During the sixth generation of consoles, the PS2 saw the emergence of a variety of vehicular combat games. These games took on different forms, ranging from racing games with combat elements like Jak X: Combat Racing, to brutally challenging arena shooters like Twisted Metal Black, and high-speed, car-wrecking racing showdowns in Burnout Revenge. With such a rich library, it’s safe to say that the PS2 was the ultimate platform for fans of the vehicular combat genre.
If you’ve placed an order for some vehicular combat action, you’re in for a delightfully destructive treat, sir. Savour the taste of the chaos and relish the screams of your vanquished foes served up as a delectable dessert. Bon appétit as you navigate this menu showcasing the best vehicular combat games on the PS2.
Spoiler Alert, my friend. These games are as challenging as trying to teach a cat to juggle, so don’t shed a tear if you hit a roadblock in the middle of the action. And when it comes to ratings, remember that “T” stands for terrifyingly tough in these games. Consider yourself duly warned—may the vehicular combat gods be with you.
 | Jak X Combat Racing™2005 |   |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date October 18, 2005 | |
 | Developer Naughty Dog |
 | Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment |
 | Franchise Jak and Daxter |
| Genre Arcade Racing | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Sci-Fi | |
| Players Online PvP, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2005-10-18 |   |
| 2005-10-26 |   |
| 2005-11-04 |     |
Jak X: Combat Racing claims the crown as the unrivalled champion of arcade racing on the PS2, and the best vehicular combat as well. You’ll be spending tons and tons of hours blitzing through races, obliterating enemies in such stylish ways that they themselves will be impressed with their own downfall.
In Jak X: Combat Racing, it’s not just about racing against each other; you can also dive headfirst into a thrilling assortment of addictive game modes that’ll send a surge of adrenaline down your spine. Believe me when I say this: they’re that awesome. It’s like Mario Kart Racer on a wild dose of steroids.
 | Twisted Metal: Black™2001 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date June 18, 2001 | |
 | Developer Incognito Entertainment |
| Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 2001-06-18 |  |
| 2001-12-07 |  |
Twisted Metal Black is infamous for its spine-tingling difficulty and its dark, eerie atmosphere that will truly put your gaming skills to the test. Yet, even in the face of its hellishly challenging nature, Twisted Metal Black continues to hold its place as one of the greatest split-screen co-op games on the PS2.
From the very moment you hit that start button, you’ll sense the sheer intensity of the game. And don’t be deceived; the difficulty only ramps up as you make progress. Your opponents will offer no quarter, but remember, it’s a two-way street – show them no mercy in return.
 | Burnout™ Revenge2005 |   |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date September 13, 2005 | |
 | Developer Criterion Games |
 | Publisher Electronic Arts |
 | Franchise Burnout |
| Genre Arcade Racing | |
| Concept Modern | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin United Kingdom |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2005-09-13 |  |
| 2005-09-23 |    |
| 2005-09-26 |  |
Burnout Revenge takes the battle-racing intensity established by its predecessor and cranks it up several notches. With the introduction of several new modes, it transforms your journey of destruction into a thrilling and unforgettable ride.
In addition to the exhilarating track racing and stylish enemy destruction, Burnout Revenge offers a variety of modes that are bound to grab your attention. One such mode is Traffic Attack, where your objective is to plough your car through a multitude of other vehicles to rack up points. It’s a shame that this mode remains exclusive to Burnout Revenge because it’s an absolute blast to experience, especially for the first time.
 | RoadKill™2003 |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date October 13, 2003 | |
 | Developer Terminal Reality |
 | Publisher Midway Games |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2003-10-13 | |
| 2003-11-21 |  |
Roadkill draws inspiration from the likes of Grand Theft Auto III and Twisted Metal, blending elements to create a captivating hybrid of open-world vehicular combat that is sure to capture your interest.
In Roadkill, you’ll find yourself navigating the dangerous streets of the fictional Hell County in your deadly, weapon-equipped vehicle, surrounded by other roaming foes with one goal in mind: to reduce your car to ashes. The game’s core premise revolves around chaos, destruction, and unbridled mayhem, and if you’re on the hunt for lesser-known vehicular combat gems, Roadkill is one of them.
 | Armored Core® Last Raven2005 |  |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date August 04, 2005 | |
 | Developer FromSoftware |
 | Publisher Agetec |
 | Franchise Armored Core® |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Mecha | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen PvP | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Japan |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2005-08-04 |  |
| 2006-06-13 | |
| 2006-10-06 | |
| 2006-10-26 | |
Armored Core: Last Raven is a title that simply cannot be overlooked on this list. It stands as one of the premier mecha vehicular combat games available on the PS2, and many would argue it’s the very best instalment on the platform.
With the recent launch of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, there’s no better time to delve into the complete series. While the original titles may present a bit of a learning curve, if you’re hungry for some vehicular combat excitement over the weekends, then Armored Core: Last Raven is an absolute blast that shouldn’t be missed.
 | S.L.A.I.™ Steel Lancer Arena International2005 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date September 21, 2005 | |
 | Developer Genki |
 | Publisher Konami |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Concept Mecha | |
| Players Online PvP, Single Player, Split-Screen PvP | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin Japan |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2005-09-21 | |
| 2005-09-22 | |
| 2005-11-11 | |
Steel Lancer Arena International encompasses many of the elements that fans of mecha games like Armored Core adore. It’s certainly a title worth exploring whenever you find the time. If mecha combat is your cup of tea, this game should be on your must-play list.
