Top PS2 Games: All-Time Greats

As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, it's clear that this console was a game-changer in the world of gaming. The PS2's library is filled with iconic titles that not only pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a gaming system but also left a lasting cultural impact. From groundbreaking exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, the challenge was to curate a list of the 25 best PS2 games. These selections are not only nostalgic but continue to captivate players with their innovative gameplay and storytelling.

Here is IGN's definitive 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:

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 unparalleled selection of tracks. At its core, the game focused on delivering "bitchin' rock/metal tracks" that were fun to play on a plastic guitar, without veering into karaoke territory. With a soundtrack featuring legends like Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, and Iron Maiden, Guitar Hero 2 rocked harder than ever before, especially notable as it was the last rhythm-action game before the genre exploded with commercial interest.

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 is a testament to the series' unique blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and humor. This installment stands out with its engaging story, diverse worlds to explore, and the ability to control Sly's entire crew, including the powerhouse Murray and the tech-savvy Bentley. With thrilling stealth mechanics at its core, Sly 2 offers a distinctive experience that was unmatched in Sony's first-party lineup at the time.

23. ICO

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

ICO masterfully transforms the typically dreaded escort mission into an exceptional gaming experience. The game's success lies in its intricate puzzles and the deep, non-verbal bond between its protagonists as they navigate the labyrinthine castle. ICO remains a prime example of minimalist storytelling and how video games can uniquely convey narratives.

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 epitomizes arcade-style basketball with its visually stunning and accessible game breakers. It appeals to both casual and hardcore fans with its superb ball handling and an all-star lineup. The game's multiple modes and unlockable legends make it a thrilling loop of crossovers and slam dunks, perfect for competitive play with friends.

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 significantly improves upon its predecessor, offering enhanced combat with a mix of magic, the iconic Keyblade, and different forms for Sora. While best experienced after the first game, KH2 delves deeper into the series' mythology, enriching the characters and world design. It's a testament to why fans of Disney, Final Fantasy, and unique fashion have embraced the Kingdom Hearts series.

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 builds on the series' strengths, offering a fun and campy story, an extensive soundtrack with over 70 licensed tracks, and deep customization options for skaters, parks, and tricks. Despite mixed reactions to its narrative and humor, THUG remains a standout entry in the Pro Skater 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: Hour of Darkness remains an iconic PS2 game, known for its tactical battles on isometric maps and a diverse roster of characters. Despite its grind, the game's gothic themes, comedic elements, and intricate combat system make it a timeless classic, perfect for 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 expands the beloved series with an array of new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. The game's humor and inventive weapons, like the Suck Cannon, offer a fun and engaging experience that showcases the series' charm and creativity.

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 blend of action, exploration, and a unique world filled with quirky characters and secrets. Its charm and depth have kept fans eagerly awaiting a sequel, cementing its place as a PS2 classic.

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, whether racing through streets or causing mayhem in crash mode. As the last Burnout game to feature crash mode, it remains a thrilling experience that has yet to be replicated.

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 secret agents, offering challenging action and hilarious moments. Its unique levels and memorable designs have made it a beloved classic, now expanded with a sequel 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 seminal action game, known for its challenging yet rewarding combat and a compelling story about familial bonds. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system set a new standard for the genre.

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 mechanic of rolling up everything in sight. Its optimism and silliness have endeared it to 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 while retaining its charm and platforming roots. The transition to Haven City adds intrigue and depth, making it the 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 fresh take on school life, blending satire with a coming-of-age story. Its streamlined progression and satisfying combat system set new standards for Rockstar's 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 combines stunning visuals, intense combat, and a gripping story about an angry protagonist. It laid the groundwork for one of the greatest action game series ever.

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's unique concept of a god-wolf using a celestial brush to paint the world is both beautiful and innovative. Its artistic style, engaging story, and creative puzzles make it a must-play classic.

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 realistic character models. Its compelling story and iconic moments, like the debate over Blitzball, continue to resonate with fans.

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 haunting masterpiece that explores psychological horror through its protagonist's journey. Its unsettling atmosphere and multiple endings make it a timeless horror classic, with a remake released in 2024.

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 narrative and mechanics. Its themes of misinformation and stealth gameplay have aged well, making it a standout title in the series.

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

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 engaging story, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. It remains a defining game of the PS2 era and a benchmark for the genre.

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 transformed the series with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-focused gameplay. Its eerie atmosphere and iconic moments, like the "what're ya buyin'?" phrase, have kept it popular, especially with the recent remake.

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 is an emotional journey disguised as a boss-fight game. Its melancholic tone, clever puzzles, and stunning visuals make it a timeless masterpiece, 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 often considered the best in the series, with its survival elements, innovative gameplay, and complex narrative about honor and duty. The anticipation for its upcoming remake speaks to its enduring legacy.

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 on the PS2. Its expansive world, RPG elements, and engaging story make it one of the most memorable games of its time, and a testament to the console's legacy.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

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