With so many PlayStation 2 game sequels and remakes, it is hard not to be nostalgic! The PS2 hosted many incredible games Gen Z's loved to play. The PlayStation 2 was a revolutionary gaming console. To this day, it remains the bestselling gaming console of all time. The PS2 introduced players to many unique, and memorable video games with all new concepts, setting the bar high for gamers everywhere.
Born from the PlayStation 2 were entire game franchises that are still thriving today across numerous platforms. Many of the original games even gained remastered versions, introducing new generations to the original beloved games the PS2 hosted years before. With nostalgia culture running rampant, any Gen Z gamer could recall their favorite PS2 games, some may even still possess their coveted memory cards with saves frozen in time.
10 Okami
Okami was released in 2006, and has been regarded as a Capcom cult classic. Despite initially selling poorly, the game has gained traction and a loyal fanbase since its debut warranting remasters, and even a spin-off game, Okamiden. The game was modeled after The Legend of Zelda and incorporated many of its best features into Okami.
The story itself is based on Japanese Mythology and follows the Goddess Wolf, Amaterasu, and her quirky companion artist, Issun. Players must utilize paintbrush techniques to help solve puzzles, overcome enemies, renew and cleanse the world of evil spirits. Players also must learn combat techniques, collect food, and weapons, while befriending the animals of the world. Okami with all its artistic charm has earned its place among nostalgic Gen Z gamers.
9 GUN
Before games like Red Dead Redemption 2, there were the pioneers of the Western genre that paved the way for them all. GUN was the first to leave predecessors in the dust. GUN featured a detailed open world to explore, impressive horse mechanics, innovative gun combat, and an engaging story.
The games' story follows Colton White, who travels from town to town in a true bounty hunter fashion. Aside from the main storyline are a trove of mini-games, side missions, and open objective activities like panning for gold to get money, playing poker, hunting, or even causing mischief (beware of the consequences with local peacekeepers!). All in all, GUN was a remarkable game for its time and is highly revered among Gen Z gamers.
8 Shadow Of The Colossus
Released in 2005, Shadow of The Colossus introduced players to a unique open-world experience. The game left a lasting impression on many gamers, Shadow of The Colossus remains one of the most highly regarded games on the PlayStation 2. The story follows the hero, Wander, on his journey through an open world filled with giant Titans called Colossi.
The game relies dominantly on nonverbal storytelling, as the world is devoid of virtually all life, aside from the Colossi. Shadow of The Colossus was remade in 2018, bringing the graphics up to date and giving the classic game new life. The emotion-evoking journey leads many Gen Z players to wish they could experience it all over again for the first time.
7 Psychonauts
Psychonauts was released in 2005, and introduced gamers to this mind-boggling unusual world. The game follows Razputin (Raz) on his adventure to become a Psychonaut. Raz runs away from home to join Whispering Rock Psychic Summer Camp. Raz must complete levels and challenges given by camp counselors to unlock his psychic abilities to become a Psychonaut.
The game is considered a cult classic, being highly story-driven while blending platformer elements with action adventure. Psychonauts left gamers with a lasting impression on those who dove into this psychic realm, creating ecstatic fans when Double Fine released Psychonauts 2 in 2021.
6 Sonic Heroes
Sonic Heroes was released in 2003 and joined the longrunning saga of Sonic The Hedgehog games. The Sonic series is known for as many hits, as it has misses, and Sonic Heroes is considered a success for the Sonic series. The game allows for a team trio out of a selection of 12 classic Sonic characters.
The trio team go through a 3-D style platform adventure, rather than the traditional linear 2-D platformer formula of previous Sonic games, meanwhile facing familiar Sonic enemies along the way. While it isn't considered the greatest Sonic game to grace consoles, it was the first for the PS2 generation of gaming, thus memorable for many Gen Z gamers.
5 Resident Evil 4
In 2005 Resident Evil released its fourth installment of the series, Resident Evil 4. Resident Evil 4 was well received among Resident Evil fans, and new players alike. The story is horror based and follows Leon, who assigned a mission to rescue the President's daughter from a dangerous cult, while slaying parasite-infected humans that turn them into zombies.
Throughout the game there are many weapons available to players, and a host of challenging enemies and bosses to overcome. The game has been highly regarded over the years, and has maintained its place as a favorite within the Resident Evil series, earning itself a shiny new remake in 2022, enthusing many nostalgic Gen Z gamers.
4 God Of War
God of War was released in 2005, the first instlalment in the God of War series, but the third chronologically. The story follows Kratos, a Spartan warrior who was deceived by the god Aries, that led to the demise of his family. Kratos goes on a journey to avenge his family and destroy the god who deceived him.
Kratos goes through the realm slaying monsters, while remaining indifferent to humans. The game is very story driven, based on ancient Greek Mythology and uses weapons and magical elements throughout the story. His cold unwavering demenaor won gamers over and is considered a must play for the PS2.
3 Monster Hunter
Monster Hunter was released in 2004 and is the founding game in the Monster Hunter series. The graphics were impressive enough for their time, and the ability to encounter (and slay) dinosaur-like creatures and dragons captivated gamers of all ages. The game featured quests on various maps your hunter could accept contracts on.
Along the way, players could use animal parts, and rare items to craft, upgrade equipment or sell to shopkeepers. Monster Hunter introduced gamers to a new world they couldn’t get enough of. The challenging objectives, suspense, creatures, and exploration offered a memorable experience any player could enjoy!
2 Need For Speed Underground 2
Released in 2004, Need For Speed: Underground 2, had big expectations from gamers. Not only did Underground 2 meet those expectations but exceeded them, becoming a trailblazer for the entire racing genre. It is still considered a favorite in the Need For Speed franchise. Underground 2 began with a memorable soundtrack and lyrics, and offered edgy customization.
The gameplay itself is straightforward with smooth racing mechanics, players begin with a very basic beginner car and can win new cars, money, and can upgrade parts to have the best car in Bayveiw. Customization can be as minimal or extravagant as the player desires, all while upgrading handling, acceleration, and top speed. Underground 2 also offered multiplayer mode to race against friends, creating a memorable experience for many Gen Z gamers.
1 Kingdom Hearts 2
Kingdom Hearts introduced the world to a poetic unity of Final Fantasy and Walt Disney characters. In 2005, Kingdom Hearts broke the mold once again with their sequel Kingdom Hearts 2. The game features incredible storytelling, lovable characters, refined combat, and top-notch musical scores.
Kingdom Hearts 2 introduces players to a new hero named Roxas, and continues with the familiar trio, Sora, Donald, and Goofy. The game deeply expands on the Kingdom Hearts universe, and is a much larger game than its predecessor with new and existing worlds to explore. The game has welcomed many remasters and is a fan favorite in the Kingdom Hearts series to be enjoyed by many generations of gamers.