The PlayStation 2 served as an incubator for numerous aspiring game developers. It transformed fledgling talents into legendary figures and solidified the status of promising up-and-comers from the previous era as gaming titans.
In my perspective, numerous game creators truly shone during that era, yet some encountered turbulent times or faded from view. Consequently, several iconic video game series of the time failed to reach those same dizzying peaks anew.
As a gamer, I’ve got to say this: Some games from back then keep going strong, and even thrive today. However, nothing can deny that those games really shone during the PlayStation 2 days, and since then, none have quite managed to reach those same heights again.
In our compilation, we’ll incorporate all PS2 games, not limiting ourselves to exclusive titles. Moreover, we’re focusing on games that had previous releases or subsequent sequels, either before or after their initial PS2 versions.
10. Need For Speed
Reaching Top Speeds In The 2000s
The Need for Speed series has its ups and downs; it can be extremely engaging with titles such as Unbound, Shift, or Carbon, but it can also experience less exciting releases like Rivals, Payback, or Heat, which somewhat diminish the overall appeal of the series.
During the PlayStation 2 era, it seemed like every corner was filled with top-notch racing games. The Underground series stood out for its raw street racing feel and vibrant neon lighting.
Later on, the series took a significant leap forward with Most Wanted, a game that remains Need for Speed’s most exceptional release to date. A contemporary remake of this classic title is long overdue.
This series has rarely managed such a streak of success as it’s currently experiencing, and if I were to gamble, I’d confidently bet that the PS2 era was when Need for Speed reached its peak performance.
9. WWE Wrestling Games
Forget The Netflix Era
Although numerous WWF and WWE games have been released over time, with the license being transferred multiple times, I must broaden my scope. Even though 2K has done an outstanding job with the brand, I can’t help but reminisce about the PS2 era as the golden age for wrestling gaming.
As a dedicated gamer, my gaming journey with wrestling games started way back when SmackDown: Here Comes The Pain entered the scene. To this day, it remains my all-time favorite WWE game. The campaign mode was exceptional, brimming with content that kept me engaged for hours on end. The roster was a blast to play with, and the custom options offered endless possibilities for personalized matches.
In my gaming experience, the pinnacle moment was undoubtedly during the SmackDown vs. Raw series. It offered everything fantastic from HCTP, but took it a step further with intricate and strategic wrestling gameplay in matches, not just the spectacle. To make things even sweeter, the GM mode had me hooked like nothing else.
In a tight race, I believe the PS2 still holds the crown as the best platform for WWE games, given the inconsistent performance of 2K in their WWE series. For now, at least.
8. Ratchet & Clank
Mascot Platforming Royalty
The Ratchet and Clank series has consistently been exceptional, and despite the retirement of the PlayStation 2, making room for more advanced technology, the entertaining team of robot and Lombax still embarked on thrilling journeys, inviting gamers to join them along the way.
Though I’ve experienced some incredible moments, like the awe-inspiring Rift Apart, it’s undeniable that their golden era on the PlayStation 2 is still unmatched in my gaming memories. That legendary run remains the pinnacle of this series for me.
Initially, the game launched to widespread acclaim, delivering top-notch run-and-shoot gameplay, and subsequent versions simply built upon this established design.
Goodness gracious, even the combatant from the colosseum, Gladiator, managed to surpass expectations remarkably. While it’s expected that Ratchet and Clank will continue to deliver amazing scenes, it’s on the PlayStation 2 where they truly shone at their best.
7. Tony Hawks Pro Skater
Big Air, Sticks The Landing
Essentially, THPS (Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater) serves as an umbrella term for me, encompassing not just the original series but also the THUG games during the PlayStation 2 era. The PS1 versions of THPS were exceptional, propelling skateboarding and the Birdman into the limelight. But it was the PS2 titles that amplified the initial formula, cranking up the madness to a whole new level.
Among the pure arcade time-attack games, THPS3 stood out as the best. THPS4 brought quests into play gracefully, and subsequently, THUG, THUG 2, and American Wasteland provided story-based experiences that were undeniably cheesy but also incredibly enjoyable.
After that point, there was a significant drop in quality, which was halted by the skillful remasters of the classic Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games. However, the fact that the series is still popular today indicates that its golden age was most certainly during the time it spent on the PlayStation 2.
6. Resident Evil
What’re Ya Buyin?
While it may spark debate, it’s worth noting that the Resident Evil series didn’t have a vast number of releases during its time on the PlayStation 2. However, we firmly believe that this period saw the series reach its zenith, primarily because of the release of Resident Evil 4. This game stands out as the main reason for our belief.
Among many fans, Resident Evil 4 stands out as the peak of the series, delivering top-notch survival horror gameplay, an engaging narrative, and a unique, unforgettable in-game character who doubles as a merchant.
Among all games, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard comes close to matching its shine, but for me, Resident Evil 4 stands out as the one most true to the series. It masterfully combines the bizarre, terrifying, and campy aspects into a timeless mix that remains captivating.
The exceptional response received at the launch of the remake further underscores its quality. At the moment, this outstanding game remains the pinnacle for the horror series known as Resident Evil, although it may change if the franchise continues to improve.
5. Metal Gear Solid
Snake At His Most Solid
While it might be debatable to include Metal Gear Solid (MGS) on this list due to its groundbreaking debut during the PlayStation (PSX) era, leaving many in awe. However, considering the slight misstep with MGS2 and the decline in popularity following MGS4 and MGS5, we believe that the PS2 was the stage for Snake’s most memorable moments.
