Currently stuck in 2004 (PS2 related)

[Dire 51]

I usually don't do recommendation threads, but it occurred to me the other day while looking through my small PS2 collection that the last original (in this case, meaning not a sequel or arcade/console comp) game I bought for it was released in 2004: Katamari Damacy.

Between 2004 and 2006 I missed a lot of what was going on with the PS2. I had sold mine, and as such didn't bother to keep up with what was coming out for it at the time. When I finally got a new system in 2006, I didn't bother too much with any new original titles, just the arcade comps and such that I missed. Since there have been so many games released since 2004, I decided to just ask those who would know about them, rather than slog my way through a massive amount of info.

So right now I'm looking for suggestions for any good PS2 titles* to keep an eye out for over the next few years. I'm personally not buying anything for it at the moment, but what with Christmas and my birthday coming up soon, someone might need a gift idea.

* Please don't list any of the following: RPGs, FPS, sports/racing, strategy/tactics/simulations, anything that requires that you be online or takes more than 10 hours to complete. Also: I have played Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Neo Contra, but was not impressed with either of them.

My current collection:

Gradius III & IV
Gradius V
Castlevania: Lament of Innocence
Contra: Shattered Soldier
Rygar: The Legendary Adventure
Katamari Damacy
Crazy Taxi
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
Capcom Classics Collection Volume 1
Capcom Classics Collection Volume 2
Taito Legends
Taito Legends 2
Metal Slug Anthology
Sega Genesis Collection

[Cloud121]

Katamari Damacy was released in 2004, not 2003.

[Oobgarm]

You've made this tough with your exclusions. But I shall offer some insight.

The Red Star
God Hand
We Love Katamari
Under the Skin
Okami (might break the 10-hour rule)
God of War I and II (might break the 10-hour rule)
Raiden III
Zone of the Enders 2: The Second Runner

[Dire 51]

Katamari Damacy was released in 2004, not 2003.

Really? Damn, I must not be awake yet. I'll fix that now.


You've made this tough with your exclusions. But I shall offer some insight.

The Red Star
God Hand
We Love Katamari
Under the Skin
Okami (might break the 10-hour rule)
God of War I and II (might break the 10-hour rule)
Raiden III
Zone of the Enders 2: The Second Runner
Thanks, Oobgarm. :) I've been meaning to check out We Love Katamari for a while now: is it better than the first or what?

[Oobgarm]

Kinda. It's really more of the same. You can only do so much with that style of gameplay.

You need to check out Red Star for sure. It's a nice Contra/Bullet Hell hybrid.

[Dire 51]

I'll keep The Red Star in mind then. Would you say it's better than Neo Contra?

[Oobgarm]

I'd say so.

[le geek]

I thought We <3 Katamari really fleshed out the Katamari concept. As cool as Katamari Damacy is, there are basically only three boards in the first game. But YMMV...

Cheers,
Ben

[Keir]

I was just looking for a thread like this the other day, so thanks for posting it. The only "new" games I have are Guitar Hero II and Taito Legends. I'll be watching this thread for recommendations.

[carlcarlson]

I'll second God of War 1 & 2. They will probably take longer than 10 hours, but they shouldn't be missed. The same goes for Shadow of the Colossus. It will take a little while to beat, but it's a pretty original game and one of the best looking for the system.

[Oobgarm]

I'll second God of War 1 & 2. They will probably take longer than 10 hours, but they shouldn't be missed. The same goes for Shadow of the Colossus. It will take a little while to beat, but it's a pretty original game and one of the best looking for the system.

Thanks for mentioning Shadow of the Colossus. I somehow forgot about that one.

Absolutely not to be missed. Even though I forgot. ROFL

[Slate]

Huh? How dare you!... You haven't played Guitar hero? Get it. (If you have a 360 then don't buy guitar hero 2 on PS2, Get it for the 360)

[blissfulnoise]

It's funny to me that half of your collection is compilation games.

It seems you're not actually interested in "modern" games, especially with your exclusion list.

That's perfectly fine, but it seems weird that you're asking for suggestions when you've automatically excluded so many of the excellent titles in the PS2 library.

But, to be constructive, the following titles should be must play games in the PS2 library that any gamer serious about the craft should at least try. Most can be had very cheaply ($19.99 or less).

Ico & Shadow of the Colossus - De facto standard in the games as art movement (at least in terms of mainstream gaming). They're also quite short which would be a plus to you. Platform/Adventure.

