A little blue that the older gaming gems are no longer receiving the attention they deserve? From Crazy Taxi to Crazy Town we have truly gone crazy. Grab your emulators and coffee for those late-night sessions as you join Jimmy on a journey through the PS2 era looking at hidden gems that are so rare they may as well be a trip down the underground. Let’s kick things off with Capcom’s quirky masterpiece.
Under the Skin: Capcom’s Practical Joke
Capcom, highly regarded for its innovative games, reached a strange height with Under the Skin, which in itself feels like a strange gimmick. You will play as Cosmi. This is a shape-shifting alien who creates mischief on Earth with a variety of traps and gadgets. We must avoid getting captured by humans. It’s totally like Destroy All Humans hits the hitman, and it’s going to be fun. Indeed, the game can be a bit messy and a visual mess. Nevertheless, it is a classic PS2 game with lots of charm.
Rediscovering Ring of Red: Tactical Depth in Alternate History
Although “Ring of Red” landed commendable reviews upon release, it flew under the radar for most. In this world where history diverged after the Second World War, Japan is split into two states, the north and south, after an invasion failure. Bringing tactical games to a new narrative frontier, players engage in turn-based strategy with mechs amidst weather and time cycles that dynamically influence combat events. Although it seems messy and chaotic, this game is easy to play and worth returning to.
Running Wild with Run Like Hell
An exciting action horror experiment is run like hell. It is an action-packed movie full of alien fighting scenes in a besieged spacecraft. Even though many think it isn’t polished or as consistent in the show, trek to Hollywood offers unique nostalgic gameplay. Celebrities add tongue-in-cheek humour. It’s an unpolished diamond trapped in a spaceship of games and other odds.
Rygar: A Legendary Adventure Awaiting Rediscovery
The player takes on the role of a mythic warrior who must go on an adventure, Rygar: The Legendary Adventure. This game features exciting character action and is a prototype for “God of War.” Furthermore, it is grand and features awesome battles. Although time may have dulled some of its sharper edges, the combative appeal and sheer ambition of this title continue to tempt gamers for legendary quests.
Atoning with Suikoden: Past Life Perspectives
In a world of ever more ambitious RPGs trying to outdo Final Fantasy X, Suikoden: Atonement features a different kind of story – helping others to atone for one’s sins. The mid-tier players of the game are a spirit who must serve a fishing village. With its strategic combat and soulful questline, the game explores the depths of culture and features captivating music by Yasunori Mitsuda. Those who are willing to go beyond the classic RPG model will cherish its evergreen charm.
Soul Nomad and the World Eaters: Strategy with a Sinister Twist
From NIS, the creators of Disgaea, Soul Nomad and the World Eaters is a Strategy RPG that’ll force you to make dark choices. Gamers go on an adventure with having a complicated storyline while controlling a character tempted to evil. Its devious charm and clever gameplay must demand attention if you love getting acquainted with shadows of stories.
Evil Dead Regeneration: Horror with a Dash of Humour
Evil Dead Regeneration is full of dark humour associated with Evil Dead. Set after the second installment, it diverges into a new plotline centered around Asylum antics and deadite cults. Although slightly rough around the edges, its spirited, comedic storyline and enjoyable gameplay will trigger nostalgia for PS2 players. Bruce Campbell’s charm is a big bonus!
Shinobido: A Ninja’s Stealthy Revenge
If you want your ninja experience to be stealthy to the point where you can hide in the shadows, like in the Tenchu series, Shinobido is the game for you. Players become entangled in various alliances and battles, thanks to the game’s open-ended gameplay and mission choices. A true test of stealth for fans, this game has you planning complex mechanics that will make you feel like a real ninja.
Headhunter Redemption: A Sequel Worth Salvaging
The futuristic detective story continues through gameplay and narrative in Headhunter Redemption. Although it is mostly forgotten by the gaming community, it remains a throwback to a golden age and offers a rare insight into the PS2’s World-building presentation. Finding a copy might feel like digging up a piece of gaming history.
This selection of hidden PS2 gems shows the ambitions and aims of creators during that era as it is quite varied. Even though there are more famous video game titles, the classics offer a chance to return to a time of gaming freedom.