Among all games in the series, Snake Eater stands out as my top pick, and I’m confident many others share this view. The spy-themed gameplay remained exceptional, enhanced by a few extra features.
1. The leaders truly shone, with The Final Act taking center stage, and the narrative being arguably the most robust among them, culminating in a powerful finale, and a lengthy, blood-streaked ladder.
2. The superiors were exceptional, The End was the headliner, and the tale is likely the most potent of all, ending with a punch, and a very long, crimson-tinted ladder.
3. The managers were impressive, The Last Act was the main attraction, and the plot is possibly the most impactful of all, concluding with a strong message, and one extended, bloodied staircase.
4. The chiefs were remarkable, The Final Scene stole the show, and the narrative is likely the most compelling of all, wrapping up with a powerful punchline, and a lengthy, blood-spattered set of steps.
5. The supervisors were outstanding, The End was the main event, and the story is probably the most robust of all, ending with a strong impact, and one very long, bloody staircase.
Given that Kojima and Konami have gone separate ways, it appears the finest Metal Gear Solid game has likely reached its end. Consequently, until a reconciliation occurs, Metal Gear Solid 3 will continue to be the pinnacle of the Metal Gear Solid series.
4. Prince of Persia
Turn Back The Clock
For quite some time, the Prince of Persia sat untouched on a shelf until Ubisoft thought up an ingenious plan to give him a good cleaning and adjust the classic format, resulting in one of the top-tier Metroidvania games in recent years.
Nevertheless, returning to the main stage with the series didn’t make up for the fact that it was just a tiny fraction of the incredible string of top-notch games that the Prince of Persia franchise produced during its PS2 heyday.
Although this comeback marked a return to the big leagues for the series, it paled in comparison to the impressive streak of fantastic games that the Prince of Persia franchise churned out during its glory days on the PlayStation 2.
Among many strong contenders, The Sands of Time stood out distinctly as the top choice. It presented exceptional platforming, innovative time-travel gameplay, and flawlessly designed levels that showcased the best the PlayStation 2 had to offer in this genre.
It’s not too much of a stretch to conclude that if there was no Prince of Persia, we wouldn’t have Assassin’s Creed, demonstrating the significant and far-reaching impact this PlayStation 2 classic had on game development.
3. Kingdom Hearts
Before The Keyblade Wars
Although Kingdom Hearts has been released on numerous consoles due to its various spin-offs and sequels, it’s worth noting that the series reached its zenith during its initial phase on the PlayStation 2.
Initially, Kingdom Hearts showcased an exceptional original concept that paved the way for future developments. Subsequently, Kingdom Hearts 2 significantly enhanced the hack-and-slash gameplay style by introducing tactical combat, improved movement mechanics, visually appealing quick-time events (QTEs) and dramatic set-pieces, among other enhancements.
However, since the initial releases, the series hasn’t managed to recreate the same magical feeling as before. Consequently, the subsequent games have been solid in their individual merits, yet they’ve fallen short of surpassing the original two primary installments.
Among the games in the PSP version of Kingdom Hearts, Birth by Sleep likely comes the closest to rekindling the enchantment that the series once held. However, if Kingdom Hearts 4 fails to deliver, then Kingdom Hearts 2 will continue to hold its position as the most magical game within the franchise at this current time.
2. Silent Hill
There Was A Tagline Here, It’s Gone Now
Currently, the Silent Hill series seems more reliant on its past achievements than creating fresh content. Regardless of the efforts put forth by various developers to innovate with this franchise, nothing truly captures the grandeur and genius found in Silent Hill 2.
As a seasoned gamer, I’ve played my fair share of Silent Hill games, but none have left an impact quite like James Sunderland’s harrowing journey through the town. The psychological terror that permeates the game is as chilling today as it was when I first played it. It’s a testament to its enduring quality.
The Bloober Team remake maintains nearly all aspects of the original game, primarily enhancing its graphics while leaving most other features untouched, as the saying goes: “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.
Without a doubt, Silent Hill F appears intriguing, and I’m keeping my hopes high that the Silent Hill series will evolve into something more substantial than just a nostalgic journey. However, for now, Silent Hill 2 stands as the game to surpass.
1. Grand Theft Auto
Grove Street For Life
Changes could happen anytime soon, since we’re on tenterhooks for the official reveal of the GTA VI release date, an event that is expected to cause a seismic shift in the gaming industry. But until then, it’s fair to say that, in terms of bang for your buck, the PlayStation 2 was unrivaled when it came to Grand Theft Auto games.
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) has continued to be an incredibly profitable game for Rockstar Games for more than ten years now, covering three different console generations. This is something that not many other games can boast about.
Indeed, Grand Theft Auto III, Vice City, and San Andreas from the PlayStation 2 era were the pivotal titles that established the Grand Theft Auto series and sparked the ongoing trend of open-world games as we know them today.
Despite some opinions suggesting it didn’t age quite as gracefully, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas stands tall as the peak of the GTA empire, providing an unparalleled overall gaming experience given its time period.
In due time, GTA VI may render this claim absurd, so remember to mark it and add comments when that occurs. However, before that happens, I stand firmly behind this stance – this is a position I’m prepared to maintain.
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2025-04-17 17:14