Killer 7 - Case for style over substance in gaming. Some hate it, some love it. I think it's brilliant and essential gaming. Rail Shooter/Adventure hybrid game style.

Lumines+ - Best new puzzle game since Puzzle Fighter. Take's Mizuguchi's approach in games like Space Channel 5 and Rez and expands it into the puzzle genre. You can play it on a variety of platforms, but if you haven't played it, this is a good place to start (though I'd argue the PSP original is the best version out there).

We <3 Katamari - Amazingly superior to the original. Loads of new content. Game play is the same, but the concept is taken to even more bizarre and entertaining extremes.

Frequency/Amplitude - Harmonix first forays into console gaming. Amazing soundtracks and very addictive gameplay. Puzzle/Rhythm game.

Disgaea - The most entertaining strategy/rpg I've ever played and certainly the one with the most personality. Pretty much infinitely long if you try to tackle the real last bosses, but can be enjoyed in modest amounts. Strategy/RPG.

Devil May Cry I & III - Invented the stylish action genre and brought action gaming into the 3D world in a very real way. You've got Castlevania: Lament and Rygar. These are the games you should own in their place. Beat-em-up/Action.

God of War I & II - Turned the stylish action (read: Devil May Cry) world on its ear with brutal, visceral gameplay and a well fleshed out world. Must play gaming if only to see where the beat-em-up genre has ended up. Beat-em-up/Action.

God Hand - This is where beat-em-ups would have gone if the silly, over the top stories and characters of the great ones in the 90s hadn't changed into the 3D era. Clover Studios last (last?) game is extremely absurd, extremely hard, and a huge breath of originality in the genre. Beat-em-up/Action.

Viewtiful Joe - Another stylish Capcom beat-em-up, but this one goes in a different direction than the others. Not quite as over the top as God Hand, but visually unique and definitely something people should try. Beat-em-up/Action.

Beyond Good and Evil – An excellent 3D Action/Platformer on it’s own right but what sets this one apart is the scope of the story. Politically aware and still very relevant (maybe even more so), this is a game with a conscious and isn’t something that’s been attempted again in a console game.

Psychonauts – Most charming and original platformer to come out in many years. From the mind of Double Fine and Tim Schafer, playing this equals happiness. Like the best work Disney has done in years with rock solid, awesome platforming.

Metal Gear Solid 2 & 3 – Yeah it’s an established franchise but it doesn’t mean these games aren’t amazing. Stealth/3D Action.

Odin Sphere - Visual successor to Princess Crown on the Saturn but improved vastly by the newer platform. 2D Beat-em-up/RPG hybrid and entirely unique. Only downside is repetitive play but so unlike anything else out there it's a must play.

Rez - Defining game for Mizuguchi and for console gaming as "art". Music and rail shooting mesh and combine to create something that is more experienced than played. Rail shooter.

Indigo Prophecy - The best case for adventure game revival to come out in quite awhile and certainly the best on the PS2. Very well acted with a top notch production value. Adventure.

Guitar Hero I & II - Everyone should know about these games now. Unadulterated rock bliss. Any fan of music should at least try these games. Music/Rhythm game.

Burnout 3: Takedown - A racing game I've yet to find someone who doesn't enjoy. Crash cars at ridiculous speeds. Unbelievably entertaining. Racing.

Magic Pengel/Graffiti Kingdom – Hard to say these are necessarily essential but I love the concept of the game. Draw a monster and have it fight it out (like Monster Rancher). The sequel, Graffiti Kingdom, added new features and is probably a bit easier to find. Collectible/Battle Game.

Okami - A game so good it took the thunder out of Zelda: Twilight Princess. The best 3D adventure game out of this generation maybe shy of Windwaker (I prefer Windwaker myself) but regardless it’s amazing on every level. Action/Adventure.

[DrunkPollock]

Yeah, it seems like you're not really interested in any good games for the system. But you do seem to be missing Sega Classics Collection (http://ps2.ign.com/objects/686/686587.html), not a bad little collection of remakes, should be right up your alley.

Also, you should invest in a Wii.. seems custom made for you.

[le geek]

If I know Dire 51 like I think I know Dire 51, I think he's pressed for time like many older gamers.

Cheers,
Ben

[heybtbm]

God Hand - This is where beat-em-ups would have gone if the silly, over the top stories and characters of the great ones in the 90s hadn't changed into the 3D era. Clover Studios last (last?) game is extremely absurd, extremely hard, and a huge breath of originality in the genre. Beat-em-up/Action.

