Six PS2 games to help you choose a first disc.

Start with the evening you want

Returning to PS2 can turn into a list of everything you remember. Start with one disc you would actually put on this week. These six editorial picks offer different kinds of play; choose the one that sounds inviting to you rather than treating the order as a league table.

This shortlist concerns original PS2 releases. Remakes, remasters and collections for later consoles are different editions. Check the actual disc and case when searching, especially if a familiar title appears on several platforms.

Exploring and jumping: Jak and Daxter

This action-platform adventure is a starting point for exploring a world and tackling jumps. Consider it when the journey between places appeals more than a race result.

Action and gadgets: Ratchet & Clank

Ratchet & Clank combines platforming with weapon-driven action. Put the original PS2 adventure on your list if you want a busy, energetic change of pace.

Cartoon sneaking: Sly Cooper’s first adventure

Sly Cooper’s PS2 debut puts sneaking at the centre of a cartoon adventure. It is a starting point if outwitting a situation sounds more appealing than racing through it.

Puzzles and atmosphere: ICO

ICO offers an adventure shaped by puzzles and companionship. Consider it when a more reflective setting sounds right; leave yourself room to work things out rather than rush.

A large challenge: Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus centres its adventure on encounters with giant colossi. Try it as a shortlist choice when discovering how to approach a challenge is part of the attraction.

A racing project: Gran Turismo 4

Gran Turismo 4 is a PS2 racing game with a collection of cars and courses. Consider it if choosing a car and improving your driving is the kind of project you want to return to.

Check that a listing is for Gran Turismo 4 itself. A similar-looking title, a different entry in the series or a later-console release is not the same purchase.

Match the copy to your own setup

Write down the exact game title and edition, the disc’s region and the console you intend to use. Ask for clear photos of the actual case and disc if those details are uncertain. Follow the instructions for that particular console and game rather than assuming a familiar cover settles compatibility.

Read the case’s player information, age-rating label and any peripheral or save requirements. Check which controllers, memory card or other equipment your chosen copy needs. Having a second controller does not establish that a particular game mode supports two people.

Buy a playable copy, not just a cover

Compare the written condition with photographs of the actual copy. Ask what is supplied, whether the disc has been tested, and whether the case or manual is included. Do not count an accessory or insert from a representative picture.

Set a total you are comfortable with before chasing a collector’s edition. This guide does not establish current game prices or availability. These titles are suggestions to investigate, not a claim that RRUK has the games in stock or includes them with a console.

Choose one game before the bundle

Make a short brief: one game, its edition and region, the console, your TV connections and the equipment you already own. Use the PS2 comparison, TV checklist and controller guide below to plan the rest of the setup.

RRUK’s current written offer defines what you order. Sourced-to-order offers remain distinct from any held stock. Read the named contents, condition, price and full delivery information on the current listing before deciding, and ask about uncertain details first.