PlayStation 5 (PS5) is still considered a next-generation console, so it is hard to believe that the system came out almost five years ago, at the end of 2020. In those five years, some incredible games have been released that have been engaging, emotional, and even genre-changing. The PS5 is a powerful system, and developers have taken the time to push it to the top of its capabilities. So much so that some games, such as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, struggle to perform on PC or other devices.
It makes sense, then, that over the years, the number of fantastic games playable on the PS5 has stacked up. Although the console wars are winding down, there are still some game exclusives for Sony. They have also convinced other companies to drop exclusivity to produce physical copies for their system as well, which means there are a plethora of games across all genres available on the device. Below are 10 of the best games available right now on the PS5, either through the PlayStation Store or a physical copy.
10. Neon White – Ps5 (And Ps4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC)
Neon White is a game that does not fit into a specific box. It is a first-person shooter with a general Doom-style feel, but that is not all it is. It is a platformer as well and even manages to fit puzzles and card games in for good measure. Often, trying to do too many things at once can make you not great at anything. But in this case, Neon White is great at everything.
You play as a Neon, which is a demon character that was previously in hell. They have been allowed to go to heaven if they help clean it up and engage in a competition. The player’s goal is to be the Top Neon and keep the Neon’s spot at the pearly gates. The game is a quick, fun, incredibly unique game that you will want to play repeatedly. The game encourages replay, and the enjoyment stays with each run-through.
9. Helldivers 2 – PS5 (And PC)
Helldivers 2 is a fresh take on a classic genre. This first-person shooter takes place in space, which sounds a bit like the Halo series. However, outside of the sci-fi style of setting, the two games are very different. It is comical, entertaining, and engaging while still providing the feel of an intense pressure shootout. You need to save the galaxy in the name of democracy, which is both enjoyable and stressful.
It is not just the storyline that is hilarious, but also the provided opportunities to play around with your team. You can play solo, with friends, or online, and every experience is enjoyable. “Accidentally” order air strikes on your allies to watch their reaction. Listen to the tongue-in-cheek dialogue. Or go all out in full co-op insanity. Whatever your choice of playstyle, Helldivers 2 will always bring you back for more.
8. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – PS5 (And PC)
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 continues a legacy of well-received Spider-Man gaming crossovers, most recently the original Miles Morales games. Spider-Man 2 takes what made Miles Morales great and makes it better. What is better than one superhero? Two! What is better than New York City? A bigger New York City! The controls are smooth, allowing you to use your spiderweb skills to traverse the city with ease. Additional stealth missions help to engage the player.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 does not bring anything revolutionary to the table or try to reinvent the wheel. It simply took what it does best and built a thoroughly entertaining, enjoyable world through the lens of modern gaming capacities.
7. Tekken 8 – PS5 (And XBox Series, PC)
The Tekken franchise has been around for decades. Many may feel nostalgia at the idea of playing Tekken at the arcade, showing off to friends. However, it has received criticism lately for its lack of ingenuity and enjoyable mechanics. That changed with the newest release, with many saying it is one of the best games the series has to offer.
The game brought in new mechanics, such as the Heat system, that make the game feel more aggressive and exhilarating. Fights feel smoother, and characters feel more developed. The improved graphics help you feel more involved in your character as well. Whether you are looking for a brawl or trying to stop Kazuya from taking over the world, this game has a little something for everyone.
6. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth – PS5 (And PC)
Final Fantasy is one of the few franchises that remains largely PS5 exclusive upon release, although Square Enix says that may soon be changing. This is a shame because more gamers deserve to experience this modern take on a classic gem. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is part 2 of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. It is recommended to play part 1 before playing this entry, but it will be well worth the wait once you start.
Without giving away the plot, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth pushes the PS5’s capabilities to the max with its beautiful open world. The storyline expands on the original while maintaining the nostalgic feel. The side missions are not always the most engaging, but the game makes up for it with the main plot, beautiful setting, and slick, strategic combat that mixes action with turn-based strategy. This is a game where Square Enix is at its modern best.
5. Alan Wake 2 – PS5 (And Xbox Series, PC)
It is not often that a horror game makes the top of a list unless it is Resident Evil. Fans often find the horror genre to be repetitive, trying to draw off the success of Resident Evil. It is not often that horror games attempt new experiments and ideas. Alan Wake 2, in that regard, is a breath of fresh air. Well, as much as a horrifying, dark terror can be, anyway.
