PlayStation Picks: 15 Best PS2 Games That Still Hold Up Today

Step back in time with the PlayStation 2 and discover the timeless classics that continue to captivate gamers today. With its iconic selection of video games, the PlayStation 2 has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry.

From action-packed adventures to thought-provoking narratives, these must-play classics showcase the enduring quality that makes them just as enjoyable now as they were when they were first released.

The Table of Contents

Lets Go over the Best PS2 Games of all Time

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

The hallmark of "Grand Theft Auto" is its dynamic open world, where you can explore vast, detailed environments that mimic real-world cities. Whether cruising through the neon-lit streets of Los Santos or traversing the gritty back alleys of Liberty City, players are free to engage in a plethora of activities. From thrilling car chases to heists and side missions, the game encourages exploration and experimentation, allowing you to create your own unique experiences.

Immersive Storylines and Complex Characters

Each installment of the series presents a unique protagonist navigating their way through the criminal underworld. From the journey of a small-time thief to becoming a mafia kingpin, these stories often include themes of ambition, betrayal, and the pursuit of power.

In "Grand Theft Auto IV," you take on the role of Niko Bellic, who is searching for a better life in Liberty City. Similarly, in "Grand Theft Auto V," you become Franklin Clinton, who aims to move beyond a life of minor crimes to achieve something more significant. The series has been praised for its ability to create compelling, relatable characters caught in morally complex situations.

Critique of Society

Beyond its entertainment value, "Grand Theft Auto" is a sharp critique of modern society, addressing issues such as crime, corruption, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Its humorous style often points out the strange parts of life. This encourages you to think about the effects of your choices in the game's world.

A Cultural Phenomenon

"Grand Theft Auto" series continues to push boundaries, exploring deeper narratives and more expansive worlds with each new release.

2. Shadow of the Colossus

"Shadow of the Colossus" is a fantastic game that transports you to a vast and desolate landscape filled with breathtaking environments and monumental, colossal beings. The game expands on themes of sacrifice, isolation, and the pursuit of love, inviting you to embark on an emotional journey that lingers long after the final battle.

The Story of Wander

You assume the role of Wander, a young warrior who ventures into a forbidden land in search of a way to resurrect a girl named Mono, who has mysteriously died. Guided by a mysterious entity known as Dormin, Wander learns that the only way to bring Mono back to life is to defeat the sixteen colossal beings that roam the land.

Epic Battles Against the Colossal Beings

The game's gameplay primarily revolves around these epic encounters. To defeat the Colossal Giants, you’ll need a good strategy of fighting skills and a strong understanding of how the Giants move and where each Giants weakness is.

The battles are not only physically demanding but also emotionally charged, as each victory comes at a cost. With every colossal being defeated, Wander slowly realizes the implications of his actions, raising questions about morality and the price of his love.

Themes of Sacrifice and Consequence

At its core, "Shadow of the Colossus" delves into profound themes of sacrifice, love, and the consequences of one's actions. Wander's desperate pursuit to revive Mono drives him to confront the colossal beings, challenging you to reflect on the nature of his quest. As he battles each guardian, the game poses ethical dilemmas, prompting you to contemplate the morality of his actions and their impact on the world around him.

3. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

The third installment of the Metal Gear Solid series, "Snake Eater," is set during the Cold War and follows the story of Naked Snake, later known as Big Boss. The game perfectly captures the tense atmosphere of espionage, with intricate plots and political intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The Story of Naked Snake

You assume the role of Naked Snake, who is sent on a dangerous mission to rescue a defecting scientist, and recover a powerful weapon known as the "Philosopher's Legacy,".  You must also confront your former mentor, The Boss.  

During gameplay snake moves through the dangerous jungles of the Soviet Union, he encounters hostile soldiers and the serious threats from The Boss. She has teamed up with a powerful group called the Cobra Unit, where each member has special skills and powers.

The Gameplay

"Snake Eater" is renowned for its deep stealth-based gameplay, where you must use a variety of tactics to remain undetected. Players can use camouflage, the environment, and different gadgets to stay hidden from enemy patrols and complete their objectives.

