After all these years, I still find myself coming back to the PS2 every so often. It is to me the greatest console of all time. So many good games and memories.
Not only that but it was a big leap for gaming during the 6th generation of consoles. Incredible games were all being pumped out by passionate developers who actually cared and took a focus on making something special. I'm glad I grew up with the PS2. ❤
@@JBird401 Your current download time is: 6 months, 3 weeks, 5 days, 22 hours, 45 minutes, and 22 seconds .... 5 minutes later ... Your current download time is: 6 months, 3 weeks, 5 days, 22 hours, 45 minutes, and 22 seconds
It's definitely the best menu start up for sure. The pure ambience of hearing a loud abstract wind sound during the select screen. Just pure darkness and the lights flowing, it's like the machine waiting for a new simulation (in this case the games). I love the PS2 so much man. ❤
PS2 was a wild experience for me. Back then, PS2 rentals were a thing at my place. I never owned a PS2 but I played many great games. Gundam Naruto WWE Raw vs Smackdown Transformers 2007 The Game Tekken 5 Good times.
People will dismiss it because it's a movie tie-in, but Barnyard for the PS2 is a GREAT time, Open-world style game with a pretty funny story and some side content that could rival the amount you find in the Yakuza series!
Im not the only with love for the barnyard game. I play through it once every year or two. It just felt like a GTA clone to me with the open world aspect and all the different mini games in it.
Omg I'm not the only one who remembers the barnyard game, I had lots of fun with it as a kid, I always liked using the money cheat and getting an upgraded barn in the beginning
@@ZBatt1im gonna get goofed on for saying this? But i love bad boys miami takedown. Its gotta be my favorite speedrun next to Sly cooper. Its so hilariously bad. Also Rayman 3 was criminally underrated.
They dismissed the piglet movie game for 2 decades and look what happened. A childrens game is still a good game even a tie in game can be good, people need to be more open minded.
Shoutout to Ratchet: Deadlocked from the thumbnail! I'll never forget how that was the first video game I ever bought on launch date. 15 years old, October 2005. What a time.
It is worth it i like how PS2 is entirely offline you can get a game & know you’re not missing anything its the same experience as it was back in the day
This year i played MGS2, FFX, FFXII, and God of War for the first time. I had a PS2 slim growing up but these titles were a little mature for a 6 year old lol.
PS2 has been my main console since September and I've been loving every minute of it! Got my first PS2 Slim in December 2004 for Christmas right after they launched in November. I still have that slim to this day. I just recently picked up a CECHA01 Backwards Compatible PS3 and it does an amazing job of making PS2 games look great on HD 720 or 1080 displays. I'd have to disagree about the slim, while it is my original and dearly beloved PS2, the later model original PS2's such as 39001 and 50001 are really great and suffer less issues. The slims suffer from loose ribbon cables that scratch discs and this was fixed in the 79001 model which was also the lightest slim, but reverted in the last model 90001 which had the internal power supply. Many slims suffer from the power supply solder joints breaking and they also suffer from the common issue where the lid sensors go bad and discs won't spin as a result of not recognizing that the tray is closed. All of these issues are very fixable, but you just need to keep in mind that for original thick PS2's the only real issues are bad lasers in the launch 30001 model and slow disc trays that get stuck over time, but that's also easily addressed by servicing the drive. The thick PS2's are also more mod friendly than slims for those interested in modding.
Urban Reign is so good. I wish they would have continued that arena brawler series. That and champions of Norrath were huge for me and my buddies. There’s rarely any games now days where you can play 4 player couch co-op so these titles are such great examples of social gaming at its best!
Recently I got a slim PS2 but it had some kind of issue where it was causing circular scratches on my discs. I had to get a fat PS2 which apparently don't get this issue. I managed to get a fat PS2 cheap on ebay in amazing condition, barely any scratches on the console it was just filthy but cleaned up amazing.
It's more than likely just the ribbon cable that connects to the laser. The adhesive lets go on the metal below so it rubs on the discs, can be reattached with tape or glue
For the Phat model I recommend getting the SCPH - 50001 version that's the one I have for a long time plus I believe that's the later version of the Phat model. I recommend getting the PS2 Slim but be aware of the laser cable adhesive it's very common for it to wear off & the cable will start scratching your discs
Cool little gems in here to add to my list I never knew about. Urban Reign especially. Looks like The Bouncer with its brawling style level based system
Same. I still have my PS2 and a shitload of games for it, but I play them exclusively on PCSX2 these days. The visual boost and achievements and all that are too good to go back.
It's not my go-to yet because I haven't figured out how to solve all the issues with Klonoa 2 yet. But, I used it to FINALLY get to play Ape Escape 2001 with an english translation patch. I loved it.
I love PCSX2 and have been using it for years, but still find myself mainly playing on original hardware because for me it just provides a better "OEM" experience.
@@caseycardenas1668analog buttons are actually a huge deal for ps2 that are typically not able to be emulated which is a massive loss in quality for a large part of the library
They can just re-release the launch PS3 which was fully backwards compatible... but this time without the defective GPU and without region locks for PS1 and PS2 games. I'd buy it yesterday.
ONI!!! Okay, dude. My dude. I LOVED that game. Played it on PC, and it is incredible. Was very, very revolutionary when it came out. I so wish this made a "comeback". Just an awesome game to play. Combat was so, so good, specifically for its time. Thanks for mentioning it.
I've had my original PS2 slim for years but recently started adding to my retro collection again and just picked up a boxed classic PS2. Packing and console look great to this day!