Your list had quite a few good selections, but I wanted to highlight Godhand.

It has this completely bizarre theme of cheesy American pop culture seen through Japanese eyes. Words can't do this game justice...you have to play it to even remotely understand. The gameplay is essentially just a 3D beat'em up.

Soundtrack, style, and general insanity all get 5 stars. It's the one of the most underrated games of the PS2 generation IMO. If you have a Circuit City nearby, it's currently on clearance for $12.96. A must buy!

[suckerpunch5]

Resident Evil 4 - simply a great game
Indigo Prophecy is really cool too. All the others mentioned above are really good games.

EDIT: Fatal frame is really entertaining, but it might break the 10 hour rule.

[mailman187666]

I'd like to recommend Alien Hominid for PS2. Its a funny little Metal Slug style game but a little more cartoony. Its got a little bit of violence to it but it kinda makes it funnier than gory. I picked up my copy new for $10 at circuit city a while back. I'm sure it can be had just about anywhere for less than $20.

[blissfulnoise]

If I know Dire 51 like I think I know Dire 51, I think he's pressed for time like many older gamers.

Cheers,
Ben

The vast majority of us are. It's a matter of either wanting to game or not.

I'm still very interested in gaming, especially with all the new and exciting places it's going these days. So I make the time to at least sample and experience some of the games that are out there. I'm just always dumbfounded by people who are stil wanting to play the same games they've been playing for the last 10 or even 20 years exclusively when there is such a wealth of gaming greatness that is being released.

That said, I still go back and enjoy a lot of the games that I grew up on and had a major impact on me (or ones that are simply just fun). I can switch between Warlords, Grand Theft Auto: SA, Panic!, flOw, A Boy and His Blob, Every Extend Extra Extreme, and Star Control II at will.

I know it's all very subjective, and I don't mean to preach and dictate how someone should enjoy their video game time, but there's just so much good stuff out there. Why limit yourself; even if you can only enjoy it an hour or a two at a time?

Point being, if you solicit suggestions like this, it's in your best interest to seek out games that are worth the time investment regardless of genre. Pidgeonholing isn't very productive.

[le geek]

The vast majority of us are. It's a matter of either wanting to game or not.

I'm still very interested in gaming, especially with all the new and exciting places it's going these days. So I make the time to at least sample and experience some of the games that are out there. I'm just always dumbfounded by people who are stil wanting to play the same games they've been playing for the last 10 or even 20 years exclusively when there is such a wealth of gaming greatness that is being released.

That said, I still go back and enjoy a lot of the games that I grew up on and had a major impact on me (or ones that are simply just fun). I can switch between Warlords, Grand Theft Auto: SA, Panic!, flOw, A Boy and His Blob, Every Extend Extra Extreme, and Star Control II at will.

I know it's all very subjective, and I don't mean to preach and dictate how someone should enjoy their video game time, but there's just so much good stuff out there. Why limit yourself; even if you can only enjoy it an hour or a two at a time?

Point being, if you solicit suggestions like this, it's in your best interest to seek out games that are worth the time investment regardless of genre. Pidgeonholing isn't very productive.


Can't argue with that! And I really like your list. Other than adding some RPG's, I would add Guitar Hero (the first one).

Cheers,
Ben

[shoes23]

You should play Yakuza. It is a fine beat em up by Sega. Good story, great graphics, and the fighting engine is well refined. The game will take you about 10 hours to beat, that is if you don't just wander around the city for a long peroid of time.

I'll list some more when I get home later, but Yakuza is my #1 recommendation.

[Rob2600]

I know these games came out before 2004, but if you like fun, short, fast-paced games, you should check out...

Mad Maestro
Mister Mosquito
Shinobi
Silpheed: The Lost Planet
Space Channel 5: Special Edition

...if you haven't already.

[Dire 51]

Thanks for mentioning Shadow of the Colossus. I somehow forgot about that one.

Absolutely not to be missed. Even though I forgot. ROFL
I've heard a little about this one in passing... I'll keep it in mind. :)


It's funny to me that half of your collection is compilation games.

It seems you're not actually interested in "modern" games, especially with your exclusion list.
Actually, if I was asking for recommendations for ANY systems from the NES on up, my exclusion list would read basically the same, although with a few minor alterations depending on the system. I discovered a long time ago that I don't have the patience for RPGs or strategy/sim games, and FPS games and I haven't gotten along since Doom. That's not to say that I didn't keep an open mind about them, as I tried a couple of the newer FPS in late '05 back at a friend's place (I know Doom 3 was one of them, can't recall what the others were) but after playing them my opinion hadn't changed in the slightest. And I haven't cared about sports games since the 8-bit days (and even then I didn't really care about them, but the occasional title did get my attention).


