Top 10 Best PS5 Games of 2023

In this action RPG, players step into the shoes of the robot ‘puppet’ Pinocchio as he searches for his creator Gepetto amid a robot revolt. Players influence the game’s ultimate outcome thanks to Pinocchio’s ability to lie, which opens up multiple endings. As with other Soulslike titles, “Lies of P” is designed to be as difficult as possible. Despite the demanding learning curve, fans will find Krat an exhilarating place once accustomed to its threats. With formidable bosses and Pinocchio’s unorthodox move set to master, “Lies of P” keeps players on their toes throughout.

The first “Talos Principle” captivated players with challenging puzzles and a fascinating philosophical narrative. Released in November, this sequel is a worthy successor, packed with intriguing puzzle designs and thoughtful dialogue. Set in a future where androids populate the Earth, “The Talos Principle 2” sees protagonist 1K unlocking the secrets of a mysterious megastructure. Each environment has its own theme, keeping the game fresh. A compelling narrative and complex moral dilemmas add weight to the gameplay, with the puzzles tying into the ultimate fate of the androids.

After a somewhat lukewarm reception for “Street Fighter V,” Capcom roared back with the superior “Street Fighter 6.” While the previous installment made it easy to button mash, this entry’s revamped control system goes in the opposite direction. Combos are key, and players can execute beautifully choreographed moves during battles, with character abilities bringing a strong creative aspect to strategy. The World Tour mode also adds a new element to the series – allowing players to journey through the “Street Fighter” world. “Street Fighter 6” succeeds thanks to a simple but fun gameplay style, which enables it to deliver the kind of high-impact action that fans love.

Continuing the story of Cal Kestis from 2019’s “Fallen Order,” “Survivor” sees the fugitive Jedi Knight embarking on another thrilling adventure across the galaxy. The sequel builds on everything that made the first game great - with more expansive maps, as well as more Force abilities and five different lightsaber styles. A much larger hub world filled with NPCs gives the game a more open-world feel. It’s everything you could want from a “Star Wars” game - whether that’s fast-paced lightsaber combat, or the exploration of far-flung worlds. While the PC version suffered performance issues, the PlayStation release was a much smoother experience. Overall, “Survivor” is a standout action-adventure game, taking place in a fascinating period on the Star Wars timeline.

A decade since its last installment, the “Dead Space” series returned to form with a remake of the original game. While the general outline is the same, the remake does a better job of making protagonist Isaac Clarke a relatable hero. The environment is also more accessible in terms of exploration. Oh, and did we mention all the violence and gore that’s even scarier this time around? 2023’s “Dead Space” stays true to its horror roots, as players need constant vigilance to survive. The pulsating atmosphere and riveting combat are easy to get lost in. Thanks to the improvements in gameplay and story, both old and new fans have a fresh experience waiting aboard the terrifying USG Ishimura.

“Resident Evil” remakes have largely been well-received, and “Resident Evil 4” pushes the envelope further. Leon S. Kennedy’s mission to save the president’s daughter is upgraded with revamped gameplay, a scarier atmosphere, and deeper characterization. The remake has the hero fighting for his life at every turn, eschewing the cheesier elements from the 2005 entry. The combat has also been improved, with a surprising sense of realism; and the boss fights better highlight each villain’s particular abilities. This is just what a remake should be - keeping what made the original game great, and surpassing it in many ways.

Instead of following the usual RPG template, “Final Fantasy XVI” is a combat-heavy installment that takes a bold new direction. It’s similar in gameplay to franchises like “Devil May Cry”, with an aesthetic akin to “Game of Thrones”. Don’t expect to be sidetracked by filler quests - “Final Fantasy XVI” gets straight to business. Players take control of hero Clive Rosfield, who’s on a quest for revenge as the nations of Valisthea go to war. The darker backdrop complements the heavier emphasis on aggressive gameplay. Released over three decades since the franchise began, “Final Fantasy XVI” is just the kind of reinvention the series needed.

2010’s “Alan Wake” was a capable thriller, but devoted a fair amount of time to action sequences. Its long-awaited sequel has a slower, more suspenseful pace, fully embracing its horror themes. Split between characters Alan Wake and FBI Agent Saga Anderson, the game plunges players into a dark world of supernatural terror. With limited supplies and defenses, every encounter with enemies is teeming with danger. Meanwhile, the “Mind Place” acts as a space to solve the game’s clues. “Alan Wake 2” is among the best that the survival horror genre has to offer, placing players in a haunting environment that’s a treat to explore.

Following its critically acclaimed predecessor, “Spider-Man 2” is bigger, better, and bolder. The sequel has Peter Parker and Miles Morales as co-protagonists, fleshing out their stories side by side. As they face off against Kraven the Hunter and other villains, the Venom symbiote grants Peter new abilities - but also exerts a corrupting influence. The result is an action-packed, gripping story, and new and exciting gameplay mechanics. Miles and Peter’s unique move sets further diversify playthroughs, whether battling multiple enemies or engaging in boss fights. “Spider-Man 2” successfully builds upon the original’s established formula, delivering entertainment on a larger scale.

This might just be the most complete RPG ever created. “Baldur's Gate 3” offers a world of almost endless possibilities, giving it incredible replay value. Despite the game’s large cast, each character has distinct traits and backgrounds. Its “Dungeons & Dragons” roots come alive in a sprawling open world that runs deep with quests of all kinds. This is elevated further by the non-linear environment, where players can play any mission unburdened by the main story. Because of the multitude of classes at your disposal, each playthrough can be curated to your own preferences. Thanks to unparalleled levels of freedom, and a quality-driven style of play, “Baldur’s Gate 3” is awe-inspiring from start to finish.

Which PS5 game won you over in 2023? Let us know in the comments.