10 Best PS2 Games That Still Blow Us Away in 2024

The PlayStation 2 (PS2) remains the best-selling console of all time, with a massive library of games spanning various genres. Even though its reign ended years ago, many of its titles still hold up remarkably well today. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or looking to experience gaming history, these 10 best PS2 games offer timeless gameplay, captivating stories, and unforgettable moments.

1. Shadow of the Colossus (2005)

• Genre: Action-adventure
• Developer: Team Ico

If ever there was a game that could be described as a work of art, Shadow of the Colossus would be it. Released in 2005, this action-adventure game tells the story of Wander, a young man who embarks on a quest to defeat 16 towering colossi to save a loved one.

What sets Shadow of the Colossus apart is its minimalistic approach—there are no enemies to fight except for the colossal creatures themselves. Each colossus is a puzzle, and players must find their weak points and figure out how to bring them down. The game’s hauntingly beautiful world and emotional depth make it a truly unforgettable experience, securing its place among the best PS2 games.

2. Resident Evil 4 (2005)

• Genre: Survival horror
• Developer: Capcom

While Resident Evil 4 was originally released on the GameCube, its PS2 port became a defining game on Sony’s console. Released in 2005, this survival horror game revolutionized the Resident Evil series by shifting to a more action-oriented approach while retaining its signature tension and horror elements.

Players take on the role of Leon S. Kennedy as he searches for the U.S. President’s kidnapped daughter in a remote European village. The over-the-shoulder camera view, combined with intense combat and quick-time events, kept players on the edge of their seats. Resident Evil 4 remains one of the good PS2 games in the survival horror genre.

3. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004)

• Genre: Stealth action
• Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Japan

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater stands as one of the PS2’s greatest stealth-action games. Developed by Konami and released in 2004, the game serves as a prequel to the earlier titles in the Metal Gear series and focuses on Naked Snake’s mission to stop a nuclear threat during the Cold War.

The game’s unique blend of survival mechanics, jungle exploration, and tactical espionage set it apart from many other awesome PS2 games. Players had to manage Snake’s stamina by hunting animals for food, healing injuries, and selecting the right camouflage to blend into the environment. Add in a riveting storyline filled with political intrigue, and Snake Eater cemented itself as one of the best PS2 games in the stealth-action genre.

4. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004)

• Genre: Action-adventure
• Developer: Rockstar North

No list of the best PS2 games is complete without Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Released in 2004 by Rockstar Games, this open-world action-adventure game set a new standard for storytelling, world-building, and player freedom. Players step into the shoes of Carl “CJ” Johnson as he returns to his crime-ridden hometown to rebuild his family’s empire. GTA SA PlayStation 2 features an enormous map, spanning cities, forests, mountains, and deserts, offering endless exploration.

This game was revolutionary for its time, giving players a blend of engaging missions, an open-world sandbox, and deep customization options, such as body modification, driving skills, and personal appearance. The freedom to follow the storyline or go on random adventures made it an all-time classic, being recognized as one of the great games for PS2.

5. God of War (2005)

• Genre: Action-adventure
• Developer: Santa Monica Studio

Released in 2005 by Santa Monica Studio, God of War introduced players to Kratos, a Spartan warrior on a quest for vengeance against the gods of Olympus. This hack-and-slash action game quickly became one of the most beloved titles on the PS2, thanks to its brutal combat, epic boss battles, and mythological themes.

What made God of War stand out was its fluid combat system, which allowed players to chain together combos and wield the iconic Blades of Chaos. The story, filled with betrayal, anger, and redemption, paired with the game’s cinematic presentation, made it a must-play for any action-adventure fan and one of the cool PS2 games.

6. Kingdom Hearts (2002)

• Genre: Action Role-playing
• Developer: Square, Disney Interactive Studios

Square Enix and Disney’s unlikely collaboration resulted in Kingdom Hearts, one of the most charming and unique action RPGs ever created. Released in 2002, this game combined the world of Final Fantasy with beloved Disney characters, sending the protagonist, Sora, on a quest to stop the evil Heartless from consuming the universe’s various worlds.

Players could visit iconic Disney worlds, from Aladdin’s Agrabah to The Lion King’s Pride Lands, while teaming up with characters like Goofy and Donald Duck. The action-packed combat, engaging storyline, and nostalgic appeal of interacting with Disney heroes made Kingdom Hearts one of the best PS2 games.

7. Final Fantasy X (2001)

• Genre: Role-playing
• Developer: Square Product Development Division 1

Square Enix’s Final Fantasy X is often regarded as one of the finest RPGs not only on the PS2 but in gaming history. Released in 2001, it introduced players to the story of Tidus, Yuna, and their companions as they journey through the world of Spira to defeat a mysterious entity known as Sin.

The game introduced a more cinematic experience, with full voice acting, stunning cutscenes, and a moving storyline that touched on themes of life, death, and sacrifice. Its turn-based combat system was polished to perfection, offering a variety of strategic options. Without a doubt, Final Fantasy X is among the best PS2 games for RPG enthusiasts.

8. Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening (2005)

• Genre: Action-adventure
• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 4

The Devil May Cry series is known for its fast-paced, stylish action, and Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening is widely regarded as the best entry on the PS2. Released in 2005, the game serves as a prequel to the original Devil May Cry and follows the story of Dante as he battles demons and his brother, Vergil.

What set Devil May Cry 3 apart was its fluid and intricate combat system. Players could switch between multiple fighting styles, perform combo attacks, and wield a wide array of weapons. The game’s challenging difficulty and over-the-top action made it a favorite among hardcore gamers.

9. Gran Turismo 4 (2004)

• Genre: Car racing
• Developer: Polyphony Digital

For racing fans, Gran Turismo 4 was the definitive racing simulation experience on the PS2. Released in 2004, this game featured over 700 cars and 50 tracks, allowing players to race in highly detailed environments with incredibly realistic handling and physics.

Gran Turismo 4 was known for its attention to detail, offering a deep career mode and a range of customization options for cars. The game was as close as many players could get to driving real-world vehicles, making it one of the best PS2 games in the racing genre.

10. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy (2001)

• Genre: Platform
• Developer: Naughty Dog

Naughty Dog’s Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy was one of the standout platformers on the PS2. Released in 2001, this game combined exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat in a vibrant, open world filled with secrets.

Players control Jak as he tries to save his best friend Daxter, who has been transformed into a small, furry creature. The game’s seamless world, lack of loading screens, and varied gameplay mechanics made it a technical marvel at the time and a joy to play.

Final Words

The PS2 era truly was a golden age for gaming, and these 10 best PS2 games are just a glimpse into the console’s vast and impressive library. They offer something for everyone, from epic adventures and emotional stories to innovative gameplay and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the PS2, these games are a must-play. So power up your console (or emulator) and get ready to experience gaming history!