25 Must-Play PlayStation 5 Games You Can’t Afford to Miss in 2024
The 25 Best PlayStation 5 Games You Shouldn’t Miss
If you just got your hands on a PlayStation 5 or are looking for fresh titles to dive into, this list of the 25 best PS5 games has you covered. From gripping horror to sprawling RPGs and mind-bending puzzles, there’s something here for every type of gamer. Plus, remember that PS5 supports backward compatibility with PS4 games, so those gems from the previous generation still shine.
- Highlights of standout PS5 exclusives and cross-platform hits
- Variety of genres including horror, RPG, platformers, and racing
- Updates with new must-plays like Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
- Insights into game mechanics, story, and technical innovations
Alan Wake 2: A Horror Masterpiece Reborn
Remedy Entertainment returns to the eerie world of Alan Wake with a survival horror sequel that blends detective thriller vibes with cosmic terror. You’ll switch between Alan and FBI agent Saga Anderson, unraveling mysteries tied to Alan’s disappearance. It’s a fresh yet deeply atmospheric experience that sets a new bar for horror on PS5. “Alan Wake 2 announces the start of a new generation of blockbuster horror gaming.” —Oli Welsh
Animal Well: A Mystical Puzzle Adventure
If you love games that challenge your mind and imagination, Animal Well is a must-play. Compared to the indie classic Fez, this game’s 2D platforming and cryptic puzzles unfold in a glowing, ghostly forest inhabited by surreal creatures. It’s a beautiful and mysterious journey that rewards careful exploration and note-taking.
Astro Bot: The Best Platformer on PS5?
Team Asobi’s Astro Bot is a dazzling platformer that perfectly showcases the PS5’s tech, including the DualSense controller’s haptics. This charming game celebrates PlayStation’s 30th anniversary with inventive levels, hilarious bosses, and a heartfelt tribute to Japan Studio’s legacy. It’s pure joy from start to finish.
Baldur’s Gate 3: Epic RPG Adventure
Larian Studios brings the beloved Dungeons & Dragons tabletop experience to PS5 with stunning storytelling, deep character customization, and even split-screen co-op. It’s one of the best RPGs ever made, perfect for fans of fantasy and strategic gameplay.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Hideo Kojima’s latest is as strange and lavish as the original but more accessible, with improved gameplay variety and a more character-driven story. The post-apocalyptic world remains hauntingly unique, blending exploration with eerie supernatural elements.
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
After a rocky start, Cyberpunk 2077 on PS5 is now a visually stunning, gameplay-rich RPG. The Phantom Liberty expansion adds a gripping new storyline and gameplay tweaks, making it a must-play for fans of futuristic dystopias and action-packed narratives.
God of War Ragnarök: A Cinematic Blockbuster
Santa Monica Studio delivers a cinematic, action-packed journey with Kratos and his family, blending Norse mythology with satisfying combat and RPG-lite progression. It’s a polished, emotional ride that’s easy to jump into yet deep enough to keep you hooked.
Gran Turismo 7: The Racing Nerd’s Dream
Polyphony Digital’s latest racing sim shines with photorealistic visuals, authentic driving physics, and a charming single-player Café mode that guides you through an impressive car collection. Despite some grindy moments, it remains one of the most satisfying racing games on PS5.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: Swing Into Action
Insomniac Games’ sequel is confident and slick, offering fluid web-swinging, engaging combat, and a bustling New York City. It boldly tackles the symbiote saga with unforgettable set-pieces, making it one of the most entertaining PS5 exclusives so far.
Street Fighter 6: Fighting Game Revolution
Capcom’s latest fighting game is both deep and accessible, featuring a rich roster, multiple control schemes, and a World Tour campaign that eases new players in. It’s a vibrant, characterful, and welcoming entry that redefines what a fighting game can be.
Other Noteworthy Titles
– Elden Ring: Open-world action-RPG with immense scale and challenge.
– Final Fantasy 14: The MMORPG that rose from failure to become a genre titan.
– Forza Horizon 5: Stunning open-world racing now on PS5.
– Hades: Roguelike dungeon crawler with sharp storytelling and addictive combat.
– Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart: Next-gen platforming with jaw-dropping visuals and fun weapons.
– Resident Evil 4: Classic horror game with a polished modern remake.
– Returnal: Roguelike shooter that makes full use of DualSense’s features.
– Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth: Huge, emotional, and hilarious turn-based RPG set in Hawaii.
– Metaphor: ReFantazio: Anime-style fantasy RPG with fast-paced combat and deep world-building.
– Monster Hunter Wilds: The most polished and spectacular Monster Hunter yet.
– Helldivers 2: Cooperative, tactical third-person shooter with a satirical twist.
– Lego Horizon Adventures: Family-friendly co-op adventure with a fresh take on Horizon and Lego games.
– Disco Elysium: The Final Cut: Unique RPG with deep detective storytelling and complex character development.
– Tetris Effect: Connected: A mesmerizing audiovisual puzzle experience.
Each of these games brings something special to the PS5 lineup, whether it’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, or compelling stories. So whatever your gaming style, your next favorite PS5 adventure is just a download away.
For more detailed reviews and updates, check out these full reviews and impressions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C3l7KqWc7k
https://twitter.com/PlayStation/status/1682803845143677952
Watch Helldivers 2 gameplay clip
