As the PlayStation 2 approaches its 25th anniversary, it's clear that this revolutionary console left an indelible mark on gaming history. From groundbreaking PS2 exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to bestsellers like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 boasts a rich catalog of iconic games. We've carefully selected 25 of the best PS2 games that not only pushed the technological and cultural boundaries of their time but continue to captivate players even today.

Without further ado, here is IGN's curated list of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

26 ImagesMore on the best PlayStation Games of all time:

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Best PS1 Games

25. Guitar Hero 2

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

Guitar Hero transformed party gaming for the next decade, yet it was Guitar Hero 2 that truly captured the essence of rock and metal. Developed when the franchise was all about delivering authentic rock experiences on a plastic guitar, this game stood out for its selection of tracks from legends like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, Danzig, The Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden, and Iggy and the Stooges. Guitar Hero 2 remains a standout title in the rhythm-action genre, offering a rich catalog of songs that rock to their core.

24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves

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

The Sly Cooper series is a unique blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and humor, with Sly 2: Band of Thieves epitomizing these qualities. The game offers a compelling story set in diverse and intriguing worlds, allowing players to control Sly and his crew, including the powerhouse Murray and the tech-savvy Bentley. With its thrilling stealth mechanics, Sly 2 provides an unparalleled experience within Sony's first-party offerings at the time.

23. ICO

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

ICO is a masterpiece, especially given its focus on escort missions, which were typically unpopular in 2001. The game's success lies in its engaging puzzles and the profound bond developed between its protagonists. Through minimalist storytelling and navigating the labyrinthine castle together, ICO showcases how video games can tell powerful stories in their unique way.

22. NBA Street, Vol. 2

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, Volume 2 is the pinnacle of arcade-style basketball, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. Its visually striking game breakers and superb ball handling, combined with an all-star lineup, create an irresistible experience. With four game modes and unlockable legends, the game offers endless entertainment and competitive play.

21. Kingdom Hearts 2

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 exemplifies how sequels can elevate their predecessors. With enhanced combat mechanics, including magic, the Keyblade, and Sora's form states, the game offers a more dynamic experience. Its deep exploration of mythology and characters from the first game, despite a lengthy intro, makes it a beloved entry in the series, appealing to fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and beyond.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

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 enhanced the beloved series by adding a fun, campy story, a massive soundtrack with over 70 licensed tracks, and deep customization features. While its story mode received mixed reactions, the game remains a standout for its innovative elements and the thrill of playing as Iron Man.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

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 cornerstone of the PS2 era, with its tactical, isometric battles and diverse characters keeping players engaged. Despite its grind, the game's gothic themes, comedic characters, and intricate combat make it a timeless classic that players can enjoy and revisit at any time.

18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Insomniac Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 2, 2004 | Review: IGN's Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal review

The Ratchet & Clank series has always been exceptional, and Up Your Arsenal is no exception. With new gadgets, mini-games, and one of the most ambitious online modes of its time, this installment stands out. The Suck Cannon, which turns enemies into bolts, adds a fun twist to the gameplay.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 11, 2003 | Review: IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review

Beyond Good & Evil is a standout classic on the PS2, blending action, exploration, and a unique world with a diverse, charming cast. Its rich environment, filled with intriguing locations and lore, sets it apart. Fans have eagerly awaited a sequel, a testament to the game's enduring appeal.

16. Burnout Revenge

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

Burnout Revenge is all about speed, whether racing through streets, weaving through traffic, or causing chaos in crash mode. The game's short, intense bursts of action lead to hours of gameplay as players strive for gold medals. Its Takedown-infused racing and crash mode remain unmatched in their excitement.

15. Psychonauts

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

Psychonauts masterfully blends a summer camp coming-of-age tale with psychic-powered secret agents. As a challenging and hilarious action/platformer, it offers memorable levels that reflect the twisted psyche of its characters. Its innovative design and the release of Psychonauts 2 in 2021 have cemented its status as a beloved franchise.

