The PlayStation 2 (PS2), released by Sony in March 2000, is still to this day the best-selling console in the history of gaming, with over 155 million units sold. Here is a list of the best PS2 games of all time, in no particular order.
It was developed as a successor to the PlayStation, featuring backward compatibility, a built-in DVD player, and cutting-edge graphics powered by the Emotion Engine processor.
Sony designed the PS2 to be a home entertainment hub, and its impact on gaming is immeasurable, setting new industry standards in game design, storytelling, and hardware capabilities. Even today, the PS2 remains a symbol of gaming’s golden age, with many of its franchises continuing to influence modern titles.
Beyond Good & Evil
| Initial Release | November 11, 2003 |
| Developer | Ubisoft |
| Platform(s) | – PC – PlayStation 5 – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 4 – Nintendo Switch – Xbox One – PlayStation 3 – Xbox 360 – PlayStation 2 – Xbox – GameCube |
Beyond Good & Evil is an action-adventure game that follows Jade, a photojournalist uncovering a vast government conspiracy on the planet Hillys with the help of her allies, including Pey’j, her adoptive uncle.
Known for its compelling story, unique art direction, and seamless blend of stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving, Beyond Good & Evil became a cult classic despite its initial commercial struggles. Its legacy endures through its strong narrative, memorable characters, and deep themes of resistance and truth-seeking.
Anticipation for Beyond Good & Evil 2, a long-awaited prequel, keeps the franchise relevant, cementing the original as one of gaming’s most beloved underappreciated gems.
Bully
| Initial Release | October 17, 2006 |
| Developer | Rockstar Vancouver |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 – Xbox 360 – Wii – PC – Android – iOS |
Bully is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games. Set in the fictional Bullworth Academy, it follows Jimmy Hopkins, a rebellious teenager navigating school life, rival cliques, and corrupt authority figures. The game blends Rockstar’s signature sandbox gameplay with a unique setting, featuring engaging missions, pranks, and a dynamic school schedule.
- Read more: Bully Guides
Despite initial controversy over its themes, Bully became a cult classic, praised for its humor, world-building, and social satire. Its legacy endures through its influence on school-based games and ongoing fan demand for a sequel, solidifying its place as one of Rockstar’s most beloved titles.
Burnout Revenge
| Initial Release | September 13, 2005 |
| Developer | Criterion Games |
| Platform(s) | – Xbox 360 – PlayStation 2 – Xbox |
Burnout Revenge is a high-speed arcade racing game. Known for its aggressive gameplay, it introduced the “Takedown” mechanic, encouraging players to crash rivals off the road while navigating intense, traffic-packed tracks. The game also featured the “Traffic Check” system, allowing players to slam smaller vehicles into opponents, and an enhanced Crash Mode for spectacular wrecks.
Its legacy lies in its relentless speed, thrilling crashes, and refined multiplayer experience, cementing it as one of the best arcade racers of its time. While the Burnout series has been dormant for years, Burnout Revenge remains a fan favorite, influencing later racing games with its chaotic, high-impact gameplay.
Devil May Cry 3
| Initial Release | February 17, 2005 |
| Developer | Capcom |
| Platform(s) | – PC – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – Nintendo Switch – PlayStation 3 – Xbox 360 – PlayStation 2 |
Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening is a stylish action game that serves as a prequel to the series, exploring Dante’s origins and his rivalry with his brother, Vergil. It refined the franchise’s fast-paced combat with the introduction of selectable combat styles, allowing players to customize their playstyle with moves like Trickster’s agility or Swordmaster’s devastating melee attacks. The game is praised for its deep combat system, challenging difficulty, and cinematic storytelling.
Its legacy is immense—Devil May Cry 3 is widely regarded as one of the greatest action games of all time, setting a new standard for the genre. Its influence can be seen in later DMC titles and other stylish action games, while Vergil’s popularity led to his recurring presence in the series. The game’s Special Edition further cemented its status by making Vergil a playable character, ensuring its lasting impact among fans.
