Starting a PS2 collection: which games to choose and what to check before buying?
, by Retromania, 4 min reading time
Which games should you choose to start a PS2 collection? Our advice for buying second-hand games: disc condition, manual, language, edition, and budget.
Did you find your PlayStation 2 in a closet, or would you like to replay the games from your childhood? Between memories, recommendations, and available editions, choosing your first PS2 games can quickly become complicated.
Good news: you don't need a massive collection to enjoy yourself. A few well-chosen titles are enough to recapture the atmosphere of the console and discover adventures you might have missed.
Here are our tips for starting a PS2 collection at your own pace, without buying at random.
Start with what you like, not the rarest games
Before looking for the most sought-after pieces, ask yourself one question: what do you really want to play?
You can build your collection around a series you loved, a genre, or a few specific memories. A game you will enjoy starting up deserves its place on your shelf just as much as a famous title.
For your first purchases, we recommend mixing:
- A game you already know, to revisit your memories.
- A classic you’ve never tried.
- A title from a different genre, to vary the experience.
This approach allows you to gradually discover what you enjoy before committing a larger budget to your collection.
Six PS2 games to discover based on your tastes
There isn't one perfect selection for everyone. Instead, here are six paths to explore different facets of the PlayStation 2 catalog.
| Are you looking for… | A game to discover | Why choose it? |
|---|---|---|
| Action and platforming | Ratchet & Clank | A humorous adventure with gadgets and original weapons. |
| Exploration and platforming | Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy | A colorful world to explore with an endearing duo. |
| Stealth in a cartoon atmosphere | Sly Raccoon | A mix of stealth, platforming, and action. |
| Spectacular combat | God of War | An intense adventure inspired by Greek mythology. |
| Puzzles and a unique atmosphere | ICO | A more contemplative experience centered on exploration and cooperation. |
| Action and suspense | Resident Evil 4 | A tense adventure for those who like to face danger. |
These games illustrate the diversity of experiences offered on the PS2. Choose based on your tastes and check the age rating if the purchase is for a child.
Buying a used PS2 game: what to check
Two copies of the same game might look identical while having significant differences. Before ordering, take the time to read the listing and look at the photos.
The disc and its functionality
Observe the surface of the disc and check the information regarding its condition. A visually clean disc and a game that has been verified to work are two separate pieces of information: look for both in the listing.
If a detail seems ambiguous, ask for clarification before purchasing.
The case, cover art, and manual
To play, your priorities will likely be different from those of a collector looking for a complete copy.
Check what is actually included: disc, case, cover art, manual, and any potential additional items. Do not assume that the manual is present simply because the game is sold in a case.
Also check the hinges, the disc retention clips, and the condition of the cover art.
The version and the language
If you want to play in French, verify that this information is explicitly stated. If you are uncertain about a foreign edition, ask for confirmation of the game's language and its compatibility with your console.
This is particularly useful for adventures that contain a lot of dialogue or text.
Should you choose an original or Platinum edition?
Decide on your goal first.
If you mainly want to play, compare the condition, contents, and price of the available copies. If you are collecting a specific edition, check the photos and the edition mentioned in the product description.
For a consistent collection, you can choose to prioritize original editions or accept reissues. The best choice is the one that fits your desires and your budget.
What budget should you plan for starting out?
Rather than immediately looking for a long list of games, set a budget for your first purchases and compare the total price, including shipping.
Starting with three to five games you really want to discover is a good approach. You can then build up your collection based on your personal favorites.
Above all, avoid buying a title just because it is presented as rare: its rarity is no guarantee that you will enjoy it.
Find your next PS2 games at Retromania
Now you know what to check and what type of game to look for. All that remains is to choose your next adventure!
Explore our selection of used PlayStation 2 games and check the photos as well as the information specific to each copy. Availability changes as sales and new arrivals occur.
A memory to recover or a classic to discover? Your collection starts with a game that makes you want to play.
To learn more about games from this generation: the history of the PlayStation 2 on the official PlayStation website.
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, by Retromania Starting a PS2 collection: which games to choose and what to check before buying?
Starting a PS2 collection: which games to choose and what to check before buying?