14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

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 not only influential but one of the best action games ever. Its challenging yet rewarding combat, compelling story of familial bonds, and entertaining cutscenes set it apart. The game's high skill ceiling and creative combat system continue to inspire action games today.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Katamari Damacy is a delightful blend of simple mechanics and absurd chaos. Rolling up objects to grow your ball, the game offers endless fun and optimism. Its unique charm has captured hearts for over two decades, making it a timeless favorite.

12. Jak 2: Renegade

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 without losing its charm, moving from the colorful Sandover village to the gritty Haven City. New combat, traversal, and a deeper story with intriguing twists enhance the experience. The introduction of Dark Jak adds a thrilling power fantasy, making it the best in the trilogy.

11. Bully

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

Bully combines a fight against bullying with building social networks and a streamlined progression system. Its smart, funny story and biting satire showcase Rockstar's signature style, while the game's combat raises the bar for future titles. It's a charming coming-of-age story that resonates with players.

10. God of War

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 is a technical marvel, offering visually stunning boss fights, a mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming, all wrapped in a compelling story about Kratos' rage. It laid the foundation for one of the greatest action game series, captivating players with its intense gameplay and narrative.

9. Okami

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

Okami's concept of a god-wolf using a celestial brush to paint and solve puzzles is both innovative and beautiful. Its painterly style, charming story, and engaging combat make it a must-play on the PS2 and modern PlayStation consoles. Okami stands as a testament to artistic game design.

8. Final Fantasy 10

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 made significant changes to the series, introducing the Sphere-grid system and removing the Active Time Battle system for greater accessibility. Its story, easier to follow and enhanced by realistic character models, remains beloved. The game's impact is still felt today, from its narrative to its infamous Blitzball question.

7. Silent Hill 2

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

Silent Hill 2 is a haunting experience that lingers long after playing. As a more realized vision of its predecessor, it uses the town as a manifestation of the protagonist's psyche, employing unreliable narration and multiple endings. Its horror is unforgettable, and the 2024 remake has only reinforced its legacy.

6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

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 is a brilliant, if divisive, game that constantly challenges players' perceptions. Its thematic focus on misinformation and innovative mechanics were ahead of their time. Despite initial backlash for replacing Solid Snake with Raiden, it has aged well, remaining a top stealth game.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

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 introduced by GTA 3, enhancing every aspect from story to gameplay. Its 80s-inspired narrative, memorable characters voiced by Hollywood stars, and iconic soundtrack make it a timeless classic. Vice City remains one of the best PS2 games and a gaming landmark.

4. Resident Evil 4

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 revolutionized the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and focus on action, yet retained its horror elements. Memorable enemies and the iconic phrase "what're ya buyin?" have made it a landmark in survival horror. The 2023 remake has further solidified its status.

3. Shadow of the Colossus

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 is a unique blend of puzzle and boss-fight gameplay that leaves players in awe. Its melancholic take on slaying giant monsters, combined with clever puzzles and understated storytelling, creates an unforgettable experience. The 2018 remake has only enhanced its impact.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

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 refined the series by introducing survival elements and some of the cleverest boss fights ever. Its story of honor, duty, love, and patriotism is both self-contained and integral to the series' overarching narrative. Fans eagerly await the upcoming remake, a testament to its enduring appeal.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

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 is a monumental leap in open-world gaming, featuring the expansive state of San Andreas with three cities inspired by real-world locales. Its introduction of RPG and survival elements, combined with the freedom to explore and engage in various activities, makes it a robust and memorable experience. San Andreas remains the pinnacle of the PS2 gaming experience.

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, offers access to over 300 games from PS3, PS2, original PlayStation, and PSP, in addition to the PS4 and PS5 catalog. For an updated list of available PS2 games, 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

Those are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. Which games made your list that weren't included in 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.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time