That's perfectly fine, but it seems weird that you're asking for suggestions when you've automatically excluded so many of the excellent titles in the PS2 library.

But, to be constructive, the following titles should be must play games in the PS2 library that any gamer serious about the craft should at least try. Most can be had very cheaply ($19.99 or less).
Several of those I hadn't heard of, so I shall keep an eye out for them. God Hand, Psychonauts and Rez in particular sound interesting (thanks to heybtbm for elaborating on God Hand a bit). I had no idea that Viewtiful Joe was on the PS2. I didn't think it had ever left the GameCube. Got to try the GC version back in '04 and enjoyed it, so I'll be looking out for that one too.


I know it's all very subjective, and I don't mean to preach and dictate how someone should enjoy their video game time, but there's just so much good stuff out there. Why limit yourself; even if you can only enjoy it an hour or a two at a time?

Point being, if you solicit suggestions like this, it's in your best interest to seek out games that are worth the time investment regardless of genre. Pidgeonholing isn't very productive.
It may not be productive, but I see no point in buying games from genres I don't like.


Yeah, it seems like you're not really interested in any good games for the system.
What, just because I don't like RPGs and FPS (etc) I don't like good games? I beg to differ.


But you do seem to be missing Sega Classics Collection, not a bad little collection of remakes, should be right up your alley.
If I can find it, I may grab it.


Also, you should invest in a Wii.. seems custom made for you.
Nah. I'd spend almost all of my time with it using the Virtual Console, and I don't see the point, considering I already own all the VC games that I'd end up buying.


I'd like to recommend Alien Hominid for PS2. Its a funny little Metal Slug style game but a little more cartoony. Its got a little bit of violence to it but it kinda makes it funnier than gory. I picked up my copy new for $10 at circuit city a while back. I'm sure it can be had just about anywhere for less than $20.
I remember hearing about this. Totally forgot about it until now, but I'd like to check it out.


If I know Dire 51 like I think I know Dire 51, I think he's pressed for time like many older gamers.
And you would be right, which is why I added the bit about the 10 hour limit. Anything over that is just pushing it for me. There are times when I'll go for days, sometimes weeks at a time without even touching a game, so the last thing I want to do is pick up a game that I'm getting pretty far in and then have no idea where I'm going next, because I forgot where I was up to that point. I've even reached that point with games like Rygar and LoI.


You should play Yakuza. It is a fine beat em up by Sega. Good story, great graphics, and the fighting engine is well refined. The game will take you about 10 hours to beat, that is if you don't just wander around the city for a long peroid of time.

I'll list some more when I get home later, but Yakuza is my #1 recommendation.
Hmmm. I may check that out.


I know these games came out before 2004, but if you like fun, short, fast-paced games, you should check out...

Mad Maestro
Mister Mosquito
Shinobi
Silpheed: The Lost Planet
Space Channel 5: Special Edition

...if you haven't already.
I used to own Shinobi and Silpheed, and I wouldn't mind getting either of them back. I remember reading about the others... and hey, I don't mind getting suggestions for games from 2004 and back either.

Thanks to everyone that made suggestions so far!

[DrunkPollock]

What, just because I don't like RPGs and FPS (etc) I don't like good games? I beg to differ.


Didn't say you didn't like them, just meant that you're excluding a ton of them with all your, well, exclusions.



If I can find it, I may grab it.


Yeah, it's a nice little package. You should be able to find it for about $10 to $12.



Nah. I'd spend almost all of my time with it using the Virtual Console, and I don't see the point, considering I already own all the VC games that I'd end up buying.


Really? I thought you might appreciate the abundance of compilations and short games.

[8bitgamer]

I recommend Maximo Ghosts to Glory and Maximo Army of Zin, two vastly underrated games.

Classic Home Video Games 1972-1984 ("http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Home-Video-Games-1972-1984/dp/0786432268/ref=sr_1_1/102-4833994-2708962?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1180844138&sr=8-1”)

[Dire 51]

Didn't say you didn't like them, just meant that you're excluding a ton of them with all your, well, exclusions.
Ah, okay.


