6 Overlooked PS2 Third-Person Shooters That Deserve a Second Look

Discover these hidden gems among the forgotten third-person shooters for the PS2.
6 Overlooked PS2 Third-Person Shooters That Deserve a Second Look

Highlights

  • The PlayStation 2 had a variety of forgotten third-person shooters worth revisiting.
  • The 2008 release of Iron Man, though met with mixed reviews, offers enjoyable gameplay.
  • Conflict: Desert Storm 2 integrated tactical strategy with third-person shooting, showcasing innovation.

When the sixth generation consoles emerged, the third-person camera angle became hugely popular for action and shooter games. It offered players a clear view of their character and any nearby enemies. The PlayStation 2 had its fair share of third-person shooters, though some went largely unnoticed, overshadowed by bigger releases or lacking standout features in their story and gameplay. Despite being forgotten, these titles hold potential for rediscovery and might just surprise gamers.

6 Iron Man

Metascore: 45

While numerous Marvel games have been released, the first Iron Man game, tied to the 2008 film, fits into the third-person shooter genre. Players take control of Iron Man, using his arsenal to eliminate formidable enemies. The game's linear nature and straightforward gameplay divided opinions, but its core gameplay remains thrilling. Despite the vast reach of the Marvel brand, this game surprisingly rarely enters discussions, likely due to critical reception.

5 Dead To Rights 2

Metascore: 54

Dead to Rights 2 blends a serious, gritty story with over-the-top gameplay, offering relentless action. Players navigate slow-motion combat, unleashing firepower on enemies, aided by an auto-aim lock-on feature. This neglected game's gameplay feels fluid and enjoyable, allowing for seamless weapon switching and movement.

4 Gungrave

Metascore: 65

In Gungrave, players face relentless enemies, earning ranks for stylish gunplay akin to Devil May Cry's Style system. With its fast-paced third-person shooting and striking visual style, the game emphasizes hectic gameplay over its narrative. Strategic use of weapons to build combos for rewards adds depth to the experience.

3 Conflict: Desert Storm 2

Metascore: 70

Conflict: Desert Storm 2, an obscure PS2 game, innovatively fused tactical strategy and third-person shooting. Players control Alpha One's soldiers, executing strategic maneuvers while engaging in precise third-person combat. Despite its ingenuity in the third-person genre during its time, the game has been undeservedly forgotten.

2 The Thing

Metascore: 78

Inspired by the movie, The Thing follows a Special Forces team in Antarctica, facing off against formidable enemies. Balancing horror elements with action-packed encounters, the game offers a wide array of weapons for players to wield, ensuring an engaging rescue mission.

1 Fur Fighters: Viggo's Revenge

Metascore: 80

Fur Fighters, with its adorable aesthetic, delivers an exceptional third-person shooter experience, integrating small and large-scale gunfights with light platforming. Players can experiment with different animals, each with unique attributes, adding depth to the gameplay. Despite its favorable reception, the game remains an overlooked gem in the genre.