13 Best PlayStation 2 Samurai Games

Fans of samurai games will thoroughly enjoy this curated collection of the best samurai games on the PS2. Throughout the years, both samurai and ninja themes have been prominent in various forms of media, including mediums like movies and anime TV shows since the 80s. Even in the present day, their appeal remains potent and enduring. However, it’s been increasingly evident that their widespread popularity has diminished compared to their heyday.

Despite the waning popularity of samurai and ninja themes in recent times, it’s evident that there’s still a continuous demand for such games. For instance, the resounding success and widespread acclaim of Ghost of Tsushima on the PS4 has shown the fact that fans have a strong appetite for more samurai-themed video games.

Come discover the finest selection of samurai games available on the PS2 in our captivating list. And if you find yourself craving more, fear not, as we also have a compilation of the best samurai games on the PS4, taking you two generations ahead for an even more thrilling experience!

Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams 2006 新 鬼武者 Dawn of Dreams (Shin Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams)

About
	Release Date January 26, 2006
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Franchise Onimusha
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2006-01-26
2006-03-07
2006-03-08
2006-03-18

Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams stands out as one of the best PS2 games, not only for its overall excellence but also for its exceptional representation of the samurai’s vigour. As a part of the once-celebrated Onimusha franchise by Capcom, this instalment takes a departure from the previous trilogy’s gameplay style, which resembled the classic Resident Evil series. Instead, Dawn of Dreams offers players a complete hack and slash experience, enriched with RPG elements and a dynamic controllable camera.

In this beloved instalment of the Onimusha franchise, players embark on an epic journey, assuming the role of Soki (also known as Hideyasu Yuki) alongside four Onimusha companions. Together, they are on a mission to thwart the sinister plans of Hideyoshi and his servants, whose dark intentions threaten to engulf the world in eternal darkness. Armed with nothing but their unwavering strength, unbreakable friendship, and boundless determination, they courageously set out to bring an end to the looming darkness once and for all.

Genji: Dawn of the Samurai 2005 ゲンジ (Genji)

About
	Release Date June 30, 2005
	Developer Game Republic
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2005-06-30
2005-09-15
2005-09-20
2005-10-21

Genji: Dawn of the Samurai may have faced the misfortune of being compared to the likes of Onimusha, but rest assured both of these games hold their own merits.Genji: Dawn of the Samurai is the brainchild of former Capcom employees, including Takashi Shono and Yoshiki Okamoto. After leaving Capcom in 2005, they embarked on the creation of this new IP, which draws loose inspiration from the Tale of the Heike.

Within the game, players control two protagonists, Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Musashibo Benkei, each possessing unique advantages. And while the gameplay is similar to Onimusha 3: Demon Siege, there’s a twist you’ll find interesting. A key gameplay mechanic revolves around the Amahagane, an item that slightly slows down enemy movement, granting an opportunity to execute a lethal strike by pressing specific buttons on-screen. This tactic proves crucial — especially against formidable bosses — which demands precise timing to unleash your devastating strike. All in all, Genji: Dawn of the Samurai is one of the best hack-and-slash games on the PS2, and also one of the best samurai games ever made, thanks to its thrilling gameplay and story.

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny / Onimusha 3: Demon Siege 2002 / 2004

About
	Release Date March 07, 2002
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Franchise Onimusha
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2002-03-07
2002-06-01
2002-08-28
2002-10-03
2002-10-04

About
	Release Date February 26, 2004
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Franchise Onimusha
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2004-02-26
2004-04-27
2004-07-09
2004-07-16

Onimusha Samurai’s Destiny and Demon Siege are two must-play PlayStation 2 games that provide gamers with an engaging action adventure. Unlike Dawn of Dreams, these games use tank controls and play similarly to the original Resident Evil series. Don’t let this deter you, though, as the use of these controls guarantees a smooth and enjoyable hack-and-slash action experience. Oppositely to Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams, these two games follow a gameplay style akin to the classic Resident Evil series which employs tank controls as the main component.

If you loved the original Devil May Cry, you’ll adore these two games. One of the standout features of both games is the fluid combat, allowing players to engage in thrilling battles with the Genmas (the main foes in the series) using various weapons and combos. The spectacular visual effects of releasing strong attacks and the violent sound effects that accompany each slash through adversaries further enhance the immersive experience. Onimusha Samurai’s Destiny and Demon Siege are unquestionably two of the best games you can’t afford to miss on the PlayStation 2 if you’re looking for a nostalgic and entertaining action experience.

Way of the Samurai 2 2003 侍道2 (Samurai Dou 2)

About
	Release Date October 09, 2003
	Developer Acquire
	Publisher Spike
	Franchise Way of the Samurai
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2003-10-09
2004-07-07

Way of the Samurai 2 is a fantastic samurai life simulation game where you create your own self-made Ronin character. This well-designed RPG boasts a wealth of content and, notably, multiple endings, ensuring plenty of replay value as players can continually return to unlock more.