Man Xenosaga trilogy and Valkyrie Profile 2 are my favorite games on PS2. Thank you for recommending them! I hope more people get to play them especially Xenosaga if you like the Xenoblade series.
Just got my HDMI upconverter for my PS2. Going for the full Marvel collection on PS2. 26 games in the collection; and I'm 11 in. Looking forward to 2025 and completing.
Other ps2 recommendations: Onimusha 1-3 and Dawn of Dreams, Bujingai: The Forsaken City, Summoner, The Matrix: Path of Neo, the Lord of the Rings movie games, Shinobi, Shadow Hearts, Rumble Roses, Dynasty Warriors 4 w/ Xtreme Legends, and Way of the Samurai
A few games I think you would like: Legend of Legaia 2 RAD - Robot Alchemic Drive Shadow Hearts Original, Covenant, From the New World Sakura Wars - So Long My Love
The PS2/OXBOX was truly where original game designs and ideas shined throughout the gaming world for these two consoles. You had Maximo, Crimson Sea, Crimson Skies, Red Ninja, Gun Valkyrie, Tak, Gun and so many others. Sadly nowadays gamers usually get the cookie cutter online FPS/TPS games with the standard arenas and basic mechanics.
I never had a PS2 growing up, I went from n64 to Xbox (taking a chance on something very new back then). Always had fun going over to friends houses and playing the games on the sony console. I'm debating purchasing a refurbished PS2 for my kids and getting some of the classic platformers and exclusives I missed.
I've had a PS2 since 2001 and currently own a original "fat" (SCPH-39001) model and a slim (SCPH-79001) model and both are functioning perfectly. The PS2 will always be my favorite gaming system to game on because I love its library more than every other gaming system in existence.
Matty, I picked up a PS2 in Mint Condition for 90 bucks! Been playing through Lord of the Rings: The Third Age for the first time ever with my roommate who's a huge Middle-Earth fan! I'm going to go through the og God of War games on it soon, and I'll be taking my roommate through the campaign of the og Battlefront II!
2:33 you have to mod it if you get a slim, overtime the ribbon cable adhesive loosens the cable scratches disc massive issues by there’s a mod that fixes it with a cover piece, recently got my mint ctr collectors edition scratched also the lasers last less then many other systems ps2 just didn’t hold up so if you get one especially the slim you’ll probably need a mod a new laser and maybe a new drive since there is a magnet that holds the center up and it’ll lower and cause disc damage
So many great JRPG’s for the PS2. DQ 8 and Xenosaga as you mentioned, but also Dark Cloud, Shadow Hearts, Shin Megami Tensei Digital Devil Saga 1 and 2, Rogue Galaxy, and so many more.
Good on you for recommending Oni, it's a wonderful game. But I can tell you've never seen anything related to the Ghost in the Shell franchise because you don't mention it once during that entire segment despite it being the main source of inspiration for the game haha
I had the same problem of not beating Command Mission from Christmas of '04 all the way up until last year. I wish Capcom did more with the RPG formula and Megaman.
Cool video, great recommendations. I've been a PS2 collector since it's release. I recently picked up a HDD for my PS2 with all the games I never had a chance to play. So many good games on that system. For those who can't afford to buy games, this new way of playing games on PS2 without the disc is amazing. I was sceptical about it for years but after trying it I really like the convenience and the amount of money this will save is incredible. I just want more people to have access to these games and I think the HDD method gives that. Even if you are already a big collector, this method of playing games is good for preservation of your games. Built one yourself or buy one plug and play, either way imo it's a must have for anyone interested in PS2.
Nice guide my guy. I’d argue the Jak trilogy PS2 port is the best way to play it due to the directional grid made specifically for the DualShock 2 that’s locked on the later ports. I do believe Jak 1s revised PS5 port might have addressed this. To each their own
The ps2 is currently the greatest console of all time. It has a huge library of games that covers all genres. Not to mention, it plays the whole ps1 library through backward compatibility, and it was a dvd player.
PS2 is the console I grew up with and have the most memories with and I still love it and it's catalog to to this day. However, after COVID hit and the retro gaming market on the rise the games aren't as cheap as they used to be and that could turn many people away from the console with some games costing well over $100. I personally recommend playing via emulation or grabbing a PS2 fat and slapping a hard drive in it with your favorite games. I had a huge collection for the PS2 and sold it about a year ago and I don't plan on starting over since the games i had were high value but i was able to get for cheap.
Love the video Matty. One thing to note about the PS2 Slim. They do have a higher chance of over heating.. So if someone can get a FAT over the SLIM then I highly suggest you take that deal.
I think I still prefer Valkyrie Profile 1 at the end of the day, it seemed way more intriguing and beautiful to the eye just more interesting over all.
Ps2 is an all time classic. Earlier this year mine bit the dust and I immediately ordered a new one! 😂 I gotta have one setup in the game room at all times. Such an amazing library! 🔥
I also bought a PS2 slim this year and retired my old phat PS2 I bought in 2002. Glad you named Dragon Quest VIII. Such a gem of a game. It released on 3DS, but I prefer the PS2 version. Others I'd highly recommend are; Hulk: Ultimate Destruction: One of the best super hero games of all time IMO. Spartan: Total Warrior: Just a fun hack n slash. Not much else. SOCOM U.S. Navy Seals: Great stealth 3PS. Ridiculous these don't have remasters. Black: Just a ridiculously fun FPS. Can be played on current Xbox too. Medal of Honor: Frontline: One of the best WWII games ever made. Would be amazing if this got a full blown remake. King Kong: Best movie tie in game ever? Probably could say that. Splinter Cell games: How these aren't on modern consoles is absurd. They did a port for PS3, but again... that's PS3. Ghost Recon/Jungle Strike: They probably look and feel outdated, but man they're just fun IMO.
