A Beloved PS2 Classic from 2003 Might Be Making a Surprise Return to PS5

Gaming enthusiasts, prepare for a potent dose of nostalgia! A classic PlayStation 2 exclusive from 2003, 'The Mark of Kri,' has recently been rated by the ESRB for release on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. This unexpected development has ignited a fervent buzz among fans, hinting strongly that this cult-favorite action-adventure title could soon be making its way to modern PlayStation consoles, likely as part of the PS Plus Premium catalog.

'The Mark of Kri,' originally launched exclusively on the PlayStation 2, quickly garnered attention for its unique and innovative combat system, dark, mature tone, and compelling art style.

Developed by the renowned Sony Santa Monica Studio—the very same minds behind the critically acclaimed 'God of War' series—the game immersed players in a brutal, fantastical world as the warrior Rau. Armed with a diverse arsenal and the ability to command a spirit guide, Rau’s quest to protect his family and uncover ancient secrets was a captivating and often challenging experience.

The ESRB rating specifically lists the game for PS4 and PS5, signaling a more than theoretical possibility of its re-release.

While Sony has yet to make an official announcement, past patterns suggest that such ratings often precede the addition of classic titles to the PlayStation Plus Premium subscription tier. This tier has been steadily growing its library of PS1, PS2, and PSP era games, offering a rich tapestry of gaming history to modern players, and 'The Mark of Kri' would be a fantastic, and much-requested, addition.

For those unfamiliar with this hidden gem, 'The Mark of Kri' stood out with its innovative targeting system, allowing players to assign specific enemies to different analog stick directions for simultaneous combat.

This, combined with its fluid animations and visceral combat, made for a truly engaging experience that was ahead of its time. Its distinct artistic direction, inspired by Polynesian and tribal aesthetics, further cemented its place as a unique entry in the PS2's vast library.

The potential return of 'The Mark of Kri' not only offers a new generation of players the chance to discover a cherished classic but also provides long-time fans with an opportunity to relive Rau's epic journey with the convenience of modern platforms.

It also reinforces PlayStation's commitment to preserving its storied past, making beloved titles accessible to a wider audience. Keep an eye out for an official announcement from Sony; the drums of war, or perhaps nostalgia, are certainly beating for 'The Mark of Kri'!