Top 20 Best PlayStation 2 Games of All Time

The PlayStation 2 is one of the most popular gaming consoles of all time. It has a huge library of games, spanning genres and styles. There are so many great PlayStation 2 games that it can be tough to decide which ones to play.

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the 20 best PlayStation 2 games of all time. These are the titles that we think are essential for any PS2 owner. They’re a mix of classics and hidden gems, so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for the best PlayStation 2 games, then look no further. Here are our picks for the top 20 PS2 games of all time.

Here are 20 of the best PlayStation 2 games of all time:

• God of War
• Shadow of the Colossus
• Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
• ICO
• Resident Evil 4
• Kingdom Hearts
• Silent Hill 2
• Final Fantasy X
• Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
• Beyond Good & Evil
• God Hand
• Okami
• Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando
• Burnout 3: Takedown
• Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
• Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening
• Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec
• Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
• Tomb Raider: Legend
• Twisted Metal: Black

1. God of War

God of War is an epic third-person action-adventure video game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. The game was first released on the PlayStation 2 in 2005 and was later re-released on the PlayStation 3 in 2007.

God of War tells the story of Kratos, a Spartan warrior who was tricked into killing his wife and child by the God of War, Ares. Kratos is subsequently pursued by the Furies, vengeful spirits who serve as Ares' guard until he is saved by the Olympian Gods. The game is set within the ruins of the city of Athens and the surrounding countryside of Greece.

God of War game features hack and slash gameplay. The player controls Kratos, the game's protagonist, as he seeks revenge against Ares. The player can perform a variety of different attacks and combos using Kratos' Blades of Chaos, as well as several other weapons and magic abilities.

The game was well-received by critics, with many praising the game's graphics, gameplay, and story. God of War won several, Game of the Year awards and is widely considered to be one of the best PlayStation 2 games of all time.

2. Shadow of the Colossus

There are few PlayStation 2 games as artfully designed and emotionally powerful as Shadow of the Colossus. This Playstation 2 classic from Fumito Ueda and his team at Team Ico is a masterpiece of game design and an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

The basic premise of Shadow of the Colossus is simple: you play as a young man named Wander, who has journeyed to a forbidden land with the body of a girl named Mono. Your goal is to track down and defeat sixteen massive beings known as the Colossi to restore Mono's body.

But it's the journey, not the destination, that makes Shadow of the Colossus so special. The game is set in a gorgeous, deserted world that feels both alien and familiar at the same time. The vast landscapes are awe-inspiring, and the Colossi are some of the most creative and unique enemies ever seen in a video game.

Each Colossus presents a unique challenge, and figuring out how to take them down is half the fun. The other half is the emotional impact of the game. As you travel through the empty world, you can't help but feel a sense of loneliness and melancholy. And as you defeat each Colossus, you can't help but feel a sense of sadness and regret.

Shadow of the Colossus is a game that will stay with you long after you finish it. It's a masterpiece of game design and a powerful emotional experience that is not to be missed.

3. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is a stealth action-adventure game that was released for the PlayStation 2 in 2004. The game is set in the Cold War era and follows the story of Naked Snake, a CIA agent who is sent into the Soviet Union to rescue a scientist who has been kidnapped by the KGB. Snake must also stop a nuclear war from happening.

The game was very well-received by critics and is considered one of the best games in the Metal Gear Solid series. It was praised for its story, stealth gameplay, and graphics. The game won several awards, including Game of the Year from several publications. It is considered by many to be one of the best games in the Metal Gear Solid series and one of the best PlayStation 2 games of all time.

If you're a fan of stealth games or action-adventure games, then you need to play Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. It's a classic game that should not be missed. 

See Also: Top 10 Super Nintendo Games of All Time

4. ICO

ICO is a 2001 action-adventure video game developed by Team Ico and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, released for the PlayStation 2 video game console.

The player controls Ico, a young boy with horns who was born with the ability to manipulate light. He must escort a mysterious girl, Yorda, through a castle that is filled with dark creatures. Ico uses his light power to repel the creatures and solve puzzles, while Yorda uses her power to open doors and summon stone bridges.