I didn’t even see this and I just bought an OG PS2 for $80 with everything included at my local game/book/dvd store. I even got a near mint copy of Sonic Heroes for $15
I've heard Rogue Galaxy is a great game, but it's pretty easily accessed on PS4/PS5. Matty's highlighting games that don't have a digital copy available (at the moment) and deserve more attention.
The Xenosaga series is fantastic. Highly recommend (though some of the gameplay in the first two games is a little dated). Of the PS2 games I've played (that aren't mentioned in the video), try the Shadow Hearts trilogy, Digital Devil Saga (1 and 2), Killer7 (this one has a PC port too), Drakengard 1 (haven't played the second), Fatal Frame 1-3, and Shadow of Memories/Destiny. PS2 games are still worth going back to, but are so hard to find and collect physically. It would be great if studios gave more attention to making the PS2 and PS1 catalogue more accessible rather than trying to remaster or remake PS4-era games.
@@tcsutton9121 They are separate universes/stories with linked themes and elements, I believe, but Xenogears did come out first and is a good starting place. It has a really good story and some interesting concepts, but is more plot driven, while Xenosaga (I feel) is much more character driven. I prefer the Xenosaga trilogy, but I know a lot of people much prefer Xenogears. They're all great games though, and absolutely worth playing (though they're a little dated gameplay-wise though, so go in with that in mind).
I went back and played Shadow The Hedgehog on my slim PS2 it baffles me they dont remake it for PS4 and PS5 given shadow generations just came out I thought thats what the game anouncement was until I saw the "generations" part
If emulation was not basically perfect on most ps2 games I might agree with you but pcsx2 can be played well on pcs handheld pcs the series x or s and tons of ways to do it so no owning one is not worth it
I’ve had 2 ps2 slims and both had issues with the door being recognized as closed. Had to buy a fat model because I got so tired of games randomly stopping because the door was funky. What’s funny is the fat model I have also is funky, it will save games totally fine and the memory cards work, but they won’t show up in the menu to look at and manage them…nobody knows why
Hard to think of my favourite PS2 games that didn't have better versions on Xbox or remasters. Liked Vice City Stories, Soul Calibur 2 and 3, Syphon Filter Dark Mirror, GT4, Silent Hill 2, Splashdown 2 and Tekken 5
One game series I’m sad u didn’t include was the viewtiful Joe series 1 and 2 they are a really surprisingly slept on series it’s funny and entertaining game series
It's funny that this pops up now Matty, i was thinking of looking for the original PAL versions of Yakuza 1 and 2 on the PS2, even though i bet they are pricey these days, i recently picked up the Japan exclusive Ryu Ga Gotoku HD Collection on PS3 so i want the original games to complete my Yakuza collection :)
I played Oni when I was maybe 8 years old, I gotta say I must have been really bad at video games as a kid! I could not get past some kind of laser level and absolutely hated it! Now it's super expensive, at least here in Australia, so might still be awhile before I dive back in. All that to say, solid recommendation 😅
I've been wanting one of these lately. It's been nice getting into retro gaming on real hardware. But man these are getting pricey on eBay. I think I'll have to stick to emulation til I find a good deal.
Naruto ultimate ninja 1,2,3,4,5 remastered on PS4/5 would be so cool, all on one blue-ray ❤ Dreaming is still free right now, so I will keep on dreaming a little more 😂
Buying a ps2 is worth it for analog button inputs alone. Currently playing through DQ8 myself right now via MX4SIO and it's a slow ride but I'm loving it.
