The PlayStation 4 sits comfortably atop the throne as one of the last generation’s best consoles. It’s the bestselling platform of the lot, with its early success being pinned mostly to its solid exclusive titles and aggressively timed DLC deals in the face of the competition. As of 2022, the PS4 has shipped more than 117 million units worldwide.
Things have evened out in recent years when it comes to exclusives, but throughout the generation, Sony’s wedge of a machine has built up a healthy catalog of games across every conceivable genre. Its successor, the PlayStation 5, is backward-compatible with nearly every PS4 game, meaning you’ll likely find yourself coming back to games from the previous generation on your new machine. There is a cluster of PS5 games that won’t ever be coming to PS4 though.
Either way, here is our definitive list of the best PS4 games.
God of War Ragnarök
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
SIE Santa Monica Studio
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
November 09, 2022
God of War Ragnarok may be positioned as a big PlayStation 5 game, but that doesn’t mean you can’t run it on PS4. In fact, quite the contrary. The sequel to 2018’s critically acclaimed God of War feels like it was built with Sony’s last console in mind first. It looks a bit cleaner, but largely uses some of the first game’s tech tricks to hide loading in clever ways. That means that God of War Ragnarok is one of the most high-end PS4 games you can grab right now, so there’s no need to wait for a PS5 to grab it.
Read our full God of War Ragnarök review
Elden Ring
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG)
Developer
FromSoftware
Publisher
Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release
February 25, 2022
To call Elden Ring “remarkable” is an understatement. It truly is one of the greatest RPGs of all time and is assuredly FromSoftware’s best game to date. Taking inspiration from the Dark Souls games, Elden Ring sends players to a massive open world that feels like a natural evolution for the series while still remaining fresh. The main draw is that you can tackle most of the game in whichever order you’d like, meaning your playthrough will likely look different from another player’s. Beyond that, there’s a satisfying sense of discovery throughout, as almost every new area has something noteworthy to uncover, whether it be a formidable new enemy or a useful item. Even if you didn’t gravitate toward the Souls games, Elden Ring might be enough to draw you in, if for nothing else than its incredible open world.
Read our full Elden Ring review
Resident Evil 4
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Puzzle, Adventure
Developer
Capcom Development Division 1
Publisher
Capcom
Release
March 24, 2023
Capcom’s comprehensive remake of Resident Evil 4 is stellar and the way the rest of the industry should approach remakes. Remaking a game that is so beloved and highly influential was a major risk, but Capcom was able to pull it off. It not only lovingly recreates iconic moments from the original, but actively improves the experience by enhancing the gameplay with features like a knife parry and recontextualizing some of its classic plot beats and set pieces.
Read our full Resident Evil 4 review
The Last of Us Remastered
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Naughty Dog
Publisher
Sony Computer Entertainment
Release
July 29, 2014
Serving as an enhanced version of arguably the PS3’s best game, The Last of Us Remastered tells the harrowing tale of survival following an outbreak. It’s easily one of the greatest zombie games ever made due in part to its fantastic storytelling, wonderful performances and writing, and satisfying stealth action gameplay. It also has one of the most gutwrenching openings ever made, rivaling some of the best films out there. This version includes better visuals, performance, and the Left Behind DLC, coming together as a dense package full of things to do. We recommend playing the PS5 remake of this game if possible, but otherwise, the PS4 remaster is still worth playing.
Read our full The Last of Us Remastered review
The Callisto Protocol
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Striking Distance Studios
Publisher
Krafton
Release
December 02, 2022
The Callisto Protocol is much more than a spiritual successor to 2008’s Dead Space. The story centers around Jacob Lee, a space freighter pilot tasked with transporting mysterious cargo between planets. After a sudden crash landing on the planet Callisto, home to the dreaded Black Iron Prison, Jacob is arrested without explanation and tossed into a cell. Untold horrors await you in thids third-person horror adventure.
