As a seasoned gamer who’s seen more consoles than I care to remember, I can confidently say that the PlayStation 2 era was a golden age for gaming, and it’s not just because of the big-name titles. There were hidden gems nestled among the blockbusters, games that time has forgotten but deserve a second look.
Being raised during a time when the phrase “console wars” held real significance, I understand the value of exceptional games that are exclusively available on a specific console.
These games serve as the foundational material for every leading video game company, and a well-timed, unique release could function as a powerful magnet, making that specific console the top-selling model during its generation.
It’s not uncommon for games such as “The Last of Us,” “Halo,” and “Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” (among others) to demonstrate this phenomenon. Yet, there are numerous exclusive games that may not significantly boost console sales, but they certainly provide compelling reasons for choosing one console over another.
Regardless of your perspective, it’s my personal belief that PlayStation has consistently housed an abundance of exceptional exclusives over the years. Some of these titles haven’t received the recognition they truly deserve due to the sheer volume of amazing games produced by Sony.
Here’s a list of exceptional PlayStation 2 exclusives that might not have gotten much attention when they first came out.
10. Airblade
If Marty McFly Was In THPS
Let’s start by revisiting an overlooked gem that offered a challenging competition for the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series, and it was truly exceptional.
Despite its unique, somewhat adult-oriented narrative that depicted a dystopian cityscape where one must navigate through hordes of snipers and thugs, similar to the style of the popular Birdman series in terms of gameplay.
In a game that resembles Crazy Taxi somewhat, you can create stylish combos and finish tasks under time pressure. However, it includes an extra challenge – you’ll be navigating using a hoverboard in a low-gravity environment, which comes equipped with a built-in booster.
If you’re a fan of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, you should definitely give this undiscovered masterpiece a try. It might have some quirks, but they’re worth overlooking for the experience.
9. Haven: Call of the King
An Unfortunate Cliffhanger
Traveler’s Tales is often linked to producing some of the finest Disney-themed games from the past and a variety of LEGO games as well. But it’s important to note that they aren’t just limited to working on other companies’ intellectual property; Haven: Call of the King serves as a testament to their diverse capabilities in game development.
Essentially, this game shares many characteristics with platformers of the time, featuring diverse level layouts and smooth controls for movement and combat. One might go so far as to compare it to Jak and Daxter: The Precursor’s Legacy in terms of design and mechanics, albeit without quite the same degree of refinement.
Yet, what truly sets Haven apart is its captivating narrative. Unlike many games in its genre, Haven’s story is significantly more complex, mature, and immersive than the standard opening cutscenes that merely hint at a conflict and main objective.
The game was intended to have a three-part series, but unfortunately, it wasn’t well-received, leaving the story unresolved and hanging in the balance. It’s disappointing that we don’t have the subsequent installments; I wish they were available for us to play.
8. Jade Cocoon 2
A Sublime Sequel
If you’re on the hunt for a creature-tamer JRPG, then you can’t go far wrong with Jade Cocoon 2.
The first installment was an amazing experience, but it wasn’t until the sequel (exclusive to the PlayStation 2) that the series gained popularity. However, despite not being widely recognized, this game is still considered a beloved classic by its dedicated fanbase.
If you opted for it, you indeed made a wise decision, as Jade Cocoon 2 is an impressively structured monster taming game. The game features an intuitive battle system similar to Pokemon, but with the added convenience of a wheel to quickly switch your creatures.
Moreover, the game boasts a meticulously crafted environment, with each detail mattering significantly. Although some locations might seem similar, a captivating combat mechanism ensures that no experience feels dull or monotonous.
If you asked me if the story is exceptional enough to share with family, I’d have to say it’s not. But let me tell you, the intricate combat system in this game certainly warrants a closer look.
7. Maximo Vs. Army of Zin
A Grim Adventure
People who consider themselves seasoned gamers are likely familiar with the Ghosts ‘n Goblins series, which was incredibly popular back in the era of the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System).
In recent times, except for rare instances when anthology collections are released, the series doesn’t seem to generate much excitement anymore.
Maximo Vs. Army of Zin endeavored to alter something significant, providing players with a hack-and-slash platformer set in the Ghosts N’ Goblins universe. Regrettably, this game is one that has only managed to garner cult classic status among its select group of fans who dared to play it.
I must admit, for those who didn’t play it, they truly missed an intricately crafted and challenging journey that seems like a beloved mascot platformer was developed by the masterful minds at FromSoftware. This game is no walk in the park; it’s as tough as vintage work boots!
Granted, it’s nowhere near as punishing as its predecessor, but I promise you, it’s a game that will take pleasure in kicking your ass. But, truth be told, I love that, and I reckon you, too, will love Maximo if you give it a chance.
6. Rule of Rose
Underrated and Overpriced
Rule of Rose is a game that will be familiar to many, but not for the reason you might think.
The game is frequently discussed because it has an extraordinarily high price associated with the limited number of copies available on the market nowadays.
Although this game might not seem worth its high cost for everyone, if you’re a fan of challenging survival horror genres with an intense fear factor, I would recommend giving it a shot and looking for opportunities to play it somewhere.
The gameplay itself doesn’t seem to be what sets this apart, as it appears to be a mix of many horror games from that time period (such as Silent Hill and Resident Evil), with the addition of an endearing canine sidekick.
