Top 25 Best PS5 Games that You Must Play

If you’ve been yearning for fresh gaming experiences, exploring the best PS5 games is an excellent way to satisfy your itch. Below, we’ve gathered our top recommendations to help you combat boredom and relish a novel gaming adventure.

The PS5 has been on the market for nearly three years, and its game library has flourished during this time. There’s now an abundance of exciting titles across various genres waiting to be explored on this platform. Whether your gaming preferences lean towards action-packed games, shooters, racing simulations, brain-teasing puzzlers, or something entirely distinct, we’ve done the groundwork to provide you with a comprehensive overview of what the latest PlayStation console offers.

25+ Best PS5 Games

So, whether you’re in search of an adrenaline-pumping shooter that pushes the boundaries of the console’s technical capabilities, a family-friendly adventure that showcases the innovative features of the DualSense controller, a visually breathtaking PS5 exclusive that immerses you in its captivating world, or any other gaming experience you desire, you’ll find it right here.

A quick heads-up: these aren’t exclusively PS5 games – if you’re looking for our best PS5 exclusives, check out our dedicated list. Instead, these are the best games you can currently enjoy on the PS5 platform as a whole. Could you keep reading for our top picks?

1. Elden Ring

Describing what makes Elden Ring such a monumental game in a concise manner is no easy task, but let’s attempt it: At its core, Elden Ring offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and exploration. While some open-world games surpass Elden Ring in terms of size, graphics, and performance, few, if any, match its depth and gratification.

The Lands Between is teeming with diverse pathways leading to catacombs, dungeons, caves, forts, castles, towers, and even entire underground cities. Within each location lies a unique challenge, ranging from treacherous crypts filled with death-defying chariot races to one of Elden Ring’s remarkable boss battles. 

What makes this even more captivating is that each challenge yields substantial rewards, which can tilt the difficulty curve in your favor. Elden Ring’s offerings, whether a new spell, summon, weapon, or material for upgrading your gear, are bountiful. 

While Elden Ring can pose a significant challenge, the freedom it grants you to navigate and overcome these challenges is liberating, making it the most universally recommended game from Software to date.

2. God of War Ragnarok

God of War Ragnarok is an excellent choice for anyone seeking their first PS5 gaming experience. It offers a highly satisfying blend of combat, puzzle-solving, and exploration, all woven into a touching narrative centered around family, adolescence, and the art of letting go. 

The combat system encourages experimentation and precision and is versatile enough that even using just a fraction of your available moves feels effective and gratifying. The game’s exceptional soundtrack enhances every aspect, from minor interactions to impactful story moments. 

The world’s awe-inspiring landscapes feel incredibly natural and teeming with life (except for Helheim), making it impossible not to pause and admire them at every turn.

The story, gameplay, soundtrack, and nearly every aspect of the game come together seamlessly to meet the high expectations for a flagship PlayStation title. While some players might find certain parts of the game’s pacing a concern, the next chapter in Kratos and Atreus’s journey brims with heart, charm, and humor. 

Combining the improvements made since God of War (2018) with its unique position among other action-adventure games, God of War: Ragnarok sets a new standard for what PlayStation exclusives can achieve on the PS5.

3. Horizon Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West takes the solid foundation laid by Horizon Zero Dawn. It builds upon it, crafting a more immersive and thrilling narrative. The game elevates the intensity of battles against intricate robotic adversaries and delivers spectacular action sequences. It also introduces vibrant settlements and intriguing side missions to enrich the game world. 

Particularly on the PS5, the Forbidden West is a visual masterpiece, with exceptional attention to detail in character faces, attire, and breathtaking landscapes. 

The game invites players to explore and discover a richly developed world, offering plenty of engaging lore. With its captivating combat, exceptional creature and character design, and expansive open world, Horizon Forbidden West is a thrilling testament to the PS5’s capabilities.

4. Ghost of Tsushima

Ghost of Tsushima marked the final major exclusive release for the PS4, taking full advantage of the console’s capabilities with its stunning visuals and smooth performance. The recent free upgrade for the PS5 elevates the richness and expressiveness of Tsushima’s lush open world. 

If you didn’t experience Ghost of Tsushima during the twilight of the PS4 era, this upgrade, supporting 60fps gameplay and 4K resolution, transforms it into a seamless PS5 gaming experience.

In the game, you step into the shoes of Jin Sakai, a samurai narrowly escaping a violent demise and embarking on a quest to repel the initial Mongol invasion of Japan. Ghost of Tsushima boasts exceptional, fluid combat mechanics and seamlessly integrated stealth elements. 