Forspoken
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Luminous Productions
Publisher
Square Enix
Release
January 24, 2023
Forspoken game follows a girl named Frey who is transported to the magical world of Athia and must save it from an annihilation wave called the Break. Although the story isn’t great, running around its open world and fighting enemies is enjoyable, thanks to Frey’s magical abilities. Few games incorporate magic as deeply into their game design as Forspoken does.
Read our full Forspoken review
Like a Dragon: Ishin!
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Ryū Ga Gotoku Studios
Publisher
Sega
Release
February 21, 2023
Previously unreleased in the West, Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a solid remaster of an older title in the series formerly known as Yakuza. Set in Japan during a period of great political strife, Like a Dragon: Ishin retains the narrative strengths that this series is known for. Gameplay feels a bit more dated but will be familiar to those who’ve played the action games in this series.
Read our full Like a Dragon: Ishin! review
Overwatch 2
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher
Blizzard Entertainment
Release
October 04, 2022
Overwatch 2 does a lot to differentiate itself from its predecessor, adding lots of quality-of-life improvements, while preserving the core gameplay that makes the hero shooter so much fun. In this entry, there are 35 heroes to choose from, each with their own unique playstyles and abilities. Since Overwatch 2 is free-to-play, it’s far more approachable than its predecessor, allowing more players to give it a try. But above all else, its gameplay is unmatched, with fast, fluid movement and satisfying action that never gets old. And with Blizzard’s commitment to improving this game over time, the future of Overwatch is bright.
Shovel Knight
E
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Mac, Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Yacht Club Games
Publisher
Yacht Club Games
Release
June 26, 2014
Developer Yacht Club Games knows exactly what its audience wants, as evidenced by the immaculate Shovel Knight. This modern 2D action platformer pays homage to classic NES games while implementing modernizations that make it feel much better than its inspirations. Its gameplay is tough, but once you figure out how to overcome its challenges, Shovel Knight is easily one of the most satisfying action games out there, offering fun boss battles and lots of things to unlock. Plus, its music is incredible, keeping you immersed in the action throughout.
Stray
E10
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Adventure, Indie
Developer
BlueTwelve Studio
Publisher
Annapurna Interactive
Release
July 19, 2022
Kicking off our list is the cat game everyone is talking about. That’s right, in Stray, you play as a feline tasked with escaping a desolate, cyberpunk city, while freeing a group of trapped robots in the process. While this game is a cat lover’s dream, it’s great for all players, partially because it’s so approachable. The main focus in Stray isn’t to stump you, but rather, to take you on a memorable journey, with light action, platforming, and puzzles sprinkled throughout. Its art is gorgeous, the music is fantastic, and its story will probably make you cry.
Horizon Forbidden West
T
Platforms
PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Guerrilla Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
February 18, 2022
It probably was no easy feat to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, but Horizon Forbidden West surpasses it with flying colors. Of course, it preserves a lot from the original, such as its fantastic combat, exploration, and characters, and improves upon them. For instance, the new glider mechanic allows players to safely travel from high cliffs to reach areas quickly. In addition, the game somehow looks even more visually impressive than Horizon Zero Dawn. Arguably the coolest thing about these games is their creature design, comprised of mechanical dinosaurs. See, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill post-apocalyptic game. Instead, it features a healthy blend of futuristic and almost prehistoric settings, giving it a unique identity. In short, Forbidden West is everything we could have wished for with a sequel, and we can’t wait to see what Guerrilla Games does next.
Read our full Horizon Forbidden West review
Ratchet & Clank
E10
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Shooter, Platform, Adventure
Developer
Insomniac Games
Publisher
Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. (SCEI)
Release
April 12, 2016
Prior to 2014, the Ratchet & Clank series faced oversaturation, with constant entries that fluctuated in quality. None were necessarily bad, but the series needed a break. That’s why it was so exciting to get a reboot in 2016, simply called Ratchet & Clank. This was a loose remake of the first entry but for PS4, meaning it was able to incorporate better visuals and gameplay enhancements. One mechanic that’s better than ever is the gunplay, which feels fluid, heavy, and explosive at the same time. There are so many weapons to choose from, offering plenty of variety and bombastic gameplay to keep things interesting. The story has also been slightly altered from the original, which incentivizes series veterans to give this one a try, along with newcomers. Its sequel, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, is also excellent, but it’s exclusive to PS5.