Nevertheless, this game boasts a captivating, eerie narrative that’s priceless, an immersive ambiance, and graphics that were quite impressive for its time of launch. Despite its flaws, it remains a valuable gem in the gaming world.
The game will cost you upwards of $250, just in case you were wondering.
5. Shadow of Rome
Are You Not Entertained?
During the PlayStation 2 period, Capcom offered excellent value for unique intellectual properties, abundant in quality, but unfortunately, many of these creations didn’t receive the recognition they likely should have. Shadow of Rome serves as a notable illustration of this trend.
Several games have attempted, yet fallen short, at delivering a polished experience with combat set in the Roman Empire. However, Shadow of Rome was unique as it succeeded in achieving both. By leveraging Capcom’s extensive hack-and-slash expertise, they were able to create and launch this game.
As a game enthusiast, I can’t help but be captivated by this immersive experience! The riveting narrative that revolves around the demise of Julius Caesar keeps me hooked. Plus, the diverse gameplay with its thrilling chariot races and deathmatches, not to mention the challenging Arena trials, makes every moment exciting!
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Salvo system operates in a manner similar to Devil May Cry’s stylish system. It encourages you to show off your skills during button-mashing, and if you do so with panache, you can even provoke the audience to exclaim, ‘Are you not impressed?’
As a keen enthusiast, I can’t stress enough the value hidden within this seemingly overlooked artifact. If you haven’t already, I strongly recommend you track down a copy of it as soon as possible, for there’s still much to discover and appreciate!
4. Cold Winter
More Than A Simple Shooter
It’s worth noting that many first-person shooter (FPS) games on PlayStation 2 were not user-friendly because anything on that system was significantly superior when played on a PC. While this might still be true to some extent, modern console shooters are far more capable than they were back then.
Despite its challenging control mechanisms, some games managed to shine despite the obstacles, and Cold Winter is undoubtedly one such game. It may not have achieved widespread commercial success, but it certainly made a mark.
The primary reason for this is the exceptional, sophisticated storytelling which delivers a spy adventure comparable to anything the James Bond franchise offered on the PlayStation 2.
Additionally, the game features an extensive crafting mechanism, engaging environmental aspects, and optional tasks within each stage, all of which foster exploration and enrich the overall experience.
As a gamer, I initially dismissed this title as just another clumsy console shooter, but after giving it a chance, I found myself captivated by its exceptional quality – even among its peers in the awkward shooter genre. At the very least, it’s worth diving into for an exciting gaming experience.
3. Gregory Horror Show
Resident Evil For Kids
Wow, there they are once more – Capcom! It seems like they were quite active in the 2000s, and indeed, their work was often more substantial than just filler.
As a gamer, I’d say another game that’s been fondly remembered as ‘kid-friendly Resident Evil’ is Gregory Horror Show. This game takes you on a chilling journey through a Hotel California-like limbo. Your task? Navigate the spooky corridors, encounter the residents, and if you’re lucky, make it out alive!
However, just like the lyrics suggest, you’re always free to depart whenever you wish, yet somehow, it feels impossible to break away – this seems to be the persistent feeling as you attempt to gather the spirits of those nearby.
This game is remarkably innovative, featuring characters adhering to strict schedules that require careful planning, bizarre narrative twists, and intricate detective-style puzzles that truly stimulate one’s problem-solving abilities.
If you find yourself enjoying this treasure trove immensely and craving for more, it originates from a television series, so don’t forget to explore that as well!
2. Haunting Ground
Absolute Remaster Bait
Another entry, another forgotten Capcom gem of the 2000s. You would think this is me being biased, but honestly, there was a slew of absolute Capcom bangers that slipped through the cracks back in the day.
Haunting Grounds, which I’m about to discuss, truly earns its spot on this list. In fact, it challenges the previously mentioned Rule of Rose in terms of scarcity and high cost among vintage video games.
Haunting Ground was initially conceived as a chapter within the Clock Tower series, but ultimately transformed into its own unique franchise, and this change appears to have been beneficial. The game delivers striking visuals, an unsettling horror atmosphere, and a storyline that revolves around a disturbing portrayal of the male gaze.
Additionally, similar to Rule of Rose, there’s a canine companion, intricate riddles that are challenging to solve, awkward combat mechanics, and a sense of unease throughout the gameplay.
This is a game I strongly suggest you consider playing, but given its high cost, perhaps try finding a similar version at a lower price instead.
1. Champions of Norrath: Realms of Everquest
Dark Alliance 2.0
To sum it up, my intention is to cater to today’s gaming enthusiasts. It seems you all enjoy Baldur’s Gate 3. How about an action-packed adventure utilizing the Dark Alliance game engine instead?
This game retains its couch multiplayer feature, intricate role-playing mechanics reminiscent of Dungeons & Dragons, and a bit of the intense action found in LEGO games. Why wouldn’t you enjoy it?
In this game, every decision about a character’s development carries significant weight. Each upgrade option and compatibility must be carefully considered since an ill-prepared character can lead to failure, much like in many Role Playing Games from that time period.
However, once you manage to execute it correctly and present a demonstration of the concept during actual combat situations, which are complex, diverse, and subtly intricate rather than merely relying on mindless button pressing.
If you appreciate the strategic pause in combat of Baldur’s Gate 3, let me clarify, such a feature isn’t available here. However, if fast-paced, chaotic gameplay excites you, this action-packed PS2 exclusive is an outstanding gem that’s definitely worth revisiting and enjoying!
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2024-12-06 19:39