In Way of the Samurai 2, you start as a total nobody – a Ronin roaming ancient Japan with a rumbling tummy. As the story unfolds, you’ll become a master of survival, juggling missions, peddling random finds, and even taking on odd jobs for others. Just a friendly reminder: at the beginning, you’re weaker than a kitten in a sumo ring, so avoid picking fights with the big guys; they’ll slice you up faster than a sushi chef at a food festival. The reason why I choose to mention the second game in the series rather than the first one is the fact that the sequel is much more forgiving than the original.

Blood Will Tell: Tezuka Osamu's Dororo 2004

About
	Release Date November 09, 2004
	Developer Red Entertainment
	Publisher SEGA
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2004-09-09
2004-09-22
2005-06-05

Blood Will Tell is a hidden gem hack and slash on the PS2 that is often ignored, especially when it comes to the best samurai games on the PS2. This game, which is based on the original manga by Tezuka Osamu — is simply incredible.

In Blood Will Tell, you take on the role of a ronin, Hyakkimaru, who embarks on a mission to reclaim the body parts stolen from him by fiends at birth. Throughout his journey, Hyakkimaru is accompanied by Dororo, who provides valuable support and assistance.

In this captivating hack-and-slash with RPG elements, you’ll immerse yourself in thrilling battles against formidable adversaries, face ferocious bosses head-on, and embark on a journey of levelling up to unlock new and powerful moves. The experience is truly unique, and once you’ve completed the game, it becomes a challenge to find another title that compares to Blood Will Tell.

Samurai Western 2005 活劇 侍ーどう (Katsugeki Samurai-dou)

About
	Release Date June 07, 2005
	Developer Acquire
	Publisher Atlus
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2005-01-01
2005-06-07
2005-06-30

Samurai Western is a special spin-off from the Way of the Samurai franchise, and a lesser-known gem to many. In this game, you assume the role of Goijiro Kiryu, who sets out on a quest in the untamed American West to confront and defeat his brother, Rando. However, upon arriving in the United States, Goijiro discovers a land in chaos, oppressed by the tyrant Goldberg and his hired thugs, who terrorize innocent civilians. Touched by the plight of the people, Goijiro embarks on an adventurous mission to put an end to Goldberg’s reign and confront his own brother.

Unlike its predecessors which featured exploration and a slow-paced combat system, Samurai Western is a linear hack and slash game. The gameplay in Samurai Western offers a wild and fast-paced experience as you face wave after wave of gun-toting thugs. The game is divided into stages, each with a challenging boss to defeat. Goijiro wields various katanas, each offering a different combat style, from short to double katanas and even a giant katana. He can skillfully dodge or deflect enemies’ bullets using the edge of his katana, making for an action-packed and intense combat experience. Though some adversaries may pose a significant challenge, the thrill of the journey makes Samurai Western a unique action-packed game.

Samurai Warriors™ Xtreme Legends™ 2004 Expansion 戦国無双 猛将伝 (Sengoku Musou Moushouden)

About
	Release Date September 16, 2004 Initial Release: February 11, 2004
	Developer Omega Force
	Publisher Koei
	Genre Musou
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2004-09-16
2004-11-09
2005-02-25

Samurai Warriors Xtreme Legends thrusts players into an exhilarating and chaotic musou experience, where they wield their super-human powers to vanquish and repel hundreds of enemies on-screen.

Fans of anything Musou-related will find a lot to appreciate about Samurai Warriors Xtreme Legends. The former, which is an update to the original Samurai Warriors, offers a wealth of additional content for players to explore.

If by chance you end up not loving this iteration of the series, you can always give Samurai Warriors 5 a whirl. To many, it’s considered one of the pinnacles of the franchise.

Devil Kings™ 2005

About
	Release Date July 21, 2005
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Genre Musou
	Concept Samurai
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2005-07-21
2005-10-12
2006-02-03

Devil Kings, a part of Capcom’s Sengoku Basara franchise, delivers a potent and thrilling Musou-style hacking and slashing experience on the platform. Unlike many games in the series that remain exclusive to the Japanese market, Devil Kings stands out as one of the few instalments released worldwide.

The gameplay in Devil Kings closely resembles the Musou genre, akin to a vast range of titles developed by Omega Force. Players are immersed in an action-packed adventure, unleashing a barrage of devastating hack-and-slash combos that send hordes of enemies flying across the screen.

While this gameplay style is sure to delight fans of the Musou genre, some players seeking more varied gameplay may find it somewhat repetitive and short. Nevertheless, for those seeking some mindless fun and the joy of slicing through endless waves of enemies, Devil Kings is a decent samurai-themed game on the PS2.

