For many gamers, the PlayStation 2 marked the golden age of gaming, where creativity and fun took precedence over modern practices like day-one patches and microtransactions. Luckily, today’s gaming landscape offers a treasure trove of modern titles that recapture the magic of the PS2 era. Whether you miss the fast-paced thrills, quirky humor, or atmospheric adventures of that time, these games have you covered.
1. Tricky Madness
Plays like: SSX Series
Solo developer Nathan Dearth delivers a nostalgic tribute to SSX with Tricky Madness. While still in Early Access, this game captures the crazy tricks, speed, and “freaky bar” mechanics of the original. It’s rough around the edges, but the gameplay’s heart is unmistakable. Available on Steam, this one’s worth a ride for fans of arcade-style snowboarding.
2. Slitterhead
Plays like: Siren, Onimusha
From the creator of Silent Hill, Slitterhead takes players into a haunting world filled with shapeshifting horrors. The game’s mix of body-hopping mechanics, eerie storytelling, and Grasshopper-style visuals offers a unique blend of PS2-inspired horror and action. Available on PC and consoles, this is a must-play for fans of offbeat horror.
3. Praey for the Gods
Plays like: Shadow of the Colossus
This spiritual successor to Shadow of the Colossus offers giant boss battles set in a frozen world. Created by a small team, Praey for the Gods blends exploration, crafting, and thrilling encounters into a memorable package. It’s available on PC and all major consoles.
4. Evil West
Plays like: Darkwatch, Van Helsing
With its mix of linear design and wild west vampire-hunting action, Evil West feels like a lost PS2 classic. Featuring over-the-top combat and a straightforward storyline, this game offers mindless fun in the best way. Available on PC and consoles, it’s perfect for fans of Darkwatch.
5. Hollowbody
Plays like: Silent Hill 2, Code Veronica
This solo-developed survival horror game blends Silent Hill vibes with tech-noir storytelling. Featuring an atmospheric British coastal town, Hollowbody nails its creepy setting and sound design. Available on PC, it’s a love letter to old-school survival horror.
6. Pumpkin Jack
Plays like: Medievil, Maximo
This Burton-inspired platformer combines humor, spooky atmosphere, and vibrant levels for a fun, nostalgic experience. Available on PC and consoles, Pumpkin Jack is the perfect weekend game for fans of classic 3D platformers.
7. Hi-Fi Rush
Plays like: Jet Set Radio, Viewtiful Joe
A rhythmic action game with vibrant visuals, Hi-Fi Rush combines tight combat with a killer soundtrack. It’s the kind of game that feels like it came straight from the PS2’s golden age. Available on Xbox Game Pass and PC.
8. Bomb Rush Cyberfunk
Plays like: Jet Set Radio
This spiritual successor to Jet Set Radio brings back the graffiti-filled skating action with a modern twist. The colorful world and addictive gameplay are a perfect homage to the PS2 classic. Available on PC and consoles, this is a must-play for fans of stylish action.
9. A Hat in Time
Plays like: Jak and Daxter, Ratchet & Clank
This whimsical 3D platformer is packed with charm, creativity, and tight platforming mechanics. A Hat in Time captures the spirit of PS2-era collect-a-thons, offering an experience both nostalgic and fresh. Available on all major platforms, it’s perfect for fans of classic platformers.
10. Sable
Plays like: Journey, ICO
With its breathtaking visuals and serene open-world exploration, Sable channels the atmospheric storytelling of games like ICO. Available on PC and consoles, it’s an unforgettable adventure that’s perfect for fans of quieter, introspective games.
Whether you’re into high-speed thrills, atmospheric horror, or quirky platformers, these modern games bring back the magic of the PS2 era while adding a contemporary flair. Check them out and relive the glory days of gaming!
If you enjoy co-op games and want something different from survival themes, check out the best co-op games that aren’t survival here.
