Countdown of the best games on the best-selling console of all time, the PlayStation 2. As the owner of over 50 games on the PlayStation 2, these are my favorites that I recommend PS2 owners pick up and own and play.
Developer(s): Rockstar North
Publisher(s): Rockstar Games
Release Date: October 29, 2004
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Rockstar Games revolutionized the gaming industry with Grand Theft Auto III with its open-world environment which was an innovative design at the time, however, San Andreas is the best of the original three games on the PlayStation 2. The game stands out for its vast, open-world environment that allows players to explore an entire state based on California and Nevada, complete with a multitude of cities, rural areas, and landmarks. Players assume the role of Carl "CJ" Johnson, a former gang member who returns to his hometown of Los Santos to avenge his mother's murder and restore his family's name. The game's storyline is incredibly engaging, featuring memorable characters, a deep, and multifaceted narrative, and a perfect blend of drama and humor. San Andreas also introduces many gameplay mechanics that later became staples in the series, such as character customization, vehicles, and a wide range of side activities, including gambling, racing, and gang warfare. The game's sheer size, freedom, and variety make it one of the most immersive and enjoyable gaming experiences of all time. Also, Samuel L. Jackson plays the corrupt cop, Officer Tenpenny in the game, having him is always a win.
Developer(s): Japan Studio, Team Ico
Publisher(s): Sony Computer Entertainment
Release Date: October 18, 2005
Shadow of the Colossus
This game is a masterpiece of minimalist game design that offers an unforgettable experience for PS2 players. It is a game that is less about action and more about exploration and contemplation. Players take on the role of a young man named Wander, who must slay sixteen massive creatures known as colossi to bring a girl back to life. Each of the colossi is a unique and awe-inspiring creation, with intricate design and intricate strategies to defeat them. The game's barren and desolate world offers a feeling of isolation and mystery, while the epic score and emotionally resonant story create an atmosphere of grandeur and melancholy. Shadow of the Colossus is a game that sticks with you long after you finish it, and it is one of the most beautiful and moving games ever made.
Developer(s): Konami Computer Entertainment Japan
Publisher(s): Konami
Release Date: November 17, 2004
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
This game is one of the finest examples of the stealth-action genre and a must-play for PS2 owners. From the legendary Hideo Kojima, players assume the role of the legendary soldier known as Snake, who is sent on a mission to infiltrate a Russian jungle during the Cold War era. The game's story is a gripping tale of betrayal, patriotism, and survival, featuring a colorful cast of characters, unexpected twists, and deep themes that explore the morality of war, with arguably one of the most emotional and greatest endings of all time in video games. The game's gameplay mechanics are refined to perfection, offering a range of options to approach each mission and allowing players to use stealth, combat, or a mix of both to accomplish their objectives. The game also introduces survival elements, such as hunting for food and healing injuries, adding a layer of realism to the game. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is a game that rewards players who take their time to explore, experiment, and immerse themselves in the world, and it is a must-play for anyone who loves a good story and challenging gameplay. Prepare some tissues when playing this game.
Developer(s): Square Product Development Division 1
Publisher(s): SquareSoft
Release Date: December 28, 2001
Final Fantasy X
Despite some of the voice acting not aging well, this game is still a classic RPG in the world of Final Fantasy. The story of a young man named Tidus, who is transported to a fantasy world called Spira. Along with a group of diverse and interesting characters, he embarks on a journey to defeat a powerful force known as Sin and save the world. The game features stunning graphics, a memorable soundtrack, and a deep and engaging storyline that explores themes of love, loss, and sacrifice. The gameplay is turn-based, allowing players to take their time and plan out strategies for each battle. The game also introduces a unique system called the Sphere Grid, which allows players to customize their characters' abilities and develop their strengths and weaknesses. Final Fantasy X is a timeless classic that stands as one of the greatest RPGs of all time and is a must-play for PS2 owners.
