The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has redefined the boundaries of console gaming, boasting a library brimming with exceptional titles. This curated list explores the top 25 PS5 games that have captivated audiences and garnered critical acclaim. We’ll delve into each title, highlighting its core gameplay, captivating features, and why it deserves a prominent place on your gaming shelf.
A Spectrum of Genres for Discerning Gamers
While some titles might resonate more strongly with specific genres, all 25 demonstrably elevate the PS5 experience. This list acknowledges the subjective nature of game preferences, so you’ll find a diverse range of genres represented.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | The Talos Principle 2 | Puzzle | Croteam | – Sequel to the acclaimed puzzler, featuring mind-bending challenges that test your logic and perception. – Introduces new mechanics like time manipulation (rewinding, slowing down) and environmental hazards (laser grids, moving platforms) to expand on the original’s formula. – Utilizes advanced haptic feedback from the DualSense controller to create a truly immersive experience. – Explores philosophical themes through environmental storytelling and cryptic messages, prompting introspection on the nature of reality and existence. |
| 24 | Cyberpunk 2077 | Open-World RPG | CD Projekt Red | – Sprawling open world (Night City) with diverse districts, each with unique atmosphere, inhabitants, and side quests. – Deep character customization system, allowing players to define their V’s (main character) appearance, skills (combat, hacking, stealth), backstory, and playstyle. – Branching narrative with impactful choices that shape the story, relationships with characters, and even the ending. – Extensive weapon customization and cybernetic enhancements for a personalized approach to combat (e.g., mantis blades, projectile launchers). |
| 23 | Alan Wake 2 | Psychological Thriller | Remedy Entertainment | – Sequel to the beloved cult classic, building upon the unique blend of psychological horror and action-adventure. – Enhanced graphics and lighting effects with ray tracing create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. – New gameplay mechanics focused on manipulating light and darkness to combat enemies (light blasts, throwable flares) and navigate the twisted world (environmental puzzles). – A suspenseful narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, keeping players on the edge of their seats as they uncover the mystery. |
| 22 | Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth | RPG | Square Enix | – Stunning visual upgrade from the original Final Fantasy 7, showcasing the power of the PS5 engine with detailed environments and character models. – Refined combat system that blends turn-based elements with real-time action for a more dynamic experience. – Expanded storyline delves deeper into the lore and characters of the original, offering new perspectives, twists, and character development. – Faithful recreation of iconic locations (Midgar) and memorable music pieces, while introducing new areas and content to explore. |
| 21 | Disco Elysium: The Final Cut | RPG | ZA/UM | – Unconventional RPG experience with a focus on character development and dialogue choices that significantly impact the world and the protagonist’s personality (e.g., become more logical, empathetic, or cynical). – Skill system revolves around various aspects of the protagonist’s personality (e.g., logic, empathy, skepticism), creating a unique role-playing experience where your inner thoughts influence gameplay. – Voice acting breathes life into every character interaction, adding depth, humor, and emotional weight to the narrative. – High replayability with branching narratives, multiple endings, and the ability to approach situations from different angles based on your character’s development. |
| 20 | Persona 5 Royal | RPG | Atlus | – Enhanced and expanded version of the critically acclaimed Persona 5, featuring new characters, story arcs, and gameplay improvements (e.g., new semester, additional confidants). – Stylish turn-based combat with strategic depth and Persona collecting mechanics. – Memorable social simulation elements where you build relationships with confidants and manage your time between exploring dungeons and social activities. – Visually striking art style and a captivating soundtrack that complement the game’s atmosphere. |
| 19 | Octopath Traveler 2 | RPG | Square Enix | – Sequel to the beloved Octopath Traveler, featuring a new cast of characters with unique storylines and combat styles. – Retains the series’ signature beautiful pixel art style and turn-based combat system with strategic depth (e.g., break system). – Explore a vast and vibrant world filled with diverse regions and towns, each with its own culture and challenges. – Unravel the interconnected stories of the eight protagonists as their paths converge. |
25. The Talos Principle 2 (Croteam)
This sequel to the acclaimed puzzler expands upon the original formula. The Talos Principle 2 challenges your logic and perception with mind-bending challenges, introducing new mechanics like time manipulation and environmental hazards. Advanced haptic feedback from the DualSense controller creates a truly immersive experience, while the game explores philosophical themes through environmental storytelling, prompting introspection on the nature of reality.
