Hidden Gems: 8 Underrated PS2 Games You Might Have Missed

One of the reasons why the PlayStation 2 is so popular is due to its huge library of games. You’ll find different games from action-adventure, stealth, hack-and-slash and much more. As a lover of PS2 titles, you’d think maybe you’ve played some of the best games the PlayStation 2 has to offer.

Well, that’s not true, and despite the likes of God of War, San Andreas, Downhill, Pro Evolution Soccer or Crash Team Racing topping the charts. There are still some hidden gem PS2 games you haven’t even come across.

If you’re having the feeling that there are some underrated PS2 games you haven’t played and you want to reconsider them. Here’s an article that’ll dive you into some of the best underrated PlayStation 2 games out there.

Top 8 Underrated PS2 Games You Might Have Missed

These games are picked from the vast library of PS2 games. Whether you think it’s an action game or an RPG you missed, you’ll discover them from the list below.

1. The Sword Of Etheria

Coming first on the list is The Sword of Etheria. It’s an action RPG that combines elements of hack-and-slash gameplay with deep storytelling. Players take on the role of Fiel, a young warrior who, along with his companions Almira and Leon, embarks on a quest to defeat the evil witches that threaten their world.

The game features a unique combo system where players can chain attacks with their allies, creating powerful and visually impressive moves. The cooperative combat mechanics make the battles dynamic and engaging. It’s one of the real gems out there and playing it brings real fun.

2. God Hand

After the Warriors 2, God Hand was titled the next alternative to consider. If you’re looking for a beat ’em up game with real-time combat and humour, you should consider this one. In this game, you’ll control Gene, a martial artist who gains the power of the God Hand, a legendary weapon.

One of the reasons why it’s popular is due to its challenging difficulty and fast-paced gameplay. Combat in God Hand is highly customizable, allowing players to create their combos using various moves and attacks.

3. Yakuza 2

Yakuza 2 is an action-adventure game that immerses players in the gritty and compelling world of Japanese organized crime. The game follows Kazuma Kiryu, a former yakuza who is drawn back into the underworld to resolve a conflict threatening the peace between rival clans.

Just like God Hand, Yakuza 2 is more of a beat ”em-up game but in a different way. The storyline in Yakuza 2 is well-written, featuring a mix of dramatic moments, complex characters, and unexpected twists. The game also includes numerous mini-games and side activities, such as karaoke, hostess clubs, and arcade games, which add depth and variety to the gameplay.

4. Makai Kingdom: Chronicles of the Sacred Tome

For RPG lovers, Makai Kingdon: Chronicles of Sacred Tome is a game you won’t want to miss. It’s one of those cool games that offers a unique blend of strategy and deep gameplay mechanics. Players take on the role of Lord Zetta, a powerful overlord who must rebuild his kingdom after a catastrophic event.

Playing Makai Kingdom: Chronicles of Sacred Tome does make sense. Makai Kingdom brings a grid-based combat system where players can summon characters and objects onto the battlefield, each with distinct abilities and roles. This system allows for a high degree of strategic planning and customization.

5. Shin Megami Tensei Nocturne

Released in 2004, Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne is a dark and atmospheric RPG that stands out for its unique setting and complex gameplay. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, where players take on the role of a young man transformed into a demi-fiend.

While playing as the protagonist, players must navigate a world filled with demons and make choices that will determine the fate of humanity. The game features a turn-based combat system that emphasizes strategy and planning, with players able to recruit and fuse demons to create a powerful team.

6. Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha Vs. King Abaddon

Next up is Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon. It’s another action RPG that comes as a hidden gem on the PlayStation. The gameplay is more of working as a detective who can summon demons. Players control Raidou Kuzunoha, a detective in 1920s Japan who must investigate a series of mysterious events.

One of the reasons why you’ll like this game is how it features real-time combat where players can summon demons to fight alongside them. Also, each demon has unique abilities that can be used in battle and to solve puzzles in the environment. In terms of storyline, Devil Summoner 2 has the perfect story of an underrated game.

7. Xenosaga

Xenosaga is a sci-fi RPG that offers a deep and complex narrative set in a futuristic universe. The game follows Shion Uzuki and her companions as they uncover the mysteries of ancient relics known as Zohar. Xenosaga combines traditional turn-based combat with cinematic storytelling, featuring extensive cutscenes that develop the characters and plot.

It features different battle systems, one includes unique mechanics like the Boost Gauge, which adds strategic depth to encounters. Furthermore, Xenosaga’s story is heavily influenced by philosophy and science fiction, exploring themes of existence, consciousness, and the nature of reality.

8. Red Dead Revolver

Before Red Dead Redemption, this used to be one of the best games on the PS2 console. It’s a third-person shooter set in the Wild West, offering a blend of action and adventure. Players control Red Harlow, a bounty hunter seeking revenge for the murder of his parents. When it comes to missions, there’s a lot to play for in Red Dead Revolver.

Red Dead Revolver features a variety of missions, from shootouts to horseback chases, each capturing the essence of classic Western films. The Dead Eye targeting system allows players to slow down time and mark multiple targets, adding a tactical element to combat.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the popular hidden gems in the PlayStation 2 games category. However, there are more recommendations you’ll find on platforms such as Reddit, Quora and so on. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your experiences of playing these underrated games with us.