Batman: Arkham Knight
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Rocksteady Studios
Publisher
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release
June 23, 2015
Even though Batman: Arkham Knight is the weakest of the Arkham trilogy, it’s still a fantastic game. The way it refines the beloved combat from the previous games is impressive, with plenty of gadgets to throw into each combo. It also has a fascinating story full of twists — most of which are genuine surprises. No superhero game feels as good as this one, at least when it comes to the action combat. Another incredible thing this game does is pay homage to previous Batman iterations, offering plenty of costumes and Batmobile designs from the 1960s to today. The themes are dark and gritty, giving the characters much more weight, with grounded realism at the forefront. This is an essential Batman game, especially if you enjoyed Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, as it ties up the story nicely. One thing players didn’t love about this game is the inclusion of the Batmobile sections, which are overdone, but they aren’t so bad. If you can overlook those sections, you’ll have a great time with Arkham Knight.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
FromSoftware
Publisher
Activision
Release
March 22, 2019
The Dark Souls formula got a healthy dose of speed and horror when Bloodborne released in 2015, and FromSoftware has managed to make things even more extreme in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Set in Sengoku-era Japan rather than a wholly original world, the game is nonetheless filled with magic and monsters ready to kill you at a moment’s notice. No enemy is too weak to deserve your attention, and many are formidable in one-on-one fights. The real meat of Sekiro, however, are the boss fights. They play out like choreographed dances, requiring you to learn a boss’s every move before you’re ready to go in for the kill. With the Posture system becoming more important in most fights than a standard health bar, you need to stay aggressive, but getting greedy will result in a swift death.
Read our full Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice review
Devil May Cry 5
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Release
March 07, 2019
Devil May Cry 5 is a sequel to a game released over a decade ago, but you wouldn’t know that from playing it. The flashy combat is brought to life with the power of the impressive RE Engine – also used for Resident Evil 2 – and with three protagonists using very different combat styles, you never do the same thing twice in Devil May Cry 5. Nero and Dante both make their return alongside the mysterious V, who makes use of demons to do his fighting for him. Regardless of who you’re controlling, Devil May Cry 5 is an over-the-top adrenaline rush, with plenty of humor and ridiculous weapons that should please longtime fans.
Bloodborne
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
FromSoftware
Publisher
Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. (SCEI)
Release
March 24, 2015
Bloodborne is not for the faint of heart. This action-RPG adventure, a spiritual successor to Hidetaka Miyazaki‘s Dark Souls series, takes the challenging combat and methodical boss encounters of the aforementioned games but speeds up the gameplay for a more frenetic and tense experience. A dark, gothic setting and Lovecraftian story provide a bleak backdrop for the white-knuckle gameplay. As a Hunter, you’ll make your way through the city of Yharnam, where a strange curse has begun turning locals into mindless beasts. While not technically a horror game, Bloodborne’s setting and high-stakes combat are uniquely terrifying. Be sure to stay alert because the world of Bloodborne is full of unforgiving monsters and traps around every corner, making it one of the best PS4 games to date.
Read our full Bloodborne review
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Genre
Shooter, Tactical, Adventure
Developer
Kojima Productions
Publisher
Konami
Release
September 01, 2015
From the mind of designer Hideo Kojima comes Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, the fifth (and ostensibly final) entry in the long-running stealth espionage series. The goofy and over-the-top tone the series is known for has been downplayed, and this installment instead delivers a far grittier and more reined-in narrative that follows Venom Snake (Big Boss) as he works to re-establish his mercenary army in his war against the shadowy Cipher. Metal Gear Solid V is one of the best PS4 games available and has garnered near-universal acclaim thanks to its meticulously designed gameplay, which allows players to complete missions in virtually limitless ways while recruiting and building a mercenary army. Kiefer Sutherland lends his voice as Big Boss in what might be the best stealth-action game of all time.
