Ranking the Best-Aged Rockstar PS2 Games That Still Shine Today!

Summary

Manhunt aged surprisingly well despite clunky controls and AI.
Red Dead Revolver remains relevant due to its influence on later games.
Midnight Club 3’s epic soundtrack and customization make it enjoyable.

The PlayStation 2 period was exceptional. For a long time, this console held the record as the best-selling game console, and its expansive collection includes countless gems that are still talked about today. One company that truly excelled during this era was Rockstar, as they unveiled some of the most impactful and enduring games in history on the PS2.

Some Rockstar classics from the PS2 era may not meet today’s modern standards, but several continue to impress due to their exceptional gameplay, compelling narratives, or distinctive styles. From open-world crime sagas to pulse-pounding shooters and high-speed racing games, these iconic titles from Rockstar Games are still enjoyable today and offer captivating insights into gaming history. We’ve compiled a list of ten Rockstar PS2 games that have aged exceptionally well, considering factors like mechanics, visuals, and overall playability in the face of the relentless passage of time.

10. Manhunt

Not As Edgy Or Controversial As It Used To Be

Despite being less than impressive initially, Manhunt has remarkably held up over time, particularly when contrasted with its follow-up. This infamous and contentious video game, which faced bans in certain regions, showcases a grim, cinematic aesthetic that, coupled with its intense violence and grisly snuff film-like narrative, has earned it a niche following online. Some enthusiasts even claim it boasts one of the best narratives among PlayStation 2 horror games, although not everyone will likely share this sentiment.

In essence, there’s not much praise to be offered for Manhunt. The artificial intelligence of the adversaries is rather basic, and the stealth mechanics are straightforward, making each stage feel repetitive. To compound matters, the control scheme and camera system are awkwardly cumbersome, particularly when compared to contemporary titles. Moreover, the game’s attempt at edginess feels overdone, and the violence, once shocking, no longer holds the same impact. Compared to other Rockstar games from the PS2 era like Smuggler’s Run and State of Decay, Manhunt has fared relatively well in terms of aging gracefully. However, it is most suitable for study today as a snapshot of edgy 2000s culture rather than enjoyable gameplay.

9. Red Dead Revolver

The Precursor To One Of Rockstar’s Biggest Franchises

Many individuals who adored Red Dead Redemption 1 and 2 may be unfamiliar with Red Dead Revolver. Unlike its more recent counterparts, this game follows a linear, mission-focused design that seldom promotes exploration and leans more towards an arcade shooting experience. The gunplay was decent for its era, but modern games offer much smoother movement and aiming mechanics compared to Red Dead Revolver.

However, Red Dead Revolver exudes a great deal of appeal. Its Spaghetti Western ambiance, flamboyant characters, and comic-bookish cutscenes have retained their charm over time. While the narrative is acceptable on its own, those seeking connections to the subsequent games might find themselves underwhelmed. Nevertheless, it’s the “spin-offs” that keep this game relevant. Many of the fundamental elements that make Red Dead Redemption one of Rockstar’s top franchises, such as the Dead Eye mechanic, can be found here. Unfortunately, there aren’t many cowboy games available, and even though the original Red Dead title may seem a bit outdated, it’s still worth considering for those who appreciate this genre.

8. Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition

A Soundtrack This Good Never Gets Old

As someone who grew up gaming, I can’t help but feel a special affection for Midnight Club 3. It was more than just a game; it was a visual and stylish masterpiece that set the bar for its era. Features found in today’s racers could trace their roots back to this gem. The vehicle customization was remarkably detailed, the maps were expansive open cities, and the soundtrack… well, that soundtrack has earned legendary status. It’s no exaggeration to say that Midnight Club 3 was one of the PS2’s finest racing games, a testament to its enduring appeal.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that, despite my nostalgic feelings, I understand why Midnight Club 3 receives a lower score today. The rubberband AI, a persistent issue in numerous contemporary racers, can be frustrating and unpredictable, adding an unwelcome layer of artificial challenge.

The game’s handling model, though charmingly arcade-style, doesn’t hold up as well as it once did due to the physics. After playing more recent arcade racers, I find it a bit difficult to adjust to this one again.

Time has also taken its toll on the graphics that were once breathtaking on the PS2. Yet, if you lower your expectations and embrace the game for what it is, there’s still plenty of fun to be had cruising Midnight Club 3’s streets. In many ways, it remains more enjoyable than many of its modern counterparts.

7. Grand Theft Auto 3

Even Legends Grow Old Eventually

Back in 2001, the release of Grand Theft Auto 3 came as a significant surprise for many gamers of that era. This groundbreaking title reshaped open-world gaming, essentially kickstarting an entirely new genre. Its focus on unrestricted exploration, sandbox layout, and allowing players to choose their own approach to missions, makes it the forefather of most open-world games we see today. Even with the passage of time, its ambiance, remarkable soundtrack, and humor continue to captivate us, and it still ranks among the finest open-world games on the PlayStation 2.

However, GTA 3, despite its initial revolutionary status, can no longer maintain that edge. What was once groundbreaking gameplay now feels outdated. The absence of manual aiming in combat makes it more aggravating than enjoyable, and the stiff pedestrian controls seem a world apart from later GTA titles. In contrast, the driving and physics remain solid. The narrative itself is fair, but quite elementary, and the silent protagonist Claude lacks the charm of characters like Trevor, Tommy Vercetti, and Niko. While GTA 3 is a classic that deserves recognition, among the 3D GTA games, it has aged the most noticeably.

