Believe it or not, there are actually some people reading this who've probably never bought a Playstation but plan on getting a Playstation 2. No doubt, some of them are intrigued by the PS2's backward-compatibility feature but really don't know which PSX games they should buy. For those of you poor hapless souls who have yet to experience gaming Sony-style, we've taken the liberty of providing you with a list of 10 games (in no particular order) for the first Playstation you should play.

Xenogears

Without question, anyone without a PSX has missed out on the best RPGs created during the 32/64-bit era. Although the PS2 has a few RPGs launching with the system, none of them look like they'll reach "classic" status. With that in mind, you'll have to forgive us for including three RPGs on our list of PSX games you must play. Xenogears, the first of these, is in the eyes of many Square's greatest RPG ever. Featuring a highly-controversial subject (which almost resulted in it not reaching the U.S.), captivating story, and graphics that push the PSX to the limit, Xenogears is one RPG that should be played by all RPG fans.

Metal Gear Solid

Snake is back. The hero of Metal Gear on the NES, Snake returned on the PSX in tip-top shape. Outstanding graphics, incredible gameplay, and some very unique elements (such as a villian "controlling" your TV screen) make this title stand out in many gamers' minds as THE best game ever. In addition to being the finest adventure/stealth game in history, the sequel to Metal Gear Solid is also on its way to the Playstation 2. That alone makes MGS a must-buy.

Final Fantasy VII

Most people agree that Final Fantasy VII didn't quite reach the legendary status of its predecessors on the NES and SNES, but that's not why this game makes the list. This game makes the list because it was the first RPG to really make "mainstream" gamers take notice. Make no mistake though: this is still an excellent RPG and worth adding to anyone's entertainment center. The storyline is strong, the characters are engaging, and the pre-rendered environments are superb.

Chrono Cross

The semi-sequel to Chrono Trigger, Chrono Cross currently represents the pinnacle of PSX RPG perfection. Environments have a more "organic" feel to them versus other Square RPGs (ie more natural), and the soundtrack and storyline are the usual Square perfection. Anyone who played Chrono Trigger will definitely want to own this; it features a lot of references to CT that will send shivers up your spine and waves of nostalgia surging through your head.

Wipeout XL

Along with Battle Arena Toshinden, the original Wipeout virtually sold the Playstation through its first few months of shelf-life. Wipeout XL took everything Wipeout did well and improved on it. Insane speeds, a superb graphic theme (futuristic techno look), and a soundtrack filled with "name" bands (such as Prodigy) make this one a winner. Forget about Wipeout 3, it was a virtual washout. This is the one to own.

Gran Turismo 2

What else can be said about Gran Turismo 2? The sequel improved everything great found in the original, and added a slew of new features and cars. If you don't mind a few bugs in your gameplay, Gran Turismo 2 is the ultimate driving sim and should tide you over nicely until Gran Turismo 3 arrives.

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2

Read Joe Rolfe's review of this game to find out why you should own it. There's really nothing else I can add to that ringing endorsement.

Resident Evil 2: Dual Shock Version

Most Resident Evil fans agree that the series topped out with the second installment. The first Resident Evil defined the survival horror genre, and Capcom took everything it learned on that one and ironed out the flaws for RE2. With the lack of quality survival horror titles currently scheduled for release on the PS2, this is definitly one PSX game you must own.

WWF Smackdown! 2: Know Your Role

As with Resident Evil 2, WWF Smackdown! 2 also corrects the few flaws of the first Smackdown! and makes a great game even better. Currently scheduled for release in November, Smackdown! 2 should provide plenty of brawling fun until the good PS2 wrasslin' games arrive.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

The best Castlevania game ever. Isn't that reason enough? More than that though, this will serve to remind you that 2D gaming is far from dead...even in this age of super-systems.

Take me to Launch Guide Indexà

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