Over three decades have passed since the debut of the original PlayStation, yet its profound influence on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. The PS1 not only introduced us to beloved characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the witty Spyro but also set the stage for iconic franchises that have shaped gaming history. As we reflect on this legacy, we've curated a list of what we believe are the 25 best PS1 games ever, featuring some of the most memorable PlayStation exclusives.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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PaRappa the Rapper
Before the likes of Rock Band and Guitar Hero, there was PaRappa the Rapper. This quirky game, featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends, captivated players with its catchy tunes and unique charm. Unlike many other PS1 games aiming for an "extreme" or "hardcore" vibe, PaRappa stood out with its playful and innovative approach to rhythm gaming, making it a beloved classic that even inspired sequels like Um Jammer Lammy.
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Image credit: Oddworld InhabitantsDeveloper: Oddworld Inhabitants | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: September 18, 1997 | Review: IGN's Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee review
Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee is an eclectic mix of action, puzzle, and platforming elements wrapped in a bizarre sci-fi narrative reminiscent of Soylent Green. The game's distinctive character designs and deep lore paved the way for sequels and spin-offs like Munch's Oddysee and Stranger's Wrath. What sets Abe's Oddysee apart are its innovative mechanics, such as telepathic possession and cooperative gameplay with fellow Mudokons, making it a standout title in the PS1 library.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
While Crash Bandicoot 2 may have ranked higher on some lists, the entire Crash trilogy is integral to the PlayStation legacy. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped stands out for its engaging platforming and vehicle challenges, set against a backdrop of time-hopping adventures. Its diverse levels and cohesive narrative make it a robust entry in the series, further enhanced by the 2019 remaster, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the creators of the Tony Hawk series, PS1's Spider-Man set a new standard for superhero games. It brilliantly captured Spider-Man's unique movement, from swinging between skyscrapers to wall-crawling and acrobatic combat. Filled with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, it remains a fan favorite, even featuring descriptions by Stan Lee himself.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 transformed the Mega Man series by emphasizing story and character development. This sequel refined the engaging 3D action/adventure formula, delivering a charming and unique gaming experience that continues to be celebrated by fans.
Ape Escape
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: June 18, 1999 | Review: IGN's Ape Escape review
Ape Escape was pivotal in popularizing the use of analog sticks on the DualShock controller. By tasking players with capturing mischievous apes using various gadgets, the game cleverly integrated the new technology into its gameplay. Its innovative mechanics and fun premise made it a memorable entry, even influencing real-life animal control scenarios.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing nearly dethroned Mario Kart as the king of kart racers. With its innovative drifting and boost system, original tracks, and weapons drawn from Crash lore, CTR remains a beloved classic. Its modern-day remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, further cemented its status.
Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Inspired by titles like Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action to create a gripping espionage experience. Its diverse weaponry and open-ended level design allowed for varied gameplay, with memorable moments like tasing enemies, making it a standout in its genre.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain is an atmospheric and dark sequel to the Legacy of Kain series. With its gothic setting and deep narrative crafted by Amy Hennig, it offered a unique blend of action and puzzle-solving, shifting between the living and spectral realms. Despite a rushed ending, it remains a beloved classic.
Final Fantasy Tactics
Developer: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 28, 1998 (NA) | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy Tactics review
Final Fantasy Tactics redefined turn-based strategy games on consoles with its intricate plot and engaging gameplay. Its super-deformed characters and complex narrative made it a standout, even without relying on advanced 3D graphics.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Image credit: EADeveloper: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: October 24, 2000 | Review: IGN's Medal of Honor: Underground review
Medal of Honor: Underground brought WWII first-person shooting to the PS1 with flair. Its memorable protagonist, Manon Batiste, and diverse levels combined with a thrilling behind-enemy-lines atmosphere made it a standout shooter. The game's clever mechanics, like tricking Nazis into posing for photos, added to its charm.
Final Fantasy 9
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts | Release date: July 7, 2000 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 9 review
Final Fantasy 9 returned the series to its fantasy roots, delivering a rich narrative with beloved characters like Zidane and Vivi. Its tribute to earlier entries while setting the stage for future games made it a poignant conclusion to the single-digit Final Fantasy titles.