Read our full Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain review
Grand Theft Auto V
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Rockstar North
Publisher
Rockstar Games, Take-Two Interactive
Release
September 17, 2013
Don’t mistake the PS4 version of Grand Theft Auto V — Rockstar’s extraordinary open-world opus — for a mere cash-grabbing re-release. The next-gen version of the already impressive game blows the original out of the water, even if the storyline and locales are identical. Rockstar’s unique additions, such as the first-person mode, allow the title to stand out from the crowd, bolstering it more than the updated visuals and expanded heists ever could. The re-release also allows for larger online matches, adds several songs to in-game radio stations, and even allows PlayStation 3 players to upload their previous characters. Couple all this with some of the finest writing and voice acting of any video game to date, and you have a title that’s the cream of the next-gen crop. There’s a reason that Grand Theft Auto is the most successful entertainment product in history.
Read our full Grand Theft Auto V review
Red Dead Redemption 2
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Rockstar Games
Publisher
Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar Games
Release
October 26, 2018
Rockstar’s Red Dead Redemption 2 is the result of decades of development experience, delivering one of the strongest stories we’ve seen from the studio despite often being limited to characters we already know from the original game. Over its long, slow-burn tale, we are shown the heartache and pain that came with the end of the Wild West era, and protagonist Arthur Morgan’s gruff-but-nurturing personality makes him the perfect star during this transition. If you don’t care about dialogue, however, Red Dead Redemption 2 is just an absolute joy to play. Exploring the open world almost always results in finding something you haven’t seen before, whether it be a new species of animal to hunt or a bizarre murder scene to investigate. Getting lost in the Wild West is easy, so we don’t ever want to leave.
Read our full Red Dead Redemption 2 review
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Adventure
Developer
Respawn Entertainment
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Release
November 15, 2019
Respawn Entertainment is known for first-person shooters like Titanfall 2 and Apex Legends, so we weren’t sure what to expect when the studio announced it was making Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, a third-person Jedi-focused Star Wars action game. The end result, as it turns out, is actually pretty solid, combining elements from other contemporary action-adventure games while injecting just enough Star Wars magic. Set after Order 66 destroyed most of the Jedi, Fallen Order stars a former Padawan who must race to protect a powerful object containing important information valued by both the Rebels and the Empire. The game never lets up from its opening moments to the final credits, and it’s filled with all the Force powers and acrobatic moves you could want a Jedi to use.
God of War
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
SIE Santa Monica Studio
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
April 20, 2018
The original three God of War games, as well as the prequel God of War: Ascension, are violent, over-the-top, often ridiculous games that center on anti-hero Kratos and his struggle against the gods and monsters of Greek mythology. After so many games, the formula had grown stale, so developer Sony Santa Monica went back to the drawing board for its 2018 reboot/sequel, simply titled God of War. The result? A more grounded and intimate adventure that breaks down Kratos’ character and turns him into a more relatable hero. The combat has also been altered drastically, focusing more on strategy than blind button-mashing, and the new two-person encounters with Kratos’ son Atreus guarantee each fight still feels fresh. Somewhat surprisingly, the game eschews the linear structure of the previous games for the more open-ended Metroidvania-style we’ve seen become so popular in action-role-playing games this generation. It isn’t exactly a fully open-world game, but God of War provides you with plenty of optional areas and secrets to find. God of War is one of the most visually impressive games to hit the PlayStation 4 to date, so you’re going to want to take some time and just look around and take in the developers’ interpretation of Norse mythology.
Read our full God of War review
Uncharted: The Lost Legacy
T
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Naughty Dog
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
August 22, 2017
Naughty Dog is one of the most talented game studios on the planet, and the developer certainly showed that with the Uncharted series. Following treasure-hunting adventurer Nathan Drake in all but 2017’s Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, the series riffs on the Indiana Jones format, but with an added dose of sarcasm and adrenaline that truly makes it feel like you’re playing a movie. Over the course of the four main games — the first three are bundled in The Nathan Drake Collection — Drake and partner Sully travel across the globe in search of riches, and they always seem to run into trouble along the way. That leads to plenty of shootouts and skin-of-your-teeth escape sequences, which often offer spectacle rarely seen elsewhere in video games. If you want to try out online play instead, Uncharted 4’s competitive multiplayer is surprisingly engaging, even managing to pack in some of the campaign’s humor.
