We already published the list of best PS2 games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PS2 simulation games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PS2 definitely has a great library of simulation games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the PS2 and simulation games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#25. Gungriffon Blaze
- Release Data: Game Arts/Capcom, 2000
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Despite the uninspired visuals and generic sound, Gungriffon Blaze is a worthwhile game.
The plot is engaging, the action is fast, and the game itself offers one of the better takes on mech piloting genre.
The result is a fun, strategic game that doesn’t ram reality down your throat.
#24. Twisted Metal: Head-On – Extra Twisted Edition
- Release Data: Eat Sleep Play/SCEA, 2008
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Not a must-buy for everyone, but a must-play for every Twisted Metal fan.
You’ll love the bonus stages, the chat with the game’s director, and the series facts held within Sweet Tour.
And if by some chance you haven’t played Head-On on the PSP, then it most certainly is a must-buy on PS2.
#23. Lethal Skies II
- Release Data: Asmik Ace Entertainment, Inc/Sammy Europe Ltd., 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
From top to bottom, Lethal Skies II is a well-crafted, entirely satisfactory arcade-style flight combat game—much like its predecessor.
If you’re new to the series or to flight combat, or you just couldn’t get enough of the original Lethal Skies, you should be able to jump into Lethal Skies II, no questions asked.
#22. Armored Core 2: Another Age
- Release Data: From Software/Metro3D, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
As far as mech fighting games go, Armored Core 2: Another Age lives up to the proud tradition established with the first Armored Core game.
New missions, an improved single-player campaign, and some new equipment make this an enjoyable trip down a familiar road.
#21. Armored Core 3
- Release Data: From Software/Metro3D, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
The actual gameplay of Armored Core 3 is responsive and action-oriented enough that it should appeal to fans of giant robot action games.
It’s not the prettiest game around, and it’s basically similar to what the series has always offered, but this third game in the Armored Core series is still a good, solid game.
#20. Armored Core 2
- Release Data: From Software, 2000
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Those who’ve tried the original Armored Core and found the gameplay model not to their liking will probably not have much time for this one, either.
But after you’re done wondering about what this game could have been, you can’t deny that Armored Core 2 is still the best Armored Core on the PS2.
#19. Twisted Metal: Black Online
- Release Data: Incognito Inc./SCEE, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Twisted Metal: Black Online is essentially the same game as Twisted Metal: Black, except this version is for online play only.
There is no storyline or single-player mode and it also features 15 vehicles and 20 levels from the original game with 4 modes of online play: Deathmatch, Last Man Standing, Collector and Manhunt.
#18. Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War
- Release Data: Project Aces/Namco, 2006
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War doesn’t change the formula established by its predecessors.
It does, however, add yet another layer of polish and refinement to a series that’s near perfect at what it sets out to do.
Plus, the addition of a rewarding multiplayer mode, not to mention improvements in AI and mission variety, make it a worthy successor.
#17. Dropship: United Peace Force
- Release Data: Camden Studio/SCEE, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Though it may seem overly complex at first glance, the experience it provides is definitely worth overcoming whatever learning curve is associated with the control scheme.
It’s an altogether unique flight combat game, and one that can also be quite impressive from a technological standpoint.
If you’re up to the challenge, then definitely check it out.
#16. The Sims 2
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2005
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Despite its deviation from the far superior PC version, The Sims 2 is still a fun game loaded with all the things we love about the series.
Die-hard fans will miss many of the features that have been omitted but with so many extras, options and new features this one will keep fans more than busy.
#15. Heroes of the Pacific
- Release Data: IR Gurus/Ubisoft, 2005
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
While the online mode was a little too standard for its own good, the game’s campaign is compelling, and the game plays well overall.
Some flight-combat fans will probably dislike the game’s loose style, but people who aren’t necessarily looking for a pitch-perfect simulation of the conflict will enjoy Heroes of the Pacific.
#14. Jak X: Combat Racing
- Release Data: Naughty Dog/SCEA, 2005
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Jak X: Combat Racing does a good job of moving an existing franchise into an entirely new genre.
Though there are some problems with the single-player artificial intelligence in the later levels, there is an overwhelming amount of value from the multiplayer modes and unlockable options.
