The Forgotten Gems: Uncovering 8 Overlooked PS2 RPGs

The PS2, which debuted on October 26, 2000, in North America, quickly became a huge success. This was due not only to its advanced graphics capabilities as a next-generation console but also because it included a DVD player. Considering that DVD players were quite expensive at the time, it was a fantastic deal to have a gaming console and a media player in one.

As with any console launch, it took some time for the best games, particularly in the RPG genre, to be released. However, during the early years of the PS2, there were already notable titles available, such as Final Fantasy 10. While the focus is on the years between 2000 and 2001, examples from up until 2002 will be considered. Do any of you recall these early PS2 games?

8 The Bouncer

The Bouncer, developed by Square Enix (then known as Squaresoft), was an RPG released in 2000 in Japan and later in 2001 in the West. This action-packed game allowed players to play as various characters, including the protagonists Sion, Kou, and Volt.

Sion, the main character, bears resemblance to a fusion of Squall from Final Fantasy 8 and Sora from Kingdom Hearts. The game's brief campaign duration drew criticism, as players were unsatisfied with paying the full retail price for a game that could be completed within a few hours.

7 Culdcept

Culdcept, the second game in the series, was initially released in Japan as Culdcept Second on the Dreamcast in 2001. It was later ported to the PS2 in Japan, but it didn't reach North America until 2003, missing the cut-off date for early games. Due to its unique and peculiar nature, the game warrants discussion, which is why its launch in Japan is being considered here.

This series combines various genres, including card games, board games, and RPGs. In this game, players navigate around a board, purchasing properties, and strategically deploying monsters to protect those areas. Think of it as a version of Monopoly with the addition of monsters.

6 Dynasty Tactics

Many games within the Dynasty Warriors franchise can be explored here. Known for its niche hack-and-slash genre, these games have developed a dedicated fan base. While Dynasty Warriors 2, the debut title in 2000, could be discussed, it's more intriguing to highlight Dynasty Tactics.

Released in 2002, Dynasty Tactics incorporates various elements from the main game, including characters. However, it differs from its action-oriented counterpart, as it offers a tactical RPG experience. This game received a sequel on the PS2, but unfortunately, that marked the end of its series.

5 Jade Cocoon 2

Jade Cocoon 2 was initially released in Japan in 2000, with a subsequent North American launch in 2001. Both this installment and its precursor on the PS1 are relatively lesser-known RPGs. However, there is one distinctive aspect that sets these games apart.

Katsuya Kondo, an artist associated with Studio Ghibli, was responsible for the development of the character models and overall artwork in this series. It is worth noting that this connection predates the Ni no Kuni series by several years, highlighting a shared artistic influence. Additionally, Jade Cocoon also incorporates a monster-catching element, albeit in a more traditional manner.

4 Okage: Shadow King

Okage: Shadow King is an RPG co-developed by Sony that follows the story of Ari, a young boy whose shadow is taken over by a powerful demon. Shadows play a significant role in both the narrative and combat mechanics, drawing comparisons to the Persona series albeit with a less extravagant presentation.

Visually, this 2001 game draws inspiration from gothic cartoons such as A Nightmare Before Christmas. While the concept was intriguing, the slow pace of the story, movement speed, and combat mechanics make it less enjoyable to revisit in the present day.

3 Orphen: Scion Of Sorcery

Orphen: Scion of Sorcery was one of the initial games released for the PS2 in North America. It was developed based on a popular series of Japanese light novels, which later expanded into other mediums like anime. Although the anime adaptation also made its way to North America, it was released a year after the game.

The game's battle system may seem unfamiliar as it combines turn-based and action elements. During battles, the characters remain stationary while a reticle appears, allowing players to cast spells at specific enemies, resembling a fixed version of the gameplay in Star Fox.

2 Ring Of Red

Ring of Red, developed by Konami in 2001, is a tactical RPG that garnered much anticipation despite being released a year after its debut in Japan. Although the gameplay grid of the map resembles other tactical RPGs like Final Fantasy Tactics, the combat in Ring of Red sets itself apart.

Unlike traditional turn-based gameplay, players have full control over their mechs in real-time, only pausing momentarily to aim their weapons at enemy targets. In this respect, Ring of Red shares similarities with the popular game Valkyria Chronicles. Furthermore, both games share the concept of alternate history, further deepening the connection between them.

1 Shadow Hearts

Shadow Hearts is a traditional turn-based RPG set in an alternative history. In battles, players can utilize the Judgement Ring mechanic to deal additional damage to enemies by timing their button presses correctly, similar to the Mario RPG games.

The game, released in 2001, follows the story of Yuri, a man who holds the responsibility of protecting a young girl's life. During combat, Yuri has the ability to transform into monsters, reminiscent of Vincent's Limit Breaks in Final Fantasy 7. Despite its relatively low popularity, it is worth mentioning that all three games in the series for the PS2 are worth exploring.