The sequel to Dark Cloud, Dark Cloud 2 is a role-playing game for the PlayStation 2 video game console. Developed by Level-5 and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, the game was released on November 28, 2002 and is considered a jewel among PlayStation 2 RPGs. A third installment to the Dark Cloud franchise is scheduled for exclusive release on the PlayStation 3 in 2009.

Dark Cloud 2 has no overt link to the original Dark Cloud story line. Max, the central character of the game, is a young inventor from the town of Palm Brinks. When Max receives a ticket to the carnival, he accidentally overhears a conversation between the ringleader, Flotsam, and the mayor of the town about the outside world. Flotsam attacks Max for eavesdropping, forcing him to flee Palm Brinks for his life. For the first time, he has a chance at a glimpse of the outside world, and begins an adventure he never would have dreamed of. Max later meets Monica while on his journey and finds out a shocking secret that may change the fate of the world's present and future.

Players progress through the game while exploring dungeons and rebuilding the world. Similar to typical RPGs, characters are collected and upgraded along the way, though with more of an action flair. Players can invent things such as aquariums, power-ups, and weapons using photos Max has taken, adding to the variety of the game. Gameplay strays a bit from the standard RPG formula to produce a critical and popular success.