PlayStation 2 is often known as one of the best consoles of all time, as it introduced many iconic games that are still widely popular today. After all these years, it still holds up as my favorite console, and I even have a PS2 keychain on my lanyard to prove it.
The only problem is how difficult it can be to play these classic entries now that we’ve entered the modern age of the PlayStation 5. Fortunately, the PlayStation Plus’ Classic Catalog and remasters allow us to experience nostalgia again. So, without further ado, here are the best PS2 games you can play on the PS5.
Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
Let’s kick off with a true classic,Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy. If you’re a fan of Naughty Dog’s impressive collection, includingThe Last of UsandUncharted, you’ll be fascinated to see the roots of this renowned studio, apart from its other popular series,Crash Bandicoot.
The story follows the adventures of its titular character, Jak, and his furry companion, Daxter. You’ll embark on a heroic quest to find the cure for Daxter’s condition after he transforms from a human to an ottsel (half otter and half weasel).The Precursor Legacyis a lot more light-hearted and comedic than the following titles in the series. And, if you get hooked on this one, you can complete the trilogy withJak IIandJak III.
Ratchet and Clank
Ratchet and Clankpresents another iconic duo of the PlayStation universe from the beloved studio Insomniac Games. Everything about this series screams fun as you wield a diverse array of weaponry and eliminate the lap dogs of the villainous Chairmen Drek. Here, you’ll see how Ratchet and Clank met, opening the door to the rest of the series.
As one of the first games I played as a kid,Ratchet and Clankholds a special place in my heart, becoming a cherished part of my childhood. Even as an adult, I find myself drawn back to it, especially with the 2016 remake that beautifully updates its graphics, evoking a sense of nostalgia while also feeling fresh and new.
War of the Monsters
If you ever wanted to go on a monstrous city rampage likeGodzillaorKing Kong, you should definitely playWar of the Monsters. The title basically explains what this fighting game is all about, allowing you to battle it out with a fellow beast.
Compared to other fighting games I’ve played,War of the Monstersis a whole new level of chaos. The destructible environment means that everything around you may be reduced to rubble, turning an entire city into a battleground. The freedom to roam the map adds another layer of strategy to your attacks, and you may even get lost in its significant size.
Primal
Step into the action-adventure world ofPrimal, a classic PS2 game that follows the journey of the main protagonist, Jen Tate. You’ll also assume the role of her ancient companion, Scree, with the ability to seamlessly switch between the two powerful characters. Engage in intense battles with demons from the immortal realm, unleashing devastating combos for satisfying takedowns.
This dark pathway explores four distinct demon realms, all to uncover the origins behind Tate’s supernaturality. It’ll help you discover her four demon forms: Wraith, Djinn, Undine, and Ferai.
Dark Cloud
Dark Cloudis a JRPG known for its adventurous dungeon-crawling and customizable world. You’ll take on the role of Toan (name can be changed) and other playable teammates to fend off the ancient evil connected to the Dark Cloud tales.
When you’ve had your fill of battling, you’re able to take a breather and contribute to the growth of various towns. It’s a rewarding experience to witness the tangible progress of your town over time, providing a welcome respite from the challenging dungeons.
Sly Cooper Collection
Experience most ofSly Cooper’sthievious escapades with the PlayStation 2Sly Collection. Like many on this list, this series holds some of my fondest memories with the PS2, starting out withSly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus. You’ll meet the entire Cooper Gang with Bentley, Murray, and, of course, Sly. They’ll put their thieving skills to the test to claim the ultimate prize of the Thievius Racconus, a book stolen from Sly’s family that contains his legacy’s secrets.
Once you’ve knocked out the first one, you can start playingBand of Thieves, often considered the fan favorite. But, for me, my most treasuredSlyentry has to go toHonor Among Thieves,one of the last installments of the collection.
Shadow of the Colossus
Any time there’s a discussion about the best PlayStation 2 games,Shadow of the Colossusalways ends up in the conversation. Its awe-inspiring and visually stunning designs of its immersive world and the legendary Colossi are still highly regarded even today.
Play as the young man known as the “Wander,” on a mission to explore the Colossi-run lands for a mystical revival power. The road to this ancient ability is treacherous, where almost every showdown feels like a boss fight.
Bully
WhenBullyfirst came out, I probably spent more than a month on it, diving into the school life of the rambunctious Jimmy Hopkins. Despite the game releasing back in 2006, I still regard it as my second favorite game of all time (my number one is on this list, too). It’s just got so much packed into one game, including memorable side missions, an elaborate school system, and a whimsical cast of characters.
One of the things that drew me toBullywas its slightly less violent nature than Rockstar Games’ other hit series,Grand Theft Auto. I wasn’t really allowed to playGTAin my younger days, so it was nice to have a sorta PG-13-esque alternative. But don’t get me wrong;Bullyis still pretty violent, where you’ll often go toe-to-toe against Bullworth Academy’s notorious bullies in Jimmy’s quest to become the top dog of the school.
