The Best PS2 Games According To Metacritic

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Reflecting back on my gaming journey, I must say that playing these iconic games was like embarking on a rollercoaster ride of thrill and excitement! The memories are still fresh in my mind, especially when I recall the countless hours spent navigating through the jungles of Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence or roaming the streets of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

As a gamer, I can tell you firsthand how the PlayStation transformed gaming, introducing 3D games without the need for an expensive microchip, add-on, or high-priced multimedia system. It was eventually followed by the unparalleled success of the PlayStation 2, though at its launch, it wasn’t immediately appreciated due to its limited game library, including some Dreamcast ports that performed better on Sega’s machine. Being the first in the market, its hardware and specs weren’t as advanced as Microsoft’s new Xbox or Nintendo Gamecube at that time.

However, that head start would make it the primary console of its generation. People who picked the PS2 up as a cheaper DVD player soon found they were on the first floor to play some of the best, most groundbreaking games in history. Which led to many more getting their own PS2, until it sold 160 million units. For anyone wanting to try out this classic console, or are after that hit of nostalgia, here are just a few of the PlayStation 2’s greatest hits.

This revision eliminates the Metacritic aspect to highlight a diverse selection of games demonstrating the capabilities of the PS2. While some favored the Xbox for its first-person shooter experience with Halo, or the unique, inventive titles exclusive to the Gamecube, the PS2 was frequently chosen for epic journeys, heartfelt narratives, engaging fighting games, and scoring the decisive touchdown.

16. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

The Cinematic Platformer Gets a Facelift for the 2000s

The classic game “Prince of Persia” paved the way for what we now call cinematic platformers. Its characters moved in a more realistic manner, making it possible for them to navigate intricate obstacles and traps. Other games like “Flashback”, “Out of this World”, and “Oddworld: Abe’s Odyssey” owe some credit to Jordan Mechner’s original action-adventure title. But when 3D gaming became popular, transforming the Arabian hero into a 3D character was difficult. The game “Prince of Persia 3D” is perhaps best remembered as an attempt that didn’t quite work out.

Ubisoft found success when they reimagined it as “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time”. Similar to the original, the story follows an unnamed prince endeavoring to save a princess from a malevolent vizier. However, in this version, the prince collaborates with the princess to prevent the vizier from exploiting the magical Sands of Time to seize control over the kingdom of Azad. Unlike traditional combat-focused games, the protagonist can employ the Dagger of Time to roll back time by 10 seconds. This allows the player to discover opportunities to counterattack, find the ideal moment for navigating intricate hurdles, or dodge potential peril.

15. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec

The PS1’s Best Racing Series Makes Its PS2 Debut

On the PlayStation 1 (PS1), there were some fantastic options for high-octane, action-packed racing games. For instance, the fast-paced, futuristic excitement of the Wipeout series, the competitive kart racing experience of Crash Team Racing, and the explosive chaos of Twisted Metal. However, those seeking a more authentic racing experience leaned towards the Gran Turismo games. The original game was the best-selling title on the PS1, with its sequel representing the pinnacle of its gameplay. Consequently, Polyphony Digital was tasked with creating a sequel for the PlayStation 2 (PS2).

As a gamer, I can say that diving into Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec was like stepping into a world where every detail felt meticulously crafted. The graphics were nothing short of breathtaking for their era, and the vehicle handling was so realistic, it felt like I was actually behind the wheel. With the GT Force steering wheel, each turn and maneuver sent a pulse of force feedback through my hands, making every race even more exhilarating.

14. Resident Evil 4

Too Big for One Console to Keep

Originally, the game Resident Evil 4 was intended to be exclusive to the Gamecube console. It was part of a series called ‘Capcom 5’, along with games like Viewtiful Joe, Killer 7, P.N.03, and Dead Phoenix. These games were intended to strengthen the library of games available on the Gamecube. However, Dead Phoenix was eventually canceled, and all but P.N.03 were ported to other consoles. In the end, Nintendo ended up winning, as the PS2 ports of RE4, VJ, and K7 are generally considered weaker than their original versions due to graphical compromises and longer load times.

Nonetheless, the PlayStation 2 version of RE4, unlike other versions, came with additional features. It was the first to introduce the ‘Separate Ways’ campaign, allowing players to follow Leon’s friend-turned-foe Ada’s activities during her part of the game. Additionally, it offered new outfits and weapons, such as the P.R.L laser gun, which could instantly eliminate any enemy once fully charged. These features were later incorporated into all subsequent versions of the game, making the original Gamecube version appear more basic in comparison.