The game was well-received by critics and is considered a cult classic. It was re-released in Europe in 2002 and in North America in 2006.

ICO is played from a third-person perspective. The player controls Ico as he explores the castle, solves puzzles, and fights enemies. The game is divided into three parts: the first part sees Ico trying to escape from the castle with Yorda; the second part sees Ico defending Yorda from the castle's creatures, and the third part sees Ico and Yorda trying to escape from the castle together.

The player can have Ico use his sword to fight enemies or use his power to manipulate light to repel them.

5. Resident Evil 4

It is safe to say that the Resident Evil franchise had become somewhat stale by the release of its fourth installment. The original game, released in 1996, was a masterpiece of the survival horror genre and is still considered one of the best video games of all time. However, the franchise had become bogged down by its success, with successive sequels becoming more action-oriented and less scary. Many fans had fled to lose faith in the series.

However, all of that changed with the release of Resident Evil 4 on the PlayStation 2. This was a game that took the franchise back to its roots, delivering a truly terrifying and deeply unsettling experience. The game is set in a remote village in Spain, and your objective is to rescue the President’s daughter from the clutches of a sinister cult.

The first thing you’ll notice about Resident Evil 4 is the change in camera perspective. The game is now presented in an over-the-shoulder view, which gives you a much better view of your surroundings. This is vital, as the game is now far more reliant on quick reflexes and gunplay than in previous installments.

The combat in Resident Evil 4 is some of the finest you’ll find in any PlayStation 2 Games. The enemies, known as the Ganados, are both numerous and dangerous, and you’ll need to use all of your firepowers to take them down. The game also features some truly grotesque bosses, which will test your resolve to the limit.

There are also several puzzles to be solved in Resident Evil 4, which help to break up the action. These are often fiendishly difficult and will have you tearing your hair out in frustration. However, they are also immensely satisfying to solve.

One of the most impressive things about Resident Evil 4 is the sheer level of detail that has gone into its creation. The graphics are stunning, and the sound design is incredibly atmospheric. The game also features some truly excellent voice acting, which brings the characters to life.

Overall, Resident Evil 4 is a masterpiece of the survival horror genre. It is a game that is both deeply unsettling and immensely enjoyable. If you have even a passing interest in horror games, then you owe it to yourself to play Resident Evil 4. 

See Also: Top 12 Best Western Games

6. Kingdom Hearts

In 2002, the video game industry was changed forever with the release of Kingdom Hearts for the Playstation 2. Developed by Square Enix and published by Disney Interactive, Kingdom Hearts was a crossover between the worlds of Final Fantasy and Disney, two of the most popular and well-known franchises in gaming. The game was an instant hit, selling over four million copies worldwide, and spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs over the years.

The story of Kingdom Hearts follows the journey of Sora, a young boy who is transported to a strange world called "The Island" after his hometown is destroyed by a giant heartless creature. There, Sora meets Donald Duck and Goofy, two of Disney's most iconic characters, who enlist him in their quest to find the missing king, Mickey Mouse. The three friends travel to different worlds, based on classic Disney movies like Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid, and Hercules, battling the heartless along the way.

The gameplay of Kingdom Hearts is a unique blend of action and role-playing, with a real-time combat system that is easy to pick up but difficult to master. The player must carefully manage their health and magic levels, as well as utilize special attacks and items, to defeat the various enemies they encounter. The game is also interspersed with puzzles and platforming sections, providing a welcome change of pace from the combat.

Kingdom Hearts was a critical and commercial success upon its release and continues to be one of the most popular PlayStation 2 games ever made. If you're looking for an unforgettable gaming experience, with a touch of Disney magic, then look no further than Kingdom Hearts.

7. Silent Hill 2

Released in September 2001, Silent Hill 2 is the second installment in the Silent Hill franchise and is widely considered to be one of the greatest horror games of all time. The game follows James Sunderland, who enters the town of Silent Hill after receiving a letter from his dead wife. Upon arrival, James discovers that the town is plagued by dark forces and must navigate his way through its nightmarish landscape to discover the truth about his wife's death.

