Top PS2 Games: All-Time Classics

If you're a fan of classic gaming, then the PlayStation 2 needs no introduction. As one of the most influential consoles in history, it's celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and we’re taking a nostalgic trip down memory lane to highlight the games that defined an era. From beloved exclusives like Okami and Shadow of the Colossus, to genre-defining blockbusters such as Final Fantasy X and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, the PS2 library is packed with timeless masterpieces.

With so many incredible titles to choose from, we’ve curated a list of what we believe are the 25 best PS2 games ever made—titles that not only pushed the boundaries of technology and storytelling at the time but still hold up today. These are the games that shaped modern gaming and left a lasting legacy.

So, without further ado, here’s IGN’s definitive list of the 25 greatest PlayStation 2 games of all time.

The Best PS2 Games Ever

26 ImagesMore on the best PlayStation Games of all time:

Best PS4 Games
Best PS3 Games
Best PS1 Games

25. Guitar Hero 2

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

While Guitar Hero started the rhythm revolution, Guitar Hero 2 perfected it. At a time when the series was focused purely on rock and metal anthems, it delivered an electrifying tracklist featuring Suicidal Tendencies, Megadeth, Danzig, The Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden, and Iggy & The Stooges.

This was also the last entry before every music publisher jumped into the rhythm game gold rush, giving Harmonix full creative control over song selection. If you love headbanging while jamming out on a plastic guitar, Guitar Hero 2 is the ultimate experience.

24. Sly Cooper 2: Band of Thieves

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Sucker Punch Productions | Publisher: SCE | Release Date: September 14, 2004
Review: IGN's Sly 2: Band of Thieves review

The Sly Cooper series has always stood out for its charming mix of stealth, platforming, and humor—and Sly 2 is arguably the strongest entry in the trilogy. With a richly detailed world, engaging story, and the ability to play as the entire gang—including Murray and Bentley—it offers a unique blend of cooperative gameplay and solo stealth action.

It's a testament to how clever level design and character writing can elevate a family-friendly adventure into something truly memorable.

23. ICO

Image credit: Sony
Developer: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: SCE | Release Date: September 25, 2001
Review: IGN's ICO review

In a genre dominated by fast-paced action, ICO dared to be different. Centered around an escort mission—a mechanic usually despised—it instead crafted a deeply emotional journey between two silent characters navigating a mysterious castle.

What makes ICO special isn’t just its atmospheric puzzles or minimalist storytelling, but how it forged an unspoken bond between player and AI companion. It remains one of the most artistic and emotionally resonant experiences on any console.

22. NBA Street Vol. 2

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

NBA Street Vol. 2 elevated arcade-style basketball to new heights. With flashy visuals, accessible controls, and deep customization options, it struck a perfect balance between casual fun and competitive intensity.

Whether you were battling friends in head-to-head matches or unlocking NBA legends, NBA Street Vol. 2 offered endless replayability. It wasn't just a basketball game—it was a cultural phenomenon wrapped in high-flying dunks and stylish crossovers.

21. Kingdom Hearts II

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

A triumphant sequel that refined everything from the original, Kingdom Hearts II expanded on the franchise’s signature blend of Disney charm and Final Fantasy depth.

Featuring improved combat mechanics, deeper exploration, and a more cohesive narrative arc, this entry solidified Kingdom Hearts as a beloved crossover saga. While newcomers might want to start with the first game, fans of fantasy, Disney, or RPGs will find plenty to love in this magical adventure.

20. Tony Hawk's Underground

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

Taking the skateboarding formula of earlier Tony Hawk games and injecting a fresh layer of personality, Underground introduced a humorous storyline, a massive soundtrack, and intuitive creation tools.

Despite mixed reactions to its Jackass-inspired humor, it remains one of the most feature-rich entries in the series. Whether you were customizing your skater or creating your dream skatepark, Underground offered both creativity and chaos in equal measure.

19. Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

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

A tactical RPG with absurd levels of depth, Disgaea: Hour of Darkness became a cult classic thanks to its gothic aesthetic, quirky humor, and expansive gameplay systems.

With a focus on strategic combat and near-limitless character progression, it appealed to hardcore strategy fans while remaining accessible enough for newcomers. Even after years, Disgaea continues to offer one of the most rewarding turn-based experiences ever made.

18. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Insomniac Games | Publisher: SCE | Release Date: November 2, 2004
Review: IGN's Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal review

Building on the success of its predecessors, Up Your Arsenal took the Ratchet & Clank universe to new heights with enhanced weapons, mini-games, and one of the earliest console online multiplayer modes.

From using the iconic Suck Cannon to blast enemies away to exploring alien worlds, the game offered a perfect mix of sci-fi adventure and lighthearted fun. It remains one of the most polished and enjoyable entries in the long-running series.

17. Beyond Good & Evil

![](/uploads/02/174214085067d6f5