13. Devil May Cry

An Aborted Survival Horror Sequel Became a Genre-Defining Classic

Today, we find ourselves retelling a well-known tale: Producer Shinji Mikami, creator of the Resident Evil series, felt that Hideki Kamiya’s sequel to Resident Evil 4 was excessively action-oriented, advising it be transformed into its own game. This led to the creation of Devil May Cry. In this game, a character named Dante journeys to Mallet Island, where Mundus, the monster responsible for slaying his mother and brother, intends to resurface after being defeated by Dante’s powerful demonic father, Sparda.

Even today, some original Resident Evil elements can be noticed in it – such as its fixed camera angles, Dante’s inner dialogue, dramatic death scenes, and somewhat over-the-top voice acting. However, what made it unique and innovative back in 2001 were its mission-based levels, hidden challenges, fluid melee combat, and grading system. Since then, the formula has been further developed, with Kamiya contributing to this evolution through Bayonetta, but DMC1 was the game that set the stage for everything that followed.

12. Madden NFL 2005

Making the Winning Play on the PS2

  • Developer: EA Tiburon
  • Platforms: PS2, Xbox, Gamecube, PC
  • Release: August 2004
  • Genre: Sports sim

According to the Metascores given by critics, they generally favored the predecessors of Madden NFL 2005, with the 2003 version being particularly well-liked. However, when fans of the series are asked which PlayStation 2 Madden game was the best, they often choose either 2005 or 2008. The 2008 version did offer some appealing features, but it shone more on its high-definition versions, such as the Xbox 360 and PS3. While the former improved upon its predecessor with a polished Franchise mode, more play variations, and additional creative options, the latter enhanced the gameplay on its HD counterparts.

In the new Franchise mode, Storyline Central offers unique characters for each team, giving players the chance to manage individuals with distinct traits rather than just non-player characters (NPCs). For those who prefer a more strategic approach, Defensive Playmaker Control is available, allowing players to adjust their defense tactics and improve their team’s performance against AI opponents. Timing stick-flicking perfectly enables players to collide with rivals, bringing them to a halt, and the crowd, cheering in support of the customized teams, adds to the excitement.

11. Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution

Sega’s Iconic Fighter Takes on the Competition

The Virtua Fighter series isn’t known for its flashiness. While characters like Ryu were setting screens ablaze with fireballs in Street Fighter 2, and Kazuya was sending his father off cliffs in Tekken, VF opted to focus on delivering 3D fighting fun. Given that it was the first true 3D fighting game and had exceptional gameplay, it didn’t need elaborate cutscenes or additional modes to stand out. It remains popular today, with Virtua Fighter 5: R.E.V.O set to reinvigorate its fifth installment as the fifth re-release of VF5.

Apart from that, the name R.E.V.O also references Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution (or VF4: Evo). Like its predecessor, this game was an evolution of the original Virtua Fighter 4. It enhanced its user-friendly controls with a comprehensive training mode, provided more character customization options, and introduced a Quest Mode where players could challenge AI opponents modeled after real VF 4 masters. However, it missed out on VF4’s AI training mode, which allowed players to create their own AI fighter similar to the Ghost Battles in Tekken 8.

10. Tekken 5

The King of Iron Fist Reclaims Its Throne

During the 2000s, fighting games didn’t quite shine. The decline of arcades and the limited prevalence of online play in the early part of the decade left fans with scarce options. Devoted enthusiasts could discover titles like Guilty Gear X2 #Reload and the Melty Blood series, but due to a lack of suitable arcades or hardware, playing was challenging. For an authentic combat experience, there was VF4: Evo. If you were looking for multiple characters, stunning combos, and various gameplay modes, then Tekken 5 was your go-to game.

The game represented a return to traditional gameplay following the spatial control style in Tekken 4, which wasn’t well received by fans. T5 maintained the walled stages from T4 but introduced more of the classic, endless-style ones too. Some familiar faces like Bruce and Anna reappeared, along with newcomers such as Asuka, Raven, and Feng Wei. For the first time, Devil Jin was made playable, incorporating his T3 move set that included laser-blasting moves from the devil.