While the open-world quest structure may seem familiar, the game’s other components more than compensate for occasional repetition. Beyond the primary campaign, an unexpectedly fantastic co-op multiplayer mode called Legends adds multiple layers of enjoyment to an outstanding game.

5. Final Fantasy XVI

The most recent installment in the esteemed Final Fantasy series is exclusively available on the PlayStation 5 platform. Square Enix drew inspiration from various sources, including Game of Thrones and Devil May Cry, for this innovative addition to the franchise. It departs from the traditional Final Fantasy format by featuring a solitary main character, Clive, a skilled swordsman who finds himself thrust into the midst of freedom fighters amidst warring kingdoms vying for magical resources (crystals) and the individuals capable of harnessing their power.

In this reimagined version, Final Fantasy summons take on a new form as colossal Eikons, supernatural entities that can dramatically sway the course of battles. These Eikons are either revered or subjugated by various kingdoms. While Final Fantasy has traditionally been synonymous with groundbreaking turn-based RPG gameplay, this latest installment discards much of that identity in favor of a dynamic character-action experience that includes combos and aerial maneuvers. It represents a daring and fresh direction for the Final Fantasy series, which undoubtedly warrants exploration.

6. Diablo 4

Blizzard’s latest dungeon-crawling adventure introduces an expansive world ripe for exploration, abundant treasures to uncover, and, most importantly, an enduring foundation for limitless quests. Following a tumultuous launch, Diablo 3 enjoyed a renaissance through numerous post-release updates and introduction of two new character classes. 

While Diablo 4’s initial release may appear more modest compared to its eventual richness of Diablo 3, its core elements are exceptionally well-constructed. 

Featuring a novel character-build system that emphasizes the careful selection of archetypes and an array of five distinct character classes, Diablo 4 offers yet another captivating journey through Sanctuary. Beyond these strengths, it delves deeper into Diablo’s lore and narrative, with a notable focus on Lillith, the accursed Mother demon. 

The game’s presentation gives players an immersive front-row experience of the chilling spectacle, marking a cinematic apex for the Diablo franchise while delivering a more intimate and engaging storyline.

7. Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition

Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition, the ultimate console iteration of Capcom’s 2019 action-packed game, offers a thrilling, fast-paced experience featuring stylish combat tailor-made for a PS5 enhancement. 

This enhanced edition impresses from a technical standpoint, boasting three distinct graphics and performance options that deliver various enhancements, such as ray-tracing, stunning 4K resolution, and the ability to play at an incredibly smooth 120 frames per second. Additionally, it bundles the Vergil DLC, allowing players to step into the shoes of Dante’s enigmatic twin brother.

Furthermore, the package introduces two new gameplay modes: Turbo, which accelerates the game’s tempo, and Legendary Dark Knight, which amps up the challenge with an increased number of adversaries. In summary, the blend of technical enhancements and fresh content makes Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition a must-play, even for those who have already conquered the original on the PS4. It is one of the standout action games of recent times and boasts one of the most intricate combo systems ever seen in the genre.

8. Deathloop

Deathloop is the best PS5 exclusive to date. It is an ironic fact given its development by Arkane Lyon, a studio once under Bethesda but now owned by Microsoft. This exclusivity arrangement predates Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda, granting PS5 users access to one of the most impressive first-person shooters in recent memory. 

Deathloop unfolds its narrative on the enigmatic Blackreef island, an unusual locale where the perpetual party coexists with a relentless desire to eliminate our protagonist, Colt. 

Trapped in a time loop, the island’s only escape lies in Colt’s mission to track down and eliminate a designated list of targets. Colt and his targets retain memories from each iteration of the loop, resulting in a relentless pursuit. 

Deathloop skillfully integrates its gameplay mechanics into the time loop, gradually building a coherent and immersive experience. Additionally, it delivers a compelling storyline and features remarkable performances. In our review, it achieved a rare 10/10 rating.

9. Control: Ultimate Edition

While Control received acclaim upon its initial release in 2019, it encountered performance challenges on the PS4, particularly on the basic models. With the enhanced capabilities of the PS5, Control now delivers an exceptional gaming experience. The intricate details of particle physics truly shine when played in 4K resolution, and the overall performance is incredibly smooth. 

Moreover, the Ultimate edition of the game includes both of Control’s expansions, further enriching the storyline, filled with unexpected twists and outstanding performances.