Final Fantasy X
| Initial Release | July 19, 2001 |
| Developer | Square Enix |
| Platform(s) | – PC – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – Nintendo Switch – PlayStation 3 – PlayStation Vita – PlayStation 2 |
Final Fantasy X is a landmark entry in the popular JRPG series, introducing full voice acting, stunning pre-rendered cutscenes, and a deep, emotional narrative. The game follows Tidus, a young blitzball player who finds himself in the world of Spira, joining summoner Yuna on her pilgrimage to defeat the monstrous Sin. With a refined turn-based battle system and the innovative Sphere Grid for character progression, Final Fantasy X balanced strategy with accessibility.
Its legacy is profound—Final Fantasy X is one of the best-selling and most beloved entries in the series, praised for its story, world-building, and memorable characters. It marked the franchise’s transition to the PlayStation 2 era with cutting-edge visuals and storytelling techniques. The game’s impact led to a direct sequel, Final Fantasy X-2, and multiple remasters, ensuring its continued influence and appeal across generations.
God of War
| Initial Release | March 22, 2005 |
| Developer | Santa Monica Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
God of War redefined action-adventure gaming with its brutal combat, cinematic storytelling, and epic mythological setting.
Following Kratos, a vengeful Spartan warrior, the game blends hack-and-slash gameplay with puzzle-solving and platforming, all set against the backdrop of Greek mythology. Its fluid combat, featuring the iconic Blades of Chaos, and its engaging Quick Time Events (QTEs) set a new standard for the genre.
The game’s legacy is monumental, spawning a blockbuster franchise that evolved over multiple sequels and reboots. God of War established Sony Santa Monica as a premier developer and influenced countless action games with its combat mechanics and cinematic presentation.
The series’ 2018 soft reboot introduced a deeper narrative and Norse mythology, proving the franchise’s lasting relevance and impact on the gaming industry.
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
| Initial Release | October 29, 2002 |
| Developer | Rockstar North |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Mac – Xbox – PlayStation 2 – iOS – Android – Fire OS |
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City is an open-world action game that transports players to a vibrant, neon-soaked 1980s-inspired city. Heavily influenced by Scarface and Miami Vice, the game follows Tommy Vercetti’s rise to power in the criminal underworld. With a vast open world, engaging missions, and an unforgettable ’80s soundtrack, Vice City refined the sandbox experience introduced in GTA III, adding improved vehicle mechanics, property ownership, and a more immersive atmosphere.
- Read more: Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Guides
Its legacy is immense, solidifying Rockstar Games as industry leaders in open-world design. The game’s cultural impact is still felt today, inspiring later entries in the series and influencing countless open-world titles. Fans continue to celebrate Vice City for its style, storytelling, and nostalgia-fueled setting, making it one of the most beloved GTA games of all time.
Jak II
| Initial Release | October 14, 2003 |
| Developer | Naughty Dog |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Jak II is a bold departure from its predecessor, transforming the lighthearted platforming of Jak and Daxter into a darker, story-driven open-world experience. Set in the dystopian Haven City, the game follows Jak, now infused with Dark Eco powers, as he seeks revenge against Baron Praxis. The addition of firearms, hoverboard traversal, and a mission-based structure akin to Grand Theft Auto made Jak II a standout title on the PlayStation 2.
- Read more: Jak II Guides
Its legacy is significant, showcasing Naughty Dog’s ability to evolve its franchises and push the boundaries of storytelling in platformers. The game’s mature themes, voice acting, and refined mechanics influenced later Naughty Dog titles like Uncharted and The Last of Us. Despite its difficulty, Jak II remains a cult favorite, remembered for its ambitious shift in tone and gameplay.
Kingdom Hearts II
| Initial Release | December 22, 2005 |
| Developer | Square Enix |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Kingdom Hearts II is the critically acclaimed sequel to Square Enix and Disney’s crossover action RPG. Expanding on the original, it refines combat with the fast-paced Drive Form system, reaction commands, and a deeper narrative that explores Sora’s journey to stop Organization XIII. The game masterfully blends Disney and Final Fantasy worlds, featuring fan-favorite locations like Tron’s Space Paranoids and Pirates of the Caribbean’s Port Royal.
