Top PS2 Games: All-Time Favorites

As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, it's the perfect time to reflect on the games that defined an era. From groundbreaking PS2 exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbusters like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the console boasted an impressive library. We've curated a list of 25 PS2 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and culture during their time but also continue to captivate players today.

So, without further ado, here is IGN's selection of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

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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 stands out as the pinnacle of the series, capturing the essence of rock and metal with an impeccable selection of tracks. Before the music game genre became saturated, Harmonix curated a collection that included iconic bands like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and The Rolling Stones, offering players a truly rocking experience.

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 exemplifies the series' unique blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and witty storytelling. With engaging worlds to explore and the ability to play as Sly's diverse crew, this game delivers an unforgettable experience that stands out among Sony's first-party titles.

23. ICO

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

ICO transforms the typically dreaded escort mission into a profound journey of connection and discovery. Through minimalist storytelling and intricate puzzles, it showcases the power of video game narratives, making it a timeless classic.

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 redefines arcade basketball with its flashy visuals and easy-to-learn gameplay, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. With a diverse lineup of street and NBA legends, the game offers endless entertainment and competitive fun.

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 the original's formula with refined combat mechanics and deeper storytelling. Its seamless integration of Disney and Final Fantasy elements creates an enchanting experience that remains beloved by fans.

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 the beloved series with a fun, campy story and extensive customization options. Its vast soundtrack and innovative features make it a standout title in the skateboarding genre.

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 landmark in the tactical RPG genre with its intricate combat system and quirky humor. Despite its grind, the game's depth and charm make it a classic worth revisiting.

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 new gadgets, mini-games, and one of the most ambitious online modes of its time. Its blend of humor and action makes it a standout in the 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 is a unique blend of action and exploration, set in a world filled with intriguing characters and secrets. Its charm and depth have earned it a dedicated fanbase eagerly awaiting a sequel.

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 exhilarating racing action with its emphasis on speed and destruction. Its crash mode, a series highlight, remains unmatched in its thrilling execution.

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 story with psychic powers in a beautifully crafted adventure. Its inventive levels and memorable moments have cemented its status as a beloved classic.

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: Dante's Awakening is a landmark in action gaming, offering challenging combat and a captivating story. Its high skill ceiling and creative gameplay continue to inspire players and developers alike.

13. Katamari Damacy

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

Katamari Damacy is a whimsical masterpiece that combines simple mechanics with absurdly creative scenarios. Its infectious optimism and engaging gameplay have made it a timeless favorite.

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 in the gritty Haven City. Its compelling story and dynamic characters make it the best 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 fresh take on the school setting, blending satire with a coming-of-age story. Its streamlined progression and satisfying combat set a new standard for Rockstar's future titles.

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 stunning boss fights and a mix of combat, puzzles, and platforming. Its compelling narrative laid the foundation for one of the greatest action game series.

9. Okami

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

Okami is a stunning artistic achievement with its painterly visuals and divine celestial brush mechanics. Its engaging story and creative gameplay make it a must-play on any platform.

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 cutscenes. Its accessible gameplay and compelling narrative continue to resonate with players.

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 masterclass in psychological horror, blending the mundane with the terrifying. Its narrative depth and lasting impact make it a standout in the genre.

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 is a groundbreaking game that explores themes of misinformation through innovative gameplay and storytelling. Its impact on the stealth genre is undeniable.

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 immersive story, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. It remains a benchmark in gaming.

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 transformed the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its memorable enemies and iconic phrases continue to captivate audiences.

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 an emotionally resonant journey that blends puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its melancholic tone and innovative design make it a timeless masterpiece.

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 considered the best in the series, with its survival elements and compelling story. Its impact on the franchise's narrative and gameplay is profound.

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 is the ultimate open-world experience, offering a vast, vibrant world with deep RPG elements. Its groundbreaking gameplay and memorable narrative make it the pinnacle of the PS2 era.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5, but PlayStation Plus Premium members can stream a selection of PS2 games. The Premium membership, priced at $17.99 per month, provides access to over 300 games across multiple PlayStation generations. For the latest list of available titles, check out our IGN Playlist page.

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 SoftwareThose 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.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time