9. Grand Theft Auto 3

Taking Liberties With the City

In some cases, classic video games can earn higher Metascores than their later sequels due to initial excitement or hype. The original game often offers a unique, groundbreaking gaming experience that sets it apart and makes it an essential purchase. As series progress, subsequent games tend to build upon the core gameplay, eventually becoming commonplace in the market. Consequently, titles like GTA Vice City and San Andreas are often considered superior to GTA 3, despite having less initial hype surrounding them.

In simpler terms, the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series often sparked debates, but its 2D top-down gameplay felt outdated compared to games like Driver that offered open-world racing. However, transitioning to 3D was a significant leap forward. For instance, Claude, who performs tasks for the Mafia and other criminal organizations while searching for his ex-girlfriend Catalina, represented a more contemporary gaming experience. This game became a crucial title of its era and played a key role in boosting the popularity of the PlayStation 2 before it became available on multiple platforms.

8. God Of War

The Ghost of Sparta’s Bloody Debut

When God of War was introduced, the hack & slash genre had already made a name for itself. Notable IPs like Ghost Rider and The Nightmare Before Christmas had games where players executed combos to achieve higher ranks. However, it was Kratos’ quest for vengeance against Ares, the god who deceived him into slaughtering his own family, that set a trend among hack & slashers to follow suit.

Today, it’s clear that the initial version of this game has seen better days. Its visuals and progression aren’t as polished or challenging as subsequent releases. Yet, its iconic epic scenes, along with gameplay that was easy to learn but hard to master, contributed to its success. Additionally, its design elements were adopted by competitors such as Heavenly Sword, Dante’s Inferno, and the Werehog segments in Sonic Unleashed.

7. Shadow of the Colossus

The Premier Game for Giant Killing

Initially, Sony Santa Monica Studios aspired to create an entire level centered around the Titan Cronos in God of War, but time limitations forced them to transform it into a cutscene instead. They revisited this concept for God of War 3, yet by that point, Shadow of the Colossus had already demonstrated to players how colossal creatures could be transformed into platform challenges. In Shadow of the Colossus, the protagonist, Wander, traverses an open world on his horse Agro, seeking out 16 giants. Each giant’s defeat is believed by Wander to bring back Mono, a girl who was sacrificed for her supposedly cursed fate.

In this game, each towering statue presents unique difficulties for the players, as they must approach closely enough to locate their vulnerable spot – a glowing emblem. Some demand careful climbing, with players needing to grip firmly to prevent being dislodged. Others necessitate Agro’s assistance or plunging into deep waters to be accessed. The game, though subtly so, has left a profound impact, inspiring numerous follow-ups that echo its melancholic charm.

6. Okami

Perhaps the PS2’s Most Underrated Game

Currently, the game known as Okami is recognized as a timeless masterpiece. In this adventure, players aid Amaterasu in her mission to banish darkness from the world, engaging enemies with an array of weapons. Among these tools, the Celestial Brush stands out as unique. By sketching various shapes, players can unleash diverse attacks, surmount obstacles, discover hidden paths, and much more. Amaterasu’s capabilities and the power of the Celestial Brush can be enhanced through Praise, a reward earned by completing side quests and additional tasks.

It didn’t perform well when it initially launched, but received praise from both critics and players who gave it a chance. However, it had some issues like inconsistent difficulty levels that didn’t seem to affect its competitors much. Being released towards the end of the PlayStation 2’s lifecycle might have been another factor, as even its most successful titles struggled to stand out at that time. Additionally, its graphics, inspired by woodblock paintings, were not as stunning compared to next-generation games, despite being visually appealing in their own right. As a result, its re-releases on contemporary systems received a more favorable response.

5. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty

The Greatest Trick Hideo Kojima Ever Pulled

1987 marked the beginning of the Metal Gear series, but for many, it truly felt like the start was 1998 with Metal Gear Solid. The blend of engaging stealth gameplay and its intricate, twist-laden narrative revolutionized the franchise. Players craved more, and creator Hideo Kojima kept them on tenterhooks as they anticipated its sequel, titled Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. They believed they’d continue their adventures with Solid Snake as he stealthily navigated an oil tanker in pursuit of a new conspiracy revolving around a bipedal nuclear-launching tank.

For approximately one-third of the game, they indeed grasped what was happening. The rest of the storyline introduced a fresh character named Raiden. Kojima led players on an intriguing exploration, questioning why people yearned to be Solid Snake, craved a follow-up to MGS1, and how he and his crew manipulated those expectations. He also discussed the management of digital information, the spread of ideas (such as culture, history, religion, not just cat memes), and various methods for influencing non-player characters. It was successful, but some fans felt they had been tricked.