While the first Silent Hill game was praised for its atmosphere and scares, Silent Hill 2 is lauded for its psychological horror and storytelling. The game's narrative is complex and emotive, and its exploration of themes such as guilt, loss, and abuse make it a truly harrowing experience. The game's atmosphere is also incredibly oppressive, and its use of sound and visual design to create a sense of unease is truly masterful.

If you're a fan of horror PlayStation 2 games, then Silent Hill 2 is a must-play. It's a harrowing, emotionally charged experience that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. 

See Also: Top 12 Best Western Games

8. Final Fantasy X

Final Fantasy X is the tenth main installment in the Final Fantasy series, developed and published by Square (now Square Enix). The game was released in 2001 and was the first Final Fantasy game to appear on the PlayStation 2.

The game is set in the world of Spira and follows the story of Tidus, a young man who is transported to the world after his home city of Zanarkand is destroyed. Tidus must help the people of Spira to defeat Sin, a creature that threatens their world.

The game was very well-received upon release and is considered to be one of the best games in the series. It was the first Final Fantasy game to use voice acting, and also featured a new system called the “Sphere Grid”, which allowed players to customize their characters ’development.

If you’re a fan of the Final Fantasy series, or if you’re looking for a great RPG to play, then you should check out Final Fantasy X. 

9. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy is a platform game developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 2. The game was released in North America on December 3, 2001, and in Europe on February 22, 2002.

The game's plot follows the adventures of Jak and Daxter, two young boys who stumble upon a dark conspiracy in the land of Haven City. With the help of a wise sage, they set out to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and save Haven City from destruction.

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy is a 3D platformer. The player controls Jak and Daxter as they traverse the game's various levels, collecting Precursor orbs and power cells along the way. The game is split into three main sections: the Green Eco section, the Blue Eco section, and the Yellow Eco section.

The Green Eco section focuses on platforming and puzzle-solving, the Blue Eco section focuses on combat, and the Yellow Eco section focuses on speed and platforming.

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy received critical acclaim upon release, with praise directed at the game's graphics, level design, and gameplay. The game was a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. 

10. Beyond Good & Evil

Beyond Good & Evil is a 2003 action-adventure video game developed and published by Ubisoft for the PlayStation 2. The game was released in North America on November 11, 2003, and in Europe on November 14, 2003.

The game follows the main character Jade, an investigative reporter and member of a resistance group fighting against a tyrannical, oppressive regime, as she attempts to uncover the truth behind a conspiracy involving an ancient alien race.

Beyond Good & Evil received positive reviews from critics, who praised the game's visuals, story, characters, and gameplay. The game was a commercial success, selling over 1.5 million copies worldwide.

11. God Hand

God Hand is a PlayStation 2 action game developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom. It was directed by Shinji Mikami, the creator of the Resident Evil series. The game was released in Japan on April 20, 2006, in North America on September 12, 2006, and in Europe on November 3, 2006.

The story of God Hand follows the journey of the game's protagonist, Gene, as he seeks revenge against Godhand, a group of four powerful demons who killed his parents and destroyed his home. Along the way, Gene is joined by a mysterious woman named Olivia, who helps him in his quest. The two eventually face off against the Godhand in a showdown.

God Hand is a third-person beat 'em up in the game in which the player controls Gene, the game's protagonist. The player can use a variety of punches and kicks to attack enemies, as well as grab and throw them. The game also features several special moves that can be performed by inputting specific button combinations.

The game is set up in a series of levels, each of which is divided into several areas. In each area, the player must defeat a certain number of enemies before progressing to the next. The game also features some boss battles, which typically require the player to use different strategies to defeat them.

God Hand is generally considered to be a difficult game, due to its high level of difficulty. However, the game also features several difficulty settings that can be adjusted to make the game easier.

God Hand received mixed reviews upon its release. However, the game has since gained a cult following and is considered by many to be one of the best beat 'em up PlayStation 2 games of all time.

12. Okami

Okami is a game that was released on the Playstation 2 console in 2006. Developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom, Okami is set in classical Japan and follows the story of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who takes the form of a white wolf. The game is considered a spiritual successor to Clover Studio's previous game, Viewtiful Joe.

