Top PS2 Games: All-Time Favorites

As the PlayStation 2 celebrates its 25th anniversary, it's the perfect time to reflect on the games that defined this legendary console. From groundbreaking exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to bestsellers such as Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts a rich library of titles that pushed the boundaries of both technology and storytelling. Here, we present IGN's curated list of the top 25 PS2 games that not only captured the spirit of the era but continue to captivate players today.

So, without further ado, let's dive into IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

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25. Guitar Hero 2

Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: 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, capturing the essence of rock and metal music with an unparalleled selection of tracks. Developed before the genre became oversaturated, it offered players a thrilling experience with classics from bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones. This game not only transformed party gaming but did so with unmatched style and energy.

24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves

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 is a testament to the series' unique blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. It excels with its engaging story, diverse worlds, and the ability to play as Sly's entire crew, including the powerful Murray and the tech-savvy Bentley. The game's core stealth mechanics are thrilling, making it a standout title in Sony's first-party lineup.

23. ICO

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review

ICO is a masterclass in minimalist storytelling and innovative gameplay. Despite being centered around an often-dreaded escort mission, it shines with its compelling puzzles and the emotional bond developed between its protagonists. It remains a powerful example of how video games can tell stories in unique and impactful ways.

22. NBA Street, Vol. 2

Image credit: EADeveloper: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts/NuFX | Release date: April 28, 2003 | Review: IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review

NBA Street, Volume 2 is the epitome of arcade-style basketball, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans with its flashy visuals and deep gameplay mechanics. It offers a mix of game modes, unlockable legends, and an engaging loop of crossovers and slam dunks, making it a timeless classic.

21. Kingdom Hearts 2

Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square Enix | Publisher: Square Enix | Release date: December 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review

Kingdom Hearts 2 elevates its predecessor with enhanced combat and deeper exploration of its mythology. With its engaging mix of Disney and Final Fantasy elements, and innovative mechanics like form changes, it remains a beloved entry in the series, even if it's not the best starting point.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

Image credit: ActivisionDeveloper: Neversoft Entertainment | Publisher: Activision | Release date: October 27, 2003 | Review: IGN's Tony Hawk's Underground review

Tony Hawk's Underground took the series to new heights with its expansive story, massive soundtrack, and robust create-a-skater features. Despite mixed reactions to its humor, it remains one of the most comprehensive and enjoyable entries in the Tony Hawk series.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

Image credit: NISDeveloper: NIS | Publisher: Atlus (NA) | Release date: January 30, 2003 | Review: IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review

Disgaea remains a standout tactical RPG with its intricate combat system and unique gothic flair. Its blend of humor and strategy makes it a game that players can enjoy repeatedly, despite the occasional grind.

18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

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 expanded the series with a host of new gadgets, mini-games, and one of the most ambitious online modes of its time. Its playful and inventive approach to gameplay continues to delight fans.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

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 a richly detailed world. Its diverse cast and intriguing lore have kept fans eagerly awaiting a sequel, making it a true classic of the PS2 era.

16. Burnout Revenge

Image credit: EADeveloper: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review

Burnout Revenge is all about speed and chaos, offering thrilling races and the iconic crash mode. It remains the last Burnout game to feature crash mode, a feature that has yet to be successfully replicated.

15. Psychonauts

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 tale with psychic powers and imaginative level design. Its challenging gameplay and memorable moments have made it a cult classic, now expanded with the release of Psychonauts 2.

14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

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 yet rewarding combat and captivating story. Its high skill ceiling and creativity in combat mechanics continue to influence the genre.

13. Katamari Damacy

Image credit: NamcoDeveloper: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review

Katamari Damacy is a celebration of absurdity and joy. Its simple yet addictive gameplay and optimistic tone have endeared it to players worldwide, making it a timeless gem.

12. Jak 2: Renegade

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: October 14, 2003 | Review: IGN's Jak 2: Renegade review

Jak 2 reinvents the series with a darker tone and new mechanics like gunplay and hoverboarding. Its detailed environments and dynamic story make it a standout entry in the trilogy.

11. Bully

Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review

Bully offers a unique take on school life, blending satire with a coming-of-age story. Its engaging gameplay and clever social dynamics set a new standard for Rockstar's storytelling.

10. God of War

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 is a technical marvel with its visually stunning boss fights and engaging mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming. It laid the foundation for one of the most celebrated action series in gaming.

9. Okami

Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review

Okami's painterly art style and innovative celestial brush mechanics make it a work of art. Its compelling story and engaging gameplay ensure it remains a must-play on the PS2 and beyond.

8. Final Fantasy 10

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 blend of accessibility and depth, along with its iconic characters, make it a beloved classic.

7. Silent Hill 2

Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill 2 review

Silent Hill 2 is a psychological horror masterpiece that delves into the protagonist's psyche. Its haunting atmosphere and multiple endings make it a timeless horror classic, now remade for modern audiences.

6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

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 game that challenges players' perceptions with its themes and mechanics. Despite initial controversy over its protagonist shift, it has aged into one of the best stealth games ever made.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. It remains one of the most influential games in the series and a cultural touchstone.

4. Resident Evil 4

Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Capcom Production Studio 4 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: January 11, 2005 | Review: IGN's Resident Evil 4 review

Resident Evil 4 redefined the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its iconic moments and enduring popularity are evident in its recent remake.

3. Shadow of the Colossus

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 a poignant adventure that blends puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its emotional depth and artistic beauty have made it a landmark title, further enhanced by its 2018 remake.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

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 is widely regarded as the best in the series, expanding on its predecessors with survival elements and unforgettable boss fights. Its complex narrative and upcoming remake keep it relevant and revered.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

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 gaming with its vast world, RPG elements, and dynamic gameplay. It remains the pinnacle of the PS2 experience and a testament to the console's legacy.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

While PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, players can enjoy some PS2 classics through PlayStation Plus Premium membership. Priced at $17.99/month, this tier 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.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

Here is an up-to-date listing of the entire PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. You can browse, sort, and tag the titles to create your own playlists. Check the "Recently Added" section for the latest additions.

See AllStar Ocean: The Last HopeTri-AceDragon's Crown ProVanillawareTwisted Metal 2SingletracStar Ocean: First Departure RSquare EnixStar Ocean: Till the End of TimeTri-AceGravity Crash PortableJust Add Water DevelopmentsTwisted MetalEat Sleep PlayHerc's AdventuresLucasArtsKillzone: LiberationGuerrilla GamesWormsTeam17 Software

These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. What titles made your list that weren't included here? Share your thoughts in the comments or rank these games on your own Tier List below. And don't forget to explore the best games available on PS5 for what to play right now.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time