As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, we reflect on the console's iconic games that have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. From groundbreaking PS2 exclusives such as Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts an incredible library of titles. We've curated a list of 25 of the best PS2 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but continue to captivate players today.
Without further ado, here are IGN's selections for 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:
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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 stands as a pinnacle in the rhythm-action genre, capturing the essence of rock and metal with an unparalleled tracklist. Before the music industry realized the potential of rhythm games, Harmonix had the luxury of selecting the finest tracks, from Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, ensuring a game that truly rocked.
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 masterfully blends family-friendly action with stealth and humor. Its engaging story is enhanced by diverse and captivating worlds, allowing players to control the entire crew, including the powerful Murray and tech-savvy Bentley. This game remains a standout in Sony's first-party lineup.
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 compelling puzzles and deep emotional connection between characters. The game's minimalist storytelling and immersive castle exploration demonstrate the unique narrative potential of video games, making it a timeless classic.
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 delivers an exhilarating arcade basketball experience. Its flashy visuals and accessible gameplay appeal to casual gamers, while the deep mechanics and legendary line-ups satisfy hardcore fans. The game's multiplayer mode adds to its enduring appeal.
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 its predecessor with refined combat and deeper mythology. The integration of magic, Keyblade forms, and the engaging world design make it a standout sequel. Its narrative depth and dynamic gameplay continue to draw fans from Disney, Final Fantasy, and beyond.
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 elevates the series with a fun, campy story and an expansive soundtrack. Its customizable features and the inclusion of characters like Iron Man add depth and replayability, making it a beloved entry despite mixed reactions to its humor.
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 cherished PS2 title with its tactical battles and gothic humor. The game's intricate combat and memorable characters offer endless entertainment, even if the grind can be challenging.
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 and ambitious online modes. Its innovative weapons, like the Suck Cannon, add a playful twist to the action, making it a highlight of the franchise.
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 and exploration in a richly detailed world. Its diverse cast and engaging narrative have earned it a dedicated fanbase eagerly awaiting a sequel.
Burnout Revenge
Image credit: EA
Developer: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Burnout Revenge is a thrilling showcase of speed and chaos. Its crash mode and Takedown-infused racing offer unmatched excitement, marking the series' peak and leaving a lasting impact on the racing genre.
Psychonauts
Image credit: Majesco Entertainment
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 adventures, creating a memorable and challenging platformer. Its imaginative levels and enduring design have secured its place as a classic, now expanded into a franchise with Psychonauts 2.
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 sets a high standard for action games with its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system make it one of the most influential games in the genre.
Katamari Damacy
Image credit: Namco
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy is a whimsical delight, rolling up chaos with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Its absurd scenarios and optimistic tone continue to charm players, securing its place as a beloved classic.
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 a darker narrative and new gameplay mechanics. Its detailed environments and dynamic story make it a standout entry in the Jak and Daxter trilogy.
Bully
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully combines humor and satire with a coming-of-age story. Its streamlined progression and engaging combat have set a new standard for Rockstar's games, making it a unique and memorable experience.
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 is a technical marvel with its stunning visuals and compelling story. Its mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming laid the foundation for one of the greatest action game series ever.
Okami
Image credit: Capcom
Developer: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review
Okami's unique concept of a divine wolf using a celestial brush captivates players with its beautiful art style and engaging gameplay. Its story and puzzles make it a must-play on any platform.
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 revolutionized the series with its Sphere-grid system and more accessible story. Its memorable characters and iconic moments, like the debate over Blitzball, continue to resonate with fans.
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 haunting masterpiece that delves into psychological horror. Its unreliable narration and unsettling atmosphere have made it a beloved classic, with a 2024 remake reaffirming its impact.
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 challenges players with its narrative twists and innovative stealth mechanics. Its thematic depth and lasting influence make it a landmark in gaming history.
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 perfected the open-world formula with its compelling narrative and iconic 80s setting. Its memorable characters and legendary soundtrack have cemented its status as a gaming classic.
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 revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its memorable enemies and iconic phrases have kept it a fan favorite, further solidified by its 2023 remake.
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 breathtaking experience with its epic boss fights and minimalist storytelling. Its 2018 remake has only enhanced its reputation as a timeless classic.
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 often considered the best in the series, with its survival elements and complex narrative. Its upcoming remake promises to bring this classic to new audiences.
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 a landmark in open-world gaming with its vast, detailed world and innovative RPG elements. Its enduring popularity and expansive gameplay make it the pinnacle of the PS2 experience.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but you can still enjoy some classics through PlayStation Plus' Premium membership. This tier, priced at $17.99/month, provides access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP. Visit our IGN Playlist page to see the 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.
See All
Star Ocean: The Last HopeTri-Ace
Dragon's Crown ProVanillaware
Twisted Metal 2Singletrac
Star Ocean: First Departure RSquare Enix
Star Ocean: Till the End of TimeTri-Ace
Gravity Crash PortableJust Add Water Developments
Twisted MetalEat Sleep Play
Herc's AdventuresLucasArts
Killzone: LiberationGuerrilla Games
WormsTeam17 Software
These are our top picks for the best PlayStation 2 games. Which titles made your list that we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments or create your own Tier List below. Don't forget to explore the best games on PS5 for what to play now.