Yeah, it's a nice little package. You should be able to find it for about $10 to $12.
Sounds like my kind of price. I've heard it's worth it for Alien Syndrome and Fantasy Zone alone.

Which reminds me, I know there have been other compilations released for the PS2 that I either never got around to picking up or used to have but sold when I sold my first PS2 - one of which was the Activision Anthology (which I would love to have back). For the life of me, though, I can't recall what the other ones were. I seem to recall a few Midway comps (Arcade Treasures, I think?), a couple of Namco comps (not sure if these are worth getting since I have all 6 Namco Museum volumes for the PS1), an Atari comp and at least one Mega Man comp. Can anyone shed any light on these, or any others I may have missed?


Really? I thought you might appreciate the abundance of compilations and short games.
Hmmm. I may have to do some more research on it, then.


I recommend Maximo Ghosts to Glory and Maximo Army of Zin, two vastly underrated games.
I did own a copy of Ghosts To Glory way back when, but I don't recall being too impressed by it. I'm sure it can be had for next to nothing now, so I may have to give it another shot if I can find it again. Never did play Army of Zin, though... think it was better or worst than the first?

[DrunkPollock]

Which reminds me, I know there have been other compilations released for the PS2


Let's see, I think you're missing a couple of the Namco Museums, there were 3 Midway Arcade Treasures, 1 Tecmo Arcade Classics, and Mega Man and Mega Man X Anniversary Collections.

That's all I can think of, unless you like the Street Fighter Games there were 2 collections of those, one for the standard and another for the Alpha series of games.

[Knoxximus]

Another really awesome underrated game was Gungrave: Overdose (pass on the 1st one). The bonus to this game is that if you liked the anime, this game conitinued the story where the anime left off. So you got a great game and a good story for those hungering for more of the Gungrave universe!

Hmm...looking at my collection I see:

Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil
Psychonauts
Rez
Outrun 2006 Coast to Coast
Castle Shikigami 2 (if you can find it)
Skygunner

And I definitely also endorse The Red Star....actually saw some at Best Buy the other day.

[Dire 51]

Let's see, I think you're missing a couple of the Namco Museums, there were 3 Midway Arcade Treasures, 1 Tecmo Arcade Classics, and Mega Man and Mega Man X Anniversary Collections.
I recall seeing Tecmo Arcade Classics when I picked up Capcom Classics Collection Volume 1 way back when, but wasn't that an XBox exclusive? Or did it finally make it to the PS2?


That's all I can think of, unless you like the Street Fighter Games there were 2 collections of those, one for the standard and another for the Alpha series of games.
I've never been a Street Fighter fan, so I'll probably pass on those - but I have recently been giving the earlier games another chance by playing the ones on the Capcom Classics Collection discs, so I may change my mind at some point.


Another really awesome underrated game was Gungrave: Overdose (pass on the 1st one). The bonus to this game is that if you liked the anime, this game conitinued the story where the anime left off. So you got a great game and a good story for those hungering for more of the Gungrave universe!
I never saw the anime, but I did own the original briefly. I liked it, so if Overdose is better, I'll probably love that one.


Hmm...looking at my collection I see:

Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil
Psychonauts
Rez
Outrun 2006 Coast to Coast
Castle Shikigami 2 (if you can find it)
Skygunner

And I definitely also endorse The Red Star....actually saw some at Best Buy the other day.
Man, I totally forgot about Klonoa. Add another to the list. And Outrun 2006 Coast To Coast, if it's comparable to the original, is definitely going on the list (if I'd remembered it existed, I probably wouldn't have specified no racing games).

I'll keep an eye out for Castle Shikigami 2 and Skygunner as well... I always was intrigued by Skygunner, but I never found myself in a position to actually pick it up.

[Knoxximus]

Cool thing with Outrun is that if you also have the PSP version, you can interchange ur game saves! So you can put the unlockables from the PS2 game to your PSP and vice versa via the USB port! And yeah....Overdose is ALL that.

And I figured you'd let me slide with Outrun.:angel:

[koster]

Other compilation releases you may want to pick up are Atari Anthology (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atari_Anthology), Intellivision Lives! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellivision_Lives!) and The Art of Fighting Anthology.

[heybtbm]

I recall seeing Tecmo Arcade Classics when I picked up Capcom Classics Collection Volume 1 way back when, but wasn't that an XBox exclusive? Or did it finally make it to the PS2?

The Tecmo compilation has always been a Xbox exclusive. It was never released for PS2.

