Ratchet & Clank:Going CommandoPlatform: PS2 / Publisher: SCEABy now, you've seen all of the commercials for the Ratchet & Clank sequel. If the old ultra-violence is not your cup of tea and you just prefer the animated variety, then R&C2: Going Commando is right up your alley. Of course, it also has a lot of other things that make this game very cool.
First of all, you can illegally modify and upgrade your weapons. Second, you can transfer all of your old weapons from the first game into this one. Finally, the sheer number of weapons is tempting enough to draw even the most jaded gamer in. Ratchet & Clank also possess and exude an oft overt, but clever sense of humor. Though poking at themselves, at points, they're almost aware of the fact that they're merely video game characters.
Graphics, sound, ambience and such are all exemplary. They take great advantage of the PS2's prowess and show off developer Insomniac's skills. The storyline is quaint and quirky, which is a breath of fresh air these days (to be frank, it was good to play something where you weren't necessarily saving the world/galaxy/kingdom/whatever, engaging in criminal enterprise or building levels on your character for hours on end).
Anyway, the original Ratchet & Clank became a classic and there is no reason why the sequel will not become such as well. It is a brilliantly executed game and deserves every hour of game play you're willing to give it. Of course, it doesn't hurt to obtain every weapon there is and play with them on various levels.
ManhuntPlatform: ps2 / Publisher: rockstar gamesIf you thought Vice City was tame, then Manhunt is the answer to your prayers. Take one part Clockwork Orange, two parts Seven, mix evenly and add a dash of 8MM, and you've got something that could make even John Wayne Gacy cringe.
Manhunt is a brutal ride developed by the chaps at Rockstar North, making it about as easy to pick up as GTA3 and Vice City. The graphics are intentionally gritty, giving off an ambience of cheap surveillance film spliced together. Also, the game is compatible with the USB headset, and immerses you even more in the already chilling environs.