As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the PlayStation 2, it's clear that this console was a game-changer in the world of gaming. With a vast library of titles, from groundbreaking exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus to blockbuster hits like Final Fantasy 10 and GTA: Vice City, the PS2 has left an indelible mark on gaming culture. Here, we've curated a list of the 25 best PS2 games that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and creativity during their time but continue to resonate with players today.

So, without further ado, here is IGN's pick of the 25 best PS2 games of all time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

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25. Guitar Hero 2

Image credit: RedOctaneDeveloper: Harmonix | Publisher: RedOctane | Release date: November 7, 2006 | Review: IGN's Guitar Hero 2 review

Guitar Hero 2 epitomized the essence of the series at its peak. With a focus on rocking out to authentic rock and metal tracks, this game captured the spirit of playing music in a way that was both fun and immersive. Harmonix's curation of songs, from Suicidal Tendencies to Iron Maiden, made it a standout title that still rocks to this day.

24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Sucker Punch Productions | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 14, 2004 | Review: IGN's Sly 2: Band of Thieves review

The Sly Cooper series is renowned for its blend of family-friendly action, stealth, and witty dialogue, and Sly 2: Band of Thieves is the pinnacle of this formula. The game offers a captivating story, diverse worlds to explore, and the ability to play as different members of Sly's crew, providing a unique and engaging experience that remains unparalleled.

23. ICO

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's ICO review

ICO redefined the escort mission genre with its compelling puzzle design and deep emotional connection between its characters. The game's minimalist storytelling and atmospheric setting create an unforgettable experience that showcases the unique narrative capabilities of video games.

22. NBA Street, Vol. 2

Image credit: EADeveloper: EA Canada | Publisher: Electronic Arts/NuFX | Release date: April 28, 2003 | Review: IGN's NBA Street, Vol. 2 review

NBA Street, Volume 2 offers an arcade-style basketball experience that appeals to both casual and hardcore fans. With its flashy visuals, easy-to-learn gameplay, and an extensive roster of street and NBA legends, it remains a thrilling and stylish take on the sport.

21. Kingdom Hearts 2

Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square Enix | Publisher: Square Enix | Release date: December 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Hearts 2 review

Kingdom Hearts 2 significantly improved upon its predecessor, offering enhanced combat mechanics and deeper exploration of its mythology. The combination of Disney and Final Fantasy elements, along with engaging gameplay, continues to captivate fans and newcomers alike.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

Image credit: ActivisionDeveloper: Neversoft Entertainment | Publisher: Activision | Release date: October 27, 2003 | Review: IGN's Tony Hawk's Underground review

Tony Hawk's Underground expanded on the series' formula by introducing a fun, campy story and extensive customization options. With a massive soundtrack and the ability to play as Iron Man, it remains a beloved entry in the franchise.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

Image credit: NISDeveloper: NIS | Publisher: Atlus (NA) | Release date: January 30, 2003 | Review: IGN's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness review

Disgaea: Hour of Darkness is a tactical RPG that stands out for its intricate combat, gothic themes, and humorous characters. Despite its grind, the game's depth and replayability make it a classic that continues to entertain.

18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Insomniac Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 2, 2004 | Review: IGN's Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal review

Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal expanded the series with new gadgets, mini-games, and an ambitious online mode. The game's charm, coupled with its innovative gameplay, makes it a standout title in the franchise.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

Image credit: UbisoftDeveloper: Ubisoft Montpellier | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 11, 2003 | Review: IGN's Beyond Good & Evil review

Beyond Good & Evil is a unique blend of action, exploration, and storytelling. Its vibrant world, diverse characters, and engaging narrative have made it a cult classic, eagerly awaited for a sequel.

16. Burnout Revenge

Image credit: EADeveloper: Criterion Games | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: July 30, 2005 | Review: IGN's Burnout Revenge review

Burnout Revenge is all about speed and chaos. Its thrilling racing and crash modes, combined with the series' signature Takedown mechanics, make it a high-octane experience that remains unmatched.

15. Psychonauts

Image credit: Majesco EntertainmentDeveloper: Double Fine Productions | Publisher: Majesco Entertainment | Release date: April 19, 2005 | Review: IGN's Psychonauts review

Psychonauts blends a coming-of-age story with psychic-powered adventures, delivering a challenging yet humorous platforming experience. Its imaginative levels and memorable moments continue to impress.

14. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: February 17, 2005 | Review: IGN's Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening review

Devil May Cry 3 is a landmark action game known for its challenging combat and engaging story. Its high skill ceiling and creative combat system have cemented its status as one of the best in its genre.