Okami is an action-adventure game that uses a unique cel-shaded graphical style inspired by Sumi-e ink painting. The game's controls are based on the Playstation 2's DualShock controller, and the player uses both the left and right analog sticks to control Amaterasu and the Celestial Brush, respectively.

The Celestial Brush is the key gameplay mechanic in Okami and is used to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. By drawing certain strokes on the screen, Amaterasu can perform a variety of actions, such as creating platforms, cutting through objects, and restoring life to the dead.

Okami is widely considered to be one of the best Playstation 2 games and has won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from several publications.  

See Also: TOP 5 Best Batman Games

13. Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando

The original Ratchet & Clank game was a fresh and fun take on the 3D platformer genre, and Going Commando is a worthy sequel. The game picks up where the first one left off, with our heroes Ratchet and Clank having defeated the evil Chairman Drek and saving the universe. But they're not resting on their laurels for long, as they're soon hired by a mystery client to track down a thief who has stolen a valuable artifact.

The story is a little more complex than the first game, but it's still easy to follow and very entertaining. The voice acting is once again excellent, and the humor is just as sharp as before. The game world is also much larger this time around, and there are plenty of side quests and secrets to discover.

The gameplay is just as solid as the first game, with some nice additions. The most significant new addition is the ability to purchase and upgrade weapons and gadgets. This adds a lot of depth to the game and encourages experimentation with different weapons to find the ones that work best for you. The other big new addition is the ability to pilot vehicles, which is a lot of fun and adds even more variety to the game.

Overall, Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando is a great sequel that successfully builds on the foundation of the first game. If you're a fan of 3D platformers, this is a game you should check out. 

14. Burnout 3: Takedown

Released in 2004, Burnout 3: Takedown is one of the most beloved racing games of all time. And for good reason: its over-the-top action, stunning visuals, and tight gameplay make for an unforgettable experience.

But what sets Burnout 3 apart is its sense of style. From the moment you start the game, it's clear that this is not your typical racing game. The opening cinematic sets the tone perfectly, with a pulse-pounding soundtrack and some truly insane crashes.

And the game only gets crazier from there. The courses are filled with shortcuts and hazards, and the traffic gets denser as you race. But the real star of the show is the crash mode, which tasks you with causing as much destruction as possible.

Burnout 3 is an absolute blast from start to finish. If you're a fan of racing games or even just good PlayStation 2 games in general, this is one that you need to check out. 

15. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus

Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus was a PlayStation 2 game released in 2002. The game was developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. The game was well-received by critics and is considered a classic by many.

The game follows the titular character, Sly Cooper, a raccoon who is the descendant of a long line of master thieves. When Sly's father was killed by the evil Dr. M, Sly vows to take down M and his criminal organization. To do this, Sly must recover the Thievius Raccoonus, a book containing the Cooper family's secrets to thievery.

The game is a 3D platformer, and Sly must use his acrobatic skills and ingenuity to navigate the various levels. Sly must also avoid detection by the many guards and security systems that are in place.

The game was praised for its graphics, animation, and voice acting. The gameplay was also praised for its innovative use of the PlayStation 2's hardware.

The game was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. It was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year. 

16. Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening

Released in 2005, Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening is an action-adventure hack and slash game developed and published by Capcom. The game is a prequel to the original Devil May Cry game and follows the story of the character Dante as he battles his way through the demon world to save his kidnapped brother, Vergil.

The gameplay of Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening is similar to that of the previous two games in the series, with the player taking control of Dante as he fights his way through hordes of enemies. The game features several new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to dual-wield weapons, as well as several new weapons and abilities for Dante to use.

The game received positive reviews upon release, with critics praising the game’s improved gameplay and graphics, as well as its story. The game was a commercial success, selling over two million copies worldwide.

If you’re a fan of action-adventure games, then you’ll want to check out Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening. The game features fast-paced action, intense combat, and a great story, all of which come together to create an enjoyable gaming experience. 

See Also: Top 10 Retro Ninja Games

17.  Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec

Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is a 2001 racing game for the PlayStation 2 and the first in the Gran Turismo series to be released on the PlayStation 2. Developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, it was released in July 2001 and was the best-selling game of the year in the United States.

