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.
"Enriched Japanese version of FFX-2 with the bonus Last Mission roguelike dungeon. The additional content brings a more satisfying narrative conclusion. The recommended version for fans wanting the most complete experience of the title, with a resolved cliffhanger."
"Virtua Fighter 4 modernises Sega's 3D saga on PS2. Technical combat, generous solo modes and a delightful quest mode. Drier than Tekken, but rare depth."
"Direct sequel to Takedown, introducing oncoming traffic mechanics and enriched competitive modes. As fun and technical as its predecessor with superior content. One of the two undisputed peaks of the series alongside Burnout 3."
"PES 3 marks a real leap forward. Realistic ball touch, transformed animations and sharper AI. The duel with FIFA tilts decisively, and the series enters its golden age."
"Absolute masterpiece by Namco and Keita Takahashi. Rolling a ball of matter that grows by absorbing everything in its path is a concept of rare simplicity and joy. The exhilarating physics, absurd humour and memorable soundtrack make it an iconic and unique PS2 title."
"PES 2 sharpens what was already working. Cleaner ball control, more natural animations and a Master League taking shape. The FIFA rivalry sparks, and players are the winners."
"Second NBA Street, international version, with enriched NBA characters and the new Gamebreaker mode. Street basketball is more spectacular and move variety improved. A quality leap from the first entry confirming EA BIG's unique formula."
"Suikoden III renews the formula with three heroes whose paths cross. Paired-character combat, multi-angle storytelling and a huge cast. An ambitious, memorable JRPG."
"Psychonauts is a creative explosion from Double Fine. Psychic summer camp, wild mind worlds and razor-sharp writing. A cult platformer brimming with ideas, an essential play."
"Japanese version of Jak II, known as Jak x Daxter 2 in Japan, content identical to the international version. The same Urban Dark Fantasy with Haven City and new combat mechanics. For Japanese franchise fans wanting the experience in their language."
"Accent Core version, considered the culmination of the XX system. Balancing is excellent and mechanics at their most refined. One of the most played competitive entries. The preferred version for a deep and competitive Guilty Gear XX experience on PS2."
"Crimson Butterfly is the peak of the Project Zero trilogy. A cursed village, twin sisters to protect and unrelenting dread. A pure survival horror classic, best played in the dark."
"Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus opens the saga. Branching platforming, cel-shaded identity and comic-book writing. Shorter and more linear than the sequel, yet already charming."
"Ultimate Match version of KOF '98, widely considered the best franchise entry. The perfect roster balance, depth of combat mechanics and infinite replayability make it the absolute benchmark. A 2D fighting game masterpiece, still played in international competition."
"A Rockstar open world set in a school. The satirical tone, sharp humour and freedom of action replicate GTA DNA in a school setting. An original and memorable experience, unjustly less celebrated than other Rockstar titles of the era."
"Xenosaga Episode I Der Wille zur Macht launches Monolith's ambitious trilogy. Turn-based combat, SF and religious mythology and massive cutscenes. Memorable, sometimes talkative."
"North American version of Everybody's Golf 3, Sony's accessible arcade golf game. Cute characters, simplified gameplay and varied courses appeal to all audiences. The PS2 arcade golf benchmark for the American market, perfect for casual rounds."
"European PAL version of Jak II under the Renegade title. Content identical to the North American version with some difficulty adjustments. The same brilliant urban Dark Fantasy for European players. The essential version for PAL Jak franchise fans."
