by Dylan May 15,2025
As the PlayStation 2 approaches its 25th anniversary, it's time to celebrate the games that defined this iconic console. From groundbreaking exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts an impressive library. Here, we've curated a list of 25 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but continue to captivate gamers today.
Without further ado, here are IGN's picks for the 25 best PS2 games of all time.
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More on the best PlayStation Games of all time:
Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review
Guitar Hero 2 stands out as a pinnacle of the series, capturing the essence of rock and metal music in a way that was both fun and engaging. Released before the genre became oversaturated, this game boasted an incredible selection of tracks from bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden, making it a must-play for music enthusiasts.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 is a testament to the series' charm, blending action, stealth, and humor seamlessly. With its engaging story and diverse worlds, players can enjoy the unique abilities of Sly's entire crew, offering a rich and thrilling experience that stands out in the PS2's library.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review
ICO transformed the escort mission genre with its compelling puzzles and deep character connection. The game's minimalist storytelling and immersive castle exploration highlight the power of narrative in video games, making it a timeless classic.
Image credit: EADeveloper: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts/NuFX | Release date: April 28, 2003 | Review: IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review
NBA Street, Vol. 2 offers an exhilarating take on basketball with its arcade-style gameplay. With flashy visuals, easy-to-learn mechanics, and a roster of both street and NBA legends, it's a game that appeals to both casual and hardcore sports fans.
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square Enix | Publisher: Square Enix | Release date: December 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review
Kingdom Hearts 2 enhances its predecessor with improved combat mechanics and deeper storytelling. The game's engaging world design and compelling narrative continue to draw in fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and action RPGs alike.
Image credit: ActivisionDeveloper: 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 its expansive customization options, robust soundtrack, and entertaining story mode. Despite mixed reactions to its humor, it remains a standout title in the skateboarding genre.
Image credit: NISDeveloper: NIS | Publisher: Atlus (NA) | Release date: January 30, 2003 | Review: IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains a beloved tactical RPG with its deep combat system and quirky characters. Its gothic themes and humor make it a unique and enduring experience in the PS2 era.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. Its wacky weapons and engaging gameplay make it a standout entry in the franchise.
Image credit: UbisoftDeveloper: 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, exploration, and storytelling. Its vibrant world and memorable characters have earned it a dedicated fanbase eagerly awaiting a sequel.
Image credit: EADeveloper: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Burnout Revenge delivers high-speed racing thrills with its crash mode and takedown-infused gameplay. As the last game in the series to feature the beloved crash mode, it remains a fan favorite.
Image credit: Majesco EntertainmentDeveloper: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review
Psychonauts combines a coming-of-age story with psychic powers and action-platforming. Its imaginative levels and humorous narrative have made it a cult classic, now expanded with a sequel.
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: 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 a landmark action game known for its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative gameplay mechanics have cemented its place as a genre-defining title.
Image credit: NamcoDeveloper: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy is a whimsical and joyful game where players roll up objects to grow a ball. Its absurd yet optimistic tone and simple yet addictive gameplay have made it a beloved classic.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 darker themes and new gameplay mechanics. Its engaging story and dynamic environments make it the best entry in the Jak and Daxter trilogy.
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully offers a fresh take on the schoolyard experience with its satirical humor and engaging gameplay. Its streamlined progression and satisfying combat have set it apart as a unique title in Rockstar's portfolio.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Santa Monica Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: March 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's God of War review
God of War set the stage for one of the most iconic action series with its stunning visuals and compelling narrative. Its mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming makes it a must-play for any action game enthusiast.
See our guide to playing the God of War games in order for more.
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review
Okami's unique concept of a celestial brush mechanic and its stunning painterly visuals make it a true work of art. Its engaging story and creative puzzles have earned it a place among the best PS2 games.
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: 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 cinematic storytelling. Its engaging narrative and memorable characters continue to resonate with players today.
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill 2 review
Silent Hill 2 is a masterclass in psychological horror, with its unsettling atmosphere and multiple endings. Its impact on the genre remains strong, even with the release of a 2024 remake.
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: 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 groundbreaking stealth game that challenges players' perceptions and expectations. Its innovative storytelling and mechanics have aged well, cementing its status as a classic.
See our guide to the Metal Gear games in order for more.
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: 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 soundtrack. Its satire of 80s culture and engaging gameplay have made it one of the most beloved games of all time.
See our guide to the GTA games in order for more.
Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Capcom Production Studio 4 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: January 11, 2005 | Review: IGN's Resident Evil 4 review
Resident Evil 4 transformed the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its memorable monsters and iconic phrases have kept it popular, even with a recent remake.
See our guide to the Resident Evil games in order for more.
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: 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 an unforgettable experience with its unique blend of puzzle-solving and boss battles. Its emotional storytelling and stunning visuals continue to resonate with players today.
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: 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 widely regarded as the best in the series, with its innovative survival mechanics and compelling narrative. Its upcoming remake has fans eagerly anticipating its return.
Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: 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 expansive world and innovative gameplay. Its RPG elements and engaging narrative make it the pinnacle of the PS2 gaming experience.
Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but you can still enjoy some PS2 classics through PlayStation Plus Premium. This service, priced at $17.99/month, offers access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP. For an updated list of available titles, visit our IGN Playlist page below.
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
Those are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. Which games made your list that weren't on ours? Share your thoughts in the comments, or rank these games on your own Tier List below. Don't forget to check out the best games on PS5 for what to play right now.
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