4. Final Fantasy 10

The Iconic RPG Series Begins a New Journey

  • Developer: Square Product Development Division 1
  • Platform: PS2
  • Release: December 2001
  • Genre: RPG

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the PS1 era, a time when this iconic console picked up some truly legendary series. One such franchise that soared to new heights was Squaresoft’s Final Fantasy, with games like Final Fantasy 7, 8, and 9 captivating millions of players worldwide. Spin-offs like Final Fantasy Tactics added even more depth to this epic saga.

Each Final Fantasy (FF) game offers a unique experience that appeals differently to various players. For instance, some individuals might find FF10 to be the pinnacle of the series for its engaging storyline and innovative mechanics, while others may view it as less favorable due to aspects like voice acting, linear progression, and the occasional technical issues with Blitzball. However, those who appreciated the game’s narrative were moved by its exploration of themes such as racial strife, corruption, and emotion-packed conclusions. Additionally, the new battle and summon mechanics in FF10 allowed players to customize their characters extensively through the Sphere Grid, enabling them to specialize in roles like healers, powerhouses, or other classes by following distinct paths on the grid.

3. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

When Chaos Was Acceptable in the 80s

GTA 3 provided players with an open city to explore and encouraged them to cause chaos, propelling the crime series into a massive success. However, when it comes to the peak of the GTA series on PS2, fans often find themselves debating between Vice City and San Andreas. While the latter offered more content in a larger world, some argue that its 90s Los Angeles-inspired setting didn’t have the allure of the 80s decadence found in GTA: Vice City.

In this game, players aid Tommy Vercetti in seeking retribution against those who attempted to assassinate him during a drug deal gone awry. Set in an 1980s-inspired cityscape, the game provides various vehicles, activities, missions, and criminal elements for the player to interact with. As you navigate through the storyline, you’ll come across numerous tributes to classic films like ‘Scarface’ and ‘Miami Vice’. While engaging in gang wars, visiting strip clubs, or just cruising along the beach to the rhythm of 80s hits such as ‘Billie Jean’, players can immerse themselves in this nostalgic world.

2. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Worth a 9, If Not a Perfect 10

If being just like Tony Montana didn’t excite players enough, capturing the city for the Grove Street Families in GTA: San Andreas could do the trick. It offered plenty of violence, drugs, and crime, but its partially implemented ‘Hot Coffee’ mini-game was the source of most controversy. Players would join their date inside for something other than a coffee break, if you catch my drift. This feature was discarded because it wasn’t particularly enjoyable, but Rockstar North opted to leave it in rather than erase it entirely. It only took one modification to reactivate it, and the uproar that followed was so massive that even GTA’s competitors started referencing it.

Modern gamers tend to focus more on the expansive open world, engaging gameplay mechanics, and unforgettable characters of this title rather than its past debates. However, these controversies led Rockstar Games to remove all traces of the Hot Coffee mini-game from every re-release, including the so-called Definitive Edition.

1. Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence

A Virtuous Re-Release of the Stealth Series’ Peak

  • Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Japan/Kojima Productions
  • Platforms: PS2 (original), PS2, Xbox 360, PS Vita (via MGS HD Collection), PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC (via MGS Master Collection Vol.1)
  • Release: March 2006
  • Genre: Stealth action adventure game

Japanese and North American fans might have felt disappointed with their initial copies of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. However, the European version offered exclusive add-ons such as the Boss Duel Mode, additional camouflage options, a Demo Theater for scenes, and two extra missions in Snake Vs Monkey mode. But they didn’t have to be frustrated for long. All those features and more were made available to them in Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence. This expanded version divided these features among three discs, which were creatively titled ‘Subsistence,’ ‘Persistence,’ and ‘Existence.’

As a gamer, I found that the most significant shift from earlier Metal Gear Solid games was the introduction of a moveable camera in Snake Eater. In contrast to the confined corridors of MGS1 and 2, the open levels of Snake Eater felt awkward with the top-down view. This change made it more similar to games like Splinter Cell and Hitman, where players could adjust their angle for smoother stealth gameplay. The game also featured an online mode, which has endured over the years thanks to fan servers. However, when re-released in later collections, they took out its online mode, duel mode, and Snake Vs Monkey missions, making Subsistence a rare (and costly) game worth collecting.

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2024-12-09 03:55