Samurai Champloo: Sidetracked 2006 サムライチャンプル (Samurai Chanpurū)

About
	Release Date February 23, 2006
	Developer Grasshopper Manufacture
	Publisher Bandai Namco
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2006-02-23
2006-04-11

Samurai Champloo: Sidetracked offers a fascinating and unique take on the anime series. Not only that but also if you haven’t watched the anime before, the game recounts the events of the former that will surprisingly urge you to give the anime a try. After all, you can’t afford to sleep on Nujabes tracks. They’re golden.

While the game features basic elements from the hack-and-slash genre, it stands out with its interesting playstyle. Samurai Champloo: Sidetracked, similar to Afro Samurai,  places a significant emphasis on defeating foes in sync with the soundtracks and remixing manoeuvres, closely emulating the vibrant vibes of the anime. Grasshopper Manufacture, —the developers behind the game — have done an excellent job capturing the essence of the original anime, and it is evident through the entirety of the game.

Kessen 2000 決戦 (Kessen)

About
	Release Date March 04, 2000
	Developer Koei
	Publisher Koei
	Genre RTS
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2000-03-04
2000-10-26
2000-12-15

Kessen offers a welcome break from the fast-paced, action-packed samurai games we’ve discussed so far. This real-time strategy game places you at the heart of the battlefield, assuming the role of a commander with the power to steer your army towards either a triumphant victory or a disgraceful defeat.

Back in 2000, Kessen made a significant impact as one of the launch titles in North America, showcasing the console’s remarkable technical capabilities by handling an immense number of on-screen characters amidst chaotic and action-packed battles. Back then, it was a groundbreaking sight that left a lasting impression. Even today, for real-time strategy enthusiasts in search of an engaging game with hours of entertainment, Kessen remains a must-try. It is one of the best samurai games on the PS2.

Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan - Enjou! Kyoto Rinne 2006

About
	Release Date September 14, 2006
	Developer 8ing
	Publisher Banpresto
	Franchise Rurouni Kenshin
	Genre Hack & Slash
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2006-09-14

The Japan-exclusive Rurouni Kenshin game on the PS2 is begging for a potential fan-made English patch to make it accessible to a broader audience. This game adaptation of the beloved Rurouni Kenshin manga takes players through the entirety of the Kyoto Arc, immersing them in the epic battles of Himura Kenshin and his friends against Shishio’s formidable adversaries

Playing the game without understanding Japanese can be challenging, even for fans familiar with the Rurouni Kenshin anime or manga. The gameplay involves taking control of characters like Himura Kenshin, Saito Hajime, or Sanosuke Sagara as they explore open-ended environments, complete missions, and level up throughout their journey. However, the language barrier may hinder players from fully comprehending the game’s objectives and mechanics, making it difficult to fully enjoy and immerse themselves in the experience.

It’s worth noting that this 3D action-adventure game is the only iteration of Rurouni Kenshin. Previous releases were merely 2D fighters without anything special going on for them. We really hope an English patch will roll out in the foreseeable future because this is one of the finest anime games on the PS2.

Kengo: Master of Bushido 2000

About
	Release Date December 14, 2000
	Developer Genki
	Publisher Genki
	Genre Sword Fighting
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2000-12-14
2001-01-03
2001-03-30

If you’ve ever wondered how samurai train in their Dojo, Kengo: Master of Bushido will let you experience that unique feeling. Just bear in mind that the game isn’t easy; it presents you with challenging tasks and nudges you to pay attention to your opponent’s movements.

Being the inaugural game in the Kengo series developed by Genki, Kengo: Master of Bushido is a unique sword-fighting game, but it offers a unique and distinct experience unlike any you’ve played before. The game’s playstyle revolves around quick reactions to your opponent’s movements and a patient approach, as adversaries have the potential to swiftly one-shot kill you. Kengo: Master of Bushido is a unique game that presents a steep learning curve. However, it offers a rewarding experience if you invest time and effort to master its intricate gameplay mechanics.

Samurai Shodown: Anthology 2008

About
	Release Date July 24, 2008
	Developer SNK
	Publisher SNK
	Franchise Samurai Shodown
	Genre 2D Fighting
	Players Multiplayer, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS2 Releases
2008-07-24
2009-03-24

Samurai Shodown is no stranger to any fighting game enthusiast out there. For those seeking the best samurai games on the PS2, Samurai Shodown stands as one of the finest choices available.

Thanks to this remarkable anthology, players can relish six games in a single package, all remastered for the PlayStation 2. If you have a friend who delights in Co-Op games, why not invite them for a thrilling samurai showdown later tonight?

Thank you for reading