Staff Picks: Top 10 PlayStation 2 Games

7. Katamari Damacy

Now we’re getting to the good stuff! Among other things, the PS2’s library was known for having some really out there titles. Katamari Damacy was one of those games where people were surprised that it was even released outside of Japan because of just how bonkers it was. Not only did it get released to great reviews, but it sold well enough to become a new franchise for Namco Bandai.

Katamari Damacy 1 — “There’s just no other game like Katamari. It dared to be different in a world of same-old, same-old, and it worked like a charm.” – Will Whitehurst

6. Dragon Quest VIII

Dragon Quest is Square’s other juggernaut JRPG franchise that’s immensely popular in Japan. While it hasn’t reached the same height as Final Fantasy has, it did get mass appeal internationally thanks largely in part from its 8^th installment. It was viewed as the zenith of the series, until the 9^th installment was released on the DS. Hopefully, Square will release the 10^th installment internationally as well.

Dragon Quest VIII Screenshot 1 — “Everything that makes Dragon Quest games great is fully realized in this PS2 outing.” – Jonathan Higgins

5. Okami

Arguably one of the best PS2 games to ever come from Capcom, if not one of the best Capcom games period. While this game got loads of positive reviews, it didn’t translate to sales. Despite that, it managed a respectable cult following and it got a sequel on the DS, even after Clover Studios was shut down. Tangentially, WHY ISN’T THERE A VIEWTIFUL JOE 3, CAPCOM!?