Top 50 Best PS2 Games: Ranked

You might be caught wondering, what is the best PS2 game of all time.

The PlayStation 2 was one of the most recognizable video gaming platforms ever. It was the first console to feature a DVD drive and essentially put the nail in the coffin in Sega's swansong console in the Sega Dreamcast. It included some of the most famous games ever created, ranging from epic adventures to iconic sports titles.

We will be covering the finest PS2 games of all time. This article will have you covered from head to toe, from the best racing games to the iconic RPGs. There will be something for everyone as we cover a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to sports and racing.

So, let's get ready to dive deep and plunge into the definitive list of the finest PlayStation 2 games of all time.

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50. Manhunt

Manhunt's gameplay revolves around stealth, as you must evade detection by the hunters. Being separated into levels, each with a distinct goal preventing  you from advancing. You can use a wide variety of weapons and makeshift things to take down the hunters, but you must be careful not to draw too much attention to yourself.

Manhunt's graphics are harsh and realistic, effectively conveying the dark and deadly environment of the game. The sound design is also excellent, with frightening music and realistic sound effects adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Manhunt's plot is dark and unpleasant, centred on a struggle for survival in a warped world where violence is the only language spoken. The game's narrative is well-written and entertaining, and the characters, despite their often gruesome nature, are compelling.

With such an unique concept, Manhunt rounds off our list of the greatest PS2 games ever.

49. Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes

One of our favourite aspects of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is the large cast of characters. There is no shortage of alternatives for players with over 50 characters to pick from.

We really appreciate the fast-paced, furious gameplay, which keeps things interesting.

We didn't like how there are some pretty cheap characters on the lineup. Sentinal, we're looking at you with your overpowered normals. Some of the characters are extraordinarily powerful.

Coupled with that, there are a plethora of limitless combinations that can lead to a truly frustrating encounter.

It's still a top tier fighting game that everyone should try at least once if you're a fan of the genre.

48. Siren

Siren's innovative gameplay mechanics and demanding difficulty were two of our favourite aspects of the game. The storyline of the game was very interesting, with lots of tension and mystery.

Some of us may find the control schemes and camera angles incredibly annoying at times, and the graphics felt a bit antiquated by today's standards.

The images and sound design in Siren create an eerie and deep atmosphere. The nifty aesthetics are dark and grainy on purpose, adding to the overall sense of foreboding.

The music and sound effects are both unnerving, with spooky ambient noises and haunting melodies.

Siren is a terrifying encounter that will have gamers on the edge of their chairs.

47. The Warriors

The Warriors PS2 has some of the best visuals and music of any game released at the time. The graphics are rough and incredibly realistic, and the sound design flawlessly puts you in the perspective of late-70s New York City. We could hear that subway shaking the ground.

One of our favourite aspects of The Warriors PS2 is how well it captures the atmosphere of the film. The combat in the game is satisfying and hard, and the plot is well-written and interesting. Some of us may find the difficulty level to be a little too cheap, and the lack of online multiplayer may turn you completely off.

The Warriors PS2 is a classic beat 'em up game that any fan of the genre should play.

46. Grandia II

The graphics of Grandia II are excellent for the time. The game has brilliant colours and intricate character designs. The surroundings in the game are likewise stunningly created, creating an immersive world for players to explore.

The soundtrack is a highlight of the game, with sweeping symphonic songs that wonderfully fit the tale and characters. The voice acting is also excellent, bringing the characters of the game to life.

The game's fascinating and innovative battle system is one of its strengths. The game's fascinating storyline and well-developed characters will also be appreciated by players. Some of us may find the game's pacing to be slow at times.

Grandia II is a fantastic RPG on the PS2.

45. Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne

One of Max Payne 2's strongest points is its fascinating plot and unique gaming features. The bullet time component increases the game's thrill, while the graphics and sound design create an immersive environment. However, some of us may find the game's difficulty level difficult, particularly during boss encounters.

Max Payne 2's graphics are remarkable for the time, with detailed character models and settings that add to the game's harsh feel. The music design is likewise excellent, with a theatrical score and realistic sound effects that contribute to the entire game experience.

Max Payne 2's storyline is intriguing and well-written, following up where the first Max Payne left off.

Taking on the role of Max Payne, navigating a dark and hazardous underworld teeming with corrupt cops and ruthless gangs. The plot is conveyed in a succession of stunning cutscenes that merge in with the gameplay.

