Top PS2 Games: All-Time Favorites

As the PlayStation 2 approaches its 25th anniversary, we celebrate its legacy with a curated list of the 25 best games that defined an era. From groundbreaking PS2 exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits such as Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts a rich library that continues to captivate gamers. These titles not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but also remain timeless classics. Here's IGN's selection of the top 25 PS2 games that stand the test of time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

26 ImagesMore on the best PlayStation Games of all time:

Best PS4 GamesBest PS3 GamesBest PS1 Games25. Guitar Hero 2

Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review

Guitar Hero 2 epitomized the rhythm-action genre, capturing the essence of rock and metal with an unmatched selection of tracks from legends like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden. This game marked the pinnacle of the series before the genre's commercialization, offering a pure and exhilarating experience that remains a benchmark in party gaming.

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: Band of Thieves showcases the series' unique blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. With a compelling narrative and diverse worlds to explore, this installment stands out as the best in the trilogy, offering an engaging experience with its trio of protagonists: Sly, Murray, and Bentley.

23. ICO

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

ICO redefines the escort mission with its emotionally resonant story and minimalist approach. The game's focus on developing a bond between its protagonists through puzzle-solving and exploration in a labyrinthine castle showcases the power of storytelling in video games, making it a timeless masterpiece.

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, Vol. 2 reimagines basketball with an arcade flair that appeals to both casual and hardcore fans. With its vibrant visuals, engaging gameplay, and a lineup of iconic players, the game offers endless fun and competitive play, making it a standout in sports gaming.

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 enhances its predecessor with refined combat and a deeper exploration of its mythology. The game's integration of Disney and Final Fantasy elements, along with its engaging world design, cements its status as a beloved entry in the series, appealing to fans of both franchises.

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 expands on the series' formula with a campy storyline, an extensive soundtrack, and deep customization options. Despite mixed reactions to its humor, the game delivers a comprehensive and enjoyable skateboarding experience, making it a favorite among fans.

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: Hour of Darkness remains a standout tactical RPG with its intricate combat system and humorous narrative. The game's gothic themes and engaging gameplay ensure it remains a cherished classic, offering endless replayability and strategic depth.

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 elevates the series with an expansive arsenal of wacky weapons and a robust online mode. The game's blend of humor, adventure, and innovative gameplay makes it a standout title in the beloved franchise.

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 stands out with its unique world and engaging mix of action and exploration. The game's diverse cast and rich lore have earned it a dedicated fanbase, eagerly awaiting a sequel that promises to continue its legacy.

16. Burnout Revenge

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

Burnout Revenge delivers pure adrenaline with its high-speed racing and iconic crash mode. The game's focus on speed and destruction offers a thrilling experience that remains unmatched, making it a classic in the racing genre.

15. Psychonauts

Image credit: Majesco EntertainmentDeveloper: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review

Psychonauts blends a coming-of-age story with psychic adventures, delivering a challenging and humorous platformer. Its creative level design and memorable narrative have secured its place as a beloved classic, now expanded with a sequel released in 2021.

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 with its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative gameplay have made it a benchmark for action games, influencing countless titles that followed.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Katamari Damacy offers absurd yet joyful gameplay with its simple yet addictive concept of rolling up objects. The game's whimsical charm and optimism have made it a cult classic, beloved by players for over two decades.

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: Renegade reinvents the series with new combat and traversal mechanics, set against the backdrop of Haven City. Its engaging story and dynamic gameplay make it the best entry in the trilogy, offering a thrilling adventure.

11. Bully

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

Bully offers a satirical take on school life, blending humor with social commentary. Its engaging story and streamlined progression system have made it a standout title in Rockstar's portfolio, setting a new standard for narrative-driven games.

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 sets the stage for one of the greatest action game series with its compelling story and innovative gameplay. Its visually stunning boss fights and challenging platforming have made it a cornerstone of the PS2's legacy.

See our guide to playing the God of War games in order for more.

9. Okami

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

Okami captivates with its unique art style and innovative celestial brush mechanic. Its beautiful visuals, charming story, and engaging gameplay make it a must-play title 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 revolutionizes the series with its Sphere-grid system and cinematic storytelling. Its accessible gameplay and compelling narrative have made it a fan favorite, sparking debates and discussions even today.

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 delivers a haunting experience with its psychological horror and multiple endings. Its unsettling atmosphere and narrative depth have made it a horror classic, with a remake released in 2024 further cementing its legacy.

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: Sons of Liberty challenges players with its innovative gameplay and narrative twists. Its thematic depth and engaging stealth mechanics have made it a timeless classic, despite its initial controversy.

See our guide to the Metal Gear games in order for more.

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 perfects the open-world formula with its compelling narrative and iconic 80s setting. Its memorable characters and soundtrack have made it a cultural phenomenon, eagerly anticipated for its return in GTA 6.

See our guide to the GTA games in order for more.

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 reinvents the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its memorable enemies and iconic phrases have made it a landmark title, with a successful remake keeping it relevant today.

See our guide to the Resident Evil games in order for more.

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 offers a unique and emotional experience with its giant boss battles and subtle storytelling. Its impact and artistry have made it a standout 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: Snake Eater is widely regarded as the best in the series, with its survival mechanics and compelling narrative. Its innovative gameplay and emotional depth set a new standard for storytelling in video games, with fans eagerly awaiting its upcoming remake.

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 represents the pinnacle of open-world gaming with its expansive world and innovative gameplay. Its introduction of RPG elements and memorable narrative have made it one of the most influential and beloved games of all time.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but you can still enjoy some PS2 classics through PlayStation Plus' Premium membership. This membership, priced at $17.99/month, grants 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.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games 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.

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 made your list that wasn’t on 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.