA Street Vol. 2 delivers endless hours of stylish slam dunks and ankle-breaking crossovers.
21. Kingdom Hearts II
Kingdom Hearts II exemplifies how sequels can surpass their predecessors. While playing the first game is recommended, Kingdom Hearts II boasts refined combat, incorporating magic, the Keyblade, and Sora's various forms. Its exploration of the existing mythology adds satisfying depth, making it a beloved entry for fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and the series' unique blend of worlds.
20. Tony Hawk's Underground
Tony Hawk's Underground enhanced the series' strengths. Its fun and over-the-top story, massive soundtrack (over 70 licensed tracks!), and intuitive create-a-skater/park/trick features provided surprising depth (plus, you could play as Iron Man!). Despite mixed reactions to its story mode, it remains a high point for the franchise.
19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains an iconic PS2 title. Its tactical combat system, featuring diverse characters and skills, unfolds across enemy-filled isometric battlefields. Despite the occasional grind, its gothic aesthetic, humorous characters, and intricate combat system make it a timeless classic.
18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
The Ratchet & Clank series consistently delivers charming characters, epic stories, and a plethora of wacky weapons. Up Your Arsenal, the third installment, expands on this formula with an abundance of gadgets, mini-games, and one of the most ambitious online modes of its time.
17. Beyond Good & Evil
Blending action and exploration, Beyond Good & Evil boasts a unique world and a memorable cast of characters. Its richly detailed world, filled with quirky inhabitants and hidden lore, remains captivating and unique, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the sequel.
16. Burnout Revenge
Burnout Revenge is all about speed. Whether navigating city streets, weaving through traffic, or unleashing chaos in crash mode, the short bursts of intense action and the pursuit of gold medals create an addictive gameplay loop. Its takedown system and crash mode remain highlights of the series.
15. Psychonauts
Psychonauts cleverly blends a coming-of-age story with psychic secret agents. Its challenging and humorous action/platformer gameplay unfolds across imaginative levels, each reflecting the unique psyche of its inhabitants. Its memorable moments and inventive design remain impressive.
14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening
Devil May Cry 3 is not only influential but also one of the best action games ever made. Its challenging yet rewarding combat, compelling story, and entertaining cutscenes are complemented by a highly skilled combat system allowing for remarkable creativity.
13. Katamari Damacy
Katamari Damacy is absurd and chaotic fun. Its simple yet addictive gameplay—rolling up objects to create a giant Katamari—is enhanced by its bizarre and hilarious scenarios. Its relentless optimism and unique charm make it an enduring classic.
12. Jak II: Renegade
Jak II successfully reinvents the series without sacrificing its charm. The transition from Sandover Village to Haven City introduces new combat, traversal, and a more intricate story. The addition of Dark Jak enhances the power fantasy aspect of the gameplay.
11. Bully
Bully offers a unique coming-of-age story with satirical humor. Its streamlined progression system and satisfying combat mechanics set a new standard for Rockstar's games.
10. God of War
God of War is a technical masterpiece with visually stunning boss fights, blending combat, puzzles, and platforming within a compelling story. It laid the foundation for one of gaming's greatest action franchises.
9. Okami
Okami's unique premise—playing as a wolf-god whose paintings bring life—works remarkably well. Its painterly style, charming story, creative puzzles, and action-driven combat make it a must-play.
8. Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X significantly altered the series, introducing a new leveling system and removing the Active Time Battle system. Its more accessible story and improved visuals, along with its memorable characters, make it a beloved entry in the franchise.
7. Silent Hill 2
Silent Hill 2 is a disturbing and unforgettable horror game. Its unsettling atmosphere, unreliable narration, and multiple endings create a deeply unsettling and memorable experience.
6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Metal Gear Solid 2 is both divisive and brilliant, constantly subverting player expectations. Its innovative gameplay and thematic exploration of misinformation remain ahead of its time.
5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City perfected the open-world formula established by its predecessor. Its compelling story, memorable characters voiced by Hollywood stars, and iconic soundtrack make it a gaming classic.
4. Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-oriented gameplay. Its memorable monsters and unsettling atmosphere maintain its status as a survival horror masterpiece.
3. Shadow of the Colossus
Shadow of the Colossus is a unique puzzle game disguised as a giant boss-fight experience. Its melancholic tone, clever puzzles, understated storytelling, and iconic colossi remain impactful and unforgettable.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Metal Gear Solid 3 is widely considered the best in the franchise. Its expanded mechanics, survival elements, and clever boss fights are complemented by a compelling story of honor, duty, and love.
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas represents a significant leap forward for the open-world genre. Its vast and vibrant world, diverse gameplay, and introduction of RPG elements make it a landmark achievement.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, but some PS2 games are available via PlayStation Plus Premium. This membership grants access to a catalog of over 300 games from PS3, PS2, PS1, and PSP. For an updated list, visit our IGN Playlist page.
PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog
This is an up-to-date listing of the PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. You can browse, sort, and tag titles to create playlists. Sort by "Recently Added" for the newest games. See All
These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games—what are some of your favorites that didn't make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments, or rank these games on your own Tier List. Also, be sure to check out the best games on PS5 for current gaming options.
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