44. Red Dead Revolver

Red Dead Revolver's amazing graphics and sound design are among its most notable characteristics. The game's realistic settings, character models, and animations bring the Wild West to life like never before, while the soundtrack wonderfully reflects the grandiose and adventurous tone of the game.

If you're new to Red Dead Revolver you'll enjoy the game's fast-paced action, interesting storyline, and unique characters. The Dead Eye system and quick-time events both offer unique excitement and complexity. Some of us may find the game's challenge to be overly severe at times.

You can't go wrong with one of Rockstar's best games.

43. Mega Man X Collection

The faithful recreation of the original Mega Man X games, which provides gamers with a realistic vintage gaming experience, is one of the most popular features of the Mega Man X Collection PS2. The game's characteristics include challenging gameplay, well-known bosses, and memorable music.

We loved that the game faired well on a CRT display. The pixels are razer sharp on our monitor. One potential negative is that the game, especially for newbies, can be punishingly difficult.

What's not to like about a collection of some of the best Super Nintendo games?

42. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly

Fatal Frame II is an original survival horror game. To combat ghosts and spirits, you must utilise a camera rather than firearms. The game is played in third person, and the camera serves as your primary weapon. You must photograph the ghosts in order to weaken them, and the closer you get to them, the more harm they incur.

Mio and Mayu, twin sisters, explore a ghostly village they used to frequent as youngsters in the game. As they travel deeper into the village, they discover dark secrets and terrible ghosts that follow them wherever they go.

We were on the edge of our seats the entire time and occasionally needed a change of clothes from having the pants scared off us.

41. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec

With over 150 cars and 34 tracks to choose from, Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec provides an impressively immersive racing experience. The game has arcade and simulation modes, so players of all skill levels can enjoy it. The physics engine is excellent, with realistic damage and handling models. It's a game that rewards talent and patience, and mastering it is really enjoyable.

Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec looks and sounds excellent for a game published in 2001. The cars are extremely realistic, and the circuits are stunningly created. The dynamic weather system in the game adds to the immersion. The sound design is also fantastic, with realistic engine noises and a fantastic soundtrack.

Modifying your car is a ton of fun and can be quite addicting. You'll love this PS2 racing game.

40. Star Wars: Battlefront II

The replayability of Star Wars: Battlefront II is one of its primary selling factors. This game will keep you occupied for hours with its various modes, characters, and weapons. A seriously major flaw is the lack of character customizations that would have added so much to the gameplay.

Star Wars: Battlefront II has incredible graphics and acoustics. The game beautifully captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, from the gorgeously depicted locations to the realistic sound effects.

We liked how Battlefront II had a plot that was very close to the original Star Wars trilogy. We were seriously thrilled the moment we popped in the DVD.

It's impossible to go wrong with one of the best PS2 games.

39. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3's graphics are outstanding, with stunning images and an aesthetic style that reflects the soul of the anime series. The character models and special effects are excellent, making the conflicts appear and feel epic.

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 has excellent audio, including a realistic music and voice acting that captures the essence of the show. The sound effects are very beautifully done, adding to the game's realism.

We enjoyed the large number of playable characters, the exciting action, and the amazing aesthetics. We did notice that the game's challenge can be quite frustrating, and loading times can be lengthy.

38. TimeSplitters 2

TimeSplitters 2 gives you a multiplayer experience that took the days of James Bond 007 Goldeneye and amplified it. The controls are slick and quick, making it simple to get started shooting right away.

The storyline of the game takes you on a crazy voyage across many time periods, from the crazy West to a futuristic robot factory.

The graphics may feel a bit dated for today's standards. The cartoonish and colourful art design gives the game a pleasant and lively feel.

37. SSX 3

SSX 3's graphics are visually stunning, with complex character models and dynamic surroundings that change depending on the weather and time of day.

To suit the high-energy gameplay, the soundtrack includes a mix of rock, rap, and techno music.

We loved being able to explore the enormous mountain and uncover new trails and surprises. The controls can be quite difficult to learn and we did feel like the game was punishingly difficult at times.

SSX 3 is an exhilarating snowboarding game that provides an engaging experience.

36. Onimusha 3: Demon Siege

Fast-paced action, sword-fighting, puzzle-solving, and exploration are all part of the jam packed gameplay in Onimusha 3: Demon Siege. You'll be playing Samanosuke Akechi, the game's protagonist, and his time-traveling ally, Jacques Blanc, as they combat demons and discover the game's complicated plot.

