Best Games Only Available On PlayStation 2, Ranked

Summary

Sony PlayStation 2 boasts exclusive must-play titles, like SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs and Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny.
The Getaway is more than just a GTA clone — the cinematic game experience, driving mechanics, and London setting distinguish it as a must-play.
EyeToy: Play showcased the technology’s potential with fun minigames using player movement, simple controls, and multiplayer options.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming experience under my belt, let me tell you that the year 2004 was truly a golden era for video games, and I had the pleasure of experiencing some of the finest titles during that time. One game that stands out in my memory is Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny.

I remember being completely engrossed by its intricate storyline, immersive setting, and challenging gameplay. The fixed camera angles added a layer of tension and suspense that I hadn’t experienced before, and the combat system was satisfyingly deep with its emphasis on combos and strategic use of souls.

What really impressed me was how Capcom managed to create such an engaging experience without relying too heavily on the previous game’s protagonist. Jubei Yagyu was a refreshing new character, and I found myself invested in his journey from the very beginning. And let’s not forget about those boss battles! The final showdown against Oda Nobunaga still gives me chills to this day.

In all honesty, if you’re looking for a game that offers a blend of action, adventure, and strategy, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny is the one you should be reaching for. Just remember, as they say in Japan, “If you want to conquer the world, start by conquering your games.” And who am I to argue with that wise wisdom?

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time for a quick break from reminiscing about my youth and go beat up some Genma. You know, just for old times’ sake!

For more than twenty years since its debut, the PlayStation 2 has been instrumental in bringing some of the greatest video games to millions of gamers worldwide. To this day, it remains the highest-selling video game console in history, maintaining a significant presence in people’s memories, and creating a legacy that is expected to endure for years to come.

At that time, numerous fantastic games were offered on competing systems, but the dominant console boasted a rich collection of exclusive games. Although timeless hits like TimeSplitters and Twisted Metal: Black eventually appeared on later PlayStations and other platforms, these essential titles continue to be confined to the legendary PlayStation 2.

10. SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs

Tactical Shooter With Voice Commands

In recent times, the SOCOM game series has largely slipped from people’s minds, overshadowed by other shooting games dominating the market. However, its initial release, SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs, was remarkably popular back then. This pioneering title gave birth to a series that persisted across various generations of gaming consoles, selling millions upon millions of copies worldwide.

As a secret agent known as Kahuna, you could issue commands to your team verbally through a headset, making the game truly groundbreaking in its time. Spanning twelve gripping story missions, SOCOM tested players on their ability to be precise, stealthy, and cooperative. Additionally, it offered top-notch multiplayer action online, although unfortunately, the servers for this aspect have ceased to exist.

9. The Getaway

Not Just A GTA Clone

Similar to the Driver series, The Getaway was often mistakenly categorized as a “Grand Theft Auto clone.” Although there are similarities, it’s well worth exploring. In fact, it has garnered significant retrospective acclaim where there was once criticism directed at its narrative and gameplay.

To create a more film-like atmosphere, the game eliminates the usual heads-up display (HUD), instead opting for creative methods like flashing indicators on the car to guide players. By managing two characters with intertwined narratives, players can roam freely in the superb London setting once they’ve completed missions. Subsequent installments as a game, TV show, and graphic novel have all been released based on its success.

8. Time Crisis 3

Light-Gun Arcade Action On A Home Console

The idea that Time Crisis 3 is exclusive to certain platforms may not be entirely accurate, given its initial release as an arcade game and later availability on mobile devices under the name Time Crisis Strike. However, the PlayStation 2 version seems to be the most accessible way to play it nowadays, featuring additional weapons and characters compared to the original arcade game.

Around the turn of the millennium, the light-gun accessory was incredibly trendy. Games like “Time Crisis” and “House of the Dead” were particularly prominent, and it’s been a while since we’ve seen a comeback for the original “Time Crisis”. Similar to its outstanding predecessor, “Time Crisis 3” also offers multiplayer mode, and it retains the distinctive ‘hide and advance’ pedal system, enabling players to seek cover when necessary.

7. WWE SmackDown! Here Comes The Pain

One Of The Best Wrestling Games Ever Made

The last game in the exceptional WWE SmackDown! series, known as “WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain“, is widely considered by many as the best of its kind and one of the finest wrestling games overall. Boasting a powerful lineup of more than 50 wrestlers, including legends for the first time, it was also the pioneer in offering the intensely brutal and chaotic ‘Elimination Chamber’ match format.

In this particular entry, they unveiled a grappling system that was comparable to the one in the iconic N64 game, WWF No Mercy. For the first time, we saw visuals demonstrating physical injuries, and from then on, these elements, coupled with an improved submission system, became recurring features in WWE games. Furthermore, the Season mode offered a multitude of complex and branching storylines that were more intricate than one might expect.

6. Gran Turismo 4

Another Great Entry In The Car Racing Genre

In the lineup of massive series titled Gran Turismo 4, it turned out to be one of the top-selling games for PlayStation 2. Leveraging the strong gameplay of its predecessors, it showcased over 700 different vehicles and more than 50 tracks inspired by real-life courses as well as modified versions of tracks from earlier games in the series.