The Story

The characters are richly developed, with The Boss serving as a tragic yet pivotal figure whose complex motivations challenge Snake's ideals. Their relationship has strong feelings and includes ideas of loyalty, sacrifice, and betrayal. As the story progresses, yous become involved in a world of spying. It looks at how war affects people and politics, making "Snake Eater" a deep reflection on the nature of conflict.

4. Final Fantasy X

"Final Fantasy X" marked a significant evolution in the role-playing game genre, introducing voice acting and full 3D environments that allowed for more expressive storytelling and immersive world-building. This leap in technology set a new standard for RPGs, captivating players with its rich narrative and breathtaking visuals.  Making Final Fantasy X one of the best ps2 rpgs that you can play.

The Tale of Tidus and Yuna

The story follows Tidus, a star blitzball player who finds himself mysteriously transported from his vibrant world of Zanarkand to the fantastical land of Spira. Here, he meets Yuna, a kind-hearted summoner on a quest to defeat a colossal creature known as Sin, which has plagued their world for generations. As Tidus joins Yuna on her pilgrimage, he quickly learns that Sin is not just a monster to be vanquished; it is also tied intricately to the lives of the people in Spira, including his own fate.

A Journey of Emotion and Sacrifice

As Tidus travels alongside Yuna and her guardians—Wakka, Lulu, Kimahri, and the enigmatic Auron—players witness a profound exploration of themes such as love, loss, and sacrifice. Each character has their own struggles and secrets. These elements play a role in the main story and connect their destinies. Tidus struggles with his feelings for Yuna and his desire to understand his place in this new world, especially as the truth about Sin's nature and his connection to it slowly unravels.

Exploring Themes of Faith and Destiny

The pilgrimage is not just a physical journey but also an emotional and philosophical one. Yuna's path reflects the traditional practices of her religion, where summoners are revered for their ability to call upon powerful Aeons to fight Sin.

However, as the group encounters revelations about the cycle of suffering caused by Sin and the role of the church in perpetuating it, they begin to question the very tenets of their faith. This inner conflict makes the story more interesting. It encourages you to think about difficult questions related to fate and free will.

5. Kingdom Hearts

Combining the whimsical worlds of Disney with the rich storytelling of Square Enix, "Kingdom Hearts" introduces players to a unique action RPG experience. This collaboration brings together beloved Disney characters and iconic elements from the Final Fantasy series, creating a nostalgic yet fresh adventure that captivates players of all ages.

Adventures of Sora, Donald, and Goofy

In "Kingdom Hearts," you embark on the adventures of Sora, a cheerful young boy wielding a magical weapon known as the Keyblade. Joined by iconic Disney characters Donald Duck and Goofy, the trio journeys across various Disney-themed worlds to combat the darkness threatening to engulf them. Each world has familiar characters and places that create a feeling of nostalgia.

A Blend of Humor and Heart

The game brilliantly balances happy moments with deeper themes of friendship and courage. As Sora and his friends meet different Disney villains and allies, they build relationships that emphasize the value of friendship and perseverance.

The gameplay features an innovative combat system that blends real-time action with RPG mechanics, allowing you to execute combos, cast spells, and summon allies.

6. God of War

The Hack-and-Slash Genre be Born

"God of War" is a visceral, hack-and-slash action-adventure game that thrusts you into the tumultuous life of Kratos, a Spartan warrior on a relentless quest for vengeance against Ares, the God of War. The game delivers intense combat sequences, epic battles, and an immersive storyline.

Kratos' Tragic Past

Central to the narrative is Kratos' tragic backstory, which shapes his brutal persona. Once a celebrated warrior in service to the Greek gods, Kratos is haunted by his past, marked by the horrific choices he made while driven by a blind rage. In a fateful battle, he was tricked by Ares into slaughtering his own wife and child, a trauma that forever scars him.

This terrible event makes Kratos want revenge. It pushes him to face the god who tricked him. His journey is not only a quest for retribution but also relentless pursuit of redemption.  If you’re a fan of Greek Mythology the God of war series is for you.

