The PlayStation 2 era was a golden age for gaming, with countless classics that still resonate with fans today. As we look toward 2025, many gamers are hoping for remasters of beloved titles that could benefit from modern technology. Here, we delve into some iconic PS2 games, exploring why they deserve a fresh coat of paint.

Shadow of the Colossus

Story

Shadow of the Colossus follows the tale of Wander, a young warrior who ventures into a forbidden land to bring back a girl named Mono. To achieve this, he must defeat sixteen massive creatures known as colossi. The narrative is minimal, yet profoundly impactful, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Gameplay

The gameplay revolves around locating and defeating the colossi, each of which is a unique puzzle requiring strategy and skill. Players must explore the vast, open world on horseback, using a magical sword to find the colossi while solving various environmental puzzles along the way.

Why it’s on this list

Despite receiving a remaster in 2018, Shadow of the Colossus still has room for enhancement. With advancements in gaming technology, a 2025 remaster could push the boundaries of graphical fidelity and introduce new gameplay elements, making the experience even more immersive.

Graphics and Sound

Originally, the game was a technical marvel on the PS2, with expansive environments and towering colossi. The haunting soundtrack and minimalist dialogue further accentuate its atmospheric storytelling. A remaster could elevate these aspects, utilizing ray tracing and 3D audio for a breathtaking experience.

Legacy and Reception

Shadow of the Colossus is often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, earning critical acclaim for its artistic direction and emotional depth. Its influence is seen in many modern games, and a new remaster could introduce it to a whole new generation of players.

Silent Hill 2

Story

Silent Hill 2 tells the story of James Sunderland, who receives a letter from his deceased wife, Mary, beckoning him to the eerie town of Silent Hill. As James explores the fog-laden streets, he encounters disturbing creatures and unsettling characters, unraveling a horrific mystery steeped in psychological depth.

Gameplay

The game combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, all set within a chilling atmosphere. Players must navigate through various locations, manage limited resources, and confront terrifying monsters, with each element contributing to a sense of dread and suspense.

Why it’s on this list

Silent Hill 2 is a masterpiece of horror storytelling that deserves to be experienced by today’s audience. A remaster could improve the graphics, controls, and audio, creating an even more immersive horror experience while preserving the original’s atmospheric tension.

Graphics and Sound

The original’s graphics were groundbreaking for its time, utilizing fog and darkness to create a foreboding atmosphere. The sound design, with its haunting score and ambient noises, was integral to the experience. A remaster could enhance these elements with modern technology, delivering a visually and sonically intense experience.

Legacy and Reception

Silent Hill 2 is widely regarded as one of the greatest horror games ever made, praised for its complex narrative and psychological depth. Its impact on the genre is immeasurable, influencing numerous games and media. A remaster would honor its legacy and introduce its chilling story to new players.

Okami

Story

Okami follows the journey of Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess, who takes the form of a wolf to restore color and life to the world after it is cursed by the demon Orochi. The narrative is steeped in Japanese mythology and folklore, offering a unique and enchanting story.

Gameplay

The gameplay blends action, puzzle-solving, and exploration. The innovative Celestial Brush mechanic allows players to draw symbols on the screen to control the environment, defeat enemies, and solve puzzles. Its open-world design encourages exploration and interaction with a vibrant cast of characters.

Why it’s on this list

Okami’s art style and storytelling are timeless, but a 2025 remaster could refine its graphics to 4K resolution and utilize modern controls for an even more fluid experience. Enhancing the visuals and performance could introduce this gem to a broader audience.

Graphics and Sound

Okami’s art style mimics traditional Japanese ink wash painting, creating a visually stunning experience. The music, inspired by classical Japanese compositions, complements the game’s aesthetic beautifully. A remaster could elevate these elements using current graphics engines and sound technology.

Legacy and Reception

Okami has earned a cult following and critical acclaim for its innovative design and beautiful presentation. It’s often cited as one of the most artistic games ever created, influencing other developers. A remaster would celebrate its artistic achievements and expand its legacy.

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

Story

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy follows the adventures of Jak, a silent protagonist, and his talkative companion Daxter, who has been transformed into an ottsel. The duo sets out on a quest to reverse Daxter’s transformation, uncovering ancient secrets and confronting sinister forces along the way.

Gameplay

The game is a platformer at heart, featuring a seamless open world with no loading screens. Players navigate through various environments, collecting items, solving puzzles, and battling enemies. The game’s fluid controls and vibrant world make it a joy to explore.

Why it’s on this list

Jak and Daxter remains a beloved platformer, and a remaster could enhance its graphics and performance, making it more accessible to modern audiences. With a focus on bringing its colorful world to life with enhanced visuals, a remaster could reignite interest in this classic series.

Graphics and Sound

The original game showcased impressive graphics for its time, with detailed character models and lush environments. The upbeat soundtrack and voice acting added to its charm. An updated version could leverage improved graphics engines to create a more detailed and immersive world.

Legacy and Reception

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy is celebrated for its innovative design and engaging gameplay. It laid the groundwork for the series, influencing subsequent platformers. A remaster would preserve its legacy and potentially pave the way for a series revival.

As we anticipate 2025, these PlayStation 2 classics stand as testaments to the creativity and innovation of their time. A remastering of these games would not only honor their legacy but also introduce their magic to a new generation of gamers eager to experience the stories, gameplay, and artistry that defined a generation.