6. The Warriors

A Cult Classic Game Based On A Cult Classic Movie

The Warriors, despite being one of Rockstar’s less recognized titles, has aged gracefully and faithfully adapts the raw ambiance of the 1979 cult film it’s based on. The game also offers engaging prequel elements that extend the film’s storyline. Unusual for Rockstar, this game is a beat ’em up, and the combat system, though not state-of-the-art, still delivers a satisfying experience. Melee attacks are violent, interactions with the environment feel natural, and the cooperative mode harks back to the split-screen couch co-op era of old. Given the game’s difficulty level, having the option to play with a friend is especially appealing.

Although it may have slipped some people’s minds, there are reasons for this. The controls feel somewhat rigid when compared to contemporary action games, and the mission structure can become monotonous. Additionally, the graphics aren’t as polished as one might expect from PS2 titles given their timeless appeal today. Nevertheless, in terms of beat ’em ups, The Warriors isn’t significantly distinct from current games within the genre and continues to be that elusive gem, a quality game derived from a movie.

5. Max Payne

Helped Make Bullet Time Even Cooler

Disregarding its initial PS2 graphics and certain rigid controls, the original Max Payne has remarkably held up over time. Its dark, comic book-style narrative, along with Max’s introspective dialogue, remains as gripping and enjoyable as before, maintaining a balance on the edge of being overly cheesy. In terms of gameplay, the bullet-time mechanism, which enables players to slow down time and dodge bullets, was revolutionary for its era and continues to be one of the finest examples of slow-motion effects in an action game.

The bullet-time feature remains an engaging aspect that makes the game relevant even today, despite its dated elements. The combat is strong, but character movement feels rigid again, and the enemy AI demonstrates significant advancement since then. Many levels are well-designed, yet the incorporation of challenging platforming segments recalls a period when such sections were overused. Lastly, while the game exudes style, its graphics haven’t aged gracefully. It’s no surprise fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming remakes to smooth out some of these rough patches.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

A Bloody Time Machine Back To The Eighties

It’s fascinating to ponder over the short span between Rockstar launching GTA 3 and Vice City, given the multitude of advancements they packed in. These improvements have made Vice City seem less dated compared to other games from the same era. For instance, its vibrant 1980s ambiance, memorable soundtrack, and captivating cast of characters give it a strong sense of place and era, thereby slowing down its perceived aging. Additionally, the fact that Rockstar’s soundtrack for this game is among their best certainly adds to its timeless appeal.

In the new version, features such as character ownership, a famous voice actor for the lead, and enhanced weapon/vehicle options make the game seem like a significant improvement. However, it’s not without its flaws that keep it from receiving a higher rating. The gunplay improves slightly but shooting remains awkward. It’s hard to comprehend why swimming is absent in a game set across three islands, and seeing Tommy drown repeatedly serves as a stark reminder of the game’s age. The design of the missions seems to have taken the biggest hit; it’s easy to die and there are no checkpoints. Despite being one of the most cherished open-world games, Vice City is enjoyable but plagued with the typical quirks associated with classic games.

3. Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne

Improved On The Original In Every Way

If you’re finding the original version of Max Payne challenging due to its somewhat outdated elements, consider giving its first sequel a go instead. Known as one of the best third-person shooters from its time (and possibly even now), it builds upon what made the initial game so captivating and enhances it further. The narrative still delves deep into noir tropes and ambiance, but it’s more emotionally resonant and less overly dramatic. Max is portrayed in a more appealing manner, and his connection with Mona Sax (such an intriguing name) becomes a captivating aspect of the storyline.

Among its many strengths, the gameplay in Max Payne 2 truly shines. The bullet-time feature has been refined for smoother action, and the Havok engine adds an exciting level of physics during every gunfight. Admittedly, some controls could be more adaptable, and the levels might feel a bit predictable, but overall, Max Payne 2 remains just as enjoyable to play today as it was more than two decades back.

2. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Pushed The Mighty PlayStation 2 To Its Limits

Remarkably, the releases of GTA for the PS2 occurred quite close together, an observation notable given our prolonged anticipation for GTA 6. Even now, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas continues to appear impressively ambitious due to its enhanced focus on storytelling, expansive open world, and numerous gameplay advancements over GTA 3 and Vice City.

The clever layout of the world and smart application of technology make it feel like the map in San Andreas is vast, even though it’s actually smaller than one might anticipate given today’s standards. The variety of missions surpasses earlier versions of Grand Theft Auto, and combat is much more engaging due to the addition of aiming. Add to that RPG-like advancement systems and an abundance of side activities, and San Andreas has stood the test of time quite well. However, it’s not without its flaws, such as outdated graphics, a lack of checkpoints, and some subpar RC missions and turf wars that prevent it from reaching the highest echelons of ranking.

1. Bully

Somehow Makes Going To School Look Cool

In a challenging decision, Rockstar’s standout PS2-era games were evaluated, and ultimately it was “Bully” that emerged victorious due to its distinctive environment, compelling narrative, and generally smooth gameplay. The combat, whether ranged or hand-to-hand, remains enjoyable, the school-themed mechanics are one-of-a-kind, and the humor continues to resonate without feeling outdated.

Unlike any other AAA game similar to “Bully”, none has been published yet. It blends some captivating elements from the “GTA” series, offers a young, relatable protagonist in an unexpected role as a school student, and allows players to create chaos within a high school environment. The map, although compact, was meticulously designed, and interacting with NPCs was enjoyable. Initially, the game faced controversy that seemed rather trivial, but now we’ve moved beyond that. At present, there’s a desire for either a remaster or a remake of the game, but its original graphics from the PS2 era might be considered adequate by many players.

2025-03-26 02:40