Tomb Raider: Legend
You’d probably have to be living under a rock if you haven’t heard of one of PlayStation’s most iconic characters, Lara Croft. There are a lot of ways you can start yourTomb Raiderjourney, but since we’re on the scope of PS2 games on the PS5, you can try outTomb Raider: Legend.
Lara finds herself on yet another epic adventure in the hopes of finding ancient artifacts. With her dual pistols and dynamic agility, she navigates through diverse environments, from dense jungles to icy snowscapes. As you raid the game’s numerous tombs, you’ll uncover the enigmatic origins of Lara Croft to further the franchise’s expansive lore.
Max Payne
If you’re looking for an action-packed story PS2 game, look no further withMax Payne. It’s the first-ever title to introduce Bullet Time in games, offering the player better control with its slow-motion gunplay. You can think of it as the origins ofRed Dead Redemption’sfamous Dead Eye targetting systems, considering that Rockstar Games publishedMax Payne.
Although Max Payne has been on a path of justice as an undercover cop, the journey turns violent when he’s wrongfully framed for a murder. It’ll certainly be a challenge in light of the cops and mob that’s hot on his tail, but fortunately, you got the Bullet Time on your side to ease the tension.
Grand Theft Auto Trilogy – The Definitive Edition
I know I’ve covered a lot of Rockstar Games on this list, but I just have to add one more to the pot with theGrand Theft Auto Trilogycollection.GTAis likely one of the biggest franchises out there, and it relatively started with the three games presented here. With this Definitive Edition, you’ll get to playGrand Theft Auto III, Vice City, andSan Andreas, all remastered for the PS5 with improved graphics and gameplay.
San Andreasis one of the most widely known entries, taking us back to the ’90s with Carl ‘CJ’ Johnson. Going even further back,Vice Citycenters around the 1980s, in which you’ll experience the revengeful path of Tommy Vercetti. Last but not least isGrand Theft Auto III, featuring the dark origins of Liberty City with the character, Claude. With the highly-anticipated release ofGTA 6, it’s the perfect time to start or get back to the trilogy on the PS5.
Indigo Prophecy
Indigo Prophecy, also known asFahrenheit, is anunderrated PS2 gamemade by Quantic Dream, the creators of the belovedHeavy Rain,Beyond: Two Souls, andDetroit: Become Human. This interactive narrative was one of the first times I experienced a choice-based game where you’ll have to make life-altering decisions as multiple characters.
What made it so interesting to me was the unique gameplay of playing as the killer and the cop chasing you, making you question whose side you should be on. There’s also some life-simulation mixed in withIndigo Prophecy’ssanity meter. That means you must keep the characters happy by performing mundane tasks like eating, sleeping, or showering, all the while dealing with the turmoil of your crimes.
Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal
While I do love the originalRatchet and Clank, the third entry,Up Your Arsenal, is probably at the top of my list. Ratchet and Clank are in their prime, making you feel like an absolute boss in this galactic world. Once again, the duo needs to save the world with a mission to stop the series’ long-standing villain, Doctor Nefarious.
One of the significant reasons whyUp Your Arsenalis my favorite among the series is the base of operations of the Galactic Rangers. You’ll get to embark on many activities here, such as playing Captain Qwark minigames, customizing your suit, and taking on new missions across the galaxy.
God of War HD
Apart from icons like Lara Croft and Sly Cooper,God of War’sKratos has become a household name, especially with the successful 2018 release ofGod of War.But, before Kratos became a father to Atreus, it all started with the PS2, where he was a demi-god Spartan warrior for the God of Olympus. Wield the legendary weapon, the Blades of Chaos, and take down notable figures from Greek mythology.
If you enjoy the chaotic life of the great Kratos, you may experience another PS2 gem withGod of War II. Heck, you can play the entire series while you’re at it, including other hits like PS3’sGod of War IIIand the PS4/PS5’sRagnarok.
Metal Gear Solid Master Collection
Concluding this list of the best PS2 games to play onthe PS5, I present to you my most cherished series,Metal Gear Solid. WhileBullyholds a special place as my second favorite title, the timeless appeal ofMetal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eatermakes will always my number one, regardless of the years that have passed. The entire franchise is brimming with the most compelling narratives and diverse gameplay mechanics, most of which can be experienced in theMetal Gear Solid: Master Collection.
Although the first one wasn’t technically released on the PS2, as it initially launched on the original PlayStation, the other two in the collection did. Still, you’re able to start off withMetal Gear Solidto witness the monumental Shadow Moses mission of Solid Snake, as he must destroy the bipedal tank Metal Gear. It’s also perfectly fine to begin withSnake Eater, given that it’s a prequel for the entire series. Then, you can eventually throw inSons of Libertyin there to discoverMGS’ssecond protagonist, Raiden. I’m hopeful thatMetal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriotswill make it the PS5 to relatively complete the collection, but at least there’sMetal Gear Solid: Deltato look forward to.
