As the PlayStation 2 approaches its 25th anniversary, it's clear that this console was a game-changer in the world of gaming. With a rich library of titles, it's no easy task to select just 25 games that encapsulate its legacy, but we've done just that. These games not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but continue to resonate with players today. Here's IGN's curated list of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.
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More on the best PlayStation Games of all time:
Image credit: RedOctane
Developer: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review
Guitar Hero 2 stands out as the pinnacle of the series. It captured the essence of rock and metal music at a time when the genre was still fresh and unadulterated by mainstream trends. With an impeccable selection of tracks from bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones, it delivered an authentic and exhilarating experience.
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 masterfully blends action, stealth, and humor, setting it apart in the franchise. The game's engaging story and diverse worlds, coupled with the ability to control Sly's entire crew, make it a standout title. It offered a thrilling experience that was unique among Sony's first-party offerings.
Image credit: Sony
Developer: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review
ICO redefined the escort mission genre with its innovative puzzles and deep emotional storytelling. The bond between the two main characters, developed through their shared journey, showcases the power of minimalist storytelling in video games, making ICO a timeless classic.
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 is the epitome of arcade-style basketball. It's accessible yet deep, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. With its flashy visuals, engaging game modes, and the thrill of competitive play, it's an enduring classic in sports gaming.
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 refined the series' formula, enhancing combat and deepening the narrative. Its innovative mechanics and engaging world design continue to captivate fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and the unique blend of both.
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 expanded on the beloved series with a fun, campy story and a massive soundtrack. Its deep customization and creative features set it apart, making it a standout title in the skateboarding genre.
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 beloved tactical RPG, known for its intricate combat and humorous narrative. Despite its grind, the game's gothic themes and engaging characters keep players coming back for more.
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 expanded the series with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. Its wacky weapons and engaging gameplay make it a highlight of the PS2 era.
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 11, 2003 | Review: IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review
Beyond Good & Evil's unique world and compelling characters set it apart as a PS2 classic. Its blend of action, exploration, and storytelling continues to inspire fans and developers alike.
Image credit: EA
Developer: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review
Burnout Revenge epitomizes high-speed racing with its exhilarating gameplay. The game's crash mode and Takedown racing offer thrills that have yet to be replicated, making it a memorable entry in the series.
Image credit: Majesco Entertainment
Developer: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review
Psychonauts blends action and platforming with a compelling story and imaginative levels. Its memorable design and engaging gameplay have cemented its place as a PS2 classic, now expanded with a sequel.
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 is a benchmark for action games with its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative mechanics continue to influence the genre.
Image credit: Namco
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review
Katamari Damacy's absurd yet joyful gameplay is a testament to the PS2's creativity. Its simple mechanics and whimsical charm have made it a beloved classic.
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 tone and new gameplay mechanics. Its engaging story and innovative features make it a standout title in the PS2 library.
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review
Bully offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre, blending humor with social commentary. Its engaging story and satisfying gameplay mechanics showcase Rockstar's innovative approach to gaming.
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 set a new standard for action games with its impressive visuals and engaging gameplay. Its compelling narrative laid the foundation for one of the most iconic series in gaming.
Image credit: Capcom
Developer: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review
Okami's unique art style and innovative gameplay mechanics make it a standout title. Its beautiful world and engaging story continue to captivate players across generations.
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 cinematic storytelling. Its engaging narrative and memorable moments make it a timeless classic.
Image credit: Konami
Developer: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill 2 review
Silent Hill 2's psychological horror and innovative storytelling continue to haunt players. Its unsettling atmosphere and multiple endings make it a landmark in the genre.
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's innovative gameplay and narrative structure challenged players' expectations. Its thematic depth and engaging mechanics have aged gracefully, cementing its status as a classic.
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: Oct 29, 2002 | Review: IGN's GTA: Vice City review
GTA: Vice City perfected the open-world formula with its engaging story and memorable characters. Its iconic soundtrack and satirical take on the 80s make it a standout title in the series.
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's shift to action-horror redefined the series. Its engaging gameplay and iconic moments continue to influence the genre, even with its recent remake.
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's unique gameplay and emotional storytelling make it a PS2 masterpiece. Its innovative approach to boss battles and atmospheric world continue to inspire players and developers.
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's engaging story and innovative gameplay mechanics set it apart as the best in the series. Its survival elements and clever boss fights make it a timeless classic.
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 21, 2004 | Review: IGN's GTA: San Andreas review
GTA: San Andreas represents the pinnacle of open-world gaming on the PS2. Its vast world, engaging story, and innovative RPG elements make it a landmark title in gaming history.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
While PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, you can still enjoy some PS2 classics through PlayStation Plus Premium membership. For $17.99/month, you gain access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP. Visit our IGN Playlist page for an up-to-date list of available titles in the Classic 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.
Star Ocean: The Last Hope - Tri-Ace
Dragon's Crown Pro - Vanillaware
Twisted Metal 2 - Singletrac
Star Ocean: First Departure R - Square Enix
Star Ocean: Till the End of Time - Tri-Ace
Gravity Crash Portable - Just Add Water Developments
Twisted Metal - Eat Sleep Play
Herc's Adventures - LucasArts
Killzone: Liberation - Guerrilla Games
Worms - Team17 Software
These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. What games made your list that didn’t make ours? Let us know in the comments, or rank these games on your own Tier List below. And be sure to check out the best games on PS5 for what to play right now.
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