13. Katamari Damacy

Image credit: NamcoDeveloper: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 18, 2004 | Review: IGN's Katamari Damacy review

Katamari Damacy's absurd yet joyful gameplay, rolling up objects to grow a ball, has captured hearts for over two decades. Its optimistic tone and simple yet addictive mechanics make it a timeless classic.

12. Jak 2: Renegade

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: October 14, 2003 | Review: IGN's Jak 2: Renegade review

Jak 2: Renegade transformed the series with its darker tone and new gameplay mechanics, including combat and vehicle sections. Its detailed environments and dynamic storytelling make it a standout entry in the trilogy.

11. Bully

Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar Vancouver | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Bully review

Bully offers a satirical take on school life, blending humor with social commentary. Its engaging story and innovative gameplay mechanics have made it a beloved title from Rockstar Games.

10. God of War

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Santa Monica Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: March 22, 2005 | Review: IGN's God of War review

God of War set the stage for one of gaming's greatest action series. Its combination of combat, puzzles, and storytelling, along with its technical prowess, made it a landmark title.

9. Okami

Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Clover Studio | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: April 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Okami review

Okami's unique art style and celestial brush mechanics create a captivating experience. Its beautiful world, engaging story, and innovative gameplay make it a must-play on any platform.

8. Final Fantasy 10

Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts (NA) | Release date: July 19, 2001 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 10 review

Final Fantasy 10 revolutionized the series with its Sphere-grid system and cinematic storytelling. Its accessible gameplay and memorable narrative continue to be celebrated by fans.

7. Silent Hill 2

Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: September 25, 2001 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill 2 review

Silent Hill 2 is a masterclass in psychological horror. Its disorienting atmosphere and deep narrative themes create an unforgettable experience that lingers long after the game is over.

6. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: KCEJ | Publisher: Konami | Release date: November 13, 2001 | Review: IGN's Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty review

Metal Gear Solid 2 is a groundbreaking game that challenged players with its narrative and gameplay innovations. Its themes of misinformation and identity continue to resonate with players today.

5. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: Oct 29, 2002 | Review: IGN's GTA: Vice City review

GTA: Vice City perfected the open-world formula with its engaging story, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack. It remains a cornerstone of the franchise and a testament to Rockstar's storytelling prowess.

4. Resident Evil 4

Image credit: CapcomDeveloper: Capcom Production Studio 4 | Publisher: Capcom | Release date: January 11, 2005 | Review: IGN's Resident Evil 4 review

Resident Evil 4 transformed the survival horror genre with its over-the-shoulder perspective and action-packed gameplay. Its memorable enemies and iconic moments have made it a timeless classic.

3. Shadow of the Colossus

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: October 18, 2005 | Review: IGN's Shadow of the Colossus review

Shadow of the Colossus is a hauntingly beautiful game that blends puzzle-solving with epic boss battles. Its emotional storytelling and atmospheric world have made it a critically acclaimed masterpiece.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: KCEJ | Publisher: Konami | Release date: November 17, 2004 | Review: IGN's Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater review

Metal Gear Solid 3 is widely regarded as the best in the series, thanks to its innovative gameplay and compelling narrative. Its survival elements and complex story have set a high standard for the franchise.

1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Image credit: Rockstar GamesDeveloper: Rockstar North | Publisher: Rockstar Games | Release date: October 21, 2004 | Review: IGN's GTA: San Andreas review

GTA: San Andreas is a monumental achievement in open-world gaming. Its vast world, RPG elements, and engaging story make it not only one of the best PS2 games but also one of the greatest games of all time.

What PS2 Games Are Available on PS5 in 2025?

Unfortunately, PS2 discs are not compatible with the PS5. However, PlayStation Plus Premium members can stream a selection of PS2 games. This service, priced at $17.99/month, offers access to over 300 games from various PlayStation generations. For the latest additions to the Classic Catalog, check out our IGN Playlist page below.

PlayStation Plus Classic Games Catalog

This is an up-to-date listing of the entire PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. You can browse, sort, and tag the titles and use them to build your own playlists. Sort by "Recently Added" to see the newest additions to the catalog.

Star Ocean: The Last HopeTri-AceDragon's Crown ProVanillawareTwisted Metal 2SingletracStar Ocean: First Departure RSquare EnixStar Ocean: Till the End of TimeTri-AceGravity Crash PortableJust Add Water DevelopmentsTwisted MetalEat Sleep PlayHerc's AdventuresLucasArtsKillzone: LiberationGuerrilla GamesWormsTeam17 Software

These are our picks for the best PlayStation 2 games ever. What made your list that wasn’t on ours? Let us know in the comments, or rank these games on your own Tier List below. And be sure to check out the best games on PS5 for what to play right now.

The Best PS2 Games Of All Time