The Best PlayStation 2 RPGs of All Time
If you owned a PlayStation 2 at any time during your life, then it's safe to say there were probably a few RPGs in your collection. There's something about role playing games that really capture your imagination and make you feel like you're part of another world. Your party always has colorful characters, the abilities you gain along the way are amazing, and boss battles are usually nothing short of epic.
With so many great options to choose from, there was never a shortage of games to play for fans of the genre. Since some games were much better than others, we've decided to rank the best PS2 RPGs of all time. This list will feature the most popular and best-selling RPGs that were released for PlayStation 2.
While many of these games were console exclusive, we're allowing non-exclusives to be a part of the list as well. This list features items like Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy XII, and many more. Vote up all your favorite video games below.
- 1
- Developer: Square Enix
Embark on an epic journey through Ivalice, a world rich with political intrigue and magical creatures, as Vaan, an orphaned street urchin, becomes embroiled in the struggle for freedom. Engage in real-time combat, while managing a dynamic party of unique characters and adventuring across vast landscapes. The twelfth installment in the legendary Final Fantasy series revolutionized the franchise, introducing innovative gameplay mechanics, including its groundbreaking Gambit system, which ultimately influenced future RPGs.
- 22006
- Developer: Hudson Soft, Konami
Diving deep into the heart of the Queendom of Falena, Suikoden V tells the story of a young prince thrust into a battle for his nation's very survival. This hidden gem of the RPG genre offers addictive gameplay revolving around strategic large-scale battles, recruiting allies from over 100 playable characters, and a fast-paced combat system with elemental runes. Suikoden V carved its own niche in the hearts of fans, boasting memorable characters, an enthralling story, and a killer soundtrack.
- Developer: Atlus
Unravel the mystery of "The Midnight Channel" in this critically-acclaimed Japanese RPG set in the quiet town of Inaba, where high school students enter a parallel world and confront their inner demons. Combat takes a unique twist as players utilize character-specific Persona spirits to unleash devastating attacks, all while balancing social simulation elements. A game that packs a punch, Persona 4 captivated players worldwide with its engaging cast and innovative dungeon crawling -bringing the franchise to new heights.
- Developer: Level-5, Armor Project
With its unforgettable cel-shaded visuals and enthralling story of redemption, Dragon Quest VIII sends players on a quest to lift the curse plaguing a doomed king and his kingdom. Delving into turn-based combat and exploring a vast open world brimming with colorful characters and dangerous foes, players will be hard-pressed to put this one down. A whirlwind of fun, Dragon Quest VIII's charming storytelling and classic RPG gameplay struck a chord with its audience and solidified the franchise as an RPG powerhouse.
- 5
- Developer: Square Enix
Dive into a magical adventure blending Disney nostalgia and Final Fantasy flair, as Sora, Donald, and Goofy once again team up to save the universe from darkness. Engaging battles, cinematic action sequences, and memorable collaborations with iconic Disney characters kept fans spellbound and glued to their controllers. This enchanting sequel to the beloved original left a lasting impression, expanding on its unique concept and leaving players craving for more.
- Developer: Atlus
Delving into a dark narrative of summoning mythical Personas and exploring Tartarus, a tower filled with deadly Shadows, Persona 3 introduced a compelling blend of dungeon-crawling, turn-based combat, and social life simulation. Balancing a dual life as a high school student by day and a supernatural investigator by night, this engrossing formula struck a chord with gamers, propelling the Persona series to new heights. This moody gem's impact on modern RPGs is undeniable, pushing boundaries and setting the bar high.