In Control, you assume the role of Jesse Faden, who takes on the position of the new director of the Federal Bureau of Control, a covert organization dedicated to investigating supernatural occurrences. The combat system in Control is exhilarating, offering a satisfying blend of conventional third-person shooting mechanics and stylish magical abilities. 

The narrative is intellectually stimulating and, at times, mind-boggling, complemented by a pervasive sense of foreboding and a visually stunning art style. If you missed out on Control during its initial release, now is the perfect opportunity to experience it in its optimal state on the PS5.

10. Astro’s Playroom

Astro’s Playroom, a preloaded title on every PS5 console, stands out as one of the most exceptional platformers in recent memory. It possesses a unique charm and a magical quality akin to Super Mario, setting it apart among 3D platformers. What truly distinguishes Astro’s Playroom is its brilliant introduction of PS5 owners to the DualSense controller, showcasing its innovative features. 

Across its expansive world comprising more than 20 vibrant and captivating levels spread over six distinct environments, Astro’s Playroom leverages DualSense’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to fully immerse players in the gaming experience. Furthermore, it pays homage to PlayStation’s rich history. It cleverly incorporates Easter Eggs from iconic games and technology that have defined the platform over the years. 

Astro’s Playroom is undeniably a delightful platformer that would warrant its total price, making it the top choice for your initial PS5 gaming experience as you marvel at its groundbreaking innovations.

11. Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection

Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves brings the two Uncharted games initially released on the PS4 to the PS5, enhancing them with 4K visuals, optional performance modes, DualSense controller features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, and more. 

While the process was less extensive than The Last of Us Part 1’s transition to the PS5, these two action-adventure classics still shine, even with a few enhancements.

Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End continues to deliver impactful moments, epic action sequences, and plenty of smiles, providing Nathan Drake, Elena Fisher, and Victor Sullivan with a fitting farewell. 

Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, an often overlooked gem from the PS4 era, also stands strong, presenting an exciting side story set in India with beloved characters Chloe Frazer and Nadine Ross. For PS5 owners who missed out on these two outstanding games initially, this Uncharted series collection is a must-have.

12. Dead Space

EA’s renowned horror series has remained inactive since the third installment, which garnered mixed reviews. However, the remake offers a promising prospect for the revival of the trilogy. 

Dead Space reimagines the sci-fi shooter with elements of body horror, where you step into the shoes of engineer Isaac Clarke, inadvertently uncovering a sinister cult-like conspiracy. 

These beings, known as necromorphs, still bear a faint resemblance to their former human selves before undergoing a grotesque transformation into monstrous entities. The remake, if not more gruesome than the original, still preserves the classic power fantasy as you progressively become more adept at battling hordes of eerie, crawling flesh beings. 

Furthermore, for observant enthusiasts, it might pave the way for additional Dead Space content, transforming it into a remake and a complete franchise revitalization.

13. Destiny 2

Destiny 2 continues to improve with each update. The latest expansion, Witch Queen, has elevated Bungie’s online shooter to unprecedented levels in narrative and gameplay aspects.

Bungie has outlined its content roadmap for Destiny 2, which extends at least until the end of the current year. This means that there is still ample opportunity to dive into the immersive online universe.

Moreover, Destiny 2 is readily accessible for free, allowing you to experience a substantial portion of its storyline and competitive multiplayer modes without any financial commitment. Additionally, it’s worth noting that Destiny 2 truly shines in stunning 4K quality on the PlayStation 5.

14. Demon’s Souls

Demon’s Souls set the tone for this new generation of gaming by showcasing the impressive capabilities of the PS5. Bluepoint Games, known for their stunning remake of Shadow of the Colossus, worked their magic again on the 2009 action RPG that marked the beginning of the beloved Souls series. 

It should be noted that remaking a game with such a dedicated fanbase carries inherent risks. Still, Bluepoint managed to stay true to the original while giving it a substantial visual and overall presentation overhaul. 

The result is an already excellent game elevated to even greater heights. The eerie atmosphere and lurking dangers of Demon’s Souls are now more palpable than ever, thanks to the astonishing detail showcased in this remake.

15. Gran Turismo 7

Gran Turismo 7 stands out as the premier racing game on the PlayStation 5 at the moment, and this should come as no surprise given the franchise’s illustrious history. Witnessing the iconic Gran Turismo brand returning to its roots is genuinely refreshing. 