#13. Zone of the Enders
- Release Data: KCEJ/Konami, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
There is a lot of good stuff here; good graphics, good sound, good control scheme, even some good gameplay, but overall, it lacks variety and innovation in terms of storyline, graphics, gameplay and overall presentation.
It’s definitely not a terrible game, but it’s still worth playing.
#12. Sky Odyssey
- Release Data: CAProduction/SCEI, 2000
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Civilian
Sky Odyssey is not a game for everyone—the slow-paced missions and the flight simulation influences will turn away those looking for pure arcade action.
But those that are willing to overlook the game’s graphical imperfections and can stands its relatively steep learning curve will be rewarded with a satisfying game experience.
#11. Mashed: Drive to Survive
- Release Data: Supersonic Software/Empire Interactive, 2004
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Mashed: Drive to Survive is looking good and the reasons are that it has extra tracks, cars, better handling and all the little things that make it better.
With a learning curve of about 30 seconds, Drive to Survive is a ton of fun that you should be able to keep coming back to time and time again.
#10. Secret Weapons Over Normandy
- Release Data: Totally Games/LucasArts, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Secret Weapons Over Normandy is a decent air combat game that takes a stripped-down, arcade-style approach to the genre.
However, anyone who’s looking for a meaty challenge or something with some simulation aspects of air combat won’t find much to like here.
#9. Robot Alchemic Drive
- Release Data: Sandlot/Enix Corporation, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Even though Robot Alchemic Drive has a few quirks, it is still a blast to play.
Players will find enjoyment of the strategy they have to use during a battle.
If you are into mecha or giant robot games, anime, or games that stray away from the norm, this game might surprise you.
#8. The Sims
- Release Data: Edge of Reality/Electronic Arts, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The PS2 version of The Sims does a great job of revisiting the original premise and gameplay of one of the most successful games ever.
With its new additions and enhancements, along with its faithful reproduction of The Sims‘ gameplay, make for a game that is as solid as The Sims has ever been.
#7. Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter
- Release Data: LucasArts/Electronic Arts, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat
Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter is a solid game that fans of the first entry in the series should check out without giving it a second thought.
While it’s not the prettiest game out there, it does offer strong control and entertaining gameplay, as well as the sound and music we’ve come to expect from a Star Wars game.
#6. The Sims Bustin’ Out
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims Bustin’ Out successfully expands on the previous game by letting your sims “bust out” of their own homes and freely visit their neighbors.
All things considered, The Sims Bustin’ Out makes solid improvements over its predecessor and stands on its own as a great version of The Sims for consoles.
#5. Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner
- Release Data: KCEJ/Konami, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
Its excellent combat system, combined with the game’s focus on blowing up everything in sight, makes for an enjoyable gameplay experience.
As it is, Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner is just fun to play, and it will inevitably keep drawing you back in even when you’ve already seen most of what the game has to offer.
#4. Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War
- Release Data: Project Aces/Namco, 2004
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Not much was needed to keep this series feeling fresh and exciting, especially since there just aren’t many other flight combat games on the market.
Those looking for a complex flight simulation on consoles need not apply to Ace Combat 5, which is much more interested in delivering the thrills and drama of Top Gun-style cinematic depictions of modern dogfighting.
#3. Star Wars: Starfighter
- Release Data: LucasArts/Activision, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat
The game takes the concepts put forth in the company’s N64 Star Wars games and kicks them up a notch, adding a deeper, more enjoyable story, more solidified flight mechanics, and, of course, spectacular graphics.
Overall, Starfighter presents a compelling story, excellent presentation, and gameplay that will surely satisfy fans of LucasArts’ N64 shooters.
#2. Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies
- Release Data: Project Aces/Namco, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat
Overall, it’s hard to find fault in the game.
Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies is a highly enjoyable, well-executed flight sim that perfectly blends the action elements found in the series’ earlier games with the sort of narrative typically reserved for other genres.
#1. Twisted Metal: Black
- Release Data: Incognito Inc./SCEE, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat
In the end, Twisted Metal: Black is a terrific game in every respect.
The game looks, sounds, and, most importantly, plays better than any car combat game before it.
Add in a fantastic two-to-four-player multiplayer mode, and Twisted Metal: Black is the only game you’ll need for a long time to come.
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See also: Best PS1 Games & Best PSP Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PS2 simulation game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!