One of the most captivating parts of Onimusha 3: Demon Siege is its tale. It follows the two characters as they journey back in time to prevent the evil Genma army and its leader, Nobunaga Oda, from destroying the world. You'll be on the edge of your seat each step of the way through the main storyline.

Overall, Onimusha 3: Demon Siege for PS2 is an amazing game that fans of action-adventure and samurai-themed games should enjoy.

35. God Hand

The graphics and acoustics of God Hand are solid but hardly innovative. The game's aesthetics are bright and stylish, with exaggerated character designs that complement the game's outrageous action. The upbeat music will keep you wanting more of the action packed gameplay.

The battle system in God Hand was one of our favourites. It's profound and complicated, but not unduly so. The game also has a terrific sense of humour, with plenty of ludicrous and out-of-the-blue situations that will have you laughing aloud. The game's difficulty can be extremely harsh at times. The graphics and sound on the other hand are average at best, nothing here will wow you.

God Hand is a fun and unusual game that everybody who enjoys action games should try.

34. Tekken 5

One of our favourite aspects about Tekken 5 is the varied range of characters and their distinct combat styles. Smooth controls and engaging gameplay are also advantages. One disadvantage is that some characters feel overpowered in comparison to others, which might alter the game's balance.

Tekken 5 on the PlayStation 2 features outstanding graphics, including detailed character models and bright backgrounds. Excellent animations and special effects enhance the entire gaming experience in this game. The audio quality is likewise excellent, with catchy soundtracks and realistic sound effects.

This is one great fighting game on the PS2 and you won't want to miss it.

33. Wipeout Fusion

Wipeout Fusion's racing action is fast-paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat. The controls are responsive and tight, allowing you to weave in and out of tight areas and perform daring manoeuvres.

Taking place in the year 2160, and you play as a pilot competing in the F9000 anti-gravity racing league.

The graphics are simply fantastic, with intricate tracks and futuristic locations that will immerse you in the game's world. The hovercrafts themselves are sleek and beautiful, with sophisticated designs that make them visually appealing.

Wipeout Fusion is easily one of the best PS2 games and it's clear to see why.

32. King of Fighters 2002

King of Fighters 2002 makes for a great fighting game simply because of the sheer amount of content available. Because of the enormous number of characters and modes, players can spend infinite hours playing the game without becoming bored. The lack of a typical story mode, on the other hand, may turn off certain players.

The graphics of King of Fighters 2002 are colourful and complex, with each character having their own distinct style and motions. The music and sound effects are also excellent, with memorable themes and sound effects that enhance the overall experience.

King of Fighters 2002 is an amazing fighting game and we loved beating down our friends in the head to head modes.

31. Dark Cloud 2

Dark Cloud 2's graphics are breathtaking, bringing the game's magical universe to life. The brilliant colours, unique character designs, and precise textures provide a visually immersive experience that is both stunning and awe-inspiring.

The sound design is simply put excellent, with a hauntingly beautiful orchestral score and voice acting that brings the characters to life.

Dark Cloud 2's innovative crafting and construction system, which allows players to make their own weapons, objects, and settlements, is one of its major features.

The storyline of the game is also fascinating and well-written, with unique characters and a plot that keeps players committed throughout. We did find the difficulty level difficult, especially in later stages.

30. Guitar Hero

Guitar Hero PS2 is a music rhythm game that allows you to play along to your favourite rock songs using a guitar-shaped controller.

The gameplay is extremely simple and interesting, making it easy to get lost in the music.

You can advance through the game by completing progressively difficult songs and collecting points to unlock new guitars and locations.

The music is one of Guitar Hero PS2's most notable aspects. The game includes a wide range of famous rock songs that will keep players engaged and delighted for hours.

Guitar Hero has a lot to enjoy, from its addictive gameplay to its amazing soundtrack.

However, some players may find the game tedious after a time, especially if they play alone.

29. Final Fantasy XII

The game has great visuals and a magnificent symphonic soundtrack that reflects the epic grandeur of the plot nicely. The visual direction and character design of the game are also recognised for their distinct and innovative flair.

Final Fantasy XII's deep world-building and character development simply blew us away. We also found the game's story pacing to be slow at times, and the licence board system, which affects character growth, to be quite perplexing.