My top picks for PS2 games (and the ones I prefer on PS2 over other consoles as well), some pricey but these are my favorites: -Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly (I know Xbox version is superior, but the PS2 controller makes more sense IMO and feels better to play with) -Haunting Ground (super pricey, but IMO, if you're going to spend on one grail of the system, and you like horror, this is the one to get. Forget Rule of Rose and Kuon, if you have the money to splurge, it's an amazing game, unlike most of the high end stuff on the system) -Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (the 360 HD version was buggy for me, could punch cops and wouldn't gain wanted levels, instead they got up and ran away or acted like normal pedestrians. Don't know if any other HD releases are as buggy, not willing to buy another HD version, I'll stick with the original) -Trapt (the last Deception game before they went silly anime, and imo, the dark look works MUCH better for these games, 4 was too bright and anime-like, didn't care for it as much. I like anime and anime games, but Deception is a VERY dark series, and it went to a silly tone in 4 that I just didn't love like I do these older games. You play as the embodiment of evil, the devil's hand of destruction essentially. Going all silly and cute just doesn't work for it) -Medal of Honor: Rising Sun (GameCube is 2 disc, I prefer less discs) -Obscure: The Aftermath (never played the 1st, and nowadays it's about $300, so probably not going to be able to unless I luck out like I did on Haunting Ground) -Dead to Rights II (I love the 1st, but usually I'm a GameCube fan, and the first I prefer on GameCube, but the 2nd wasn't on GameCube, so it's worth mentioning) -Stretch Panic (It looks a lot like Klonoa, but mixed with horror. Maybe that's why I love this game as much as I do) -BloodRayne (I know GameCube has it, but never played the GameCube version, I have the PS2 version) -Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 (you can clash Lightning Blade and Rasengan, and it's the most epic thing to see ever in a Naruto fighting game. The adventure mode is amazing too) -Soul Calibur III (2 might get the most recognition, but 3 was special. It had Chronicles of the Sword, which was Tactics meets Fighting genre, as well as added character creation. IMO, next to 5, this is the best Soul Calibur game) PS1 picks: -Bugs Bunny: Lost in Time (holds up super well, a true hidden gem) -Jersey Devil (people say it's mediocre, but this game has HEART. I love the atmosphere, and all its quirkiness) -Area 51 (arcade-style shooter, super addicting, especially on couch co-op) -Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko (say what you will about Gex, but the 3rd game is awesome. I also like Enter the Gecko quite a bit, but 3 is where Gex really hit home) -Toy Story 2 (heralded as one of the best platformers on the system, and for good reason)
I honestly prefer the original ps2 because the slim ps2 overheats after an hour or 2 though I did enjoy your showcase. Though I was sad you didn’t mention the “Def Jam” games in PS2 when you were mentioning Fighting/Brawler games. I enjoyed watching an LP of the first “Def Jam” game and have almost beaten “Def Jam: Fight for New York” I wish you mentioned them as well as the “Dynasty Warriors” games since 2 up to 5 XL are still only Exclusive to the PS2. Other ones you didn’t mention that still today are only on PS2 were “Mortal Kombat: Deception”, “Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance”, “Mortal Kombat: Armageddon”, and “Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks”
Personally, you're better off emulating it. Just the nostalgia alone can't sell me, it's the experiences.. and today, playing these on my phone during a long car ride or at night playing those RPGs like bedtime stories in a nice resolution is all I need.
This video is making me want to dig out and make sure my PS2 is still working 😂 I got the fat PS2, just gotta make sure I got the cables still. I know I need a new controller....I gotta play Legend of Legaia 2!
There is one nit pick with the Slim PS2, Beyond Good & Evil's sound is buggy as hell on it. Apart from that I've not had a problem with mine, I've heard the Slims can scratch discs but so far so good with mine, although I use OPL via network share to load all but a few of my games these days.
Its an ok purchase for disc based games, considering a hack will get you almost every game you ever wanted for a $100 or so. The library of games is fantastic it must be said, but lets be honest a lot will get remakes in this remake era.
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Nothing is gonna convince me more to play this football game than an american promoting it 😅
Bruh how is this 18h ago and the vid 17h ago??
Dirge of Cerberus Final Fantasy 7 is like next gen Devil May Cry.
After all these years, I still find myself coming back to the PS2 every so often. It is to me the greatest console of all time. So many good games and memories.
Biggest library of good games imo. No console generation before or afterward beats it.
Not only that but it was a big leap for gaming during the 6th generation of consoles. Incredible games were all being pumped out by passionate developers who actually cared and took a focus on making something special. I'm glad I grew up with the PS2. ❤
Just mod a ps3 and look into getting the titles you want
The PS2 is one of the greatest consoles of all time, but it’s up for debate whether it is the greatest console of all time.
@@JelloFluoridenot even PS5 game collection can beat the PS2.
that ps2 start up screen has possibly the most nostalgic audio i've ever heard
Its a close 2nd to the PS1 but not too shabby
Almost as good as hearing the 56K modem sound 😎
@@mpthorvonericksen get off the computer, I'm on the phone!
@@JBird401 Your current download time is: 6 months, 3 weeks, 5 days, 22 hours, 45 minutes, and 22 seconds .... 5 minutes later ... Your current download time is: 6 months, 3 weeks, 5 days, 22 hours, 45 minutes, and 22 seconds
It's definitely the best menu start up for sure. The pure ambience of hearing a loud abstract wind sound during the select screen. Just pure darkness and the lights flowing, it's like the machine waiting for a new simulation (in this case the games). I love the PS2 so much man. ❤
PS2 was a wild experience for me.
Back then, PS2 rentals were a thing at my place. I never owned a PS2 but I played many great games.
Gundam
Naruto
WWE Raw vs Smackdown
Transformers 2007 The Game
Tekken 5
Good times.
Gran Turismo 3 and 4, F1 05 and 06 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2 PS2 as well.
People will dismiss it because it's a movie tie-in, but Barnyard for the PS2 is a GREAT time, Open-world style game with a pretty funny story and some side content that could rival the amount you find in the Yakuza series!
The old movie games actually use to have some sauce to them, I really like the Finding Nemo game for PS2 too
Im not the only with love for the barnyard game. I play through it once every year or two. It just felt like a GTA clone to me with the open world aspect and all the different mini games in it.
Omg I'm not the only one who remembers the barnyard game, I had lots of fun with it as a kid, I always liked using the money cheat and getting an upgraded barn in the beginning
@@ZBatt1im gonna get goofed on for saying this? But i love bad boys miami takedown. Its gotta be my favorite speedrun next to Sly cooper. Its so hilariously bad. Also Rayman 3 was criminally underrated.
They dismissed the piglet movie game for 2 decades and look what happened. A childrens game is still a good game even a tie in game can be good, people need to be more open minded.
Shoutout to Ratchet: Deadlocked from the thumbnail! I'll never forget how that was the first video game I ever bought on launch date. 15 years old, October 2005. What a time.
