Top 8 SEGA Games on PS2 - Investment Policy

Even though Sega may have exited the console market by the time the PlayStation 2 era began, it still managed to produce some exceptional games. These ranged from accurate arcade adaptations, high-speed action titles, to intricate fighting game mechanics. In essence, Sega’s contributions on Sony’s hardware kept the spirit of the Dreamcast alive and well.

These games weren’t just excellent for their era; they remain enjoyable today, making them a must-play for anyone with a PlayStation 2. If you have one, I recommend searching out these classics from Sega’s library during the PS2‘s lifespan. By doing so, you can relive the excitement of adventure all over again and share in its timeless charm.

8. Sega Superstars Tennis

The Party Game That Brought Sega’s All-Stars Together

Before “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” was known as “Everyone is here“, Sega had already put some of its characters on the court with “Sega Superstars Tennis“. Characters like Sonic, AiAi, Ulala, Amigo, and even NiGHTS swapped their usual adventures for intense tennis matches, complete with special moves and courts inspired by their individual games.

This wasn’t merely a tennis game with Sega characters as decorations. Instead, each character boasted their unique Superstar move, showcasing abilities such as Sonic accelerating with a speed boost or AiAi scattering banana peels across the court. The mini-games were equally enjoyable, featuring challenges like hitting tennis balls at Virtua Cop targets and surviving waves of Puyo Puyos. Although it wasn’t a realistic tennis training tool, it was a lively tribute to Sega’s history infused with arcade entertainment.

7. Virtua Tennis 2

Arcade Tennis That Still Holds Up Today

There’s a special nostalgia for Virtua Tennis 2, despite the scarcity of tennis games today. It took all that was wonderful from the original – smooth controls, intuitive gameplay, and captivating arcade action – and elevated it with fresh players, enhanced animations, and an upgraded career mode.

In this game, the World Tour feature stood out as the main attraction, allowing players to assume control over crafting their personal tennis prodigy and honing their skills via diverse exercises. The mini-games integrated into the training process were a unique blend of amusing and odd, offering intriguing methods for boosting a player’s abilities. From toppling bowling pins to engaging in rallies with oversized volleyballs, Sega ensured that tennis instruction remained an exciting endeavor.

6. Sonic Heroes

Since One Hedgehog Wasn’t Enough, Why Not Try Multiple?

In the time following the Dreamcast era, Sega was trying to decide what to do with Sonic by 2003, and “Sonic Heroes” was their solution. Instead of a single-player Sonic game, they opted for a team-oriented style, allowing players to control three characters simultaneously.

In Sonic Heroes for the PS2, you’ll find four distinct teams: Team Sonic, Team Dark, Team Rose, and Team Chaotix. Each team presents a unique blend of speedy, powerful, and flight-capable characters. The game’s levels are cleverly constructed to utilize all three skillsets effectively. For instance, Sonic might dash along highways, Knuckles could break through barriers, while Tails might fly the team across vast chasms. While there were challenges, the vibrant graphics, memorable soundtrack, and imaginative level design made Sonic Heroes an exceptional entry in the Sonic series.

5. Sega Genesis Collection

A Treasure Trove of 16-Bit Gold

Instead of many modern collections only having around ten games, the Sega Genesis Collection boasted more than thirty, providing a swift tutorial on Sega’s 16-bit supremacy in the gaming world. Titles like Streets of Rage, Golden Axe, Phantasy Star, and Shinobi 3 were not mere popular hits; they offered a rich immersion into an epoch when Sega was at the zenith of its power.

The imitation was strong, offering enjoyable interviews and trivia as bonuses, and its wide range of options catered to diverse tastes. Regardless if players preferred battling in a medieval setting, leaping with a blue hedgehog, or delving into one of the top 90s RPG series, the Sega Genesis Collection provided an ideal platform for revisiting timeless classics without searching for ancient cartridges.

4. OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast

Drifting Through the Golden Age of Arcade Racing

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that when it comes to arcade racing, Sega reigned supreme, and that was clearly demonstrated with OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast. It took everything that made OutRun 2 shine – stunning landscapes, precise drifting mechanics, and a pulse-pounding feeling of speed – and elevated it to new heights. New tracks, cars, and a soundtrack that would make any drive down a sunset-lit highway feel like an unforgettable journey were just a few of the improvements they added.

The control was seamless, the zigzagging was enthralling, and the varying routes prevented any two journeys from feeling identical. Plus, the Coast 2 Coast mode presented additional obstacles for players to conquer, ensuring they remained engaged for a considerable time beyond their initial ride.

3. Virtua Fighter 4

The Thinking Man’s Fighting Game

Virtua Fighter 4 distinguished itself without relying on flashy special moves or extravagant combos. Instead, it emphasized intricate mechanics, appreciating precision, strategy, and skill. Consequently, it became one of the most rewardingly technical fighting games on the PS2, a game where truly mastering a character required genuine dedication.

In Quest Mode, the AI wasn’t a mere joke. Unlike other fighting games where CPU opponents follow predictable patterns, Virtua Fighter 4 sported an advanced AI system that mimicked real players. This system learned, adapted, and ensured each match was distinct. It felt like playing in a real arcade without having to leave home.

2. Crazy Taxi

Pick Up, Drop Off, Drive Like a Maniac

In a straightforward and engaging manner, let me say that not many games evoke raw arcade chaos like the iconic game, Crazy Taxi. As soon as The Offspring’s hit song “All I Want” starts playing, gamers know they’re in for a wild ride – quite literally. The essence of the game was straightforward: transport passengers to their destinations swiftly. However, the true excitement lay in the various ways players could reach their goal.

Zipping through turns, leaping over ramps, just barely escaping oncoming traffic – it was all about speed and flair. The wilder the driving, the better the score, and the city’s design encouraged such risk-taking. Even after many years, few driving games have managed to replicate the thrilling, law-defying fun that Crazy Taxi provided.

1. Yakuza

The Birth of an Unforgettable Crime Saga

Initially, the Yakuza series was not known for its karaoke, cabaret clubs, or extravagant fights; it all began with one game on the PS2. This game combined open-world exploration, captivating storytelling, and intense combat. It introduced players to Kazuma Kiryu, a character struggling to find his way in the harsh environment of Japan’s underbelly.

In a lively and dynamic setting, Kamurocho was brimming with additional tasks, unexpected skirmishes, and a narrative that wasn’t shy about evoking emotions. The battle sequences were impactful, allowing Kiryu to execute powerful combo attacks and intense heat actions, making each confrontation feel significant. Although later installments would perfect the formula, the original Yakuza established the foundation for one of Sega’s most renowned series.

2025-04-02 04:36