Final Fantasy XII is an incredible gaming experience that will keep us occupied for hours. Any RPG enthusiast should play this game.

28. Virtua Fighter 4

The gameplay of Virtua Fighter 4 is simply put a one on one fighting game that puts you in the perspective of one of 15 playable characters.

The battle system in the game is complex, rewarding players who take the time to learn each character's attacks and combos. The game also has a full training mode where players may hone existing abilities and learn new ones.

The gameplay in Virtua Fighter 4 is extremely tough but entirely gratifying as you master the controls department. The graphics in Virtua Fighter 4 still hold up decades later.

The game has magnificent sceneries and lighting effects, as well as excellent character models and animations. The graphics in the game demonstrate the capabilities of the PlayStation 2 as well as the talent of the game's developers.

You owe it to yourself to play one of the best fighting games of all time.

27. The Simpsons: Hit & Run

The Simpsons: Hit & Run's humour and charm are among its best qualities. The game brilliantly captures the essence of the show and gives lots of chuckles along the way. The variety of objectives and characters keeps the gameplay interesting and fresh.

The graphics in The Simpsons: Hit & Run are bright and cartoony, just like the programme. The town of Springfield is well-designed and realistic, with several show-related landmarks. The soundtrack for the game is also outstanding, with original music and sound effects from the show.

Despite its limitations, The Simpsons: Hit & Run is a timeless PS2 title that is still enjoyable today.

26. Bully

Bully has open-world gameplay in which you can explore the expansive campus of Bullworth Academy and its surrounding community. As a Rockstar game, you should know what to expect in the gameplay department.

With a ton of side quests that will keep you entertained for hours. You'll come across a variety of bullies and cliques, each with their own personality and set of obstacles.

Bully's plot is interesting and full of twists and turns. As Jimmy, you'll traverse Bullworth Academy's complicated social systems, making both friends and enemies along the way. You'll also have to deal with dishonest teachers, disobedient students, and even the cops.

Bully's graphics are very impressive for a game launched in 2006. The locations are varied and detailed, and the characters are well-designed.

25. Twisted Metal: Black

Twisted Metal: Black provides a one-of-a-kind and exhilarating gameplay experience. You'll be busy piloting a vehicle armed with various weaponry and compete against other vehicles to be the last one standing. There's enough to keep you busy in the story mode, let alone an endurance mode, and  epic multiplayer mode.

The game is set in the imaginary city of Midtown, where a mad clown named Calypso invites cars to compete in a vehicular warfare competition. Each driver has a dark and twisted backstory that adds to the setting of the game.

Twisted Metal: Black's artwork and sound design suit the game's dark, gritty vibe wonderfully. The cars and landscapes in the game are stunningly designed, and the soundtrack is a fantastic blend of heavy metal and industrial music.

24. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3

We still enjoy the graphics of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 even though some may look at the polygons and think they're outdated. Not to mention the music, which includes songs by The Ramones and Red Hot Chilli Peppers and is as iconic as the game's action.

We like the game's smooth controls and the variety of levels and challenges. Some may see the lack of a true tale mode as a drawback.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 is a standout game considering anyone who appreciates skateboarding games or simply having a good time.

23. Okage: Shadow King

Okage: Shadow King's art style is unusual, combining Japanese anime with Tim Burton-esque gothic themes. The settings are bright and colourful, and the character designs are endearing and unforgettable. Jun Ishikawa and Hiroshi Kanazu's soundtrack wonderfully suits the game's unique and odd tone.

While the battle mechanism in the game is novel and interesting, it may also become tedious at times. Furthermore, the game's localization can be sloppy, with uneven translations and occasional grammar mistakes. These minor problems, however, are overcome by the game's overall appeal and distinctive traits.

Okage: Shadow King is a PS2 hidden treasure that is often missed yet well worth playing.

22. Katamari Damacy

In Katamari Damacy, you play as The Prince, who must roll a ball around various landscapes, collecting up stuff along the way to make it bigger. As the ball expands in size, it can pick up larger and more sophisticated objects, like some thumbtacks or pencils and as strange as massive cars and buildings.

Katamari Damacy's graphics are bright and colourful, with a distinct aesthetic style that matches the game's eccentric gameplay nicely. The soundtrack is equally memorable, with infectious tunes that fit the game's whimsical character wonderfully.

One of our favourite things about Katamari Damacy is simply how unique it is. The extremely odd sense of humour is a joy to see, and the gameplay is unlike anything we've experienced before.