I replaced my PS2 Slim that had the dreaded laser issue and I've been slowly collecting for it since. Great system. Thanks for repping PS2, Matty!
It is worth it i like how PS2 is entirely offline you can get a game & know you’re not missing anything its the same experience as it was back in the day
Simpsons hit and run the game is so much fun i got it on my ps2 it's is the reason I got the ps2 in 2024 great video
Wow what a crazy coincidence man ! I just went and bought the fat ps2 today and got a free 15 $ game and it was Simpsons hit and run
This year i played MGS2, FFX, FFXII, and God of War for the first time. I had a PS2 slim growing up but these titles were a little mature for a 6 year old lol.
PS2 has been my main console since September and I've been loving every minute of it! Got my first PS2 Slim in December 2004 for Christmas right after they launched in November. I still have that slim to this day.
I just recently picked up a CECHA01 Backwards Compatible PS3 and it does an amazing job of making PS2 games look great on HD 720 or 1080 displays.
I'd have to disagree about the slim, while it is my original and dearly beloved PS2, the later model original PS2's such as 39001 and 50001 are really great and suffer less issues. The slims suffer from loose ribbon cables that scratch discs and this was fixed in the 79001 model which was also the lightest slim, but reverted in the last model 90001 which had the internal power supply. Many slims suffer from the power supply solder joints breaking and they also suffer from the common issue where the lid sensors go bad and discs won't spin as a result of not recognizing that the tray is closed. All of these issues are very fixable, but you just need to keep in mind that for original thick PS2's the only real issues are bad lasers in the launch 30001 model and slow disc trays that get stuck over time, but that's also easily addressed by servicing the drive.
The thick PS2's are also more mod friendly than slims for those interested in modding.
Urban Reign is so good. I wish they would have continued that arena brawler series. That and champions of Norrath were huge for me and my buddies. There’s rarely any games now days where you can play 4 player couch co-op so these titles are such great examples of social gaming at its best!
Dirge is my jam, running around Nibblheim in full 3D pre FF7R absolutely gave me the feels. 👍🏿👍🏿
Recently I got a slim PS2 but it had some kind of issue where it was causing circular scratches on my discs. I had to get a fat PS2 which apparently don't get this issue. I managed to get a fat PS2 cheap on ebay in amazing condition, barely any scratches on the console it was just filthy but cleaned up amazing.
Slim ps2 is good for connecting to an smb server to play games. It's the ideal solution.
@Vanity0666 get a network drive for the fat and you go to good, get a sata converter kit for it as well and you can put SSDs inside it too
It's more than likely just the ribbon cable that connects to the laser. The adhesive lets go on the metal below so it rubs on the discs, can be reattached with tape or glue
There is only one slim model which completely resolve the ribbon scratching discs issue, that is 79001, buy one, you will good to go.
For the Phat model I recommend getting the SCPH - 50001 version that's the one I have for a long time plus I believe that's the later version of the Phat model. I recommend getting the PS2 Slim but be aware of the laser cable adhesive it's very common for it to wear off & the cable will start scratching your discs
I have myself a SCPH - 39001 model because of better laser, this thing can read even very badly scratched DVDs/CDs.
I came here to say this after he said the slim was the model to get.
Cool little gems in here to add to my list I never knew about. Urban Reign especially. Looks like The Bouncer with its brawling style level based system
That startup sound hit me right in my feels man
PCXS2, because it's so good now. I don't even use my PS2 anymore because it's that good.
Same. I still have my PS2 and a shitload of games for it, but I play them exclusively on PCSX2 these days. The visual boost and achievements and all that are too good to go back.
It's not my go-to yet because I haven't figured out how to solve all the issues with Klonoa 2 yet. But, I used it to FINALLY get to play Ape Escape 2001 with an english translation patch. I loved it.
I love PCSX2 and have been using it for years, but still find myself mainly playing on original hardware because for me it just provides a better "OEM" experience.
@@caseycardenas1668analog buttons are actually a huge deal for ps2 that are typically not able to be emulated which is a massive loss in quality for a large part of the library
@@caseycardenas1668 why not just get a controller adapter for PC and not risk in the discs being scratched by the ps2?
Id like to raise you Steam Boat Chronicles, really fun game for the PS2. No remakes or remasters either.
It's to bad Sony couldn't re-release these older consoles they'd make so much money off re-release ps1 and ps2
They can just re-release the launch PS3 which was fully backwards compatible... but this time without the defective GPU and without region locks for PS1 and PS2 games.
I'd buy it yesterday.
ONI!!!
Okay, dude. My dude. I LOVED that game. Played it on PC, and it is incredible. Was very, very revolutionary when it came out. I so wish this made a "comeback". Just an awesome game to play. Combat was so, so good, specifically for its time. Thanks for mentioning it.
I've had my original PS2 slim for years but recently started adding to my retro collection again and just picked up a boxed classic PS2. Packing and console look great to this day!
Man Xenosaga trilogy and Valkyrie Profile 2 are my favorite games on PS2. Thank you for recommending them! I hope more people get to play them especially Xenosaga if you like the Xenoblade series.
The opening jingle is so nostalgic. It's one of the first consoles I remember playing with as a kid.
Just got my HDMI upconverter for my PS2. Going for the full Marvel collection on PS2. 26 games in the collection; and I'm 11 in. Looking forward to 2025 and completing.
Which one did you get?