Read our full Uncharted: The Lost Legacy review
Marvel's Spider-Man
T
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Insomniac Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
September 07, 2018
Swinging from skyscraper to skyscraper through a living, breathing New York metropolis is just one of the things that Marvel’s Spiderman does incredibly well. Though the main story is only an estimated 20 hours long, there’s plenty for players to see and do beyond just that. From unlocking really cool Spidey suits and gadgets to taking out your camera and capturing some of the city’s best landmarks, it’s really hard not to feel like the real Spider-Man when playing this game. Critics have even gone on to say that Marvel’s Spider-Man is the best superhero video game of its time (surpassing that of Batman: Arkham Asylum), and we hope that this means we’ll get more games in other superhero universes just like it.
Read our full Marvel's Spider-Man review
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
T
Platforms
PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Insomniac Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
November 12, 2020
Serving as the follow-up to Marvel’s Spider-Man but not quite a fully-fledged sequel, Miles Morales sends you on a journey as the new Spider-Man in town. While Peter Parker is away, Miles Morales is tasked with protecting New York City — particularly Harlem. This game is much shorter but is arguably just as (if not more) full of heart as the first entry. Miles has different powers from the original Spider-Man, such as his Venom attacks and the ability to turn invisible — making this feel like a breath of fresh air compared to the first game. But above all else, Miles Morales is a timely experience, leaning into a cast of characters mostly comprised of people of color. As Miles is Afro-Latino, the game focuses on Black and Hispanic culture in a smart, genuine, and tasteful way — and developer Insomniac Games deserves praise for nailing this aspect.
The Last of Us Part II
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Naughty Dog
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
June 19, 2020
The release of The Last of Us Part II was uncertain at the beginning of the year. Although the game was hyped up and players were anticipating its release, the Coronavirus pandemic forced Naughty Dog to push the release date. However, the delay wasn’t too long, and the wait was well worth it. The Last of Us Part II followed Ellie and Joel five years after their initial journey. But a violent event ends up disrupting the peace in their community of survivors, forcing Ellie to embark on a relentless journey for justice and closure. Every choice in this game has a consequence, which makes it more involved than other action-adventure games. These consequences shift the game towards a darker, less forgiving tone throughout.
Read our full The Last of Us Part II review
Mortal Kombat 11
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Fighting
Developer
NetherRealm Studios
Publisher
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release
April 22, 2019
Made famous (or infamous) in the ‘90s for its violent gameplay and ridiculously gory Fatalities, the Mortal Kombat series did not continue for more than 25 years just on shock value. NetherRealm Studios’ turned the fighting franchise into one of the best on the planet by introducing more complex combat mechanics and a cinematic story, and Mortal Kombat 11 builds on that success with more space-focused combat the addition of new Fatal Blows. Mortal Kombat 11 is also one of the most customizable fighting games we’ve ever played. Alongside cosmetic skins, a gear system allows you to swap out multiple items and weapons on your character, and they can be augmented to alter your performance. Moves can also be swapped out for others to create your ideal fighter, and you can explore the sprawling Krypt to unlock even better rewards.
Read our full Mortal Kombat 11 review
DOOM Eternal
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Shooter
Developer
id Software
Publisher
Bethesda Softworks
Release
March 20, 2020
Doom Eternal is one of the smoothest first-person shooters of all time, with the famous Doom Slayer moving between demons and eviscerating them like he is a professional ice dancer who found himself lost in Hell. Ditching the space station setting of the 2016 reboot for an eclectic mix of environments that includes Earth, foreign planets, and Hell itself, Doom Eternal feels like a victory lap for developer id Software. It had little to prove after surprising players with Doom, but it still kicked the action into overdrive with new weapons, even more types of demons, and harder boss fights. Thankfully, there is an extra life power-up scattered throughout each level that makes it easier to stay fighting if things get too difficult. Doom Eternal does put a surprising amount of emphasis on its story in a franchise that has never lingered on minutia, but it doesn’t get in the way. The Doom Slayer’s mythos is only made more interesting by learning bits and pieces about his past, and the new villains in Eternal are among the most fearsome and intimidating in the series to date.