Katamari Damacy is a really unique gameplay experience for those looking for something entirely out to left field.

21. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time has a time rewind feature that was extremely new to gaming at this time.

The way you fight against the bad guys in the game makes for an all new experience for the timeframe. We simply felt that the platforming sections were too difficult and annoying.

The graphics in the game are stunning, with detailed character models and landscapes transporting players to a magical Middle Eastern realm. The sound design is also fantastic, with immersive music and sound effects that add to the play experience.

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time is simply a fantastic game that you'll love to play through and belongs in anyone's PS2 game collection.

20. Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Dragon Quest VIII's iconic gameplay and fascinating storyline will appeal to RPG fans. The world is full with interesting personalities and locations to explore, and the unique skill point system allows for a personalised experience.

The game's random encounter rate, on the other hand, can be annoying at times and may turn off some players.

The amazing cel-shaded graphics in Dragon Quest VIII bring the setting and characters to life. The soundtrack for the game is likewise excellent, with memorable tunes and melodies that improve the overall experience.

Fans of RPGs and classic video games should not miss Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King.

19. Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner brings us a story that's extremely fascinating and wonderfully well-written, taking place two years after the events of the original game. You'll play Dingo Egret, a former Orbital Frame runner who is drawn into a new fight between Earth and Mars.

The graphics and sound of the game are also amazing. We loved how realistic the character's were, along with an amazing environment design and an epic soundtrack that nicely compliments the gameplay.

The game's fast-paced and exciting action is one of its main selling points, keeping players hooked from start to end.

We did observe that it can be really difficult at times, and the camera angles can be problematic in some cases.

18. Burnout 3: Takedown

Burnout 3: Takedown's gameplay revolves around high-speed racing, aggressive driving, and wreaking as much havoc as possible. Races, time trials, and crash events are among the modes available in the game.

The gameplay concepts are simple to learn but tough to master, making it an enjoyable and demanding experience for gamers of all skill levels.

Burnout 3: Takedown's graphics are remarkable for a PS2 game, featuring detailed car models and landscapes.

Slow-motion replays of collisions are also included in the game, highlighting the outstanding damage modelling.

The Takedown system, which lets players to knock out other racers by slamming into their cars, is one of the game's outstanding elements in Burnout 3: Takedown.

The crashes are also extremely satisfying to say the least. Where you can replay while slowing down the game in order to juke and jive right before a crash.

You can't go wrong with one of the best racing games on the PS2.

17. Persona 4

Persona 4 has an intricate and complicated tale that keeps players interested from start to finish.

Set in a small Japanese town, investigating topics of identity, friendship, and the nature of reality itself. The characters are extremely memorable, and their stories will surely stick with you.

The aesthetics in the game are breathtaking, with hand-drawn character portraits and finely created backgrounds. The soundtrack is equally remarkable, with a blend of lively J-pop tunes and haunting melodies that wonderfully capture the mood and ambiance of the game.

The super rich and rewarding gameplay is on full display in Persona 4, as well as its immersive and thought-provoking narrative, were undeniably appealing to us. We also disliked the game's tempo, which can be slow at times, as well as the odd irritating difficulty increase in combat.

Still you can't go wrong with this fantastic choice for a PS2 RPG.

16. Psychonauts

One of Psychonauts' finest qualities is its sense of humour. The game is full of amusing, odd moments that will keep you interested the entire time. On the negative side, the game can be unpleasant at times, with difficult platforming sequences and occasional camera difficulties.

The art style of Psychonauts is charmingly eccentric, with each mind you explore sporting a unique visual design. The sound design in the game is likewise excellent, with a memorable music and excellent voice acting from the talented cast.

Psychonauts is a fantastic platformer that shouldn't go unnoticed. It's a shame that we don't hear too many people mentioning it.

15. Gran Turismo 4

Gran Turismo 4's depth is one of its strongest points, with a large selection of cars and tracks to pick from. The Career Mode encourages progression and achievement, while the physics engine gives a realistic racing experience. The computer racers can be quite ruthless at times, knocking you out of the way to make it to first place.

Gran Turismo 4's sound effects are genuine, with engine sounds and tyre screeches offering an authentic racing experience. The soundtrack to the game is especially remarkable, comprising a wide range of genres and well-known artists.