@@dapperfan44yes, let us know
Other ps2 recommendations: Onimusha 1-3 and Dawn of Dreams, Bujingai: The Forsaken City, Summoner, The Matrix: Path of Neo, the Lord of the Rings movie games, Shinobi, Shadow Hearts, Rumble Roses, Dynasty Warriors 4 w/ Xtreme Legends, and Way of the Samurai
I'll tell you what is worth it. Watching Matty's videos. Amirite boys?!
A few games I think you would like:
Legend of Legaia 2
RAD - Robot Alchemic Drive
Shadow Hearts Original, Covenant, From the New World
Sakura Wars - So Long My Love
Bujingai: The Forsaken City, Samurai Western, and Genji: Dawn of the Samurai are three oddly charming PS2 games that I enjoyed.
The PS2/OXBOX was truly where original game designs and ideas shined throughout the gaming world for these two consoles. You had Maximo, Crimson Sea, Crimson Skies, Red Ninja, Gun Valkyrie, Tak, Gun and so many others. Sadly nowadays gamers usually get the cookie cutter online FPS/TPS games with the standard arenas and basic mechanics.
I never had a PS2 growing up, I went from n64 to Xbox (taking a chance on something very new back then). Always had fun going over to friends houses and playing the games on the sony console. I'm debating purchasing a refurbished PS2 for my kids and getting some of the classic platformers and exclusives I missed.
8:23 ff10 had the best story I’ve seen in any video game
I've had a PS2 since 2001 and currently own a original "fat" (SCPH-39001) model and a slim (SCPH-79001) model and both are functioning perfectly.
The PS2 will always be my favorite gaming system to game on because I love its library more than every other gaming system in existence.
Great video man 👍
Matty, I picked up a PS2 in Mint Condition for 90 bucks! Been playing through Lord of the Rings: The Third Age for the first time ever with my roommate who's a huge Middle-Earth fan! I'm going to go through the og God of War games on it soon, and I'll be taking my roommate through the campaign of the og Battlefront II!
2:33 you have to mod it if you get a slim, overtime the ribbon cable adhesive loosens the cable scratches disc massive issues by there’s a mod that fixes it with a cover piece, recently got my mint ctr collectors edition scratched also the lasers last less then many other systems ps2 just didn’t hold up so if you get one especially the slim you’ll probably need a mod a new laser and maybe a new drive since there is a magnet that holds the center up and it’ll lower and cause disc damage
So many great JRPG’s for the PS2. DQ 8 and Xenosaga as you mentioned, but also Dark Cloud, Shadow Hearts, Shin Megami Tensei Digital Devil Saga 1 and 2, Rogue Galaxy, and so many more.
Matty I just learned about Urban Reign a few months ago. It’s like Def Jam FFNY on steroids 🔥🔥
perfect timing just started recollecting for the ps2 what are some of the best first person shooters that anyone can recommend and thank you .
Good on you for recommending Oni, it's a wonderful game. But I can tell you've never seen anything related to the Ghost in the Shell franchise because you don't mention it once during that entire segment despite it being the main source of inspiration for the game haha
When my friends come over, we always bust out the ps2 and play some 007 nightfire on skyrail 🙏 good times.
I had the same problem of not beating Command Mission from Christmas of '04 all the way up until last year. I wish Capcom did more with the RPG formula and Megaman.
Cool video, great recommendations. I've been a PS2 collector since it's release. I recently picked up a HDD for my PS2 with all the games I never had a chance to play. So many good games on that system. For those who can't afford to buy games, this new way of playing games on PS2 without the disc is amazing. I was sceptical about it for years but after trying it I really like the convenience and the amount of money this will save is incredible. I just want more people to have access to these games and I think the HDD method gives that. Even if you are already a big collector, this method of playing games is good for preservation of your games. Built one yourself or buy one plug and play, either way imo it's a must have for anyone interested in PS2.
Nice guide my guy. I’d argue the Jak trilogy PS2 port is the best way to play it due to the directional grid made specifically for the DualShock 2 that’s locked on the later ports.
I do believe Jak 1s revised PS5 port might have addressed this. To each their own
It’s been my hope for years to get the shadow hearts trilogy on modern consoles. Amazing games that just are forgotten about now
The ps2 is currently the greatest console of all time. It has a huge library of games that covers all genres. Not to mention, it plays the whole ps1 library through backward compatibility, and it was a dvd player.
PS2 is the console I grew up with and have the most memories with and I still love it and it's catalog to to this day. However, after COVID hit and the retro gaming market on the rise the games aren't as cheap as they used to be and that could turn many people away from the console with some games costing well over $100. I personally recommend playing via emulation or grabbing a PS2 fat and slapping a hard drive in it with your favorite games. I had a huge collection for the PS2 and sold it about a year ago and I don't plan on starting over since the games i had were high value but i was able to get for cheap.
PS2 still is my alltime favourite console along with PS3 and 1. The games also are masterpiece.
5:09 way to start off with a banger!
Cultured Vultures also loves Urban Reign, he always has it on ps2 lists
Love the video Matty. One thing to note about the PS2 Slim. They do have a higher chance of over heating.. So if someone can get a FAT over the SLIM then I highly suggest you take that deal.
Man would love for a Budokai collection to modern platforms. Also Dirge of Cerberus needs to be brought forward.
Never had a PS2 but have been playing through some games with my Retroid Pocket 5. Great library
That thumbnail is the easiest question of all time to answer
yes.
I think I still prefer Valkyrie Profile 1 at the end of the day, it seemed way more intriguing and beautiful to the eye just more interesting over all.
