Even today, the PlayStation 2 remains one of the most influential gaming consoles ever to grace the market. Its gigantic library of games brought players a plethora of unforgettable characters, huge worlds, exciting missions and stories that still feel great today. Open world games were a big part of the console’s success because they allowed players to explore, do side stuff and go about missions in different ways.
Many years after its release, many open world games for PlayStation 2 are still attracting long time fans and new players. Their graphics might not be impressive to today’s games but their gameplay, atmosphere, music and memorable worlds still are .
GTA: San Andreas
Grand Theft Auto San Andreas is without a doubt one of the best PlayStation 2 games ever made. Players play as Carl Johnson aka CJ as he returns to Los Santos and becomes involved with family issues, gang strife, crime and corruption.
The game is set in three large cities, countryside, deserts, mountains and small towns. Players can drive cars, motorcycles, boats, aircraft, even bicycles. They can also customise CJ’s clothes, hairstyle, body shape and skills. San Andreas is a huge open world experience. Huge map, variety of missions and in depth side activities.
Grand Theft Auto Vice City (GTA VC)
Grand Theft Auto Vice City is a stylish crime adventure based on 1980s culture. In this colourful city of beaches, nightclubs, luxurious homes and dangerous rivals, players follow Tommy Vercetti as he builds a criminal empire.
The soundtrack, atmosphere and fun characters are what make Vice City different. Players feel a sense of progression when they buy properties and do business missions. Its smaller map is a joy to explore from start to finish, feeling jam-packed and full of character.
SOTC (Shadow of the Colossus)
Shadow of the Colossus is an open world of mystery, a silent, emotional ride. The player takes on the role of a young warrior named Wander who travels across a vast forbidden land to defeat sixteen giant creatures called Colossi.
There are no busy cities or normal side quests in the world. Instead the focus is on exploration, atmosphere and memorable battles. The Colossus is a puzzle game on the move and the player has to observe the behaviour of the Colossus and learn how to reach its weak points.
The Simpsons Hit And Run
The Simpsons Hit and Run mixes the open world driving with the humour of the hit television show. Players take on the roles of Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge and Apu as they explore different areas of Springfield.
There are vehicle missions, collectibles, hidden areas and callbacks to iconic moments from the show. It is easy to pick up and play, and the story is good fun for younger gamers and die hard Simpsons fans.
Scarface: The World Is Yours
Scarface The World Is Yours lets you build up your criminal empire on a big version of Miami. The game continues Tony Montana’s story with action missions, business management, property upgrades and intense gunfights.
Players can purchase businesses, make money, gain reputation and take over different parts of the city. Its mature story and empire-building gameplay set it apart from other open world games on the PlayStation 2.
True Crime: Streets of L.A.
In True Crime Streets of LA, players take on the role of police officer Nick Kang. The game is set in a huge recreation of Los Angeles and several neighbourhoods, streets and landmarks.
Players can explore the city, investigate crimes, fight criminals and make choices that affect the story. The combination of shooting, hand to hand and driving adds to the variety of gameplay. Its branching story line also gives players a reason to play the game again.