In this latest version of the game, you’ll notice significant upgrades including enhanced graphics and physics, as well as an exciting new ‘Photo Mode’ that allows gamers to snap screenshots and save them onto a USB stick. The fan-favorite A-spec mode makes a comeback with fresh ‘Driving Missions,’ and for the first time, B-spec mode is introduced, giving players the opportunity to manage a race crew as the crew chief.

5. EyeToy: Play

Fun Minigames Caught On Camera

One of the PlayStation 2’s most successful games, EyeToy: Play, introduced an innovative concept by being the initial title to incorporate the EyeToy video camera. This camera recognized player movements instead of relying on a traditional controller for interaction with screen objects. The idea was quite popular back then and led to several sequels, although none could match the appeal of the original game.

As a tech-savvy individual who has spent countless hours immersed in various gaming experiences, I must say that EyeToy is an exceptional piece of interactive entertainment for all ages and abilities. What really sets it apart is its multiplayer mode, which offers a dynamic range of options from competitive play to teamwork, catering to both the friendly rivalries and cooperative spirits within us.

The Playroom tech demo, in particular, stands out as a delightful bonus feature. The built-in microphone of the camera allows for a level of interactivity that is truly unique, enabling players to experiment with different effects or even record short videos. It’s a simple yet engaging way to have fun and showcase one’s creativity while still keeping things easy-going and accessible.

In my personal experience, EyeToy has been a wonderful addition to my gaming library, providing hours of entertainment for me and friends during gatherings or as a stress-reliever after a long day. It’s a testament to the power of interactive technology when it is designed with inclusivity in mind, allowing people from different backgrounds and skill levels to enjoy the same experience together.

The 12 minigames are:

Beat Freak: rhythm game where one must tap discs at the right moment in time with the music for a higher score.
Boogie Down/Disco Stars: a rhythm game where players must match the moves of an on-screen dancer in time with the music.
Boxing Chump: defeat a robot opponent in a boxing match.
Ghost Catcher/Ghost Elimination: defend a graveyard from ghosts and bats.
Keep Ups/Soccer craze: keep a ball in the air while also hitting enemies on the side of the screen with the ball.
Kung Fu: battle waves of ninjas as they jump toward the middle of the screen.
Mirror Time: the screen flips and reverses to disorientate the player, then the player must hit the friendly green symbols for points — and avoid the evil red robot symbols.
Plate Spinner: try to spin up to four plates for as long as possible.
Rocket Rumble: highlight rockets of the same color and detonate them simultaneously for more points.
Slap Stream: attack enemy rats, but avoid hitting the friendly rabbits.
UFO Juggler: spin UFOs while battling enemy spaceships.
Wishi Washi: players clean many soapy and otherwise dirty windows.

4. Xenosaga Episode 1: Der Wille Zur Macht

The Beginning Of The Xenosaga Series

Xenosaga Episode 1: Der Wille Zur Macht, never launched in Europe, predominantly functions as an introduction to the expansive Xenosaga series. The German title, derived from philosopher Nietzsche, translates to “The Will to Power,” possibly due to the significant role of free will in the storyline.

In a distant future where humanity confronts an imminent extinction event, players assume the characters of scientist Shion Uzuki and her artificial intelligence companion KOS-MOS. Their mission is to combat alien adversaries called the Gnosis. This game was widely appreciated during its release, though it’s important to note that it features extended cutscenes, some lasting up to 40 minutes.

3. Wipeout Fusion

High Octane Futuristic Racing

Platform: PlayStation 2
Released: February 8, 2002
Developer: Studio Liverpool
Genre: Racing

Returning to the racetracks in the F9000 antigravity league yet again, Wipeout Fusion tends to be underrated within the Wipeout series. Compared to its counterparts, the controls are a bit stiffer, but the weapons are more abundant, making the AI opponents significantly more aggressive.

In this particular installment of the series, you’ll find that it’s the sole game offering vehicle enhancements and stronger weapons can only be accessed as the game progresses. Certain game modes also remain locked until players advance to a specific level, which sets it apart within the series. As is customary with _Wipeout_ games, the soundtrack is universally acclaimed for its quality.

2. Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies

Simulated Flight Combat

In Europe, it’s called “Ace Combat: Distant Thunder,” but more commonly known as “Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies” in other regions. This game is the fourth installment in the series, marking a significant step up from its previous iteration that didn’t quite live up to expectations. In this game, players take on the role of the legendary pilot Mobius-1, engaging in the Continental War between the fictional continent of Usea and the aggressive forces from Erusea.

The game seamlessly blends reality with imagination, boasting a variety of 21 aircraft, some actual and others purely fictional. Players have the option to equip their vehicles with unique weaponry. To this day, it’s widely praised as the best in the series, holding that title for over a decade until “Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown” was released.

1. Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny

Hacking And Slashing Demons In This Epic Sequel

In the Onimusha series for PlayStation 2, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny stands out as one of three exclusive titles, along with Onimusha: Blade Warriors and Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams. The unique aspect of this game is the introduction of a new main character, Jubei Yagyu. Additionally, there are four other playable characters who contribute to an interwoven and branching storyline, although they possess less varied weaponry compared to the protagonist.

In this game, the controls resemble other Capcom titles, particularly Resident Evil, with a shared characteristic being fixed camera angles. Players are incentivized to perform combos on enemies instead of just rapidly pressing buttons. Additionally, Jubei can absorb the spirits of vanquished Genma for upgrades.

2025-01-01 11:05