Its legacy endures as one of the greatest action RPGs of all time, praised for its emotional storytelling, cinematic presentation, and refined gameplay. Kingdom Hearts II solidified the franchise’s popularity, influencing later action RPGs with its fluid combat and seamless blend of universes. It remains a high point in the series, beloved by fans for its depth, polish, and unforgettable moments.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
| Initial Release | November 17, 2004 |
| Developer | Konami |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 – Nintendo 3DS |
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is a stealth-action masterpiece set during the Cold War. The game serves as a prequel, following Naked Snake’s mission to eliminate his mentor, The Boss. It introduced survival mechanics, camouflage systems, and a rich jungle environment that revolutionized stealth gameplay. The story, filled with espionage, betrayal, and emotional depth, is widely regarded as one of the greatest in gaming history.
Its legacy is immense, influencing the stealth genre and solidifying Metal Gear Solid as one of gaming’s most revered franchises. The game’s cinematic storytelling, complex themes, and innovative mechanics continue to inspire developers, while Naked Snake’s journey remains one of the most compelling character arcs in video game history.
Ōkami
| Initial Release | April 20, 2006 |
| Developer | Clover Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 – Wii |
Ōkami is a visually stunning action-adventure game inspired by Japanese mythology, the game follows Amaterasu, the sun goddess in the form of a white wolf, on a quest to restore life and beauty to a cursed land. With its breathtaking sumi-e (ink wash) art style and unique Celestial Brush mechanic, Ōkami delivered a one-of-a-kind experience that blended action, puzzle-solving, and storytelling seamlessly.
Despite initially being a commercial underperformer, Ōkami has since gained cult classic status, with multiple re-releases across platforms. Its legacy is felt in its artistic influence on later games and its impact on narrative-driven adventure titles. Fans and critics continue to celebrate its timeless beauty, innovative mechanics, and heartfelt story, making it one of the most beloved games of all time.
Psychonauts
| Initial Release | April 19, 2005 |
| Developer | Double Fine Productions |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Mac – Linux – PlayStation 2 – Xbox |
Psychonauts is a cult-classic platformer that follows Razputin “Raz” Aquato, a young psychic who runs away to a summer camp for psychic children, only to uncover a sinister plot. Featuring imaginative level design set within the minds of various characters, Psychonauts blends humor, emotional storytelling, and creative gameplay in a way that few platformers had before.
Though it struggled commercially at launch, Psychonauts developed a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim over the years, leading to its status as a beloved cult hit. Its legacy was further cemented with the long-awaited sequel, Psychonauts 2 (2021), which built upon the original’s strengths while introducing modern refinements. The series remains a standout example of creative storytelling, quirky humor, and innovative level design in gaming.
Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
| Initial Release | November 2, 2004 |
| Developer | Insomniac Games |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal is the third entry in Insomniac Games’ beloved action-platformer series.
Building on the success of its predecessors, the game introduced a refined combat system, an expanded arsenal of over-the-top weapons, and an engaging storyline featuring the return of fan-favorite villain Dr. Nefarious. It also marked the series’ first foray into online multiplayer, a significant addition at the time.
- Read more: Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal Guides
The game is widely regarded as one of the best in the franchise, setting a high standard for future entries with its perfect blend of humor, platforming, and explosive action. Its influence can be seen in later Ratchet & Clank titles, particularly in its emphasis on creative weaponry and fast-paced combat. Even years after its release, Up Your Arsenal remains a standout entry in one of PlayStation’s most iconic franchises.
Resident Evil 4
| Initial Release | January 11, 2005 |
| Developer | Capcom |
| Platform(s) | – Nintendo Switch – PlayStation 4 – Xbox One – PlayStation 3 – Wii – Xbox 360 – PlayStation 2 – GameCube |
Resident Evil 4 revolutionized the survival horror genre by introducing an over-the-shoulder camera, precision aiming, and intense action-packed gameplay. The game follows Leon S. Kennedy on a mission to rescue the U.S. president’s daughter from a sinister cult in a rural European village. It masterfully balanced horror and action, setting a new standard for third-person shooters.
Its legacy is immense—many modern action games, from Gears of War to The Last of Us, owe a debt to its gameplay innovations. Resident Evil 4 has been ported to numerous platforms, remastered multiple times, and received a full remake in 2023, further cementing its place as one of the greatest and most influential video games of all time.