Alan Wake 2 manages to be both a psychological thriller and a horror action built into one. There is a constant feeling of fear and dread at every corner, precisely what every good horror game needs to offer players. Playing as two protagonists only adds depth to the storyline, as you watch their lives cross. Alan Wake 2 experiments with gameplay and storyline, and the result is a unique spin on a classic genre. Prepare yourself for the darkness that lies ahead.
4. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart – PS5 (And PC)
The return of Rachet & Clank comes as another PS5 exclusive (with a PC port) that takes the best the system has to offer. It is a third-person shooter platformer that truly shows off the power of the PlayStation console. Nothing about this game is overwhelming to play. It is not complex or high-stress, but it is an incredibly enjoyable experience. The humor in the game also doesn’t overpower you.
Players will continue to portal-hop with their robot animal duo, enjoying a plethora of different weapons and soaking in the beauty of the setting. Lay back and take in all the game has to offer; players will not be overly challenged by the game, so take the opportunity to pick up on all the little things. The return for the franchise is nothing short of spectacular, and the game is easily accessible for all players. The dual sense and audio allow full immersion and a fantastic gaming experience.
3. God Of War: Ragnarok – PS5 (And PS4, PC)
God of War: Ragnarok was one of the most anticipated games to come out for the PS5 during its early years. God of War is known for making incredible games, and this entry is no exception. It is evident that the developers know what their audience likes and put out a full court press to make sure it happens. As with every game on the PS5, the visuals are gorgeous, even if the world is ending.
However, it is about so much more than just visuals. Despite being a sequel to an all-time great game, God of War Ragnarok managed to exceed the sky-high expectations it had. Combat is exhilarating, and level design is thoughtful and intentional. The voice acting and performances are top-tier. The storyline is captivating and mesmerizing. The game allows you to feel the thoughts and emotions of Kratus and Atreus, the father-son protagonists. Everything a player could want in a game, God of War: Ragnarok has it.
2. Astro Bot (PS5)
I am as shocked as you are, truthfully. Never in a million years did I think Astro Bot would reach the game-of-the-year credentials it earned, let alone be one of the top PS5 games in the console’s history. After playing it, though, nearly everyone agrees. The game is simply joy, happiness, and pleasure all wrapped up in a cute robotic mascot package. PlayStation hasn’t previously had quite the success that Nintendo has with mascots, but this game may turn that thinking and genre on its head.
There is just so much to love about this game. For long-time Playstation fans, there are endless amounts of easter eggs to find. For newer fans, the smooth platforming mechanics combined with unique, enjoyable levels will draw players in for hours. Abilities are exciting to use, and players never become bored with adventuring. Almost everyone who plays the game immediately understands the hype. This is a mascot game done right.
1. Balder’s Gate 3 – PS5 (And Xbox Series, PC, Mac)
As an RPG fan, it can be easy to fall into the trap of overhyping a well-designed game. But Balder’s Gate 3 is not overhyped. It really is just that brilliant. If you have played Dungeons and Dragons before, this game will hit every note. Even if you haven’t, though, the game is still accessible to all fans. Another near-unanimous Game of the Year, Baldur’s Gate 3 will fulfill your gaming itch for dozens of hours.
The game combat is a classic tactical RPG that feels as good as it sounds. The depth of the storyline, character development, and world-building is genre-defining. There is just so much game packed in, it is almost hard to believe how the developers managed it. Players are allowed so many choices that can completely change fate; this game leaves you effortlessly dumping time into every choice and keeps you coming back again and again. Everything that makes RPGs great is mastered in Baldur’s Gate 3, and it is truly the best that PS5 has to offer.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 has had its ups and downs since its release, but it is establishing itself as a true powerhouse in the world of consoles. It has sold far better than the Xbox Series has, and some of that may be due to the games on offer. The list is not even exhaustive, as there are so many more fantastic opportunities to discover genres, developers, games, and play-styles you may never have thought of before. With more games accessible through PlayStation Plus than ever, Sony believes there is something for everyone. Given the diversity in the top games list, they may have a point.