Read our full DOOM Eternal review
Apex Legends
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Shooter
Developer
Respawn Entertainment
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Release
February 04, 2019
Rather than develop a full-fledged sequel to Titanfall 2, Respawn Entertainment instead developed the free-to-play battle royale game Apex Legends. Set in the same universe as the studio’s Titanfall games, the class-based shooter retains Respawn’s knack for excellent first-person shooting action, and the various classes’ special abilities offer variety for players bored by the same old battle royale matches. Respawn also cleverly added its own twists on the Apex Legend‘s battle royale formula by introducing respawning – with its name, how could it not? If killed, a player’s banner can be picked up by a teammate, who can then bring them back to life at a special respawning terminal. There are also special redeployment devices that you can use to launch yourself back into the air as you would at the beginning of a match, and the game’s “ping” system makes it incredibly easy to communicate with teammates who aren’t wearing headsets.
Read our full Apex Legends review
Fortnite
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy
Developer
Epic Games
Publisher
Epic Games
Release
July 25, 2017
Epic Games’ free-to-play Fortnite battle royale needs little introduction. The game has become nothing short of a worldwide phenomenon, with its dances and mechanics making their way into nearly every facet of pop culture and its addictive battle royale gameplay keeping players glued to their screens for hours at a time. Building on the formula established in games like The Culling and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, Fortnite adds buildable structures to the mix, allowing you to create cover and ambush opportunities no matter where on the map you happen to be. With regular updates adding more weapons and vehicles as well as story content, there’s always something in the game that you haven’t seen before.
Read our full Fortnite review
Minecraft
E10
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows Phone, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV
Genre
Simulator, Adventure, Arcade
Developer
Mojang Studios
Publisher
Mojang Studios
Release
September 20, 2017
Many publishers use “sandbox” as a general term for large, open-ended game worlds, but few games deserve that term more than Minecraft. Its premise is as simple as it is inviting — you’re thrown onto a procedurally generated world, and you must survive in any way you can. This includes venturing into the depths of the planet to mine new resources, squaring off against explosive Creepers, and building shelters to protect yourself against the enemies hoping to snack on your brains whenever the sun goes down. If Minecraft‘s survival mode isn’t for you, a creative option is also available, giving you access to all the game’s resources and tools in order to make your dream home. If you want to bring a friend into the mix, there’s a multiplayer option, and tons of special skins are available to give your world the perfect look.
Read our full Minecraft review
Stardew Valley
E10
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Indie
Developer
ConcernedApe
Publisher
ConcernedApe, Chucklefish Games
Release
February 26, 2016
Who knew a farming simulator could be such a smash hit? After first-time developer Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone had grown frustrated with the state of the long-running Harvest Moon series, he took it upon himself to create the game he wanted to play. The result was Stardew Valley, a charming love letter to the 16-bit era with a delightful cast of characters to meet, activities to complete, and dangerous areas to explore. In Stardew Valley, you can turn your land into the farm you’ve always wanted, and there are plenty of customization options for turning your house into a home. You can even start a relationship with several different people in the town, provided you’re able to tear yourself away from your crops long enough to talk to anyone.
No Man's Sky
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, SteamVR, PlayStation VR, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Meta Rift
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Hello Games
Publisher
Hello Games, 505 Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
August 09, 2016
The development of No Man’s Sky was a marathon, not a sprint. The insanely ambitious space exploration game was made by a tiny team at the U.K.-based Hello Games, and it got the gaming community’s attention in a hurry. With potentially billions of planets to explore, each with unique flora and fauna to discover, no two players’ experiences in the game were ever alike. At launch in 2016, however, it was rough around the edges, but No Man’s Sky has continued to improve over time, all culminating in the NEXT update, which expanded on building features and finally added a multiplayer option so players could lose themselves on a mysterious planet with a buddy.
