PlayStation 2 Games More People Should Play

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Summary

  • PS2 games have a variety for everyone, regardless of case quality.
  • Ape Escape 2 offers inventive gameplay and is available on PS5.
  • Cold Fear offers a unique survival horror experience on a boat.

One perspective is that the PlayStation 2 (PS2) era might be considered the pinnacle for collectors who appreciate tangible interaction with their games. During this time, game cases were robust, lengthy, and contained physical manuals within. Post-PS2 generation, cases switched to a less durable plastic material and omitted manuals from the packaging.

Essentially, what I’m trying to convey is this: The PS2’s game library is truly exceptional and stands among the best ever made, irrespective of how the game cases were perceived. This system offered a diverse range of genres, from role-playing games (RPGs) to shooters and racers. Even though it might be past the ideal time to popularize these classic, overlooked titles, they are still worth experiencing at least once to truly appreciate the PS2’s vast array of offerings.

8. Ape Escape 2

Monkey Business

Most folks are familiar with the action-platformer series like Jak and Daxter, Ratchet & Clank, and Sly Cooper, games they likely played on their PlayStation 2 consoles. Unfortunately, while Ape Escape 2 and its immediate successor didn’t reach the same level of popularity, it’s a pity that they didn’t garner more attention.

This PS2 platformer stands out for its innovative gameplay among system titles, offering an enhanced design compared to the original PS1 version. The game features hidden monkeys within levels that players must locate and capture using different items. It’s a fun, quirky experience that never fails to entertain. Luckily, you can enjoy this classic on your PS5 through its PS4 port.

7. Auto Modellista

Cel-Shaded Bliss

  • Developer: Capcom
  • Publisher: Capcom
  • Released: March 25, 2003 (NA Version)
  • Platforms: GameCube, PS2, Xbox

Gran Turismo 4 stood as the PlayStation 2’s most prominent racing game, and it continues to impress even today after several decades. On the other hand, Auto Modellista, while not a technical powerhouse, aimed for something more artistic with its cel-shaded aesthetics by Capcom.

Playing through the levels in this game gave off an exhilarating vibe reminiscent of the “Speed Racer” anime, making it more engaging than many PS2 games. Even if you’re not a die-hard PS2 enthusiast, racing enthusiasts should definitely give “Auto Modellista” a try at least once to experience that electrifying anime rush.

6. Chaos Legion

Pikmin But More Action

Back in the days of the PlayStation 2, Capcom truly delivered some fantastic action-horror titles that left a lasting impression, such as Devil May Cry and Onimusha. However, one game that often slips under the radar is Chaos Legion, a title that never spawned any sequels like many others on this list. As a fan, I can’t help but wonder what could have been with this underrated gem.

This is an action-packed game where you can call upon evil spirits to aid you in battle. As a player, you can enhance your team of demons, transforming them from swordsmen to archers. While the characters and backstory might not be complex, the gameplay makes it enjoyable to engage with.

5. Cold Fear

I’m On A Boat

2005 marked a significant year for the horror genre, with the release of “Resident Evil 4” on the GameCube in January. Later, PS2 enthusiasts received “Cold Fear,” which unfortunately didn’t garner much attention despite its impressive technical aspects. It’s a survival horror game that takes place on a boat, where players navigate through dynamic, crashing waves while exploring.

Discover a vessel inhabited by genetically altered males, engage in gunfire, seek out mysteries, and flee. The core mechanics might seem basic, but if you’re intrigued, this game can be found on Steam, and it performs well on the Steam Deck.

4. Mister Mosquito

Bug Of The Colossus

The game titled “Mister Mosquito” doesn’t easily fall under a single genre, given its quirky nature. In this unusual title, you assume the role of a mosquito that is on a quest for blood within a traditional Japanese dwelling. Throughout each stage, your objective is to trick your human targets, feed on their blood, and then make a swift exit.

This game has a feel reminiscent of a covert version of “Shadow of the Colossus,” but with an added dose of humor. Surprisingly, this lesser-known treasure is playable on PS5 due to accurate console emulation.

3. Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy

Who Needs Jedi Powers?

In the game titled “Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy“, your protagonist Nick is part of an extraordinary program that bestows him with unique powers, such as the ability to manipulate objects and enemies telekinetically, and ignite things using pyrokinesis.

Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy might not be the most polished third-person shooter on consoles, but its unique powers transform it into a thrilling playground, reminiscent of other chaotic PS2 shooters like Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction and Just Cause.

2. Spy Fiction

Not Quite Metal Gear

On the PlayStation 2, you’ll find two exceptional stealth espionage titles akin to the ports of Splinter Cell. One lesser-known game that might have slipped under PS2 fans’ radar is Spy Fiction, an intriguing and offbeat gem. This hidden treasure was created by the same unconventional director as Deadly Premonition, SWERY.

In comparison to the exaggerated storyline and characters in “Deadly Premonition,” the narrative and personalities within “Spy Fiction” are more grounded. However, the gameplay of

1. The Lord Of The Rings: The Third Age

Middle-Earth 10

As a gaming enthusiast, I’d say that back in the PS2 era, Role-Playing Games (RPGs) and JRPGs were neck and neck, each offering their own share of fantastic titles. For me personally, The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age was a game that had its fair share of criticism when it initially dropped. Some felt it mimicked the battle system from Final Fantasy X a bit too closely, and others weren’t fond of the alternate events it introduced in the storyline timeline.

Perhaps contemporary fans might find appeal in it, even though it may not have been what “The Lord of the Rings” enthusiasts desired initially. Admittedly, it draws heavily on “Final Fantasy 10” in terms of combat, but is that truly something to be criticized?

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2025-07-26 20:39