Best PS2 Games The PlayStation 2 (PS2) remains one of the most beloved and influential gaming consoles ever created. Produced in 2000, this baby took the world by storm with a games library that covered an astounding array of genres, from thrilling action to colourful RPGs. With more than 150 million units moved and untold hours of gaming history made, the PS2 is still nestled warmly in the hearts of players. But there are so many great games to pick from, so which ones are the best PlayStation 2 games of all time?
This post will examine some of the best PS2 games and explain why they impressed the gaming community. Whether revisiting your childhood favourite or discovering it for the first time, there’s something here for everyone.
Why the PS2 Holds a Special Place in Gaming History
The PS2 was not only a massive advancement in technology, but it also came with the highest calibre of games ever released. It was a platform for many different types of games, and its franchises were some of the all-time greats that would carry on through multiple generations. And so in went blockbusters like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Final Fantasy X, and Metal Gear Solid 2, which all helped redefine tale-telling, gameplay, and graphics when they were brand-new.
The Best PS2 Games: A Closer Look at the Icons
Let’s explore some of the best PS2 games that left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Here’s a list of the very best new ones you should try.
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Genre: Open-world, Action-Adventure
Release Year: 2004
Why It’s Great:
- Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is considered the best entry in the GTA series. It features a vast, open world with an almost endless amount of things to do.
- The game combines storytelling with addictive gameplay, setting a new standard for freedom and immersion in gaming.
2. Final Fantasy X
Genre: RPG
Release Year: 2001
Why It’s Great:
- Final Fantasy X was the first Final Fantasy with voice acting and an engaging story about love, loss, and heroism.
- The game’s turn-based battle system and beautiful world-building captivated RPG fans for years.
3. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Genre: Stealth, Action
Release Year: 2001
Why It’s Great:
- A work of gaming genius, MGS2 turned the action genre on its head with its complex storyline, cutting-edge graphics and realistic stealth action.
- Due to its complex narrative and impressive gameplay, the game continues to be regarded as one of the greatest video games ever.
4. Shadow of the Colossus
Genre: Action-Adventure
Release Year: 2005
Why It’s Great:
- Shadow of the Colossus is an awe-inspiring endeavour as players combat colossal beasts in a desolately beautiful world.
- The minimalistic design and emotional storytelling set it apart from traditional action-adventure games.
5. Kingdom Hearts
Genre: Action RPG
Release Year: 2002
Why It’s Great:
- Kingdom Hearts brought Disney and Final Fantasy characters together in an unforgettable journey across multiple worlds.
- Its unique blend of action, exploration, and heartfelt storytelling made it a fan favourite.
6. God of War II
Genre: Action, Hack and Slash
Release Year: 2007
Why It’s Great:
- God of War II expanded the original with epic battles, a compelling narrative, and state-of-the-art visuals.
- The title’s no-holds-barred combat and compelling mythology continue to cast long shadows over today’s action games.
7. Gran Turismo 4
Genre: Racing
Release Year: 2004
Why It’s Great:
- Gran Turismo 4 is the world’s most widely known realistic racer, including many cars and tracks.