Ps2 is an all time classic. Earlier this year mine bit the dust and I immediately ordered a new one! 😂 I gotta have one setup in the game room at all times. Such an amazing library! 🔥
The price spike is ridiculous. Ps2’s were like $50 and 155/160 million were sold, why are they triple the price now?
That boot up sound of bliss, hopes, dreams and more!! ❤ PS2!!!❤🎉
I also bought a PS2 slim this year and retired my old phat PS2 I bought in 2002. Glad you named Dragon Quest VIII. Such a gem of a game. It released on 3DS, but I prefer the PS2 version. Others I'd highly recommend are;
Hulk: Ultimate Destruction: One of the best super hero games of all time IMO.
Spartan: Total Warrior: Just a fun hack n slash. Not much else.
SOCOM U.S. Navy Seals: Great stealth 3PS. Ridiculous these don't have remasters.
Black: Just a ridiculously fun FPS. Can be played on current Xbox too.
Medal of Honor: Frontline: One of the best WWII games ever made. Would be amazing if this got a full blown remake.
King Kong: Best movie tie in game ever? Probably could say that.
Splinter Cell games: How these aren't on modern consoles is absurd. They did a port for PS3, but again... that's PS3.
Ghost Recon/Jungle Strike: They probably look and feel outdated, but man they're just fun IMO.
I didn’t even see this and I just bought an OG PS2 for $80 with everything included at my local game/book/dvd store. I even got a near mint copy of Sonic Heroes for $15
There always something to🎮discover...🤘🏼💯✔️
Never heard anyone talk about Dirge of Cerberus i thought i was the only one who played it. Would recommend both Zone of the Enders games on ps2
I do need to re buy a PS2 sometime. I’m into retro gaming. Especially after I lost my PSP.
Talk about perfect timing. I just got done playing Tenkaichi 1 trying to beat the story right now!
I still have my original phat PS2 and it still works perfectly fine, by far it's my favorite console of all time.
Just a correction: The original Valkyrie Profile is a PS1 game. It just got an enhanced port to the PSP, which then got ported to everything else.
No Rogue Galaxy recommendation? It was an awesome JRPG about space pirates.
You cannot expect he mention every good PS2 game, there are too many. So please don't be subjective.
@Death-to-casuals he asked for recommendations in the video
I've heard Rogue Galaxy is a great game, but it's pretty easily accessed on PS4/PS5. Matty's highlighting games that don't have a digital copy available (at the moment) and deserve more attention.
The Xenosaga series is fantastic. Highly recommend (though some of the gameplay in the first two games is a little dated).
Of the PS2 games I've played (that aren't mentioned in the video), try the Shadow Hearts trilogy, Digital Devil Saga (1 and 2), Killer7 (this one has a PC port too), Drakengard 1 (haven't played the second), Fatal Frame 1-3, and Shadow of Memories/Destiny.
PS2 games are still worth going back to, but are so hard to find and collect physically. It would be great if studios gave more attention to making the PS2 and PS1 catalogue more accessible rather than trying to remaster or remake PS4-era games.
Love me some jesus bible games
Xenogears is the first correct ?
@@tcsutton9121 They are separate universes/stories with linked themes and elements, I believe, but Xenogears did come out first and is a good starting place. It has a really good story and some interesting concepts, but is more plot driven, while Xenosaga (I feel) is much more character driven. I prefer the Xenosaga trilogy, but I know a lot of people much prefer Xenogears. They're all great games though, and absolutely worth playing (though they're a little dated gameplay-wise though, so go in with that in mind).
I went back and played Shadow The Hedgehog on my slim PS2
it baffles me they dont remake it for PS4 and PS5
given shadow generations just came out I thought thats what the game anouncement was until I saw the "generations" part
Personally the medal of honor European assault, just cause 1 and Mersanarys are some of my favourite PS2 games
The GOAT is back! Happy Holidays!!! PS2 is amazing...
I just ordered myself a ps2 a few days ago im exited
I've kept my PS2 all these years just for my copy of Tales of the Abyss and Yugioh Duelist of the Roses.
If emulation was not basically perfect on most ps2 games I might agree with you but pcsx2 can be played well on pcs handheld pcs the series x or s and tons of ways to do it so no owning one is not worth it
Yes, on the Steam Deck is Fantastic
I still play mine everyday. Recently got the transformers 2004 game playing through that. Good fun!
I’ve had 2 ps2 slims and both had issues with the door being recognized as closed. Had to buy a fat model because I got so tired of games randomly stopping because the door was funky. What’s funny is the fat model I have also is funky, it will save games totally fine and the memory cards work, but they won’t show up in the menu to look at and manage them…nobody knows why
Champions of Norrath / Champions Return to Arms are solid ps2 games
Hard to think of my favourite PS2 games that didn't have better versions on Xbox or remasters. Liked Vice City Stories, Soul Calibur 2 and 3, Syphon Filter Dark Mirror, GT4, Silent Hill 2, Splashdown 2 and Tekken 5
One game series I’m sad u didn’t include was the viewtiful Joe series 1 and 2 they are a really surprisingly slept on series it’s funny and entertaining game series
Here Comes the Pain is still in my rotation to this day
It's funny that this pops up now Matty, i was thinking of looking for the original PAL versions of Yakuza 1 and 2 on the PS2, even though i bet they are pricey these days, i recently picked up the Japan exclusive Ryu Ga Gotoku HD Collection on PS3 so i want the original games to complete my Yakuza collection :)
I played Oni when I was maybe 8 years old, I gotta say I must have been really bad at video games as a kid! I could not get past some kind of laser level and absolutely hated it! Now it's super expensive, at least here in Australia, so might still be awhile before I dive back in. All that to say, solid recommendation 😅
I've been wanting one of these lately. It's been nice getting into retro gaming on real hardware. But man these are getting pricey on eBay. I think I'll have to stick to emulation til I find a good deal.