Read our full No Man's Sky review
Dead Cells
T
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Motion Twin, Evil Empire
Publisher
Motion Twin
Release
August 06, 2018
Looking for a tough-as-nails platformer and rogue-like that also rewards you for each small success? Then you have to check out Dead Cells. This fast-paced game tasks you with exploring levels and fighting vicious enemies to escape a ‘cursed’ island. While the setup isn’t much different from Dead Cells‘ peers, the game’s highly responsive controls take the combat to a new level. You’ll also come to appreciate the many special abilities your character can acquire across multiple runs. They feel powerful despite the fact that you are, in fact, almost constantly at risk of dying if you slip up. This high-risk, high-reward gameplay of Dead Cells creates wonderful tensions and will make you crave just one more run.
Persona 5 Royal
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Atlus
Publisher
Atlus, Atlus USA
Release
October 31, 2019
Persona 5 Royal is everything that the original Persona 5 should have been. The fastest turn-based JRPG around, this slick, stylized Atlus RPG is dripping with personality and charm. Playing as one of several high school students who moonlight as the Phantom Thieves, you are there to steal the hearts of villains and save the world. Or, you can just spend hours going to class, working a part-time job, and romancing your friends, as that is half the fun in Persona 5 Royal with an unbelievable amount of content to do. The Royal version is an absolute masterpiece, adding dozens of hours of new content, a third semester, a brilliant new teammate in Kasumi, and it finally delivers justice to Goro Akechi’s excellent arc. Persona 5 Royal isn’t just the best version of the game (and the only one you should play), but one of the greatest RPG and PS4 games ever made.
Final Fantasy VII Remake
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Square Enix
Publisher
Square Enix
Release
April 10, 2020
For decades, one of the most highly requested games was a remake of Final Fantasy 7. It is finally here, and it delivers on everything fans wanted — and more. Not only is it possibly the best-looking game on PS4, but it tells the tale of Cloud, Aerith, and the Avalanche group in the most well-written and sensible way ever. Everything about Final Fantasy 7 Remake has been modernized to fit today’s culture while not leaving behind what made it great in the first place. Even crazier still, it somehow made a full-on JRPG out of only a fraction of the original game without ever feeling undercut or hollow. Trading the turn-based format for fast-paced, complex, action-based gameplay, this is the best way to experience one of the greatest games ever made.
Read our full Final Fantasy VII Remake review
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
CD Projekt RED
Publisher
WB Games, Bandai Namco Entertainment, cdp.pl, Spike ChunSoft
Release
May 19, 2015
While there are plenty of RPGs available on Sony’s PlayStation 4, CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the best. In the epic conclusion to the adventure trilogy, players once again don the role of Geralt of Rivia, waging battle against the advancing Wild Hunt army in the Northern Kingdoms. Although the title remains similar in style to previous games in the series, CD Projekt Red included new combat mechanics and significantly bolstered the customization, all of which help it improve upon the gameplay and imbue its open-world with a greater sense of depth. Few games possess the kind of writing present in The Witcher 3, which features an enthralling story penned by regular series writer Marcin Blacha. Perhaps the game’s biggest draw is the fact the main storyline takes players roughly 30 hours to complete. That number balloons to more than 100 hours if you take into account side quests and mini-games, rendering its longevity as attractive as its visuals.
Read our full The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt review
Monster Hunter: World
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Release
January 26, 2018
Monster Hunter: World is not exactly the most traditional Monster Hunter game, but that’s what makes it so good. If you enjoy a good open-world RPG where you can track rare monsters, engage in tough combat, and craft awesome armor out of their remains, then Monster Hunter: World is right up your alley. Monster Hunter: World modernizes a classic RPG and makes it easy for anyone to jump in. It features beautiful zones that feel alive, monsters with improved A.I., and really cool DLC crossovers with Final Fantasy, Street Fighter, and Horizon Zero Dawn. There’s also a multiplayer mode where up to four players can suit up in their best gear and take down dangerous beasts together. As one of the PlayStation 4’s bestselling games, you’d be missing out if you didn’t at least consider picking it up.
