The PS2 made a significant impact on the gaming industry when it was launched in 2000. Although the initial lineup of games was not exceptional, the subsequent years saw the release of numerous remarkable titles. From groundbreaking hits in 2001 like Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty and Final Fantasy 10, to the debut of franchises such as Kingdom Hearts and Ratchet and Clank in 2002, and cult classics like Xenosaga Episode 1 and Beyond Good & Evil in 2003, the platform offered an array of exceptional games. As we approach 2024, let's take a look at the PS2 games deserving celebration for their 20th anniversary across various genres.

8 Killzone

Metacritic Score: 70

Killzone, hailed as Sony's response to Halo, offered a unique first-person shooter experience with its distinct art style and diverse protagonists. While it may not have reached the heights of Halo, the game left a lasting legacy, spawning multiple console games and a tactical spinoff on PSP over the course of two decades.

7 Resident Evil Outbreak

Metacritic Score: 71

Resident Evil Outbreak, an experimental addition to the series, offered an engaging survival horror experience set amidst a zombie-infested Raccoon City. With the option for online multiplayer, the game delivered a unique gameplay dynamic, despite the cancellation of its planned third installment.

6 Red Dead Revolver

Metacritic Score: 73

Red Dead Revolver offered a distinct Western experience, setting the stage for its acclaimed open-world sequels. With its homage to spaghetti westerns and captivating characters, the game played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the franchise.

5 Silent Hill 4: The Room

Metacritic Score: 76

Silent Hill 4: The Room introduced innovative elements, offering a unique and unsettling gameplay experience. Despite being overshadowed by its predecessor, the game's significance in the series warrants consideration for a modern remaster.

4 Star Wars: Battlefront

Metacritic Score: 82

Star Wars: Battlefront delivered one of the finest Star Wars gaming experiences, featuring iconic battles and engaging multiplayer modes. Its enduring appeal is evident through subsequent sequels and reboots, solidifying its status as a classic.

3 Katamari Damacy

Metacritic Score: 86

Katamari Damacy presented a whimsical and unique gaming experience, earning a special place in gaming history. Its quirky premise and accessibility made it a standout title, resonating with a diverse range of players.

2 Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Metacritic Score: 91

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater pushed the boundaries of the console with its innovative gameplay mechanics and compelling narrative. Its impact extended beyond the game itself, shaping the trajectory of subsequent sequels and character development within the series.

1 Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Metacritic Score: 95

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas redefined open-world gaming, offering an expansive and immersive experience set in a vibrant and diverse virtual world. Its compelling narrative, RPG elements, and expansive gameplay mechanics cemented its status as an iconic title in the PS2 library.