Shadow of the Colossus
| Initial Release | October 18, 2005 |
| Developer | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Shadow of the Colossus is a game that offers minimalist storytelling and atmospheric design. It follows Wander, a lone warrior on a quest to revive a girl named Mono by slaying sixteen towering colossi in a vast, desolate landscape. With its hauntingly beautiful world, emotional depth, and breathtaking boss battles, Shadow of the Colossus redefined what video games could achieve as an art form.
Its legacy is profound, influencing countless developers and games, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Elden Ring. The game received a well-received PS3 remaster and a full remake on PS4, ensuring its impact continues for future generations. It remains a landmark title in gaming history, praised for its emotional storytelling, innovative design, and lasting artistic influence.
Silent Hill 2
| Initial Release | September 25, 2001 |
| Developer | Team Silent |
| Platform(s) | – PC – PlayStation 2 – Xbox |
Silent Hill 2 is a psychological horror game that set new standards for storytelling, atmosphere, and emotional depth in video games. It follows James Sunderland as he searches for his deceased wife in the fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill. Unlike traditional horror games, Silent Hill 2 focuses on psychological terror, exploring themes of guilt, grief, and inner demons. Its nightmarish creatures—most notably Pyramid Head—symbolize James’ own trauma, making it one of the most thematically rich horror games ever made.
Its legacy is immense, influencing not just horror games like The Last of Us and Resident Evil Village, but also broader gaming narratives that embrace ambiguity and psychological depth. The game is still regarded as one of the greatest horror experiences of all time, with its storytelling, music, and symbolism studied and dissected by fans and critics alike. A full remake is currently in development, further cementing its lasting impact on the horror genre.
Sly 2: Band of Thieves
| Initial Release | September 14, 2004 |
| Developer | Sucker Punch Productions |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Sly 2: Band of Thieves built upon the foundation of the original by transforming the series into a more open-ended stealth-action experience. The game follows Sly and his gang—Bentley and Murray—as they travel across the globe to dismantle the Klaww Gang and recover the scattered remains of Clockwerk.
Unlike its predecessor, Band of Thieves introduced multi-character gameplay, allowing players to take control of Bentley and Murray, each with unique abilities that added variety and strategy to heists. The game also refined its stealth mechanics, replacing the linear structure of the first game with larger, more dynamic hub worlds.
SSX Tricky
| Initial Release | November 6, 2001 |
| Developer | EA Canada |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 – Xbox – GameCube – Game Boy Advance |
SSX Tricky is a high-energy, over-the-top snowboarding game. A refined version of the original SSX, it introduced a more vibrant personality with its colorful cast of riders, exaggerated trick system, and iconic “Uber Tricks” that pushed the arcade-style gameplay to new heights. The game’s soundtrack, featuring Run-D.M.C.’s “It’s Tricky,” perfectly matched its high-intensity action, while its dynamic courses and rival system added layers of replayability.
- Read more: SSX Tricky Guides
The legacy of SSX Tricky is undeniable, as it remains one of the most beloved extreme sports games ever made. Its influence can be seen in later SSX titles, and its fun-first approach helped cement the series as a fan favorite. Even decades later, SSX Tricky is fondly remembered for its bold style, smooth gameplay, and exhilarating sense of speed, keeping fans hopeful for a true revival of the franchise.
Tony Hawk’s Underground
| Initial Release | October 27, 2003 |
| Developer | Neversoft |
| Platform(s) | – PC – PlayStation 2 – Xbox – GameCube – Game Boy Advance – Mobile |
Tony Hawk’s Underground (THUG) revolutionized the skateboarding video game genre by introducing a story-driven campaign, a first for the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series. Players created their own custom skater and embarked on a journey from a local amateur to a global skateboarding icon, adding a fresh sense of personal progression. The game introduced mechanics like walking, climbing, and driving vehicles, making levels more interactive and expanding creative possibilities.
- Read more: Tony Hawk’s Underground Guides
Its legacy remains strong, as THUG is often hailed as one of the best entries in the series, praised for its deep customization, engaging narrative, and innovative gameplay changes. It helped push extreme sports games beyond simple score-chasing, influencing later titles within and beyond the Tony Hawk franchise. Even today, fans consider THUG a landmark moment in skateboarding games, longing for a proper remaster or modern revival.
If you enjoyed this article, check out our list of the best PS1 games of all time.