Read our full Monster Hunter: World review
Ghost of Tsushima
M
Platforms
PlayStation 4
Genre
Adventure
Developer
Sucker Punch Productions
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release
July 17, 2020
A PlayStation 4 exclusive, Ghost of Tsushima was the console’s surprise hit of 2020. Set during the Mongol invasion of Japan, it uses the game’s gorgeous island as the backdrop for a gory samurai tale of honor and glory under difficult circumstances. It offers most of the usual open-world RPG features, including many side quests, a huge world to explore, and an extensive leveling system. However, it dials back the annoying, grindy aspects of the genre, which keeps the game from becoming bogged down by its own size. It also offers a fun combat system that success walks a fine line between the simplicity of recent Assassin’s Creed games and the demanding precision of Dark Souls and its successors.
Read our full Ghost of Tsushima review
Destiny 2
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre
Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Tactical, Adventure
Developer
Bungie
Publisher
Activision
Release
September 06, 2017
Though many of us loved the original Destiny, it had a cryptic and confusing story and a surprisingly empty world. These issues were rectified in Destiny 2, a game so content-rich and satisfying that we’ve found ourselves playing for three or four hours at a time without much thought. The buttery-smooth combat of the first game returns, but it’s coupled with a cinematic story spanning four different worlds, a number of extra Adventures to complete, six cooperative Strikes, and a competitive multiplayer component as satisfying as Titanfall 2 or Battlefield 1. Destiny 2: Forsaken added plenty of worthwhile additions to keep Guardians glued to their controllers. From the excellent Baron boss fights to the new Triumphs and Collections systems to great new environments like Gambit, Forsaken brings the already great Destiny 2 formula to new heights. You can gain access to the entire Destiny 2 experience by buying Destiny 2: Forsaken – Legendary Edition. It comes with the base game, the first two expansions, and the Forsaken makeover. The most recent expansion, Beyond Light came out in November 2020 and is beloved by the community thanks to some new features, improvements like faster load times, and lots to do. Even better is that Bungie is planning a new expansion called The Witch Queen for release sometime in 2021, so there’s plenty to look forward to.
Read our full Destiny 2 review
Rocket League
E
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Racing, Sport, Indie
Developer
Psyonix
Publisher
Psyonix
Release
July 07, 2015
Is it soccer? Is it soccer? Is it something else entirely? It doesn’t really matter in Psyonix’ Rocket League, the hybrid racing game that replaces human players with rocket-powered vehicles capable of soaring into the air to knock oversized soccer balls into the net. Despite its simple concept, mastering Rocket League demands practice, as the top players are capable of manipulating their vehicles down to the smallest turn in order to deflect a ball or get into position for the perfect pass. With other courses mimicking sports like basketball and a ton of post-launch content already released, you could easily drop everything you’re doing and play Rocket League for weeks on end.
Assassin's Creed: Origins
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher
Ubisoft Entertainment
Release
October 26, 2017
There are a lot of Assassin’s Creed games, and while most are high-quality experiences, it’s easy to see why Origins is one of the most beloved in the series. With this entry, the series merged into the RPG space, evolving from its action-adventure roots and doubling down on a deep progression system with more complex mechanics. While some fans weren’t into the change, the majority of players embraced it and often cite Assassin’s Creed Origins as their favorite entry in the long-running franchise. In Origins, players get to explore ancient Egypt, with tons of variation in the locales you can visit. Of course, the Pyramids of Giza make an appearance, as do other famous landmarks like the Great Sphynx. Tying everything together is a more robust combat system that features light and heavy attacks — much like what you’d find in an action RPG. With tons of different loot options that range in rarity, you’re able to customize your character to your playstyle with ease.
Read our full Assassin's Creed: Origins review
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