See our guide to the Final Fantasy games in order.
Silent Hill
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Team Silent | Publisher: Konami | Release date: February 23, 1999 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill review
Silent Hill deviated from traditional zombie horror to create a psychological masterpiece. Its unsettling atmosphere and narrative, coupled with Henry's everyman persona, made it a groundbreaking horror game. The haunting audio and psychological themes continue to resonate with players, hoping for a future remake.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built upon the original's success with enhanced gameplay and a richly realized world. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, along with a host of collectibles and memorable characters, made it a standout in the Spyro series, later enhanced by the Spyro Reignited Trilogy.
Driver
Image credit: GT InteractiveDeveloper: Reflections Interactive | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: June 25, 1999 | Review: IGN's Driver review
Driver introduced a unique blend of open-world missions and arcade-style driving action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to craft their own action sequences, making it a memorable entry in the PS1's lineup.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 5, 1997 | Review: IGN's Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back review
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back remains a beloved entry in the series for its challenging yet rewarding platforming levels. As Crash navigated through chambers filled with obstacles, Naughty Dog delivered some of the franchise's best gameplay, striking a perfect balance between difficulty and fun.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is an underrated gem in the PS1's library, combining a dense plot with intricate gameplay systems. Its action RPG elements, customizable weapons, and challenging bosses offer a unique and rewarding experience that stands the test of time.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 revolutionized the fighting game genre with its 3D movement and diverse roster of characters. Its cinematic flair and engaging gameplay made it accessible to non-fighting game fans, cementing its place as an iconic PS1 title. The series continues to thrive with the release of Tekken 8 in 2024.
Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic, even after its 2018 remake. Set in a bizarre police station, it combines intricate puzzles with terrifying encounters, including the relentless pursuit by a hulking tyrant. Its dual-perspective gameplay added depth to the survival horror experience.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider established Lara Croft as a gaming icon. Its haunting solo adventure through diverse environments, from real-world beasts to ancient mummies, combined with intricate level design, made it a landmark title. The game's iconic shotgun continues to resonate with players.
See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is widely regarded as one of the best sports games ever, thanks to its addictive gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and innovative skate park editor. Its cultural impact and high ratings solidify its place as a timeless classic.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded on its predecessor with nearly 650 cars and expansive content across two CDs. Its unparalleled scope and detailed racing simulation made it a standout title, overshadowing other racing games of its era and even coming with a unique scratch 'n' sniff disc.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: March 20, 1997 | Review: IGN's Castlevania: Symphony of the Night review
Despite its 2D visuals, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night perfected the gameplay and storytelling of the series. Its beautiful pixel art, engaging mechanics, and iconic soundtrack have aged gracefully, making it a near-perfect game that continues to influence modern titles.
Final Fantasy 7
Image credit: Sony/Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1997| Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 7 review
Final Fantasy 7 brought Japanese RPGs to the Western world, captivating players with its dark sci-fi narrative and unique character designs. Its groundbreaking impact and subsequent spin-offs and remakes have solidified its status as a timeless classic.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid redefined stealth/action gaming with its innovative gameplay and cinematic storytelling. Its bizarre yet compelling characters and narrative challenged traditional video game tropes, making it a landmark title that continues to influence the industry.
Honorable Mentions
Choosing the best PlayStation games was a challenging task, and not all favorites could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that are also highly regarded:
Einhander
Dino Crisis
Brian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99
Need For Speed: High Stakes
The Legend of Dragoon
These are our picks for the best games on the original PlayStation. We understand that everyone's list might differ, so feel free to use the Tier List below to share your rankings. Have any PS1 classics that didn't make our list? Let us know in the comments.
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
Top 25 Best PlayStation Games
The original PlayStation, released in North America on September 9, 1995, has sold over 102 million units. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played? See All!
1Metal Gear SolidKonami
2Final Fantasy VIISquare
3Castlevania: Symphony of the NightKCET
4Gran Turismo 2Polyphony Digital
5Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2LTI Gray Matter
6Tomb Raider -- Featuring Lara CroftCORE Design Limited
7Resident Evil 2 [1998]Capcom
8Tekken 3Namco
9Vagrant StorySquare
10Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes BackNaughty Dog