24. Cyberpunk 2077 (CD Projekt Red)
Cyberpunk 2077 throws you into the neon-drenched dystopia of Night City. This sprawling open world RPG boasts deep character customization, comprehensive skill trees, and impactful choices that shape the narrative. A complex storyline with branching paths, side quests, and dives into the city’s underbelly keeps players engaged for extended periods. The vibrant environment, from towering skyscrapers to gritty back alleys, brings Night City to life.
23. Alan Wake 2 (Remedy Entertainment)
The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Alan Wake, this psychological thriller combines Remedy’s signature intense storytelling with atmospheric third-person action gameplay. Delve deeper into Alan Wake’s psyche as he confronts a new darkness threatening to consume reality. Expect a suspenseful narrative with mind-bending twists and turns, complemented by unsettling visuals and haunting soundscapes that create a truly immersive horror experience.
22. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth (Square Enix)
The next chapter in the reimagined Final Fantasy 7 saga, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth picks up where the remake left off. Enhanced graphics powered by the PS5 engine and refined gameplay mechanics build upon the foundation laid in the first installment. An expanded storyline delves deeper into the lore and character development, offering a fresh perspective on this beloved classic while staying true to its core identity.
21. Disco Elysium: The Final Cut (ZA/UM)
This is an RPG unlike any other. Disco Elysium: The Final Cut offers a deep narrative, rich character development, and a world unlike any other. Play as a detective with unique skills and personality traits, influencing dialogue choices and approaches to solving the central mystery. The open-ended nature allows for creative problem-solving and exploration of various avenues in the investigation. Unravel a layered story filled with dark humor, philosophical themes, and a cast of memorable characters. “The Final Cut” edition adds new content, including fully voiced dialogue and additional quests, further enriching the experience.
20. Persona 5 Royal (Atlus)
This enhanced and expanded version of the critically acclaimed Persona 5 offers a richer experience for newcomers and veterans alike. Build relationships, manage your time, and engage in stylish turn-based combat with Persona collecting mechanics. New characters, story arcs, and gameplay enhancements provide fresh content, while retaining the core elements that made the original Persona 5 so popular.
19. Octopath Traveler 2 (Square Enix)
The sequel to the beloved Octopath Traveler retains the series’ signature beautiful pixel art style and strategic turn-based combat. Embark on a captivating journey with eight unique characters, each with their own storyline, motivations, and combat style. Explore a vast and vibrant world filled with diverse regions, towns, and challenges to overcome. A worthy successor that expands upon the original’s formula with new mechanics and character interactions, while staying true to the core identity that captivated players in the first game.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 | Action-Adventure | Insomniac Games | – Dual protagonists: Play as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, each with unique combat styles and abilities. – Explore a richly detailed open world New York City with enhanced traversal mechanics using the iconic web-slinging. – New threats emerge, forcing both Spider-Men to work together and utilize their combined skills to save the city. – A compelling story that explores themes of responsibility, mentorship, and heroism. |
| 17 | Returnal | Roguelike | Housemarque | – Third-person shooter with intense, fast-paced combat that emphasizes strategic use of weaponry and movement. – Roguelike elements ensure each playthrough is unique, with procedurally generated environments and permanent character death. – Unravel a mysterious narrative as you explore a hostile alien world filled with secrets and challenging enemies. – Utilize powerful weapon upgrades and temporary stat boosts to overcome increasingly difficult encounters. |
| 16 | Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade | Action RPG | Square Enix | – Enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy 7 Remake, featuring improved visuals and frame rate. – New playable character episode featuring Yuffie Kisar with a unique storyline and combat style. – Explore additional areas of Midgar not present in the base game, expanding the world and lore. – A must-play for fans of the original Final Fantasy 7 and a great entry point for newcomers to the series. |
18. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (Insomniac Games)
The fan-favorite duo returns! Swing through New York City with both Peter Parker and Miles Morales in the highly anticipated sequel, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.