[DrunkPollock]

I recall seeing Tecmo Arcade Classics when I picked up Capcom Classics Collection Volume 1 way back when, but wasn't that an XBox exclusive? Or did it finally make it to the PS2?



I could swear I've seen it for PS2, but maybe I was mistaken.

[Dire 51]

Cool thing with Outrun is that if you also have the PSP version, you can interchange ur game saves! So you can put the unlockables from the PS2 game to your PSP and vice versa via the USB port! And yeah....Overdose is ALL that.

And I figured you'd let me slide with Outrun.:angel:
Heh, yeah. The original Outrun is my favorite racing game of all time, so 2 is one I've wanted to play for a while.

I don't have a PSP, but I may have to get one of the Slims since it can be connected to a TV. Then I can start grabbing the compilations and updates for that. LOL


Other compilation releases you may want to pick up are Atari Anthology, Intellivision Lives! and The Art of Fighting Anthology.
I recall seeing the Atari Anthology on clearance at my local TRU for $9.99. I would have grabbed it if I hadn't been there to pick up the Sega Genesis Collection. That wasn't all that long ago, though, so maybe they still have a few copies left.


The Tecmo compilation has always been a Xbox exclusive. It was never released for PS2.
Damn. Damn damn damn. I was hoping to be able to play the arcade Rygar on my PS2... thanks, Tecmo, for not including it as an unlockable in Rygar: TLA. :(

[Sotenga]

Time to bring this thread back from the dead for my buddy Dire! :)

Lessee... not sure I can really suggest anything new beyond what's already been mentioned, so let me emphasize a few:

Psychonauts - Watching videos of the game on YouTube made me remember just how freaking great a game it is, and I should really go back and play it again. It's equal parts trippy, inventive, and genuinely hilarious.

Rez - Just go read the article I (mostly) wrote for it over on HG101. That's all I've gotta say. *+10 plug points* :D http://hg101.classicgaming.gamespy.com/rez/rez.htm

Outrun Coast 2 Coast - Yes, this IS Outrun brought to the new generation, and it works out great. I think it might have the original Outrun on it as a bonus, so that's awesome. One of the last great Sega games before they started to suck.

Klonoa 2 - If you enjoyed the first Klonoa, this game is just as great as the original. It's also more challenging, what with only being able to take three hits instead of six.

Killer 7 - This game is the most fubar shroom-inducing experience in which I have ever indulged. It's like if Takashi Miike were to make a film in the vein of James Bond, and that's a bad example because NOTHING is quite like K7. If you can get past the very simple gameplay, I know you'll get a kick out of it.

God Hand - It may be tough, but once you get used to the (very well-controlled) mechanics, this game will rule the hell out of you. Seriously, I must have been addicted to it for about a month. If beating the hell out of superhero midgets or soundwave-shooting rock musicians doesn't pique your interest, then I don't know what the hell to tell ya.

God of War 1 & 2 - I think these games are a rare example where most of the hype around it is justified. These games are simply awesome; great action, very brutal, and an awesome setup derived from Greek mythology (which I've always been fascinated with). Yes, I can affirm that they're about as awesome as Rygar: The Legendary Adventure. ;)

And now, a few original suggestions:

Alien Hominid - If you liked Metal Slug, I'm almost certain you'll enjoy this one. It's also pretty damn long for an action game.

Midway Arcade Treasures 1 & 2 - Many a classic on both of these comps. I don't recommend 3, since it's all racing titles (which have always been far from my favorite types of games), but you can look into it too if you would like. Nothing as awesome as Outrun, though.

Silent Hill 2 - I still have yet to get SH2 myself, but I just goddamn loved the first game. I have heard NOTHING bad about SH2, and I seem to recall that you were fond of the first game, so I heartily advise it!

Urban Reign - It seems like a damn awesome modern-day beat-em-up that... I have... yet to... get...... hey, can anyone put in a good word for UR? ^^;

[josekortez]

How about reading the PS2 hidden gems thread I started a month or so ago? There are plenty of games that nobody played if they want to get caught up on the PS2...

http://www.digitpress.com/forum/showthread.php?t=110847

[DJ Daishi]

Guitaroo-Man!!
Bujingai
State of Emergency
Super Galdelic Hour
Okami (can't believe nobody mentioned this!)

Psi-Ops - One of the most underrated games on the PS1!!!

[Tron 2.0]

The Tecmo compilation has always been a Xbox exclusive. It was never released for PS2.
No it had one but for the jpn ps2 no u.s release at all though.

