Best Platform Games Stuck On The PlayStation 2, Ranked

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Summary

  • Disney’s Stitch: Experiment 626 was a solid platformer tied to a popular film.
  • Herdy Gerdy blended puzzle and strategy mechanics in a unique platforming experience.
  • Ape Escape 3 is an underrated gem, leveling up the series with improved visuals and gameplay.

In the early 2000s, when it came to platform games, Nintendo ruled supreme – titles like “Super Mario Sunshine”, “Banjo-Tooie”, and “Kirby 64” were the ones that dominated players’ screens. However, with the emergence of the PlayStation 2, Sony entered its golden era. Recognizing Nintendo as their main competitor to outshine, Sony decided it was time to step into the platforming arena and showcase their skills.

In those days, numerous gamers anticipated what was to follow: Jak and Daxter, Ratchet & Clank, Sly Cooper, along with newer versions from Rayman and Crash Bandicoot. All excellent games. However, it’s unfortunate that some platforming jewels from that period have essentially vanished from Sony’s limelight. Not for the fans, though. Here’s a nostalgic glance at the finest platformers you can only relive by blowing off the dust from your PlayStation 2. No cloud versions, no updates, no remakes… not just yet, that is.

6. Disney’s Stitch: Experiment 626 (2002)

A Platformer Elevated By Its Disney IP

  • Release: June 19, 2002
  • Developer: High Voltage Software

As a dedicated fan, I can say that despite the massive success of “Lilo & Stitch” which felt like it struck a chord with everyone, only three official video game adaptations were released. However, for those of us longing for something more than just a live-action remake of our beloved blue extraterrestrial, the 2002 release, “Disney’s Stitch: Experiment 626“, offers a delightful prequel to the original movie, satisfying our cravings for a deeper exploration of this captivating character.

This platformer game features Stitch in his multiple-armed form as Death, battling United Galactic Federation soldiers. For a video game tie-in, it’s surprisingly well-made. Although expectations weren’t incredibly high at the time, it still deserves recognition; good games like this were not common back then.

5. Herdy Gerdy (2002)

A Unique Platformer With Unique Ideas

  • Release: February 22, 2002
  • Developer: Core Design

As a dedicated fan, I’d say that Herdy Gerdy is a delightful fusion, combining elements of platforming, puzzles, and strategy. At its heart, however, it’s all about shepherding – guiding this charming character through various adventures.

In this game, players are tasked with rounding up various fictional animals and guiding them into their enclosures. It may seem straightforward, but due to the rudimentary AI from the early 2000s controlling these pixelated characters and poor collision detection, the challenges can be incredibly frustrating. However, the game’s whimsical fairy tale atmosphere has a captivating charm that tends to overlook its shortcomings.

And if nothing else, it’s a proud contender in the Cousin Game subgenre. You know the type.

4. Kya: Dark Lineage (2003)

The Love It Or Hate It Platforming Game

Certain video games can polarize opinions sharply among critics, and Kya: Dark Lineage certainly falls into that category. Some have praised it highly, while others have expressed disapproval – the term “divisive” seems fitting to describe its response.

Even with its questionable camera angles and somewhat awkward control scheme, there’s a fantastic platformer lurking beneath the surface. Admittedly, it’s quite basic, but once you find your groove, it becomes surprisingly gratifying. However, one aspect that stands out is the dialogue. It’s exceptional, adding depth and charm to the overall experience.

Character names seem as if they were spontaneously created. We’ve got villains such as Brazul, his followers known as the Wolfen, and, quite unexpectedly, Kya’s half-brother… Frank. And no, we won’t delve into the mysteries of the Nooties.

3. Haven: Call Of The King (2002)

A Noble Effort In The Platforming Genre

  • Release: November 18, 2002
  • Developer: Traveller’s Tales

Haven: Call of the King” is another intricate platformer that combines multiple genres with a strong emphasis on action-adventure. It offers a mix of thrilling high points and challenging low moments. However, when it finds its rhythm, it provides an enjoyable gaming experience that could last depending on the player’s skill level.

Nearly escaping the constraints of the PlayStation 2, there were initial intentions to release it on Xbox, GameCube, and even the Game Boy Advance. However, due to poor sales, these plans were abandoned. As a result, for the time being, Haven is hidden in the exclusive obscurity of the PlayStation 2.

2. Stretch Panic (2001)

This Platformer Was A Stretch Of The Imagination

Instead of plunging into panic or freaking out, Treasure Co. Ltd from Japan boldly ventured into the three-dimensional realm, having already excelled in 2D gaming. The outcome? A mind-bogglingly creative platformer featuring Linda and her living, hand-shaped shawl as main characters.

The unique selling point was the option to manually reshape gameworld elements using the scarf. Players could pinch, stretch, and catapult geometric adversaries or environmental objects with enough power to destroy anything obstructing Linda’s path. It’s a game that really needs to be experienced firsthand to be fully appreciated.

At that moment, it stood out distinctly due to its lively array of colors and eccentric character concepts, unlike anything else found on store shelves.

1. Ape Escape 3 (2005)

The ‘Return Of The King’ Of The Ape Escape Franchise

The third installment of “Ape Escape” is often overlooked, bordering on a crime, given it could very well be the finest game in the series. It built upon what made the first two games exceptional – enhancing visuals, larger environments, and significantly improved boss fights.

It’s been rumored that those escaped monkeys might show up in PS Premium someday, but for the moment, they remain elusive. In the interim, gamers can go back and play through the initial installments to keep themselves entertained until their long-awaited comeback.

OR

There’s been talk that these escaped monkeys could eventually appear on PS Premium, but for now, they’re still at large. In the meantime, players can catch up with the first two releases to pass the time until their eventual return.

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2025-05-29 04:44