Naruto ultimate ninja 1,2,3,4,5 remastered on PS4/5 would be so cool, all on one blue-ray ❤ Dreaming is still free right now, so I will keep on dreaming a little more 😂
I’ve seen and have all from 1980-Now I have every console and tons of games the PS2 is a God Tier Console
The memory of playing DQ VIII was magical
Buying a ps2 is worth it for analog button inputs alone.
Currently playing through DQ8 myself right now via MX4SIO and it's a slow ride but I'm loving it.
My top picks for PS2 games (and the ones I prefer on PS2 over other consoles as well), some pricey but these are my favorites:
-Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly (I know Xbox version is superior, but the PS2 controller makes more sense IMO and feels better to play with)
-Haunting Ground (super pricey, but IMO, if you're going to spend on one grail of the system, and you like horror, this is the one to get. Forget Rule of Rose and Kuon, if you have the money to splurge, it's an amazing game, unlike most of the high end stuff on the system)
-Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (the 360 HD version was buggy for me, could punch cops and wouldn't gain wanted levels, instead they got up and ran away or acted like normal pedestrians. Don't know if any other HD releases are as buggy, not willing to buy another HD version, I'll stick with the original)
-Trapt (the last Deception game before they went silly anime, and imo, the dark look works MUCH better for these games, 4 was too bright and anime-like, didn't care for it as much. I like anime and anime games, but Deception is a VERY dark series, and it went to a silly tone in 4 that I just didn't love like I do these older games. You play as the embodiment of evil, the devil's hand of destruction essentially. Going all silly and cute just doesn't work for it)
-Medal of Honor: Rising Sun (GameCube is 2 disc, I prefer less discs)
-Obscure: The Aftermath (never played the 1st, and nowadays it's about $300, so probably not going to be able to unless I luck out like I did on Haunting Ground)
-Dead to Rights II (I love the 1st, but usually I'm a GameCube fan, and the first I prefer on GameCube, but the 2nd wasn't on GameCube, so it's worth mentioning)
-Stretch Panic (It looks a lot like Klonoa, but mixed with horror. Maybe that's why I love this game as much as I do)
-BloodRayne (I know GameCube has it, but never played the GameCube version, I have the PS2 version)
-Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 3 (you can clash Lightning Blade and Rasengan, and it's the most epic thing to see ever in a Naruto fighting game. The adventure mode is amazing too)
-Soul Calibur III (2 might get the most recognition, but 3 was special. It had Chronicles of the Sword, which was Tactics meets Fighting genre, as well as added character creation. IMO, next to 5, this is the best Soul Calibur game)
PS1 picks:
-Bugs Bunny: Lost in Time (holds up super well, a true hidden gem)
-Jersey Devil (people say it's mediocre, but this game has HEART. I love the atmosphere, and all its quirkiness)
-Area 51 (arcade-style shooter, super addicting, especially on couch co-op)
-Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko (say what you will about Gex, but the 3rd game is awesome. I also like Enter the Gecko quite a bit, but 3 is where Gex really hit home)
-Toy Story 2 (heralded as one of the best platformers on the system, and for good reason)
I honestly prefer the original ps2 because the slim ps2 overheats after an hour or 2 though I did enjoy your showcase. Though I was sad you didn’t mention the “Def Jam” games in PS2 when you were mentioning Fighting/Brawler games. I enjoyed watching an LP of the first “Def Jam” game and have almost beaten “Def Jam: Fight for New York” I wish you mentioned them as well as the “Dynasty Warriors” games since 2 up to 5 XL are still only Exclusive to the PS2. Other ones you didn’t mention that still today are only on PS2 were “Mortal Kombat: Deception”, “Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance”, “Mortal Kombat: Armageddon”, and “Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks”
Personally, you're better off emulating it. Just the nostalgia alone can't sell me, it's the experiences.. and today, playing these on my phone during a long car ride or at night playing those RPGs like bedtime stories in a nice resolution is all I need.
Speak for yourself. Rocking PS2 fat with original network adapter, IDE hard drive, rgb scart cable and crt television. So good.
Worth it, it may be but finding a console that will last not knowing it's care history is the concern.
I still have those first 2 Naruto games but without the original cases 😭😭💔
This video is making me want to dig out and make sure my PS2 is still working 😂 I got the fat PS2, just gotta make sure I got the cables still. I know I need a new controller....I gotta play Legend of Legaia 2!
There is one nit pick with the Slim PS2, Beyond Good & Evil's sound is buggy as hell on it. Apart from that I've not had a problem with mine, I've heard the Slims can scratch discs but so far so good with mine, although I use OPL via network share to load all but a few of my games these days.
Its an ok purchase for disc based games, considering a hack will get you almost every game you ever wanted for a $100 or so. The library of games is fantastic it must be said, but lets be honest a lot will get remakes in this remake era.
Remake era will soon be over
Best console ever. No questions!
Haunting Ground is an underrated PS2 game.
02:20 in my experience the slim model is much more prone to breaking than the fat
I loved playing Pacman World Rally on the PS2
ps2 with freemcboot and hdd is a must have you can play everything