I seriously loved building my 2003 Acura RSX Type S in Gran Turismo 4, a car that will live on forever,

14. Ico

Ico is an action adventure game that follows the adventures of Ico, a young boy with horns, and Yorda, his companion. You'll be busy assisting the couple in navigating a mythical castle and overcoming obstacles in order to escape.

The gameplay is straightforward but hard, with puzzles and battles requiring strategy and quick reactions.

The game's outstanding aesthetics and sound design are among its most impressive elements. With a delicate colour palette and gorgeous scenery, the visuals are basic yet attractive.

The game's immersive mood is further enhanced with haunting music and ambient sounds.

It's got a clever design that we don't see in most games, Ico is worth a shot on our list of the best PS2 games.

13. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus

The graphics of Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus are lovely and bring the game's characters and world to life. The cartoonish aesthetic of the game adds to its charm and overall appeal. All the way through, the sound lead us to feel like we were a detective trying to save the world.

Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus' unique gameplay mechanics and interesting plot are two of its strongest points. The game is also fairly difficult, which increases its replay value. We did find that the controls were somewhat clunky at times.

Sly Cooper is a great option for a 3D platformer on the PS2.

12. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy's gameplay is simple but fascinating. You will be in charge of guiding Jak and his sidekick, Daxter, through several levels, jumping and fighting their way through obstacles and monsters. With an incredible amount of movements and skills, such as a double leap, roll, and spin attack, making it extremely easy to navigate through each of the levels.

The graphics in Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy are extremely bright and a bit on the cartoonish side that fits the bill when it comes to the style the developers were going for. The level design is simply fantastic with each world making you feel like you're in the desert or a wooded area.

We enjoyed Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy until the very end and are sure you will too.

11. Kingdom Hearts

Kingdom Hearts combines action and RPG elements like levelling up and character customisation.

It also includes a variety of Disney-themed mini-games that brings a refreshing change of pace.

The setting of Kingdom Hearts is graphically spectacular, combining the vivid colours of the Disney universe with the rich character models and environments of Square Enix.

The music in the game is equally remarkable, with a soundtrack that is both memorable and appropriate.

Kingdom Hearts' distinct blend of action and RPG gameplay, paired with popular Disney characters and worlds, making it a fantastic option for an action RPG game.

Fans of the series really gravitate towards this game and it's easy to see why.

10. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

The epic main storyline of Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal is extremely enjoyable.

Following Ratchet and Clank as they join forces with Captain Qwark to save the galaxy from Dr. Nefarious someone who could easily resemble a mad doctor.

The tale is full of wit and humour and we loved the ride throughout the entire game.

Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal has outstanding graphics and music. The game's colourful and vibrant graphics bring the many realms to life.

The sound effects and music are likewise well-executed and contribute to the overall gaming experience.

Levelling up your weapons was a lot of fun, and the platforming elements are pretty difficult. This is the best platformer on the PS2 pound for pound.

9. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

Devil May Cry 3's graphics and sound design are absolutely top-notch for the PlayStation 2 era. The settings and character designs are intricate and inventive, and the soundtrack is outstanding.

The main storyline is extremely dark that follows Dante as he confronts demons and investigates the secrets of his family's past. The plot is full of a ton of surprises and we were completely immersed in the character development and their hardships.

A significant amount of progress has been made since the first game. In our opinion, this is the best Devil May Cry game.

8. Silent Hill 2

Silent Hill 2's plot is as bleak as it gets. The eery storyline revolves around the main character, James Sunderland, who receives a letter from his deceased wife inviting him to meet her in Silent Hill. As he travels the town, he encounters unsettling animals and learns the truth about his background and the death of his wife.

We were completely creeped out the entire time. From the epic characters like Triangle Head to the strange zombie-like creatures that attack you as you progress through the game.

Silent Hill 2 is widely regarded as one of the greatest horror games of all time.

7. Okami

Okami's aesthetics are magnificent, with a distinct cel-shaded graphical style reminiscent of traditional Japanese paintings. The soundtrack is particularly noteworthy, featuring a blend of traditional Japanese instruments and modern orchestration.

Okami's distinct gameplay mechanisms, particularly the paintbrush function, are one of its most notable elements. The game's plot and art style are also excellent, and the soundtrack compliments the images well. We did find that the pacing could be quite slow at times, and the combat system did feel a bit on the repetitive side.

But still, with a unique combination of the elements of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving, with a gripping storyline and interesting characters.

