PS5 console and controller (Photo by Triyansh Gill on Unsplash)
Nearly three years after its release, the PlayStation 5 has built up a truly impressive library of games that showcase what this powerhouse console can do. From jaw-dropping graphics that blur the line between games and reality, to innovative uses of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback, these titles aren’t just fun to play – they’re experiences that define a new era of gaming. Whether you’re one of the lucky ones who snagged a PS5 at launch or you’ve just joined the party, these seven games represent the absolute pinnacle of what’s possible when talented developers harness the full potential of Sony’s latest hardware. Get ready to discover why these titles aren’t just great games – they’re system sellers that justify every penny spent on that sleek white console sitting under your TV.
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Best PS5 Games, According to Experts
1. “God of War Ragnarök”
The latest chapter in Kratos’ epic saga has proven to be nothing short of revolutionary. GameRant says “God of War Ragnarök” went toe-to-toe with “Elden Ring” at 2022’s award ceremonies, offering a more approachable combat system and impressive accessibility options that open the door for more players to experience this Norse mythology-inspired adventure.
The stellar reputation of this sequel is well-earned. Games Radar raves about how it serves as a perfect conclusion to the Norse storyline while elevating every aspect of its predecessor’s winning formula, from its brain-teasing puzzles to its refined combat mechanics. The game doesn’t just meet expectations – it shatters them.
What truly sets “Ragnarök” apart is its ability to constantly surprise and delight players throughout its massive journey across the nine realms. Push Square likes how the game manages to maintain a sense of wonder and excitement even after hours of play, describing it as an “immense experience” that represents some of PlayStation Studios‘ finest work to date, improving upon its predecessor in every conceivable way.
2. “Elden Ring” (2022)
FromSoftware’s masterpiece “Elden Ring” has become a cultural touchstone in gaming. IGN explains that its profound sense of freedom and discovery sets it apart from other open-world games, even those with larger maps or prettier graphics. The game’s meteoric success is reflected in its staggering sales figures, moving over 20.5 million copies since its March 2022 launch.
Taking the challenging DNA of the “Dark Souls” series and transplanting it into a vast open world was a bold move that paid off spectacularly. According to Tom’s Guide, the game maintains FromSoftware’s signature demanding difficulty while expanding its scope to unprecedented levels. This combination of accessibility and challenge created something truly special.
The Gamer aptly describes the game as a fusion of “Dark Souls” and “Breath of the Wild,” a combination that proved irresistible to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. This magical formula helped “Elden Ring” transcend its niche origins to become a mainstream phenomenon that transformed the gaming landscape.
3. “Horizon Forbidden West” (2022)
“Horizon Forbidden West” builds upon its predecessor’s unique vision of a post-apocalyptic America. The Gamer says protagonist Aloy’s journey to the western shores sets up an even more threatening conflict with the mechanical beings that previously brought civilization to its knees.
While some sequels can be a fail, Games Radar commends the sequel for staying true to its winning formula while deepening its storytelling, bringing more humanity and personality to its robot-dinosaur-filled world through compelling character development and engaging narrative threads. The combination of Lance Reddick and Ashly Burch’s powerful voice performances helps bring these enhanced character moments to life.
The game stands as a technical showcase for the PlayStation 5’s capabilities. It’s potentially the most visually stunning open-world game ever created, offering players impressive performance regardless of their chosen graphics settings (GameSpot).
4. “Ghost of Tsushima” (2021)
“Ghost of Tsushima” has been transformed on PS5, with its 60fps and 4K resolution upgrade making this tale of samurai Jin Sakai’s resistance against the Mongol invasion feel like it was built specifically for the new console. The game’s stunning art direction and orchestral score create an atmosphere that truly transports players to feudal Japan (GameSpot).
The director’s cut version elevates the experience even further. According to Push Square, the PS5’s DualSense controller adds an extra layer of immersion by letting players physically feel every sword clash through the controller’s haptic feedback.
For those who’ve been yearning for an authentic samurai experience, The Shortcut suggests this is the definitive answer to that wish. The game masterfully weaves an emotional narrative with precise combat mechanics to create something truly special in the gaming landscape.
5. “Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales” (2020)
Insomniac Games’ take on the Spider-Man universe continues to set the standard for superhero gaming. Tech Radar says that “Spider-Man: Miles Morales” offers a focused, standalone adventure that puts players in the shoes of Marvel’s newest wall-crawler. The game strikes a perfect balance between being both accessible and substantial.
Miles brings his own unique flavor to the franchise. According to Games Radar, his distinctive abilities, like the bioelectric venom powers, complement a story that masterfully blends emotional depth with pure escapist fun. The result is a superhero narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
IGN notes how this winter-set adventure serves as an elegant handoff from Peter Parker to his protégé. The game’s next-gen polish transforms New York City into a stunning seasonal playground that builds upon everything that made its predecessor great. The snow-covered metropolis showcases just what the PS5 can do while providing the perfect backdrop for Miles’ coming-of-age story.
6. “The Last of Us Part 1” (2022)
“The Last of Us Part 1” isn’t just a remake; it’s a love letter to one of the most celebrated games in modern history. As Trusted Reviews says, this PS5 reimagining not only updates the visuals but also aligns the story more seamlessly with the 2020 sequel. Even though it’s the second revamp of this post-apocalyptic classic, fans and newcomers alike will find it hard to resist its allure. It’s not merely about nostalgia; it’s about preserving the game’s original vision while giving it a fresh coat of polish for a new generation.
There’s no denying the enhancements this iteration brings. The developers at Naughty Dog have painstakingly rebuilt the first chapter of Ellie and Joel’s journey, delivering a version that surpasses its predecessor in every way. Whether it’s your first playthrough or your fifth, the updated mechanics and stunning graphics make the PS5 version the definitive way to experience this iconic story (GameRant).
For a balanced perspective, IGN weighs in, noting that while the necessity of this remake may spark debate, its execution leaves little to criticize. The improved character models and lifelike facial animations breathe new life into the characters, amplifying the emotional depth of the performances. For anyone diving into this franchise for the first time, this enhanced edition offers the most immersive and impactful experience yet, making it the perfect entry point to a decade-old masterpiece.
7. “Astro’s Playroom” (2020)
“Astro’s Playroom” is the delightful surprise every PS5 owner needs to experience. Tom’s Guide says that this pre-installed gem is far from just a throwaway bonus—it’s a must-play that combines vibrant visuals with addictive gameplay. Accessible for all ages, it’s the perfect introduction to the console and a reminder of how games can be both fun and effortless to enjoy.
What truly sets “Astro’s Playroom” apart, as The Shortcut points out, is its seamless integration with the PS5’s innovative DualSense controller. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers elevate the gaming experience to a new level, offering an immersion so compelling that it makes traditional controllers feel outdated. Even after years of playing, the DualSense features continue to amaze, adding a tactile layer of fun to an already charming platformer.
Tech Radar goes so far as to compare “Astro’s Playroom” to “Wii Sports,” calling it the best pack-in game since the Nintendo classic. From its stunning 4K visuals to its immersive 3D audio, the game is a showcase for everything Sony’s system can deliver. But the real star? How it uses the DualSense controller to make every jump, slide, and bounce feel tangible. This isn’t just a game—it’s a joyful, hands-on introduction to the magic of the PS5.
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