17. Returnal (Housemarque)
Gear up for an adrenaline rush! Returnal is a unique twist on shooter games. Explore a hauntingly beautiful alien world in this fast-paced roguelike by Housemarque.
16. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade (Square Enix)
Step back into a beloved classic with a whole new level of detail. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is an enhanced version of the remake, boasting improved graphics and exciting new content – a true visual and narrative treat for fans!
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut | Open-World Action-Adventure | Sucker Punch Productions | – Director’s Cut includes the original Ghost of Tsushima and the Iki Island expansion, offering a complete experience. – Explore a stunning open world inspired by feudal Japan, filled with scenic landscapes and bustling settlements. – Master the art of swordsmanship and stealth to wage war against the invading Mongol forces. – Choose your path as the Ghost: become a relentless warrior or a cunning shadow, adapting your tactics based on the situation. – Iki Island expansion offers a new chapter in Jin Sakai’s story, featuring additional challenges and a captivating narrative. |
| 14 | Dragon’s Dogma 2 | Action RPG | Capcom | – Vast open world teeming with diverse environments, enemies, and secrets to uncover. – Deep character customization system allows you to create your ideal arisen (player character) and personalize your party members (pawns). – Dynamic combat system emphasizes action-oriented battles with a variety of weapons and skills to master. – Pawns play a crucial role, offering strategic assistance and lending a unique social layer to the gameplay. |
| 13 | Demon’s Souls | Action RPG | Bluepoint Games | – Stunning remake of the original Demon’s Souls, faithfully recreating the challenging world and lore while offering modern visuals and gameplay tweaks. – Interconnected world design encourages exploration and discovery, rewarding players who persevere through the punishing difficulty. – Strategic combat requires careful planning, precise execution, and mastery of enemy patterns. – A true test for hardcore RPG fans, offering a deep and rewarding experience for those who overcome its demanding nature. |
15. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of feudal Japan. Explore a stunning open world, master the art of swordsmanship and stealth, and choose your path as the Ghost. The Director’s Cut with the Iki Island expansion offers a complete and even richer experience, making it a must-play for open-world and historical action-adventure fans.
14. Dragon’s Dogma 2
This action RPG boasts a vast open world, deep character customization, and dynamic combat. Create your ideal arisen, personalize your party members (pawns), and explore a world teeming with diverse environments, enemies, and secrets to uncover. The pawn system adds a unique social layer to the gameplay, offering strategic assistance and fostering a sense of community within the game.
13. Demon’s Souls
This challenging remake offers a true test for hardcore RPG fans. The punishing difficulty demands careful planning, precise execution, and mastery of enemy patterns. The interconnected world design rewards exploration and discovery, while the modern visuals and gameplay tweaks breathe new life into the classic experience.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | Action-Platformer | Insomniac Games | – Utilizes the PS5’s hardware to its full potential, featuring seamless transitions between dimensions and stunning visuals. – Play as both Ratchet and Rivet, a new Lombax fighter, each with unique combat styles and gadgets. – Explore diverse planets across different dimensions, each offering unique challenges and gameplay mechanics. – A wacky and humorous storyline filled with memorable characters and inventive weaponry. |
| 11 | Balatro | Action RPG | The Balancing Group | – Hidden gem that blends RPG mechanics with innovative card-based combat. – Build your deck, unleash powerful attacks, and strategically utilize your cards to overcome enemies. – Captivating story with a focus on character development and moral choices that impact the narrative. – Visually striking art style and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack set the mood for this unique adventure. |
| 10 | Final Fantasy XVI | Action RPG | Square Enix | – A return to the franchise’s roots, offering a blend of traditional RPG elements with real-time, action-oriented combat. – Explore a vast and vibrant world filled with diverse regions and lore steeped in fantasy. – Witness a captivating narrative with political intrigue, war, and memorable characters. – Stunning visuals showcase the power of the PS5 engine, bringing the world and characters to life in breathtaking detail. |
12. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart:
Experience the power of the PS5 with seamless dimensional transitions and stunning visuals. Play as both Ratchet and Rivet, explore diverse planets, and unleash wacky yet powerful weaponry in this action-packed platformer. The humorous storyline and inventive gadgets make it a joyride for players of all ages.