In this mecha vehicular combat game developed by Genki and published by Konami, players engage in a series of intense arena matches, battling against other formidable mech opponents. Players also have the opportunity to upgrade their gear, acquire new tools, and delve into a variety of gameplay aspects. The only drawback to this game is that it can be rather time-consuming, requiring dedicated effort to grind for cash in order to obtain the most powerful mecha available.
 | SpyHunter® 22003 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date November 24, 2003 | |
 | Developer Rockstar San Diego |
| Publisher Midway Games |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2003-11-24 | |
| 2004-03-05 |  |
Spy Hunter 2 serves as a direct sequel to the original Spy Hunter game from 2001. While it may not attain the same level of greatness as other vehicular combat racers like Jak X, it still introduces a couple of intriguing concepts inspired by the likes of James Bond and Mission Impossible that are well worth exploring.
In Spy Hunter 2, your car isn’t just a run-of-the-mill vehicle; it’s a multi-functional marvel. It has the capability to transform into a motor tricycle, a speedboat, and even a jet-ski, providing you with incredible versatility in your missions. Additionally, you can upgrade your car by selecting from a vast array of weapons, which grants you the firepower you need to take down anyone who dares to stand in your way.
 | FlatOut 2™2006 |    |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date June 30, 2006 | |
 | Developer Bugbear Entertainment |
 | Publisher Empire Interactive |
 | Franchise FlatOut |
| Genre Arcade Racing | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Finland |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| |
| 2006-06-30 | |
| 2006-07-06 | |
| 2006-08-01 | |
| 2006-12-14 |   |
| 2007-01-25 |  |
FlatOut 2 is the closest you can get to experiencing the adrenaline-fueled excitement of Burnout Takedown on the PS2. It offers thrilling racing matches, heart-pounding mayhem, and an all-around enjoyable time that’s sure to satisfy your need for speed and destruction.
While the FlatOut franchise may have lost some of its lustre, FlatOut 2 remains a fantastic combat racing game worth playing today. Despite its dated visuals, the gameplay is still incredibly enjoyable, and frankly, that’s what matters most in these kinds of games.
 | Cel Damage2001 |    |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date November 15, 2001 | |
 | Developer Pseudo Interactive |
| Publisher Electronic Arts |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Players Single Player | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin Canada |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2002-12-12 | |
Cel Damage Overdrive boasts a comic art style that feels like it leapt straight out of a child’s imagination, and that’s one of the main factors contributing to Cel Damage’s enduring appeal even today.
In this third-person vehicular combat game, the primary objective aligns with what you’d anticipate from any entry in the genre: destruction. Players engage in fierce competition, utilizing an arsenal of weapons to either accumulate smack points or thwart their opponents from reaching their objectives, depending on the specific game mode. Cel Damage offers a diverse range of modes to explore, catering to a variety of preferences and ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
 | Motor Mayhem™2001 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date July 02, 2001 | |
 | Developer Beyond Games |
 | Publisher Atari SA |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 2001-07-02 | |
| 2001-11-23 |  |
| 2003-11-28 |  |
Motor Mayhem may not be a household name in the world of vehicular combat these days, but for those seeking out the best on the PS2, it’s a hidden gem well worth discovering.
Motor Mayhem is like the Twisted Metal series with a softer touch, offering all the elements you enjoy without the punishing difficulty. You could playfully call it the “toddler version” of Twisted Metal, given its “T” rating on the box cover. But don’t let that fool you, there’s still plenty of vehicular combat fun to be had.
 | WWE Crush Hour™2003 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date March 18, 2003 | |
 | Developer Locomotive Games |
 | Publisher THQ |
 | Franchise WWE® 2K |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
| Country of Origin United States |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| |
| 2003-03-18 | |
| 2003-05-15 | |
WWE Crush Hour burst onto the scene like a mysterious stranger landing in your backyard. Nobody knows where it came from, but whoever laid the wacky foundation for this game deserves a drink—or maybe a few—because they must have been having a drunken party in the process.
In this game, which is heavily similar to Twisted Metal Black, you’ll find a handful of WWE superstars like The Rock, The Undertaker, and Triple H making a cameo. But here’s the twist – they’ve left their wrestling suits at home and are now duking it out for the prestigious title of Car Demolition Champion.
Now, about John Cena’s absence in the game… Is it because he’s too busy mastering the art of invisibility, or are we simply not looking hard enough? Either way, it’s a shame not to have him smashing cars with his trademark “You Can’t See Me” move!
 | 187 Ride or Die™2005 | |
| About | |
|---|---|
| Release Date August 23, 2005 | |
 | Developer Ubisoft Paris |
 | Publisher Ubisoft |
| Genre Vehicular Combat | |
| Graphics 3D | |
| Perspective Third-Person | |
| Interaction Real-Time | |
| Players Couch Co-Op, Online Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op | |
| Monetization Buy to Play | |
 | Country of Origin France |
| PS2 Releases | |
|---|---|
| 2005-08-23 | |
| 2005-08-25 | |
| 2005-08-26 |  |
| 2005-11-10 | |
Back in the day, Ubisoft was known for its daring ventures into new intellectual properties. One such title that springs to mind is 187 Ride or Die, an urban racer set in the infamous South Central Region of Los Angeles.
In this game, players embark on a quest to seize the title of the undisputed champion. To attain this lofty goal, they must participate in heart-pounding races and vanquish a multitude of adversaries, employing any tactics within their grasp. The gameplay draws parallels to the style of Crash Team Racing but it feels as though someone dialed up the intensity to a whole new level. (Let’s just call it Mario Kart on steroids)
One noteworthy feature is that this game offers a cooperative mode, allowing you and a friend to team up and tackle the story mode together. While one of you handles the racing, the other takes on the role of the shooter, creating the ultimate duo.
Thank you for reading.
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FreeckyCake
I'm just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games. My love for Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams is like a truck and I recommend that you play it.
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