Developer(s): Santa Monica Studio
Publisher(s): Sony Computer Entertainment
Release Date: March 13, 2007
God of War II
This game is an epic action-adventure that takes players on a journey through Greek mythology, featuring a brutal and charismatic protagonist named Kratos. The game's story is a continuation of the first game, as Kratos seeks revenge against the gods of Olympus, who have betrayed him. The game's setting is stunning, featuring massive temples, intricate puzzles, and epic boss battles against the gods themselves. The game's combat system is intuitive and satisfying, allowing players to chain together devastating combos and use a variety of weapons and magic. The game also introduces new mechanics, such as riding on the back of a Pegasus and climbing on the walls of temples, adding a sense of scale and variety to the game. God of War II is a game that embodies the PS2's power and innovation, and it is a must-have for God of War fans!.
Developer(s): Clover Studio
Publisher(s): Capcom
Release Date: September 19, 2006
Ōkami
Despite the game not doing well commercially when it was originally released, this game is a visually stunning action-adventure game that draws inspiration from Japanese mythology and folklore. Players take on the role of Amaterasu, the sun goddess in the form of a wolf, who must save the world from a demonic force known as Orochi. The game's graphics are reminiscent of traditional Japanese ink paintings, and the game's mechanics are based on the use of a celestial brush that allows players to draw various shapes and symbols to interact with the environment and defeat enemies. The game's story is engaging and emotional, featuring memorable characters and themes of redemption and restoration. Okami is a masterpiece of game design that stands as one of the greatest PS2 games of all time.
Developer(s): Square Enix Product Development Division 1
Publisher(s): Square Enix
Release Date: March 28, 2006
Kingdom Hearts II
This game is the sequel to the original Kingdom Hearts and offers a deeper, more complex story and gameplay experience. Players once again take on the role of Sora, Donald, and Goofy, as they travel to various Disney-themed worlds and battle against the forces of darkness. The game's graphics and sound are even more polished than the original, with stunning character designs and music that captures the magic of Disney. The game's combat system has been refined and improved, with new abilities and team-based attacks that make battles more dynamic and exciting. The game also introduces new characters and storylines, including the enigmatic Organization XIII and the search for Sora's lost friend, Riku. Kingdom Hearts II is a game that expands on the original game's strengths and offers a thrilling and unforgettable adventure that will delight fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Developer(s): Polyphony Digital
Publisher(s): Sony Computer Entertainment
Release Date: February 22, 2005
This game is a racing simulation game that offers one of the most comprehensive and realistic driving experiences ever seen in a video game. Players can choose from over 700 cars and race on over 50 tracks, including famous locations such as the Nurburgring and Tsukuba Circuit. The game's physics and handling are incredibly realistic, and players must take into account factors such as tire wear and aerodynamics to succeed. The game also offers a variety of game modes, including a career mode, time trials, and arcade races. Gran Turismo 4 is a game that sets the standard for racing games and offers a truly immersive and satisfying experience.
Developer(s): Namco
Publisher(s): Namco
Release Date: September 21, 2004
Katamari Damacy
This game is a unique and charming puzzle game that is unlike anything else on the PS2. Players assume the role of the Prince of the Cosmos, who must roll a sticky ball called a katamari around various environments and collect objects to make it grow larger. The game's graphics are colorful and whimsical, featuring quirky character designs and surreal environments. The game's mechanics are simple but addictive, as players must strategize and plan their movements to collect larger and larger objects. The game's music is also a highlight, featuring a catchy and eclectic soundtrack that perfectly matches the game's wacky and joyful tone. Katamari Damacy is a game that is easy to pick up but difficult to put down, and it is a must-play for anyone looking for a fun and unique gaming experience.
Developer(s): Team Silent
Publisher(s): Konami
Release Date: September 25, 2001
Silent Hill 2
This game is a classic survival horror game that is widely regarded as one of the best games in the genre and it is not hard to see why. Players assume the role of James Sunderland, who travels to the mysterious and ominous town of Silent Hill to search for his deceased wife. The game's graphics and sound are haunting and atmospheric, featuring disturbing and surreal environments and an eerie and unsettling soundtrack. The game's mechanics are tense and nerve-wracking, as players must navigate through dangerous and terrifying situations while managing their limited resources. The game's story is also a highlight, featuring complex characters and a dark and psychological narrative that explores themes of guilt, grief, and redemption. The game also introduces the iconic character of Pyramid Head, which has become mainstream in horror games. Silent Hill 2 is a game that is both terrifying and thought-provoking and is a must-play for horror fans and gamers looking for a deep and immersive experience.