The PlayStation 2 era boasted a vast library of games, with its most iconic titles like God of War and Final Fantasy 10 being widely recognized. However, many overlooked gems, particularly from Japan's Simple 2000 series, highlight the depth of its catalog. Fortunately, many of these classics have found their way to PC via Steam, allowing for rediscovery.
PS2-Inspired Games
Developers are now creating new titles that draw inspiration from the sixth generation of consoles. These modern games offer a fresh take on familiar aesthetics and gameplay.
Promise Mascot Agency
Promise Mascot Agency is an open-world game featuring a unique management simulation layer. Players send mascots to events while exploring a mysterious island. The game draws heavily from PS2-era presentation, with influences cited from titles like Disaster Report and Persona 4. Director Oli Smith has stated a fondness for "6 and 7 out of 10 PS2 games," which is reflected in the game's distinctive output.
Hi-Fi Rush
Hi-Fi Rush blends rhythm action with cel-shaded visuals and Devil May Cry-style combat. Influenced by directors like Edgar Wright, the game matches music and visuals in a vibrant anime aesthetic. While not as complex as its hardcore action inspirations, its rhythmic gameplay sets it apart and captures the spirit of the PS2 era.
Denshattack!
Denshattack! takes cues from titles like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, Crazy Taxi, and Jet Set Radio. This speedrunning game involves stunt jumping, grinding, and boosting a train through various regions. The gameplay expands to include battles against enormous robots and massive baseballs, creating a unique experience by synthesizing its influences.
Sifu
Inspired by Capcom's PS2 cult classic God Hand, Sifu offers a brutal and physically grounded combat system. While tonally more serious than its predecessor, its intricate hand-to-hand brawls and beautifully animated fights are a direct nod to the physicality of games from that generation.
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess blends action and strategy, tasking players with recruiting villagers to defend against nightly demon hordes. The game's presentation and hybrid gameplay echo some of the more experimental titles released by Capcom during the PS2 era, such as Killer7 and P.N.03.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 shares thematic similarities with Final Fantasy 10, particularly in its world-building and the concept of a recurring, world-ending threat. The game's turn-based combat draws inspiration from titles like Lost Odyssey and Sekiro, focusing on a melancholic atmosphere in a doomed but beautiful world.
Actual PS2 Era Ports
Several definitive titles from the PS2 and Dreamcast eras are now available on PC, often with enhancements for modern platforms.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is available in the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 and as a standalone remake, Delta. The original PS2 version is praised for its superior boss battles and narrative within the series.
Final Fantasy 10/10-2 HD Remaster
Final Fantasy 10 remains a popular choice for its distinctive world of Spira, memorable soundtrack, and engaging combat systems, despite Final Fantasy 12 offering a more mature narrative. Other PS2-era JRPGs like Phantom Brave, Tales of Symphonia, and Grandia 2 are also on sale.
Rez Infinite
Originally released on both PS2 and Dreamcast, Rez Infinite is a rhythm shooter with a distinct Y2K aesthetic. This modern port includes an expansion to the original game, offering a concise yet impactful experience.
Shin Megami Tensei 3 Nocturne HD Remaster
Shin Megami Tensei 3 Nocturne HD Remaster is a hardcore monster-battling RPG known for its atmospheric, post-apocalyptic Tokyo setting. While considered an acquired taste, it holds a dedicated fanbase.
Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny
Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny offers a unique blend of survival horror and methodical hack-and-slash combat, featuring a branching storyline based on player relationships with companions. It is also noted as a strong title for the Steam Deck.