Brutal Combat and Innovative Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics focus on hack-and-slash combat, allowing you to wield Kratos' iconic Blades of Chaos with devastating effect. The game encourages you to string together intricate combos, utilizing a variety of weapons, magical abilities This fast-paced action is complemented by strategically designed puzzles and epic boss fights that challenge you to think critically and execute their skills with precision.  Both the original God of War & God off War II are some of the more popular ps2 games that you can play.

7. Resident Evil 4

"Resident Evil 4" revolutionized the survival horror genre with its groundbreaking over-the-shoulder camera perspective and intense action sequences. This shift in gameplay mechanics dramatically transform the games overall experience

Leon's Quest for Survival

You take on the role of Leon, a government agent dispatched to rescue the kidnapped daughter of the President. His mission leads him to a remote European village, where he confronts a terrifying cult known as Los Ganados.

The cult, comprised of villagers who have been infected and brainwashed, worship a mysterious parasite that grants them power but strips away their humanity. As Leon navigates this eerie landscape, he must face not only the grotesque inhabitants but also the sinister leader of the cult, who orchestrates the chaos from the shadows.

The game's influence on the survival horror genre from the days of the PlayStation 2 to the present day is pretty is clear. Resident Evil 4 set a standard that combines action with horror. The story weaves a dark narrative about manipulation, fear, and the struggle for survival.

8. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

"Devil May Cry 3" delivers an exciting blend of high-octane action and stylish combat, setting the stage for one of the most iconic PlayStation 2 action games of its time. Player’s step into the shoes of Dante, a demon hunter with a flair for the dramatic, as he faces off against a host of supernatural foes. The game’s fast-paced gameplay challenges you to master an array of combos, utilizing a mix of melee attacks, firearms, and special abilities.

The Tale of Dante

In this prequel, you witness the origin story of Dante as he confronts his own demons—both figuratively and literally. The narrative unfolds as he battles his twin brother, Vergil, in a quest for power and understanding. Each encounter reveals deeper layers of their relationship, filled with rivalry, tragedy, and redemption, creating a captivating backdrop for the intense action.

The  Gameplay

"Devil May Cry 3" is renowned for its challenging difficulty, demanding precision and skill. The game promotes trying new things, and rewards you if you work on improving your skills to explore the different combat methods. With various weapons, special moves, and the innovative style system, you can tailor your playstyle and unleash stunning attacks against formidable adversaries.

9. Okami

"Okami" is an extraordinary game that draws inspiration from Japanese mythology and traditional art forms, presenting you with a visually stunning experience. Its unique cel-shaded art style brings the world to life, creating an enchanting and immersive atmosphere that captivates you from the very beginning.

The Role of Amaterasu

In "Okami," you play as Amaterasu, the wolf goddess who embarks on a quest to restore color and vitality to a world tainted by darkness. As you journey through beautifully crafted landscapes, they wield the magical Celestial Brush, allowing them to interact with the environment in innovative ways. Through her actions, Amaterasu revitalizes nature, battles foes, and uncovers the rich lore embedded in the world.

The Gameplay

What sets "Okami" apart is its innovative gameplay that seamlessly blends action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements. The Celestial Brush mechanics allow you to be creative. You can paint in real-time to change the environment, defeat enemies, and open new areas. This artistic approach not only enhances gameplay but also enriches the narrative, creating a unique bond between the player and the game's world.

10. Silent Hill 2

Silent Hill 2" transcends the boundaries of a typical video game; it is an emotional journey that deeply explores the mind of its main character, James Sunderland. The game intricately weaves themes of guilt, shame, and redemption, drawing you into James’s anguish as he searches for his late wife, Mary.

As you progress in the game, you’re challenged to face your own fears and insecurities, creating a blurred line between reality and the haunting visions of James’s psyche. The narrative goes beyond mere horror; it serves as a reflection of the darker aspects of humanity.

The Gameplay

A Haunting Atmosphere is set the first moment you step into the fog-laden town of Silent Hill. The fog covering the town makes it hard to see like the first Silent Hill game. This adds to the feeling of being alone and vulnerable as you walk through the empty streets.