[Sothy]

wtf
/me hunts for red star

I thought it was canned.

[vincewy]

Looks like you're into shooters, for PS2, don't forget

R-Type Final
Raiden III (mentioned earlier but I'll reinforce it).

How about puzzle games? Many titles are cheap at half.com and amazon if you can't find them locally

Bombastic (sequel to Devil's Dice)
Aqua Aqua

PSOne has quite a few classic shooters published by Working Designs.

[Dire 51]

Man, I forgot all about this thread. Thanks for the updates and new suggestions, everyone (and thanks for reviving this, Mike).

[Sotenga]

Man, I forgot all about this thread. Thanks for the updates and new suggestions, everyone (and thanks for reviving this, Mike).

No prob, Rob. ^_^

Curiously, what games out of all that have been mentioned seem the most likely that you'll be getting next?

[Dire 51]

Honestly, I have no idea.

[xfrumx]

You should play Yakuza. It is a fine beat em up by Sega. Good story, great graphics, and the fighting engine is well refined. The game will take you about 10 hours to beat, that is if you don't just wander around the city for a long peroid of time.

I'll list some more when I get home later, but Yakuza is my #1 recommendation.

I second this one

[bcks007]

You guys forgot about, Taito Legends and Taito Legends 2 for the ps2.

[Leo_A]

Because he already owns those. :)

[Dire 51]

*bump*

Well, over the past few months I've gone through this list and gone down to the local GameStop. Now I own copies of Shinobi, Nightshade, Outrun 2006 Coast 2 Coast, Gungrave, Gungrave: Overdose, Devil May Cry, Mega Man Anniversary Collection and Sega Classics Collection, most of which I was able to pick up for $5 or less used and complete.

Thanks to everyone that made recommendations! I'll keep looking out for more.

[carlcarlson]

If you haven't heard Hollywood Video has reduced their Gamecube, PS2, and Xbox games to $3.99 each. I went to three stores today and saw a ton of the games listed here.

[Sotenga]

For Gord's sake, man, get God Hand next! It's pretty vicious, but I think you'll get a massive Dragon Kick out of it. Really, the game is just pure camp, thoroughly and throughout. AFAIK, it should be rather inexpensive now, and it was initially released as a budget title.

[c0ldb33r]

Listen, I'm gonna totally ignore your conditions and recommend Final Fantasy XII. It was epic.

[Dire 51]

If you haven't heard Hollywood Video has reduced their Gamecube, PS2, and Xbox games to $3.99 each. I went to three stores today and saw a ton of the games listed here.
I'll have to see if there are any HV's near me then. Thanks!


For Gord's sake, man, get God Hand next! It's pretty vicious, but I think you'll get a massive Dragon Kick out of it. Really, the game is just pure camp, thoroughly and throughout. AFAIK, it should be rather inexpensive now, and it was initially released as a budget title.
I'll definitely consider it, Mike.


Listen, I'm gonna totally ignore your conditions and recommend Final Fantasy XII. It was epic.
And while I appreciate the suggestion, RPGs simply aren't for me - plus I have even less time than I did before, and not near as much patience as I'd need for it.

[Dire 51]

*bump*

I think I've rounded out my PS2 collection nicely. Over the past two months (which include my birthday and Christmas), I've added Lego Indiana Jones, Guitar Hero I & II, R-Type Final, Castle Shikigami 2, We Love Katamari and Technic Beat to my collection.

I'm still looking for a few more games here and there, but I'm not looking for a lot. One I'm interested in in particular is Harvey Birdman, mostly because I'm a fan of the show, it's by Capcom and my local Best Buy had it for $10 last time I was in there. Anyone got anything to say about it?

[jupitersj]

meh I had a nice post but firefox went wonky >.<

I'd like to nominate

Primal

even though it is from 2003, I think you will enjoy it :)

Its combat is average but excels in exploration and puzzles. The main characters Jen and Scree are not your typical videogame duo. The music ingame is a mix of now defunct band 16-Volt(industrial) and symphonic orchestration.

Here is a video i found of the art of Primal. I figure you can easily find gameplay video yourself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7Px7hGtHIw&fmt=18

A nice bonus is you'll find this game for $5-10 new.

This is one of my favourite PS2 games and is a diamond in the rough.

[We Are Ninja]

It's funny to me that half of your collection is compilation games.

It seems you're not actually interested in "modern" games, especially with your exclusion list.

