The Ultimate PS5 Game Guide: Top 25 Must-Play Titles (Part 1)
If you’re a PS5 owner or thinking of becoming one, you’re in for a treat. Sony’s latest powerhouse has been dropping heat since day one, and 2024 has only made its game library stronger. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, these titles are absolute must-plays. So, let’s dive into the 25 best PS5 games you can’t afford to miss!
1. Diablo 4: Unleash the Chaos
- Release Date: June 6, 2023
- Developer/Publisher: Activision Blizzard
- Genre: Action RPG
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, Ray Tracing, Fast Load Times
- Included in PS Plus? No
First up, we’ve got Diablo 4—a game that’s taken the action RPG scene by storm. This installment brings everything fans love about the series: intense combat, endless loot, and deep character customization. The improvements in Diablo 4 are insane, with enhanced gear, smarter loot systems, and combat that feels smoother than ever. Plus, the dark, moody atmosphere paired with its gripping story makes every dungeon crawl a heart-pounding experience. And let’s not forget the game’s antagonist, Lilith—her presence will have you questioning every moral decision you make as you fight to save the world of Sanctuary.
2. Genshin Impact: A World of Wonder Awaits
- Release Date: April 28, 2021
- Developer/Publisher: MiHoYo
- Genre: Action RPG, Gacha
- PS5 Enhancements: Improved Graphics, 60 FPS, Shorter Load Times
- Included in PS Plus? No, but it’s free-to-play
Next on our list is the ever-evolving Genshin Impact, a free-to-play RPG that’s been capturing hearts worldwide. Drawing inspiration from Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Genshin Impact offers a vast, breathtaking world full of secrets to uncover. The PS5 version takes this experience up a notch with stunning visuals and buttery-smooth performance. But what truly sets Genshin Impact apart is its constant stream of updates. MiHoYo keeps the game fresh with new characters, events, and story content, making it one of the most engaging and immersive experiences on the PS5.
3. Final Fantasy 16: A Legendary Return
- Release Date: June 22, 2023
- Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
- Genre: Action RPG
- PS5 Enhancements: Dynamic 4K, Fast Load Times, 3D Audio
- Included in PS Plus? No
Moving forward, Final Fantasy 16 is a title that any RPG fan can’t ignore. This latest entry in the legendary series brings back the magic with a fresh, action-packed twist. Gone are the days of turn-based battles—instead, you’re thrown into real-time combat that’s fast, fluid, and downright exhilarating. The world of Valisthea is rich with lore, filled with stunning landscapes, and populated by characters who’ll stick with you long after the credits roll. Final Fantasy 16 doesn’t just live up to the series’ legacy—it redefines it.
4. It Takes Two: The Ultimate Co-Op Adventure
- Release Date: May 25, 2021
- Developer: Hazelight
- Publisher: EA
- Genre: Co-Op, Puzzle Platformer
- PS5 Enhancements: Enhanced Graphics, 3D Audio
- Included in PS Plus? No
Switching gears, It Takes Two is the perfect game for those who love to share their gaming experiences. This co-op-only adventure forces you to work together with a friend to navigate a world filled with inventive puzzles and platforming challenges. Each level introduces new mechanics, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting from start to finish. The story, centered on a couple trying to save their marriage, is both touching and humorous, making it a standout experience on the PS5.
5. Demon’s Souls: A Brutal Beauty
- Release Date: November 12, 2020
- Developer: Bluepoint Games
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Genre: Action RPG
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, HDR, Ray Tracing, Fast Load Times
- Included in PS Plus? Yes
Let’s talk about Demon’s Souls—a game that’s not for the faint-hearted but is absolutely worth the challenge. Remade from the ground up, this PS5-exclusive brings the 2009 classic into the modern era with jaw-dropping visuals and refined gameplay. Every brutal battle is a test of skill and patience, with each victory feeling like a monumental achievement. The atmospheric world of Boletaria is both hauntingly beautiful and terrifyingly hostile, making this game an unforgettable experience for those who dare to take it on.
6. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Viking Glory
- Release Date: November 10, 2020
- Developer: Ubisoft
- Publisher: Ubisoft
- Genre: Action RPG, Open World
- PS5 Enhancements: 60 FPS, 4K Resolution, Faster Load Times
- Included in PS Plus? Yes
Stepping into the shoes of a Viking warrior, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is all about living the Norse legend. With its sprawling open world, intense combat, and deep RPG mechanics, Valhalla offers a truly immersive experience. The PS5 enhancements make it even better, with stunning visuals and buttery-smooth performance. As Eivor, you’ll raid, build alliances, and explore a world steeped in myth and history, making every moment of this game a thrilling journey.
7. Sackboy: A Big Adventure – Pure Platforming Fun
- Release Date: November 12, 2020
- Developer: Sumo Digital
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Genre: Platformer
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, 3D Audio, Adaptive Triggers
- Included in PS Plus? Yes
If you’re looking for something light-hearted and fun, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is the perfect pick. This delightful platformer is packed with charm, offering creative levels that are as fun to look at as they are to play. The PS5’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback add an extra layer of immersion, making every jump and spin feel more alive. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, Sackboy is sure to put a smile on your face.
8. Stray: A Purrfect Adventure
- Release Date: November 10, 2020
- Developer: BlueTwelve Studio
- Publisher: Annapurna Interactive
- Genre: Adventure, Puzzle Platformer
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, HDR, Fast Load Times
- Included in PS Plus? No
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a cat? Stray lets you do just that, and it’s as adorable as it sounds. But don’t be fooled by its cute protagonist—Stray is also a deeply engaging adventure game with a rich, post-apocalyptic setting. As you explore the eerie, robot-inhabited city, you’ll solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and experience a story that’s surprisingly emotional. The game’s visuals are stunning, and the world is meticulously crafted, making it one of the most unique titles on the PS5.
9. Returnal: Survive the Loop
- Release Date: April 30, 2021
- Developer: Housemarque
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Genre: Roguelike, Action
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, Ray Tracing, 3D Audio, Adaptive Triggers
- Included in PS Plus? Yes
For those who crave a challenge, Returnal is the ultimate test. This roguelike action game is as beautiful as it is brutal, with fast-paced combat and a story that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. The PS5’s features truly shine here—feel every drop of rain and pulse of your weapon thanks to the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. And with its procedurally generated environments, no two runs are the same, keeping the gameplay fresh and unpredictable.
10. Dead Space Remake: Horror Reborn
- Release Date: January 27, 2023
- Developer: Motive
- Publisher: EA
- Genre: Survival Horror
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, Ray Tracing, 3D Audio
- Included in PS Plus? No
Fans of horror games, rejoice! The Dead Space Remake has breathed new life into one of the most iconic survival horror games ever. The PS5’s powerful hardware takes the terrifying atmosphere to new heights with stunning visuals, realistic lighting, and bone-chilling audio. Every creak and groan of the abandoned spaceship sends shivers down your spine, and the upgraded combat mechanics make fending off the Necromorphs even more intense. Whether you’re a returning fan or a newcomer, this remake is a must-play.
11. Resident Evil 4 Remake: A Classic Reimagined
- Release Date: March 23, 2023
- Developer/Publisher: Capcom
- Genre: Survival Horror, Action
- PS5 Enhancements: 4K Resolution, Ray Tracing, 3D Audio
- Included in PS Plus? No
Wrapping up this segment is the Resident Evil 4 Remake—a game that perfectly balances nostalgia with innovation. Capcom has taken everything that made the original a masterpiece and rebuilt it for modern audiences. The iconic characters, intense combat, and unforgettable moments are all here, but with enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay that make it feel brand new. It’s a love letter to one of the greatest games ever made, and a must-play for any PS5 owner.
That’s It (Part 1) – The Best is Yet to Come
And that’s a wrap for the first half of our ultimate PS5 game guide! From brutal challenges to heartwarming adventures, the PS5 offers something for every type of gamer. But don’t go anywhere—we’re just getting started. The next set of games is just as epic, and you won’t want to miss them. So, stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into even more top-tier PS5 titles that will keep you glued to your controller. Get ready—your gaming journey is far from over!