11. Balatro:
Don’t miss this hidden gem! Balatro offers a unique blend of RPG mechanics and card-based combat. Build your deck, strategize your attacks, and delve into a captivating story with impactful choices. The hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and striking art style further enhance this unforgettable adventure.
10. Final Fantasy XVI:
Square Enix returns with a magnificent entry in the Final Fantasy series. This action RPG blends traditional RPG elements with real-time combat, offering a dynamic and engaging experience. Explore a vast world, witness a captivating narrative, and be awestruck by the stunning visuals that showcase the power of the PS5.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales | Action-Adventure | Insomniac Games | – A thrilling follow-up to the critically acclaimed Marvel’s Spider-Man, focusing on the journey of the young hero, Miles Morales. – Master Miles’ unique venom powers and bio-electricity attacks, offering a fresh take on the web-slinging experience. – Explore a snowy New York City during the holiday season, creating a stunning and atmospheric open world. – A compelling story explores themes of legacy, responsibility, and finding your own path as a hero. |
| 8 | Horizon Forbidden West | Open-World Action RPG | Guerrilla Games | – Aloy’s story continues in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by majestic robotic creatures. – Explore a vast and diverse open world filled with vibrant ecosystems, towering ruins of the old world, and hidden secrets. – New gameplay mechanics like underwater exploration and enhanced combat options expand your arsenal. – A deeper dive into the lore of the world and Aloy’s past unravels as you face a new and mysterious threat. |
| 7 | Hades | Action RPG (Roguelike) | Supergiant Games | – Fast-paced and addictive roguelike dungeon crawler with permanent character progression between runs. – Master a variety of weapons and combat styles as you battle your way through the underworld. – Build relationships with the gods of Olympus who offer boons and aid you on your escape attempts. – A captivating narrative unfolds as you uncover the story of Zagreus, son of Hades, and his defiance against his father. |
9. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales:
Swing into action with Miles Morales! This follow-up to the original Spider-Man offers a unique perspective with Miles’ distinct powers and a fresh story set in a beautifully rendered wintery New York City. Master his venom powers and bio-electricity attacks, explore the atmospheric open world, and experience a compelling narrative about legacy and finding your own path as a hero.
8. Horizon Forbidden West:
Embark on a breathtaking journey with Aloy in Horizon Forbidden West. Explore a vast and diverse open world teeming with life, both beautiful and dangerous. Utilize new gameplay mechanics like underwater exploration and enhanced combat to face a mysterious new threat. The game delves deeper into the lore of the world while unraveling Aloy’s past, making it a must-play for fans of the first game and newcomers alike.
7. Hades:
Get hooked on the addictive gameplay loop of Hades! This fast-paced roguelike throws you into the depths of the underworld, where you battle your way out using a variety of weapons and combat styles. Build relationships with the Olympian gods, experience a captivating narrative as you uncover the story of Zagreus, and enjoy the permanent character progression that keeps you coming back for more.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | The Last Of Us Part 1 | Action-Adventure | Naughty Dog | – A stunning remake of the critically acclaimed The Last of Us, offering a complete graphical overhaul and gameplay refinements. – Experience a harrowing and emotional journey through a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger and moral dilemmas. – The powerful story of Joel and Ellie’s bond is brought to life with even greater depth and nuance through enhanced performances and visuals. – A must-play for fans of the original and a breathtaking introduction for newcomers to the series. |
| 5 | Resident Evil 4 | Survival Horror | Capcom | – Reinvigorates the classic survival horror experience with modern visuals, gameplay improvements, and an unsettling atmosphere. – Manage your resources carefully and face iconic enemies like the Ganado villagers in terrifying encounters. – Explore a sprawling and interconnected environment filled with secrets and puzzles to unravel. – A faithful recreation of the original story with a fresh coat of paint, making it a nostalgic trip for veterans and a chilling introduction for newcomers. |
| 4 | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Open-World Action RPG | CD Projekt Red | – An epic open-world RPG offering a vast and meticulously crafted world to explore, filled with diverse landscapes, settlements, and side quests. – Play as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, and delve into a gripping narrative with impactful choices and branching storylines. – Engage in thrilling sword combat, utilize powerful signs (magic abilities), and craft potions to overcome various foes. – A masterpiece of storytelling, world-building, and RPG mechanics that continues to captivate players. |
6. The Last of Us Part 1:
This stunning remake isn’t just a graphical upgrade. It’s a complete remastering that refines the gameplay while staying true to the emotional core of the original. Experience Joel and Ellie’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world in even greater depth and detail, making it a must-play for both fans and newcomers.
