This open-world action-adventure game was released in 2002 for the PlayStation 2 and became a massive success, selling over 10 million copies. Set in the fictional city of Vice City, players control Tommy Vercetti as he rises through the ranks of the criminal underworld. The game's open-world design, memorable characters, and varied missions made it a fan favorite and it remains one of the highest-rated games of all time.

This life simulation game was released in 2000 and became a massive hit, selling over 10 million copies. Players create and control their own virtual people, known as Sims, and manage their lives by making choices about their career, relationships, and daily activities. The game's popular expansion packs added new features and gameplay elements, making it a mainstay of the genre.

These role-playing games were released in 2002 for the Game Boy Advance and sold over 16 million copies. Players assume the role of a Pokémon Trainer and travel through the Hoenn region, catching and battling with a variety of creatures known as Pokémon. The games introduced new Pokémon, gameplay mechanics, and an online trading system, making them a must-play for fans of the series.

This first-person shooter was released in 2001 and became a major success on the Xbox console, selling over 5 million copies. Players control Master Chief, a supersoldier fighting against an alien threat known as the Covenant. The game's fast-paced gameplay, varied weapons, and immersive story made it a fan favorite and it spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs.

This open-world action-adventure game was released in 2004 and sold over 27 million copies. Set in the fictional state of San Andreas, players control Carl "CJ" Johnson as he navigates the criminal underworld and builds his own criminal empire. The game's expansive open world, varied gameplay, and memorable characters made it a fan favorite and it remains one of the highest-rated games of all time.

Overall, these five games were some of the best-selling and most beloved of the early 2000s, and they continue to be played and enjoyed by many today. Whether you were a fan of open-world adventures, life simulation, role-playing, first-person shooters, or any other genre, there was a game for you in the early 2000s.

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