The game is set within the fictional city of Cape Town, South Africa, and features over 140 licensed cars from manufacturers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Audi, Nissan, and Toyota. The player progresses through the game by completing a series of races in any of the available game modes. These include the standard Gran Turismo Mode, in which the player must complete a series of progressively difficult races, time trials, license tests, and special events; Arcade Mode, in which the player can race any unlocked car on any unlocked track; and two-player split-screen mode.

Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is widely regarded as one of the greatest racing PlayStation 2 games of all time and is credited with popularizing the genre. It was the best-selling game in the United States in 2001 and has sold over 15 million copies worldwide. 

18. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is a PlayStation 2 game released in 2003. It is a sequel to the 2001 game Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time.

The game's story follows Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. The Prince is tricked by Vizier into releasing the Sands of Time, which turn everyone who touches them into monsters. The Prince and Farah, the daughter of the sultan, must find a way to stop the Sands of Time from spreading and destroying the world.

The game is a third-person action-adventure game. The player controls the Prince, who can run, jump, and fight his way through the game's levels. The Prince can also use a special power, called the Sands of Time, to control time. The Sands of Time can be used to rewind time, slow downtime, or freeze time.

The game received positive reviews. Critics praised the game's graphics, puzzles, and combat. However, some critics said the game was too short. The game was a commercial success, selling over two million copies.

19. Tomb Raider: Legend

In 2006, Eidos released a game that would change the face of action-adventure games forever. That game was Tomb Raider: Legend, and it was released on the PlayStation 2.

The story of Legend follows Lara Croft as she tries to uncover the truth behind her mother's disappearance. This makes her all over the world, from the snowy mountains of Nepal to the hot deserts of Bolivia. The game is non-linear, meaning that players can explore each area in any order they wish.

The gameplay of Legend is a mixture of puzzle-solving and action. The puzzles are often clever and require players to use their environment to solve them. The action is fast-paced and thrilling, with Lara using her acrobatic skills and dual pistols to take down her enemies.

The graphics of Legend are some of the best among the PlayStation 2 games. The character models are highly detailed, and the environments are lush and beautiful. The game also features an amazing soundtrack, which perfectly sets the tone for each location.

Tomb Raider: Legend is a must-play for any fan of action-adventure games. It is an excellent example of what the genre can be, and it is a game that is sure to please everyone who plays it.

20. Twisted Metal: Black

In the early 2000s, the gaming world was introduced to a new type of game known as the "twisted metal" game. This genre of game was defined by its over-the-top violence, unique characters, and vehicular combat. One of the most popular entries in this genre was the Playstation 2 game, Twisted Metal: Black.

Twisted Metal: Black was released in 2001 and was developed by Eat Sleep Play. The game was published by Sony Computer Entertainment. Twisted Metal: Black is a vehicular combat game that features a variety of vehicles, each with its unique weapons and abilities.

The story of Twisted Metal: Black revolves around a man named Calypso. Calypso is the host of a sadistic game known as the Twisted Metal Tournament. In this tournament, participants must battle each other using their vehicles to win a prize.

The prize for winning the Twisted Metal Tournament is a wish granted by Calypso. However, the wishes granted by Calypso always come with a dark catch. The wish granted to the winner of the tournament is always something that they will regret.

Despite the dark story, Twisted Metal: Black is a fun and addictive game. The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic. The game features a variety of stages, each with its unique hazards.

The graphics are also top-notch. The cutscenes are particularly well-done and help to add to the game’s dark atmosphere.

Overall, Twisted Metal: Black is a great game. It’s a must-play for fans of the genre. It’s also a great game for those who enjoy fast-paced and chaotic gameplay.

Final Thoughts

We’ve reached the end of our list of the Top 20 Best PlayStation 2 Games of All Time. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these amazing games as much as we’ve enjoyed writing about them.

The PlayStation 2 was an incredible console that changed the gaming landscape forever. It’s hard to believe that it’s been over a decade since it was first released.

These 20 games are just a small sampling of the amazing titles that were released for the system. There are so many other great games that we didn’t have room to include.

Which games would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.