Disturbing visuals, along with surreal landscapes, embody James's inner turmoil as he encounters grotesque monsters and eerie settings that represent his emotional battles. The Silent Hill series features some of the most popular PS2 games around!

11. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

In "Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal," you reunite with the beloved duo for another exhilarating adventure filled with humor, creative gadgets, and explosive action. 

This installment refines the gameplay mechanics that fans have come to love, offering improved controls and a broader array of inventive weapons. You can explore vibrant worlds and tackle challenges in a myriad of ways, utilizing Ratchet's unique abilities and Clank's gadgetry to overcome obstacles with style.

Engaging Storyline with Humor

The narrative flows seamlessly, intertwining humor and adventure as Ratchet and Clank navigate through their quest. Packed with witty dialogue and whimsical characters, each mission adds depth to the storyline while keeping the tone light and entertaining. It’s pretty clear that "Up Your Arsenal" still remains one of the standout ps2 games that still hold up today.

12. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

"Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy" invites you into a vibrant and engaging platforming adventure brimming with colorful characters and diverse settings. As the first entry in the series, it captures the essence of classic platformer while introducing innovative gameplay elements.

Set in a beautifully animated world filled with cool looking landscapes and intricate environments.  You embark on a quest to uncover the mysteries of the Precursor civilization. Each area is thoughtfully designed, presenting you with unique challenges and secrets to discover as they navigate through various terrains, from serene forests to perilous cliffs.

The Gameplay

The dynamic between Jak and his eccentric sidekick Daxter adds a layer of humor and heart to the adventure. Their witty banter and chemistry not only enrich the storytelling but also enhance gameplay, as you can easily switch between the two characters to utilize their unique abilities.

13. Persona 4

"Persona 4" masterfully combines traditional RPG mechanics with an innovative social simulation experience. This unique blend offers you a refreshing take on storytelling within the RPG genre, featuring a cast of engaging characters and interesting gameplay that keeps you invested in the game.

Persona 4 is set in the quiet town of Inaba, you assume the role of a high school student who becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious murders. The story artfully interweaves elements of mystery and the supernatural, creating a captivating story that compels you to piece together the truth behind the chilling events plaguing the town.

What sets "Persona 4" apart:

Is its richly developed characters, each with their own unique arcs that add depth to the overall narrative. As you make friends and strengthen their relationships, they develop new skills and gain important knowledge. This improves both the game and the story. The emotional social connections you cultivate with each character create a rich and immersive experience.

14. Burnout 3: Takedown

"Burnout 3: Takedown" delivers an exhilarating high-speed racing. The game revolutionizes the racing genre by focusing on aggressive gameplay and spectacular crashess, offering players thrilling races that combine speed with chaos.  That’s why I love the burnout series; it offers something different than the just race around the track as fast as you can.

With its addictive gameplay mechanics, "Burnout 3" encourages yous to engage in risk-taking maneuvers and strategic crashes to gain an edge over opponents. The game rewards aggressive driving styles, allowing you to earn boosts and points by creating stunning wrecks and narrowly avoiding collisions.

Multiplayer Modes

The multiplayer modes add an exciting layer of competition, letting you & your friends to  go head-to-head in intense races or online opponents “if the server still works?”.

15. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

"Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" combines thrilling acrobatics, combat, and innovative time manipulation mechanics to create a truly unique action-adventure experience. This game  changed the genre by giving yous new ways to overcome challenges and explore its complex world.

Fluid Animation and Engaging Storyline

The game's fluid animation and interesting storyline as you join the Prince on an exciting journey. He is trying to fix a big mistake he made. The quest is full of action and mystery. The narrative cleverly intertwines themes of fate and redemption, immersing you in a richly developed tale.

Time Manipulation Mechanics

One of the standouts features of "The Sands of Time" is its innovative time manipulation mechanics, which allow you to rewind and alter their actions during gameplay. This special ability adds a fun strategic element and encourages you to try different ways to solve puzzles and get past challenges.

These are certainly some of the best PS2 games of all time, which continue to captivate gamers with their innovative gameplay, compelling stories, and enduring appeal. Whether you're diving back into these retro classics or discovering them for the first time. These are certainly a few ps2 games that still hold up today.

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