The best-selling console of all time, the PS2 offers a near-endless library: GTA, God of War, Shadow of the Colossus, Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy X. This Top 100 gathers the best of Sony's machine, re-tested and re-ranked by RomWize, each title with its re-evaluated score, its versions, their rarity and their collector value.
"Twisted Metal Black drags the saga into horror territory. Unhinged characters, morbid arenas and brutal car combat. Darker and more cult than its neighbours."
"The definitive hip-hop fighting game on PS2, with a roster of rap celebrities and spectacular environmental arenas. Deep combat system, unique atmosphere and exceptional replayability make it one of the console's finest fighting games. An undisputed classic."
"Silent Hill 2 remains an absolute benchmark of psychological games. Unsettling fog, James Sunderland and Pyramid Head. An intimate journey through grief and guilt, peerless."
"Guitar Hero World Tour introduces drums and microphone, creating a complete band experience. The eclectic setlist and song creation mode are innovative. A franchise turning point that defined a new direction, even if extra instruments complicate setup."
"Slash version of Guilty Gear XX with new characters and revised Burst mechanics. Intermediate step between Reload and Accent Core in competitive evolution. Appreciated for its new roster additions and notable balancing adjustments."
"International version of Dragon Quest VIII, an epic JRPG with a sumptuous open world rendered in cell shading. The moving story, unforgettable characters and gameplay depth make it one of the greatest RPGs on PS2. A timeless masterpiece not to be missed."
"Quake III Revolution brings the arena shooter classic to PS2. Speed intact, decent bot AI, the pad struggling to keep up. More of a historical curiosity than a modern must-play."
"Dark Cloud 2 improves on every aspect of the first game. City building, procedural dungeons and weapon synthesis reach a level of excellence. The enchanting art direction and gameplay depth make it an absolute PS2 essential."
"SSX on Tour tries a skate-rock turn and adds skis. Indie rock vibe, slightly stiffer mechanics and uneven content. Less wild than its predecessors, but still a pleasant ride."
"WWE SmackDown! Shut Your Mouth kicks off THQ's modern formula. Huge roster, polished ring atmosphere and a fun season mode. A key step in the PS2 line."
"Direct sequel to FFX with Yuna as the main protagonist. The radical tone shift, in-battle job-change system and electro-pop soundtrack are jarring but endearing. An energetic and different RPG, appreciated for its originality despite divisive storytelling."
"Silent Hill 2 Director's Cut adds the Born from a Wish scenario and minor tweaks. The best PS2 version to discover or rediscover Konami's psychological masterpiece."
"Original Japanese version of Dragon Quest VIII, the title's world debut. Sumptuous cell-shading visuals, huge open world and high-calibre storytelling make it one of the most accomplished JRPGs ever created. A near-perfect experience for Japanese franchise fans."
"Zero Akai Chou is the Japanese name of Crimson Butterfly. A cursed village, twin sisters to protect and ever-present dread. The absolute peak of the Project Zero trilogy."
"Japanese version of NBA Street Vol. 2 under the Dunk Tengoku title. The same improved EA BIG street basketball is accessible to Japanese players in their language. International game NBA characters and spectacular dunks are faithfully reproduced."
"Star Wars Battlefront II adds space combat, playable heroes and a memorable campaign. More complete and inspired than the first, the Star Wars benchmark on PS2."
"Air combat simulation with a well-crafted fictional narrative. Varied missions and excellent sense of speed. The tactical depth and large aircraft roster will satisfy series fans, even if it remains a transitional entry in the franchise."
"Remix version of Midnight Club 3 DUB Edition with additional content and bonus cities. The same excellent street racing gameplay amplified by new customisation metrics. The definitive Midnight Club 3 experience on PS2, preferable to the base edition."
"Absolute masterpiece and worthy successor to the first Kingdom Hearts. The more mature storytelling, Drive Form combat system, rich Disney worlds and epic conclusion are remarkable. Graphically one of the most beautiful titles on PS2. An unforgettable emotional experience."
"Devil Summoner 2 Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon refines the formula. Punchier action, demons to summon and a more mature plot. The best version of the occult detective on PS2."