It may be difficult to believe, but it has been over eight years since Gran Turismo 6 hit the market. GT 7 marks a remarkable transition into a new and visually stunning era, thanks to the incredible power of the PS5’s hardware.

Gran Turismo 7 impresses with its exceptional car handling, a diverse range of single-player content, and an abundance of customization options bound to delight car enthusiasts. 

Boasting a roster of more than 30 tracks and 400 cars at launch, Gran Turismo 7 offers a wealth of experiences for players. If you’re in the market for a racing game on the PS5, Gran Turismo 7 is your top choice.

16. It Takes Two

Hazelight Studios, known for their previous cooperative game “A Way Out,” has delivered a significantly more successful effort with “It Takes Two.” Controlling the characters feels integral rather than an afterthought in this delightful and experimental platformer. The game unfolds in a fantastical world born from a young girl’s imagination during her parents’ heart-wrenching divorce. 

Mom and Dad are compelled to collaborate as they rekindle their love, primarily by solving puzzles and overcoming jumping challenges. “It Takes Two” consistently delivers humor and showcases inventive concepts in nearly every aspect, highlighting the studio’s deep understanding of its strengths and the areas where previous games fell short. 

Despite director Josef Fares’ penchant for outspoken and sometimes crude remarks, he remains a genuine creative force. While the Oscars may have overlooked him, the video game industry certainly hasn’t, and it’s challenging to envision how he could surpass “It Takes Two” with his next project.

17. Yakuza: Like a Dragon

The PS5 edition of Yakuza: Like a Dragon was released several months after the initial launch, but it matches the quality of the Xbox Series X version in every aspect. It offers the choice between native 4K resolution and a smooth 60fps experience, with only a slight reduction in solution for the latter option. 

Yakuza: Like a Dragon represents a significant departure from the traditional Sega series, marked by a charismatic new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and an innovative turn-based combat system. 

Nevertheless, it retains all the charming idiosyncrasies that have defined the Yakuza franchise, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both long-time enthusiasts and newcomers. In addition to its compelling main storyline, Like a Dragon boasts an abundance of captivating side content, enriching the exploration of its fascinating world. It’s important to note that while the PS4 version allows a free upgrade to the PS5, saved data cannot be transferred between the two versions.

18. Returnal

Returnal is only a game suitable for some. It presents an extreme difficulty level, and its roguelike structure can initially overwhelm players. However, those who persevere will discover one of Housemarque’s finest games. 

It combines the qualities of a AAA-level third-person shooter with an arcade-style approach, preserving the essence of Housemarque’s earlier, more compact titles like Nex Machina and Resogun. This involves skillful evasion of enemy projectiles and mastering their attack patterns.

Yet, what sets Returnal apart is its unexpectedly intricate narrative, which revolves around an astronaut named Selene and her perpetual entanglement with a seemingly inescapable planet, even in the face of death. Finding shortcuts and a sprinkle of luck can ease the journey through the game’s six distinct biomes. 

Furthermore, including tidbits of exposition and world-building ensures that even failed attempts hold value. This is crucial, as you will likely encounter numerous setbacks before concluding.

19. Street Fighter 6

Street Fighter 5 generated mixed reactions within the long-established fighting game series. Still, Capcom aimed to reboot the franchise with Street Fighter 6. Their efforts have paid off, as the latest installment receives widespread acclaim. It’s hailed as an outstanding addition for experienced fighting game enthusiasts and an ideal entry point for newcomers looking to break into the scene. 

One notable improvement is the refined combo system, which not only aids newcomers in executing intricate moves but also teaches them the underlying strategy of when and why to use them.

One of the most remarkable changes is the introducing of the new World Tour mode. This mode allows players to create a customized fighter with a unique combination of techniques learned from renowned Street Fighter characters such as Ken and Chun-Li. 

Furthermore, the roster boasts a diverse and imaginative selection of new characters alongside familiar faces like Blanka and Dhalsim. All these elements come together to deliver the most impressive Street Fighter experience in recent memory.

20. Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 4 is a third-person action game with an enduring mark on the gaming landscape. It played a pivotal role in establishing new industry standards, and Capcom’s decision to remake this iconic title was undoubtedly weighty. However, the studio executed this endeavor with remarkable skill, rising to meet the understandably lofty expectations.

The Resident Evil 4 remake transcends being merely a visual upgrade from the original. Instead, it deliberately reimagines the game’s most exceptional elements while revamping those aspects that could have been better. The outcome is a game that maintains its familiar essence yet exudes a newfound vitality, paying homage to its outstanding predecessor while seamlessly blending it with contemporary sensibilities.

21. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, an exclusive title for the PS5, offers an exhilarating and fresh adventure within the action-platforming series. It delivers a remarkable experience when played on next-generation hardware. This installment introduces a charming new character named Rivet, who joins forces with the beloved duo after being transported to an alternate dimension. 

With its stunning visuals, immersive utilization of the DualSense controller’s capabilities, and innovative traversal tools that enhance both platforming and combat, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart stands out as one of the initial games that truly embodies the essence of “next-gen,” making it an essential play for all PS5 enthusiasts.

22. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

By now, The Witcher 3 is a household name, widely recognized as one of the standout RPGs from the previous gaming generation. This game played a pivotal role in establishing CD Projekt Red as a leading game development studio on a global scale. While critics praised The Witcher 3 for its exceptional visuals, captivating storytelling, and engaging gameplay, its technical performance left much to be desired. 

However, the recently released Complete Edition, bolstered by a plethora of next-gen updates, effectively addresses most, if not all, of the technical shortcomings that plagued the original release. With a silky-smooth frame rate, stunning 4K textures, and many other improvements, The Witcher 3 on the PS5 is now the definitive rendition of one of the greatest RPGs ever crafted.

23. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

While not a complete sequel, this standalone expansion takes Peter Parker on vacation, entrusting New York to his young spider-apprentice, Miles Morales. Expanding upon the strong foundation established by Insomniac’s initial game, New York is now adorned with a stunning layer of snow and holiday spirit, enhanced by next-gen technology.

However, these enhancements go beyond mere aesthetics. The titular hero boasts a set of additional spider-powers compared to Peter Parker, cleverly integrated into new gameplay mechanics. 

While they don’t revolutionize the core experience, they infuse enough novelty to keep it feeling fresh – occasionally quite literally, thanks to the DualSense controller. While it may not feature as extensive a campaign or as many vibrant villains as the 2018 Spider-Man game, Miles Morales’ narrative carries just as much charm and heart as its predecessor, if not more. Despite the high bar set by its tagline, “Be Greater,” Miles Morales effortlessly surpasses it.

For those enjoying Miles Morales but have yet to notice or wish to revisit the previous installment, the ultimate edition is a must. It includes Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered, which we previously highlighted as a standalone game due to its exceptional quality as a port. 

However, in light of our desire to showcase a broader range of games on the PS5 and its availability exclusively as part of Miles’ special edition, we have decided to pair it with our current recommendation.

24. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination represents the culmination of IO Interactive’s remarkable stealth trilogy. Spanning 20 diverse locations around the world, Agent 47 embarks on his most significant and intricate missions to date. From the high-fashion runways of Paris to the adrenaline-pumping race tracks of Miami and the pulsating rave scenes of Berlin, this journey showcases the pinnacle of IO’s gameplay formula. 

Your targets can meet their demise through ruthless efficiency or be subjected to a chain of events akin to a Rube Goldberg machine, resulting in a comically absurd death or, in cases of misfortune, a Wile E. Coyote-level failure. Each mission is brimming with opportunities and inventive methods of elimination, ensuring that even after multiple playthroughs, numerous secrets remain concealed. In essence, it’s a treasure trove of mayhem and mischief.

Originally released as a trilogy of games, World of Assassination finds its true potential on the PS5. The missions from the first two games have received a modern facelift, ensuring a cohesive gaming experience. Additionally, introducing “Freelancer,” a roguelike game mode, pushes your stealth skills to their limits. 

Regardless of the mode chosen, the sheer delight of eliminating a target by causing them to slip on a banana peel remains a source of humor. On the PS5, this amusement is accompanied by enhanced resolution, a steady 60 frames per second, and a smoother gameplay experience compared to the previous generation version.

25. Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Sackboy: A Big Adventure offers a unique blend of novelty and familiarity. It introduces a significant departure from the usual freeform customization seen in the Little Big Planet series, embracing a linear platforming structure reminiscent of the iconic Mario games that served as an inspiration. 

This platformer exudes charm and joy, from imaginative levels to genuinely remarkable music. Its multiplayer mode enhances the experience, making it an even more enjoyable experience when shared with friends. In the realm of PlayStation 5 games, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a rare gem. Its sheer fun factor sets it apart from the crowd, making it an essential play for all fans of platformers.

These are the best PS5 games that you can find out more about. Hopefully, they can help! Want to get the most out of the game? You can Top Up Gaming only at UniPin!