The PlayStation 2, a console that revolutionized gaming, is nearing its 25th anniversary. To celebrate, we're revisiting the titles 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*, choosing the best PS2 games is no easy feat. Yet, we've curated a list of 25 exceptional games that pushed technological and creative boundaries, remaining relevant 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
Guitar Hero redefined party games, but Guitar Hero II perfected the formula. Its focus on exhilarating rock and metal tracks, a selection unparalleled before music publishers flooded the market, is what made it legendary. From Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, the soundtrack alone is a masterpiece.
24. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
Sly Cooper blended family-friendly action, stealth, and humor seamlessly. Sly 2: Band of Thieves shines with its engaging story, diverse environments, and the ability to play as the entire crew—Sly, Murray, and Bentley. The thrilling stealth gameplay remains unique and captivating.
23. ICO
Despite the often-maligned escort mission mechanic, ICO transcends expectations. Its ingenious puzzles and the deeply moving bond between the two protagonists, conveyed without dialogue, create a minimalist masterpiece of storytelling, showcasing the unique narrative power of video games.
22. NBA Street Vol. 2
NBA Street Vol. 2 is arcade basketball at its finest. Its flashy visuals and accessible gameplay appeal to casual fans, while its refined ball handling and all-star roster captivate hardcore enthusiasts. With multiple game modes and unlockable legends, it’s a stylish and endlessly replayable experience.
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 improved combat, a deeper exploration of the mythology, and satisfying character development. Its blend of Disney and Final Fantasy elements remains a winning formula.
20. Tony Hawk's Underground
Tony Hawk's Underground enhanced the series' strengths. Its fun and quirky story, massive soundtrack (over 70 licensed tracks!), and intuitive create-a-skater/park/trick features are highlights. Even with mixed reactions to its story mode, it remains a top-tier skateboarding game.
19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness remains an iconic PS2 title. Its tactical combat, diverse characters, and darkly comedic story make it an enduring classic. The grind can be intense, but the richly detailed world and intricate gameplay are immensely rewarding.
18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal expanded the series' charm, offering a vast array of wacky weapons and ambitious online modes. Its lovable characters and galaxy-spanning adventure remain a high point of the series.
17. Beyond Good & Evil
Beyond Good & Evil's unique blend of action, exploration, and a memorable cast makes it a PS2 standout. Its richly detailed world, full of secrets and quirky characters, remains captivating.
16. Burnout Revenge
Burnout Revenge is all about speed. Its intense racing, thrilling takedowns, and chaotic crash mode provide short bursts of adrenaline-fueled action that are incredibly addictive. It represents the peak of the series' crash mode gameplay.
15. Psychonauts
Psychonauts masterfully blends a coming-of-age story with psychic action-platforming. Its creative level design, memorable characters, and humorous writing make it a unique and enduring classic.
14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening
Devil May Cry 3 is an influential action game with challenging yet rewarding combat, a compelling story, and unforgettable cutscenes. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system remain unmatched.
13. Katamari Damacy
Katamari Damacy is absurd and chaotic fun. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, coupled with its wildly imaginative visuals and relentlessly optimistic tone, creates a uniquely joyful experience.
12. Jak II: Renegade
Jak II: Renegade reinvents the series while retaining its charm. Its shift to a darker setting, new combat mechanics, and more intricate story elevate the experience. The introduction of Dark Jak adds a compelling power fantasy element.
11. Bully
Bully offers a satirical coming-of-age story with smart writing, satisfying combat, and a unique social system. Its blend of humor and social commentary is a hallmark of Rockstar's style.
10. God of War
God of War is a technical marvel with stunning visuals, intense combat, challenging puzzles, and a compelling story. It laid the foundation for one of gaming's greatest action franchises.
9. Okami
Okami's unique art style, charming story, creative puzzles, and fun combat make it a visually stunning and engaging adventure. The celestial brush mechanic adds a unique layer of gameplay.
8. Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X modernized the series with a new battle system and a more accessible story. Its memorable characters and compelling narrative remain beloved by fans.
7. Silent Hill 2
Silent Hill 2 is a disturbing and unforgettable horror experience. Its psychological themes, multiple endings, and unsettling atmosphere create a deeply unsettling and memorable journey.
6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
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 in the stealth genre.
5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City perfected the open-world formula. Its compelling story, memorable characters, improved mechanics, and iconic 80s soundtrack make it a gaming classic.
4. Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil 4 revitalized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-oriented gameplay. Its unsettling atmosphere and memorable enemies remain terrifying.
3. Shadow of the Colossus
Shadow of the Colossus is a masterpiece of atmosphere and scale. Its unique gameplay, memorable boss encounters, and melancholic story create an unforgettable experience.
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Metal Gear Solid 3 is widely considered the best in the series. Its expanded gameplay mechanics, survival elements, and deeply compelling story make it a classic.
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas set a new standard for open-world games. Its massive world, diverse activities, and innovative RPG elements make it a landmark title.
What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?
PS2 discs aren't compatible with PS5, but PlayStation Plus Premium offers streaming access to a catalog of PS2, PS3, PS1, and PSP games (over 300 titles). For the latest list, check our IGN Playlist page.
PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog
This catalog is regularly updated. Browse, sort, and filter titles to create your own playlists.
These are our top PS2 games. What are your favorites?
