The Top PlayStation 2 JRPGs

The PlayStation 2 was an incredibly important console for the growth and development of the video game industry. Released in the year 2000 worldwide, Sony‘s latest gaming system contributed to a massive surge in the amount of video game players all around the world, thanks to the countless phenomenal titles it had to offer. Among these awesome games, JRPGs (Japanese role-playing games) gained enormous popularity, to such an extent that many titles of the genre became PS2 best-sellers.

Which JRPGs am I talking about? Well, if you’re interested in finding out, just go ahead and enjoy this article about the top 7 JRPGs for PlayStation 2!

1) Final Fantasy X

Final Fantasy X is without a doubt the most beloved and popular JRPG for PS2. Released in 2001, the game is fifth on the list of the best selling PS2 games.

A beautiful story, excellent gameplay, realistic and sympathetic characters, refined visuals and top-notch music make FFX a truly marvelous interactive experience, capable of capturing the heart of anyone who’s fortunate enough to play it.

2) Kingdom Hearts I and Kingdom Hearts II

The first and the third game of the Kingdom Hearts saga (the second one being Chain of Memories) are next on the list for being considered the best JRPGs for PS2 by many.

The unexpected successful mix between wacky adventures across various Disney worlds and genuinely heart-warming moments is the distinctive aspect of this unusual crossover game. The appealing visual presentation, fun gameplay, enjoyable battle mechanics and the masterful soundtrack succeeded in suppressing any hint of skepticism about the Kingdom Hearts games: today, KHI and KHII are even regarded as masterpieces by some.

3) Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Another good chunk of role-playing game enthusiasts will say that Dragon Quest VIII is probably the greatest PS2 JRPG.

While the story is not as captivating as other DQ titles, this eighth chapter has a lot to offer in other aspects. It has the most memorable cast of characters in the whole franchise, and it also introduces some changes in gameplay, mainly the skill point system, the alchemy pot and the fully animated battles. The huge explorable map was also pretty impressive at the time of release.

4) Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht

Xenosaga I is the first episode of the Xenosaga trilogy for PS2. This gem of a science fiction-themed game scores high in every possible aspect. The top tier writing still holds up today, the music is phenomenal, while the gameplay and battle mechanics are considered the best of the whole series.

5) Shadow Hearts: Covenant

The second installment of the Shadow Hearts series, Shadow Hearts: Covenant, is another beloved JRPG that many players don’t hesitate to call a masterpiece.

The story is quite unique and cleverly written, elevated by a cast of interesting characters full of personality. The turn-based combat is quick paced and requires some strategy, and it has a few quirks, such as the sanity and the Judgement Ring systems.

6) Persona 4

Persona 4, developed by Atlus, is the fourth entry in the Shin Megami Tensei spin-off series Persona. This title distances itself from its predecessors due to its relatively lighthearted nature, and for many this change in tone helped in building a deeper connection with the characters and the game itself.

The gameplay and overall style are typical of the Persona saga (it especially resembles Persona 3), meaning fun and excellent, with lots of things to do and lots of characters to interact with. But the main strength of Persona 4 is the genuine bonds we can create with its charismatic and multifaceted cast, each character having their own insecurities and goals.

7) Suikoden III

Suikoden III has a slightly different look and feel compared to the other games of the series, and maybe this plays a part in it being considered one of the best Suikoden, if not the absolute best.

You get to play the story from three different points of view, making your playthrough more interesting and dynamic. Fans of the game also praise it for the solid character development and the super rewarding skill development system.