SOCOM II: U.S. Navy SEALs

SOCOM II: U.S. Navy SEALs expanded its predecessor's successful concept with bigger maps, more elaborate soldier classes, and a more stable online infrastructure, which made it one of the most-played multiplayer titles on the PlayStation 2 throughout the whole generation. The game kept its predecessor's tactical pacing, where a careless approach meant a quick death, and added new game modes, destructible environmental elements, and the option to play as either the SEALs or the terrorist faction, each with their own gear. The mission environments expanded to include urban areas, ports, and mountain terrain, which required players to take a different approach depending on the type of surroundings.

The single-player campaign again focused on commanding a small squad and advancing tactically through the environment, but the heart of the experience was online multiplayer with headset support, which enabled real team communication during firefights and remote coordination of tactics. An expanded selection of maps and weapons, along with an improved player rating system featuring stats and leaderboards, gave the game long-term appeal and built a loyal, competitive community around it that kept coming back months after release. An improved communication system between players and more stable servers eliminated many of the first game's shortcomings and made it easier for less technically savvy players to get into.

SOCOM II is often described as the high point of the series on PS2 and one of the titles that proved consoles could offer a full-fledged, long-lasting online experience comparable to PC shooters of the time. Its influence on later tactical online shooters on consoles was noticeable, and a number of its mechanics later appeared in other series focused on team-based tactical play. Today it's a reminder of the golden era of the PS2 online community built around the network adapter and headset. For many players it still literally evokes the scent of early console multiplayer, when checking leaderboards and arranging matches became part of the daily routine.

Why play it: For a look back at the golden era of the SOCOM online community and the high point of the series on PS2, which proved consoles could handle a full-fledged tactical multiplayer experience comparable to PCs.