That's perfectly fine, but it seems weird that you're asking for suggestions when you've automatically excluded so many of the excellent titles in the PS2 library.

But, to be constructive, the following titles should be must play games in the PS2 library that any gamer serious about the craft should at least try. Most can be had very cheaply ($19.99 or less).

Ico & Shadow of the Colossus - De facto standard in the games as art movement (at least in terms of mainstream gaming). They're also quite short which would be a plus to you. Platform/Adventure.

Killer 7 - Case for style over substance in gaming. Some hate it, some love it. I think it's brilliant and essential gaming. Rail Shooter/Adventure hybrid game style.

Lumines+ - Best new puzzle game since Puzzle Fighter. Take's Mizuguchi's approach in games like Space Channel 5 and Rez and expands it into the puzzle genre. You can play it on a variety of platforms, but if you haven't played it, this is a good place to start (though I'd argue the PSP original is the best version out there).

We <3 Katamari - Amazingly superior to the original. Loads of new content. Game play is the same, but the concept is taken to even more bizarre and entertaining extremes.

Frequency/Amplitude - Harmonix first forays into console gaming. Amazing soundtracks and very addictive gameplay. Puzzle/Rhythm game.

Disgaea - The most entertaining strategy/rpg I've ever played and certainly the one with the most personality. Pretty much infinitely long if you try to tackle the real last bosses, but can be enjoyed in modest amounts. Strategy/RPG.

Devil May Cry I & III - Invented the stylish action genre and brought action gaming into the 3D world in a very real way. You've got Castlevania: Lament and Rygar. These are the games you should own in their place. Beat-em-up/Action.

God of War I & II - Turned the stylish action (read: Devil May Cry) world on its ear with brutal, visceral gameplay and a well fleshed out world. Must play gaming if only to see where the beat-em-up genre has ended up. Beat-em-up/Action.

God Hand - This is where beat-em-ups would have gone if the silly, over the top stories and characters of the great ones in the 90s hadn't changed into the 3D era. Clover Studios last (last?) game is extremely absurd, extremely hard, and a huge breath of originality in the genre. Beat-em-up/Action.

Viewtiful Joe - Another stylish Capcom beat-em-up, but this one goes in a different direction than the others. Not quite as over the top as God Hand, but visually unique and definitely something people should try. Beat-em-up/Action.

Beyond Good and Evil – An excellent 3D Action/Platformer on it’s own right but what sets this one apart is the scope of the story. Politically aware and still very relevant (maybe even more so), this is a game with a conscious and isn’t something that’s been attempted again in a console game.

Psychonauts – Most charming and original platformer to come out in many years. From the mind of Double Fine and Tim Schafer, playing this equals happiness. Like the best work Disney has done in years with rock solid, awesome platforming.

Metal Gear Solid 2 & 3 – Yeah it’s an established franchise but it doesn’t mean these games aren’t amazing. Stealth/3D Action.

Odin Sphere - Visual successor to Princess Crown on the Saturn but improved vastly by the newer platform. 2D Beat-em-up/RPG hybrid and entirely unique. Only downside is repetitive play but so unlike anything else out there it's a must play.

Rez - Defining game for Mizuguchi and for console gaming as "art". Music and rail shooting mesh and combine to create something that is more experienced than played. Rail shooter.

Indigo Prophecy - The best case for adventure game revival to come out in quite awhile and certainly the best on the PS2. Very well acted with a top notch production value. Adventure.

Guitar Hero I & II - Everyone should know about these games now. Unadulterated rock bliss. Any fan of music should at least try these games. Music/Rhythm game.

Burnout 3: Takedown - A racing game I've yet to find someone who doesn't enjoy. Crash cars at ridiculous speeds. Unbelievably entertaining. Racing.

Magic Pengel/Graffiti Kingdom – Hard to say these are necessarily essential but I love the concept of the game. Draw a monster and have it fight it out (like Monster Rancher). The sequel, Graffiti Kingdom, added new features and is probably a bit easier to find. Collectible/Battle Game.

Okami - A game so good it took the thunder out of Zelda: Twilight Princess. The best 3D adventure game out of this generation maybe shy of Windwaker (I prefer Windwaker myself) but regardless it’s amazing on every level. Action/Adventure.

[/Thread], pretty much... He covered nearly ALL the bases.

Other people have suggested and I fully agree with:

Rez
Gitaroo Man
Space Channel 5

I'd also add two of my all-time faves:

The seminal SSX3
The exquisite Def Jam Fight For New York