Calling All Retro Gamers
If you were around for the heyday of the PlayStation 2, then odds are you still have plenty of fond memories of the games on offer. Many of these games have gotten sequels and remakes in modern days, but nothing quite beats the original. With that in mind, here are 20 stellar PlayStation 2 games we can’t wait to replay.
1. God of War
A 2005 action-adventure game that won over the hearts of many players back in the day. You play as Kratos, an ex-Spartan warrior who embarks on a quest to destroy Ares, the God of War. While there have been newer versions and updates to this franchise, people are still playing the PS2 version to this day.
2. Resident Evil 4
If you love survival horror games, you likely remember Resident Evil 4. This extremely successful game has you play as the protagonist, Leon S. Kennedy, in a third-person horror setting. With so many hidden things within the game and no lack of replay potential, there’s no wonder why players keep this game disc close.
3. Need for Speed
The Need for Speed games are considered to be the foundation of racing games by many. With many games in the franchise, this racing game is incredibly impressive with peak performance, an open world to explore, and impressive graphics for that time. One of the most favorite ones, according to many fans, is Underground 2.
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4. Devil May Cry 3
Devil May Cry 3 is an incredibly thrilling game that will make it really hard for you to put the controller down. With the third game of the franchise being considered the best in the series, it’s no wonder that the game holds up today. From the story, level design, boss fights, mechanics, and much more, DMC 3 will keep being played for years to come.
5. Silent Hill 2
After receiving a letter from his late wife, James Sunderland journeys to the town of Silent Hill. If you remember this introduction, you are well aware of why Silent Hill 2 is one of the best games for the PlayStation 2. It brings a perfect combination of video games and creepy film ambiance.
6. Grand Theft Auto
Grand Theft Auto is one of the most famous franchises of games in the world. The PlayStation 2 era brought so much popularity to these games that they have had five titles released on the same console. GTA III, Vice City, San Andreas, Liberty City Stories, and Vice City Stories are all of the GTA games that have been released on the PS2, and they are still being played today.
7. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
This 2001 action-adventure stealth game has had huge success that transcended its time. From great graphics, an amazing story, and many puzzles, it’s considered to be one of the best tactical games of its time. Many players have recently returned to this game due to its incredible quality and replay value.
8. Shadow of the Colossus
Shadow of the Colossus is a masterpiece when it comes to video games. It takes place in a fantasy setting and follows Wander, our main character, who enters an abandoned and isolated realm in pursuit of power to revive a girl named Mono. From stunning graphics, captivating ambiance, a huge world to explore, and a rich story, there is no wonder this game holds up today.
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9. Ace Combat
The Ace Combat games were the best of the best when it came to combat flight simulation games back in the day. With thrilling gameplay and excitement, accurate real-life military aircraft, and epic soundtracks, this fast-paced game is here to stay. Even though there have been many new releases in the franchise, the PS2 ones are still staying strong.
10. Burnout 3: Takedown
An incredibly addictive game with great visuals, Burnout 3: Takedown is one of the most widely praised games by players. With many people saying that after years of playing other games, they still prefer to come back to Burnout 3, it explains why this game has a place on the list. While it doesn’t really promote safe driving, it’s undeniably fun to drive at maximum speed in this game.
11. NBA Street Vol 2
One of the best basketball video games ever developed, NBA Street Vol 2 is a super fun and exciting game that brings joy to anyone who picks up the controller. From choosing your favorite NBA player, to dunking and doing tricks while shooting hoops, there’s no lack of excitement and creativity in this game. This game is still amazing even with the realistic graphics of newer games and holds a place as one of the games that will never go out of style.
12. SSX Tricky
Described by many as one of the best arcade sports games ever made, this snowboarding game stays strong decades after its release. Great graphics, amazing soundtracks, cool gameplay, and excellent replay value are just a few things this game has to offer. If you’re one of those players that remember all the little shortcuts on the race tracks, you know how satisfying it is to win by a landslide.
13. Def Jam Vendetta
Def Jam Vendetta is a wrestling fighting game that is an absolute blast to play. With wacky characters and their over-the-top moves, there’s no lack of fun found in this game. The soundtracks are definitely going to make you feel the rhythm as you’re wrestling in the ring.
14. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
A very well-known game, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is many players' favorite game of all time. It’s challenging and fun, with amazing graphics, beautiful music, and stunning ambiance. While there are other games in the franchise for the PS2 and other consoles, this one stood the test of time.
15. Soulcalibur II
One of the greatest 3D fighter games that provides non-stop action and excitement, Soulcalibur II is a game worth playing. With lots of playable characters and fun combos to do, you’re sure to find your favorite fighter. Those who played this game long enough know how fun it is to battle different opponents and try your best to line up a combo.
16. Tales of Symphonia
Tales of Symphonia follows the adventures of Lloyd Irving. It’s an action role-playing game where he and his friends work to help Colette Brunel regenerate the world. The game is amazing and a fan favorite amongst classic RPG fans who are looking for a nice and chill game with fun and interesting side quests and character dialogues.
17. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is a hack-and-slash game for the PlayStation 2 that has had many LOTR fans spend hours and days playing. The game is full of intense fights and large-scale action that is sure to keep you entertained and engaged for a long time. Whether you are a fan of The Lord of the Rings or not, this game will surely make you want to play more.
18. Ōkami
This action-adventure game has won over so many people’s hearts with its amazing art and music. You play as a powerful Japanese god named Amaterasu, who takes the form of a wolf, also known as Ōkami in Japanese. The game is full of exciting and beautiful scenery and has an incredibly rich story and replay value.
19. Ico
Ico is a game that brings a creative and engaging gameplay experience. The puzzles within the game are incredibly captivating, and the game has been described as a masterpiece of its time. Who doesn’t like the classic boy rescuing the princess trapped in a castle story?
20. Tekken 5
Being the fifth game in the Tekken franchise, Tekken 5 did not slow down by any means. Bringing exciting fighting mechanics, incredibly interesting characters, and a fun and captivating story, this game is one of the greatest PlayStation 2 games. Whether you play it single-player or with friends, you won’t be disappointed.
