7 Amazing PS2 Games With 100+ Hours Of Content

by

In contrast, if we look at video games from the past versus those of today’s high-profile releases, the distinction in scale can be quite striking. Typically, a top-tier game from the 2000s might have occupied around twenty hours of your time.

If I were to pay top dollar for an AAA game and receive such limited value in return, I’d certainly feel like I was getting the raw end of the deal.

In the 2000s, some games boldly ventured towards grandeur, providing players with immersive experiences that required more than 100 hours of dedicated playtime. Such an accomplishment would still be noteworthy for many games produced today.

In plentiful shortage, those PlayStation 2 games were undeniably the most cost-effective buys during that period. To this day, they remain towering examples of exceptional gaming experiences, standing among the greatest games ever created.

We will be using the playtimes listed on HowLongToBeat as our measuring stick.

7.
Persona 4

Murder Mystery After School

Throughout its run, Persona has consistently provided excellent worth, featuring vast amounts of content, an abundance of additional end-game content, and an impressive quantity of creature customization and fusion to acquire the most powerful personas in your team.

Despite the appeal of other Persona releases, none seem as promising in terms of playtime as the potential duration of Persona 4, the youthful, pop-infused drama installment within the series.

Apart from fully maximizing your social connections, collecting every skill card, successfully completing all miraculous quizzes, and reading each book, there’s an additional step required for the true ending: you must go through another round. Regardless of whether you fast-forward through cutscenes or race to the end, a playtime of over 100 hours is inevitable, if not extended further.

Taking things slow is crucial here, as savoring every moment of this beloved JRPG is a must. Given its outstanding quality, ranking among the best and most rewarding games within the franchise, it may even challenge the legendary status of Persona 5, though it still falls slightly short.

If you’ve already exhausted the Phantom Thieves games, then it’s time to move on to another title that you might find interesting next.

6.
Final Fantasy XII

Live Your Sky Pirate Fantasy

It’s worth mentioning that you might spot a pattern here. Typically, JRPGs are known for being extensive, captivating journeys, and Final Fantasy has played a significant role in establishing this convention.

Yet, given Square Enix’s reputation for delivering rich games back then, it’s unlikely that people anticipated Final Fantasy XII would be so overflowing with content as it turned out to be.

For completing the primary narrative and additional missions on your own, most gamers are likely to spend over 90 hours. However, if you aim to accomplish everything within the game, expect a playtime of more than 150 hours.

In simpler terms, that implies overcoming challenging enemies, collecting every creature in your encyclopedia, mastering all spells and techniques, accomplishing every convergence and summoning every Esper. However, even this barely touches on what you’ll experience.

This journey is nothing short of spectacular, offering an exceptional opportunity to familiarize yourself with one of the most diverse groups of characters in Final Fantasy’s storied history. If you’re seeking a game that will captivate your attention for hours on end, and in the most enjoyable manner, this could be just what you’re looking for.

5.
Gran Turismo 4

Race To That Checkered Flag

Although some gameplay may seem slightly deceiving due to extensive periods in the simulated mode called B-Spec, don’t let that fool you! There’s still an immense amount of material to explore and enjoy in Grand Theft Auto 4’s latest edition, regardless of the absence of traditional 24-hour endurance races.

In simpler terms, the game offers traditional milestones like claiming your first Sunday Cup and finishing your licenses. However, it requires an impressive time commitment of approximately 264 hours if you aim to conquer every race, collect all possible rewards, and consider the game as fully completed.

Sure thing! Using B-Spec mode, it’s possible to complete much of this game while you sleep by setting up your team effectively. However, there are also several interactive races where your skill will be put to the test.

If you’re looking for an exceptional Gran Turismo title on PlayStation 2 that I believe offers the finest solo gaming experience within the series, then this game is definitely worth trying out.

4.
Monster Hunter

The Start Of Something Special

As a seasoned gamer, I can’t help but remind folks that Monster Hunter was already a force to reckon with way before games like Rise, World, and Wilds took center stage. Yet, one constant truth remains: regardless of which installment you’re talking about, the true essence of the game kicks in once you reach the endgame.

Similar to the subsequent entries, the initial MH presents a consistent advancement structure, allowing players to battle increasingly formidable enemies, obtain upgraded equipment, and engage in this cycle of progress.

Additionally, due to its simpler structure lacking contemporary user interface and many of the conveniences we now take for granted, each quest seemed overwhelming, necessitating careful preparation, tracking, and precise execution.

This game isn’t really worth replaying right now because its online servers are inactive, the design feels outdated, and the battles can be quite rigid compared to contemporary games. On the other hand, it was an incredible value back in the day, paving the way for many of the elements we appreciate in modern gaming.

3.
SmackDown: Here Comes The Pain

Deserving Of A Title Shot

Being quite knowledgeable about wrestling video games, I confidently assert that no other game has ever matched the greatness of HCTP.

Absolutely, there’s no denying that a dose of nostalgia played its part. But let me clarify, the game was brimming with satisfying content, which undeniably made it a worthwhile investment for any WWE fan. In comparison to the cost of Wrestlemania 41 tickets, wouldn’t you agree?

Moving on, let me highlight some key features of this game: It offers an extensive and engaging campaign mode that encourages multiple plays, provides numerous personalization options for customization enthusiasts, and has a variety of unlockables that can be obtained by accumulating superstar points.

This game rewards investment; the more effort you put into creating your own wrestlers, factions, move sets, and so on, the more enjoyment you’ll get from it. However, without this customization, the game can become repetitive. Yet, in the mid-2000s, having such a level of customization was quite remarkable indeed.

2.
Kingdom Hearts II (Final Mix)

An Improvement On A Masterpiece

Originally, Kingdom Hearts 2 wasn’t a particularly long game, taking about sixty hours to complete. However, the enhanced and significantly upgraded Final Mix version certainly requires more time investment.

Beyond just the current content like Gummi missions, mini-games, and an extended campaign, what makes this even more enriching is the extra challenges provided by Final Mix, such as the Cavern of Remembrance trials, encounters with Data Organisation bosses, the battle against The Lingering Will, and numerous other features.

Because these bosses are incredibly challenging, players might spend numerous hours fighting against them to finally conquer one of the many formidable adversaries introduced in the game.

However, having experienced this challenge myself, I am confident in saying that it’s an exhilarating journey and definitely worth the effort you’ll put in. So, go ahead and take hold of your most powerful weapon, and prove your dominance!

1.
Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Toriyama At His Best

To wrap up, we present another epic JRPG from the sixth gaming era, and it’s only fitting that a primary Dragon Quest installment takes center stage.

Once again, you’ve nailed it with your captivating storyline, artfully woven with Toriyama’s unique, timeless charm. And let’s not forget about the delightful characters and richly detailed universe that invites deep immersion.

Sixty hours should be enough for reaching the game’s ending, but dedicated players who aim to finish every side mission, tackle the extensive post-game content, and a whole lot more, might need roughly twice that amount of time.

These days, it might be slightly more convenient to enjoy this game on the 3DS, but it initially found its home on the PS2, where RPG enthusiasts like us were captivated by every moment of its lengthy, immersive journey.

Read More

2025-04-24 14:40