5. Resident Evil 4:
Relive the horror or experience it for the first time! This remake breathes new life into the classic survival horror title with stunning visuals, improved gameplay mechanics, and a hauntingly atmospheric rendition of the original story. Manage your resources carefully, face iconic enemies, and explore a sprawling environment filled with secrets and puzzles.
4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
Immerse yourself in a vast open world as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire. The Witcher 3 offers a captivating narrative, impactful choices, thrilling combat, and a meticulously crafted world brimming with details and side quests. This open-world RPG masterpiece continues to be a gold standard for the genre.
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Developer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | God of War: Ragnarok | Action-Adventure | Santa Monica Studio | – Kratos and Atreus return in a thrilling sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018). – Explore the vibrant and dangerous realms of Norse mythology, facing powerful new enemies and epic boss battles. – Witness the evolution of the father-son dynamic between Kratos and Atreus as they confront their destinies. – The refined combat system offers a satisfying blend of brutality and strategic depth. – A visually stunning and narratively captivating experience that concludes the Norse saga in epic fashion. |
| 2 | Baldur’s Gate 3 | RPG | Larian Studios | – A deep and expansive narrative-driven RPG experience based on the Dungeons & Dragons rule set. – Create your character, choose your class and race, and embark on a journey filled with memorable companions and branching storylines. – Engage in strategic turn-based combat that utilizes the environment and character abilities for tactical advantage. – High replayability with a vast amount of content to explore, different character builds to experiment with, and a strong modding community. |
| 1 | Elden Ring | Open-World Action RPG | FromSoftware | – A sprawling open world designed by Hidetaka Miyazaki (director of Dark Souls) and George R.R. Martin (author of A Song of Ice and Fire) offers unparalleled freedom and exploration. – Unravel a cryptic narrative steeped in mystery, piecing together the lore through item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and cryptic NPC dialogue. – Brutal and challenging combat system rewards patience, strategic thinking, and mastery of different weapon types and magic abilities. – An unforgettable experience that pushes the boundaries of open-world design and storytelling, leaving a lasting impression on players. |
3. God of War: Ragnarok:
The epic conclusion to the Norse saga in God of War. Witness the evolution of Kratos and Atreus’ relationship as they explore vibrant realms, face epic battles, and confront their destinies. The refined combat system and stunning visuals make it a fitting send-off for this critically acclaimed series.
2. Baldur’s Gate 3:
Dive into a deep and expansive RPG experience based on Dungeons & Dragons. Create your character, forge alliances, and explore a vast world filled with branching storylines and tactical turn-based combat. The high replayability and strong modding community ensure a near-endless journey for RPG enthusiasts.
1. Elden Ring:
The undisputed champion. A sprawling open world designed by masters of their craft offers unparalleled freedom and a hauntingly beautiful yet dangerous world to explore. Unravel a cryptic narrative, master the brutal combat, and prepare for a challenging yet rewarding experience that will leave a lasting impression.
A Journey Through Gaming Excellence
This concludes our deep dive into the Top 25 All-Time Best PS5 Games. This list highlights the sheer diversity and quality of titles available on the platform, catering to a wide range of gamer preferences. From hidden gems to genre-defining masterpieces, the PS5 library offers something for everyone.
What are your thoughts?
Do you agree with our rankings? Which PS5 games have left a lasting impression on you? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s continue the conversation about the incredible gaming experiences offered by the PS5!