Top 10 BEST PlayStation Games of All Time
#10: “Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal” (2004)
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The first two “Ratchet & Clank” games set the stage for a perfect experience the third time around. With a greater focus on exploration and platforming, this entry packs a certain punch. Its fast-paced gameplay can be a real task, as frequent enemies are thrown the protagonists’ way. But that’s what makes it so great, with a definite sense of accomplishment achieved after each successful fight sequence. The inclusion of Clank in more sections of the game provides more diversity, setting “Up Your Arsenal” apart from standard platformers. Humorous scenes in the main storyline balances its otherwise challenging atmosphere. While later entries have been entertaining, this installment remains the best “Ratchet & Clank” has to offer.
#9: “Marvel's Spider-Man 2” (2023)
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2018’s “Spider-Man” laid the foundation for Peter Parker and Miles’ team-up. With a sprawling story that includes a new spin on the villain Venom, “Spider-Man 2” surprises fans with a plot that’s as engaging as the gameplay. We dive into the duo’s lives in both their civilian and superhero personas. Swinging across the city has never been as fluid as this, as the heroes’ skills are at their peak. Combat is similar to previous entries but with huge additions that accommodate the protagonists’ diverse skill sets. Boss fights are also a massive highlight, requiring a high-risk, high-reward style to overcome. “Spider-Man 2” best depicts what being a superhero is like, from the perks that come with great power to the demands of responsibility.
#8: “Shadow of the Colossus” (2018)
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Eschewing the standard gameplay template, “Shadow of the Colossus” opts for boss battles from beginning to end. The protagonist has to bring down massive beasts in order to resurrect a girl in his care. Each colossus requires a different technique to be defeated, making it an entirely unique experience in every battle. Figuring out the weaknesses of each colossus is easier said than done. Scaling these foes requires extreme precision that tests gamers’ grit and determination. “Shadow of the Colossus” captures fans into its ambiguous backdrop, as bringing down each colossus uncovers an abstract piece of the plot. When it comes to creativity and groundbreaking level design, this PS exclusive is right at the top.
#7: “Final Fantasy VII” (1997)
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The crown jewel in Square Enix’s long-running RPG series, “Final Fantasy VII’s” legacy is forever intact. This entry established 3D visuals as the franchise’s new normal. It’s credited with appealing to a broader audience than ever before, with RPGs taking off in popularity after its release. Iconic characters like Cloud Strife, Aerith, and Sephiroth instantly connect with fans, keeping players hooked on the many hours’ worth of gameplay. Thanks to open-ended elements, players can complete playthroughs at their own pace. “Final Fantasy VII’s” overall presentation is much more accessible than most installments, as Cloud’s hero’s journey is easy to get behind. While many similar works have since been released, “Final Fantasy VII” is a game-changer that has stood the test of time.
#6: “Ghosts of Tsushima” (2020)
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Would you rather take down your enemies head on or defeat them silently? That’s how it is in “Ghosts of Tsushima,” which gives players the power of choice. The action-adventure game has an open world that can be explored at your leisure. There’s a remarkable difference between stealth-based and attacking styles. Perfecting both formats takes dozens of hours, providing the kind of replay value gamers cherish. The inclusion of a multiplayer mode boosts “Ghosts of Tsushima” further, as fans can test themselves with people around the world. Mainly, though, it’s the design of the open world that will leave you in awe. The three Tsushima regions have their own distinct feel and identities, enabling players to get lost in 13th-century Japan in all its dangerous wonders.
#5: “Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec” (2001)
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The “Gran Turismo” series has been one of the flag bearers of the PlayStation brand since the PS1. Among its celebrated history, it’s “Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec” that wowed fans most. Still the best-selling “Gran Turismo”, “A-Spec” took the world by storm upon its release. Despite a lower count of 180 selectable cars, the game featured realism unparalleled at the time. Driving in “GT 3” is like experiencing it in real life, with the simulator giving players a taste of luxurious and high-octane car rides. The variation between different tracks allows fans to hone their skills further, from the traditional race course or more challenging dirt tracks. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick spin or an all-out racing battle, “GT 3” covers all bases.
#4: “Metal Gear Solid” (1998)
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For most gamers, the stealth genre is synonymous with the “Metal Gear” series. The genre was more of an acquired taste until Solid Snake’s infiltration of FOXHOUND changed things forever. Refraining from repetitive stealth sequences, the game keeps players on their toes with intricate level design that’s as demanding as it is entertaining. We’re encouraged to use creative ways to hide and delve deeper into the base, which is punctuated by surprisingly inventive boss fights. The switch between taking it slow and tackling difficult bosses is balanced throughout the game, further complemented by its absorbing storyline. Sure, the series’ initial entries were well-received at the time, but “Metal Gear Solid” established the franchise as an all-time classic.
#3: “The Last of Us” (2013)
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This game drops us into a terrifying world with dangers around every corner. From Runners, Clickers, and Bloaters, players have to navigate Joel through the Infected to get Ellie to the Fireflies. Along the way, the characters forge a deep bond that extends beyond the screen. It’s hard to believe a zombie-filled backdrop is a setup for a moving story about a surrogate father-daughter relationship. But “The Last of Us” gets people invested and then some. Split into different seasons, the world evolves over the course of the story to bring newer and more complex challenges that reflect the protagonists' struggles. Successfully hitting emotional beats and delivering solid gameplay is always difficult. However, “The Last of Us” keeps it up all the way through.
#2: “God of War” (2018)
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Speaking of stories about family, 2018’s “God of War” changed the series’ landscape with its incredible narrative. A departure from its hack-and-slash roots, this entry places greater focus on Kratos’ relationship with his son. The over-the-shoulder perspective and perpetual camera are framing devices that take us around the Nordic world. While it’s not quite as action-heavy as earlier installments, “God of War” still goes big with a large number of enemies. Acquiring different types of abilities and utilizing Kratos’ rage gives players the tools for a hard-hitting experience. Storytelling and gameplay go hand in hand, as players feel Kratos and Atreus’ growing connection as they battle in tandem. The game breathed new life into an already acclaimed series, offering a perspective that few could have seen coming.
#1: “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” (2009)
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Epic in scope, marvelous in execution, and most of all, fun in every major aspect, “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” is the ultimate PS exclusive. It’s a stunning game that seeks to bring out the adventurous spirit in every gamer. Entertainment value is its prime quality, as the game resembles a blockbuster action movie in video game form. It helps that the story is kept light and breezy despite so much destruction in store. Nathan Drake’s search for the city of Shambhala is packed with thrills from the get-go, with fans headed for an adrenaline-pumping trek around the globe. Whether it's leaping from speeding cars, solving puzzles in Borneo, fighting on a derailing train, or facing monsters in the icy mountains of Tibet, “Uncharted 2” has it all. What’s your favorite PlayStation game of all time? Let us know in the comments down below.