Okami is a must-play title if you're seeking for a game that embodies the spirit of ancient Japan.

6. God of War

God of War features visually amazing graphics that transport us to a magical universe filled with gods and monsters.

The game's sound design is likewise outstanding, with an appropriate musical accompaniment and terrific voice acting.

We loved the game's furious fighting, compelling storyline, and stunning graphics. The problems were incredibly difficult at times, necessitating the use of our GameFAQs.

We truly felt as if we were in a fictitious planet within the God of War universe, and we believe you should try it.

It is ranked sixth on our list of the best PS2 games.

5. Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 4's storyline simply fantastic taking place six years after the events of Resident Evil 2. Leon S. Kennedy, the protagonist, is a US government agent tasked with rescuing the President's daughter from a secret cult in Spain.

The plot is well-written, and the cutscenes give the characters more dimension.

The graphics in Resident Evil 4 are excellent considering it was published in 2005. The game has aged well, and the graphics are still breathtaking.

The sound design is fantastic, with creepy music and sound effects that add to the horror atmosphere.

Seriously, Resident Evil 4 has been delivered to practically every platform; you can't and shouldn't miss it.

4. Final Fantasy X

One of our favourite aspects of Final Fantasy X is its dense and interesting tale. The characters are extremely well-developed, and their difficulties are genuine and realistic. We really like the strategic fighting mechanism in the game, which allows for a lot of personalization and experimentation.

On the negative side, the game can be a little slow at times, and the voice acting did sound a bit robotic at times. We did feel that the the rigid structure and lack of open-world exploring to be restrictive.

Final Fantasy X's graphics and acoustics are amazing even by today's standards. The game's gorgeous cutscenes and brilliantly produced environments genuinely bring Spira's world to life.

Still, you can't go wrong with one of the best PS2 RPGs ever.

3. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

The graphics and acoustics of San Andreas were pioneering for their day, with a vast and complex gaming environment and a rich and eclectic soundtrack incorporating songs from the 1990s.

The voice acting in the game is excellent, with unique characters and conversation that bring the scenario to life.

With the music, automobiles, and entire atmosphere, we felt like we were in the 90s. Playing through the missions was both fun and challenging at times.

San Andreas is an absolute must go for any fan of the open world genre.

2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Coming in at number two in our list of the best PS2 games ever is Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.

When this game came out, we didn't think it would fly the whole concept of Snake being out in the jungle. Eating snakes for food and finding items in the bushes.

But when we finally dove in, we understood why this game is so great. The cast of characters is extremely memorable. With larger than life boss battles and an excellent storyline to keep you excited the entire time.

You can't go wrong with Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater if you're a fan of adventure games.

1. Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus reminds us of Zelda Breath of the Wild almost 20 years prior. Being able to roam around fighting this epic creatures that make you truly feel like you're David going against Goliath.

Each of the Colossus' has a weak point that you'll have to exploit. Whether that's climbing on it's back or shooting it in the eye with an arrow. This is the coolest part about progressing in the game.

There's something extremely rewarding when you finally take down these massive beasts one by one. Shadow of the Colossus is a great exploration game and is the best game on the PS2.

Recap

We hope you enjoyed our list of the best PS2 games of all time. We've spent a ton of time sorting our order and debating which game reigns supreme.

To recap, here are all of the games featured here:

1. Shadow of the Colossus
2. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
3. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
4. Final Fantasy X
5. Resident Evil 4
6. God of War
7. Okami
8. Silent Hill 2
9. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening
10. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
11. Kingdom Hearts
12. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
13. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
14. Ico
15. Gran Turismo 4
16. Psychonauts
17. Persona 4
18. Burnout 3: Takedown
19. Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner
20. Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
21. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
22. Katamari Damacy
23. Okage: Shadow King
24. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3
25. Twisted Metal: Black
26. Bully
27. The Simpsons: Hit & Run
28. Virtua Fighter 4
29. Final Fantasy XII
30. Guitar Hero
31. Dark Cloud 2
32. King of Fighters 2002
33. Wipeout Fusion
34. Tekken 5
35. God Hand
36. Onimusha 3: Demon Siege
37. SSX 3
38. TimeSplitters 2
39. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3
40. Star Wars: Battlefront II
41. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec
42. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly
43. Mega Man X Collection
44. Red Dead Revolver
45. Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne
46. Grandia II
47. The Warriors
48. Siren
49. Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes
50. Manhunt