The PlayStation 2, also known as PS2, holds the impressive title of being the highest-selling video game console ever, with a staggering 150 million units sold. This console was a game-changer, as it not only offered a gaming experience but also included a built-in DVD player and internet connectivity. Released in 2000, the PS2 was ahead of its time with its innovative features.
With a game collection that is approximately half the size of the PS1, the PS2 remains notable for its extensive library of over 3,800 titles. This console was home to some of the most exceptional platform games ever created.
Certain games were so popular that it felt like everyone owned them. Even if you were to complete one game per day, it would still take you more than ten years to conquer them all. Since it is impossible to play every game, why not explore the details of the first ten releases instead?
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PlayStation 2 First Games Released
1. A-Train 6 – March 4th, 2000
As part of the PlayStation 2’s initial game lineup, A-train 6 was released, following in the footsteps of its predecessor, A-Train 4, which debuted on the PlayStation 1. A-Train 6 maintained the same fundamental gameplay as its predecessors, with a primary focus on simulating trains and managing cities.
Taking full advantage of the PS2’s impressive capabilities, A-Train 6 boasted enhanced graphics and the option to experience the game in a fully immersive 3D perspective. This served as an excellent opportunity to showcase the impressive capabilities of the new console.
2. DrumMania – March 4th, 2000
DrumMania, an arcade game, was adapted for the PlayStation 2 (PS2) as one of its initial releases. This captivating rhythm game challenges players to synchronize their button presses with the symbols displayed on the screen.
It can be considered as an early drum-based alternative to the popular game Guitar Hero. While DrumMania is no longer being released for consoles, it continues to thrive in arcades, with the most recent installment being launched as recently as 2019. If this game sparks your interest, head out to arcades and embark on a quest to find and play DrumMania.
3. Eternal Ring – March 4th, 2000
FromSoftware maintained its partnership with Sony in 2000 by creating a new game for the PlayStation system. Eternal Ring marked the first RPG available for the console, offering players a first-person perspective as they navigate the Island of No Return alongside the protagonist, Cain Morgan, a young magician.
The game showcases FromSoftware’s signature gameplay mechanics, including unique and complex weapon systems, as well as bizarre and monstrous adversaries. Fortunately, for those interested in experiencing it, an emulated version of Eternal Ring was made available for the PS4 in 2017, eliminating the need to retrieve and play the original PS2 copy.
4. Kakinoki Shogi IV – March 4th, 2000
Shogi, also known as Japanese chess, is a board game played on a 9×9 board with 20 tiles that have various movement abilities. To cater to adult or traditional gamers, Kakinoki Shogi IV was released as one of the first games for the PlayStation 2.
This version of shogi is part of a long history of shogi adaptations into video games, with Kakinoki Shogi IV being the most recent release at that time.
5. Kessen – March 4th, 2000
Kessen is a real-time tactics game for the PlayStation 2 that incorporates cinematic visuals to enhance its storytelling. It is set in Japan and strives for historical accuracy.
This game was one of the first real-time tactics games to be released for the PS2 and it eventually spawned two sequels.
Critics particularly praised the game’s sound and cinematics, making it a must-play for those interested in the impact of cinema on the gaming industry.
6. FantaVision – March 9th, 2000
FantaVision is a puzzle game for the PlayStation 2 that involves real-time fireworks displays. It was originally intended to be a tech demo but ended up being released as a launch title for the console.
The game features a visually striking cityscape backdrop and vibrant fireworks explosions. Fortunately, there is now an emulated version of FantaVision available on the PlayStation 4. If you’re interested in this unique game, be sure to explore these other peculiar and captivating titles for the PS2.
7. I.Q. Remix+: Intelligent Qube – March 23rd, 2000
The initial release of the PlayStation 2 brought with it a selection of exciting games. One of these games, known as Kurushi in Europe, is a puzzle game that centers around cubes. The objective of the game is to clear approaching cubes before they reach the player.
In addition to normal cubes, there are also advantage cubes and forbidden cubes. It appears that this game drew inspiration from the sci-fi horror movie Cube (1997).
Like many puzzles and board games, I.Q. Remix+: Intelligent Qube becomes easier to comprehend once you witness it in action. Critics praised the game for its mental challenges, although they felt that the graphics were somewhat lackluster.
8. Dead Or Alive 2: Hardcore – March 30th, 2000
The first games released for the PlayStation 2 included a port of the popular arcade game, Dead or Alive 2.
This game, part of the ongoing Dead or Alive series, continues to be beloved by fans. The gameplay of this fighting game revolves around three types of moves: blows, throws, and holds, creating a strategic dynamic similar to rock paper scissors.
With its multi-tiered stages and hazards like falls and ice, many levels in the game offer an added challenge. Dead or Alive 2 is widely regarded as one of the top games in the series, making it a must-try for fighting game enthusiasts.
9. Driving Emotion Type-S – March 30th, 2000
Driving Emotion Type-S is a racing game for the PlayStation 2 that features cars with official licenses. However, the game received significant criticism for its subpar handling. As a result, when it was released in North America and Europe, adjustments were made to improve the handling.
Despite not being considered one of the top racing games for the PS2, Driving Emotion Type-S did effectively demonstrate the console’s impressive processing capabilities. It was particularly praised for its realistic interior designs and immersive driver’s perspective.
10. Eisei Meijin IV – April 13th, 2000
The PlayStation 2 saw the release of various games, including Eisei Meijin IV, which is a shogi video game. However, there is limited information available about this particular game online.
Even on YouTube, there are only videos showcasing different console versions or later installments of the series. It is not surprising that Eisei Meijin IV was not made available outside of Japan, as there is not much demand for shogi games in the western market.
Konami, the game developer, would later release a few more titles in the series, such as Eisei Meijin VI in 2002.
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