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It's been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact of Sony's first console on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. The PS1 introduced us to iconic characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the wise-cracking Spyro, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with gamers today. As we reflect on this groundbreaking platform, we've curated a list of the 25 best PS1 games of all time, celebrating the unforgettable experiences and innovative gameplay that defined an era.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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PaRappa the Rapper
Before the likes of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution, PaRappa the Rapper set the stage for rhythm games. This charming title, featuring a cartoonish dog and his animal friends, captivated players with its catchy tunes and unique style, distinguishing itself amidst the "extreme" and "hardcore" games of the PS1 era. Its quirky charm has made PaRappa a beloved character, even earning a spot among the top 10 dogs in video games.
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 stands out as a bizarre yet captivating blend of action, puzzle, and platforming, wrapped in a story reminiscent of Soylent Green. The game's unique character design and deep lore have inspired a series of quirky sequels and spinoffs. Its innovative gameplay, including telepathic possession and Mudokon communication, remains a testament to its originality and enduring appeal.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
While Crash Bandicoot 2 may hold a higher rank, the entire Crash trilogy significantly shaped the PlayStation legacy. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped offers a diverse range of fun and challenging platforming levels, complemented by engaging vehicle and riding challenges. Its time-hopping theme adds variety and depth, making it a robust entry in the original trilogy. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy further showcases its timeless appeal.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the creators of the Tony Hawk series, this Spider-Man game set the standard for superhero gaming. It masterfully captures Spider-Man's unique traversal mechanics, from swinging between skyscrapers to scaling walls and acrobatically engaging enemies. The game is packed with Marvel cameos and unlockable costumes, including Spider-Man 2099 and Captain Universe, and even features commentary by Stan Lee himself.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 redefined the series by focusing on story and character development, offering a unique and charming 3D action/adventure experience. Building upon its predecessor, this sequel refined the formula, delivering a compelling narrative and engaging gameplay that left a lasting impression.
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 revolutionized the use of the DualShock controller by integrating its analog sticks into gameplay. Players embark on a whimsical journey to capture mischievous apes using a variety of gadgets, each controlled by the right stick. This innovative mechanic, though seen as a gimmick at the time, has aged gracefully, proving the game's foresight and enduring fun.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing emerged as a formidable contender in the kart racing genre, rivaling even Mario Kart. Its innovative drifting and boost system, along with a diverse set of tracks and weapons inspired by Crash lore, created a thrilling and beloved racing experience. The later remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, further cemented its status as a classic.
Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Drawing inspiration from Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter offered a unique blend of stealth and action. Developed by Eidetic Games, now known as Sony Bend, the game provided players with a variety of weapons and flexible gameplay options across its espionage-filled levels. Its memorable taser feature added a humorous twist to the action.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain, often considered "Legacy of Kain 2," offered a gothic and macabre sequel that shifted from the original's top-down RPG style to a more immersive 3D experience. Directed by Amy Hennig, the game's intricate story and atmospheric world have left a lasting impact, influencing future titles and cementing its place in gaming history.
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 set a new standard for turn-based strategy games on consoles. Its complex plot and engaging gameplay, despite its 2D graphics, showcased the PS1's potential for deep storytelling and strategic depth. Though it never received a direct sequel, its influence on the genre remains undeniable.
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 stands out as one of the best first-person shooters on the PS1. Arriving late in the console's life cycle, it introduced players to Manon Batiste and a thrilling array of levels set behind enemy lines. Its clever gameplay, including the ability to trick Nazis into posing for photos, added humor and creativity to the genre.
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 to the series' fantasy roots, delivering a rich narrative filled with knights, mages, and princesses. Its memorable characters, such as Zidane and Vivi, added depth and emotion to the game, making it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit entries. It served as a loving tribute to the franchise's early days while setting the stage for future innovations.
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 ventured into psychological horror, diverging from traditional zombie survival games. Its unsettling atmosphere and protagonist, Henry, an everyman caught in a surreal nightmare, created a deeply immersive experience. The game's haunting audio and memorable creatures have left an indelible mark on the horror genre, eagerly awaiting a potential remake like its successor, Silent Hill 2.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built upon the success of the original, offering a perfect balance of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, from beaches to monasteries, provided a rich and varied gameplay experience. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy allows modern players to revisit this classic, highlighting its lasting appeal.
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 mission design and arcade driving action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, making it a standout in the PS1's library. The game's ambitious sequel further expanded on its concepts, but the original remains a thrilling ride.
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 holds a special place in the hearts of gamers. As a middle ground between the original's platforming and Warped's expansive features, it offered challenging yet achievable levels that tested players' skills. Naughty Dog's mastery of platforming shines through in this beloved sequel.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story remains one of the most underrated PS1 games. Developed by Square, it combines action RPG elements with a dense plot and intricate gameplay systems. Its challenging bosses and quasi-rhythm-based combat system offer a unique and rewarding experience, making it a hidden gem worthy of recognition.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever made. Its introduction of a third axis for dodging and circling opponents revolutionized the genre, attracting a broad audience beyond fighting game enthusiasts. Its eclectic characters and cinematic flair have ensured its place as a PS1 icon, with the recent release of Tekken 8 in 2024 continuing the legacy.
Resident Evil 2
Despite a stellar 2018 remake, the original Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic. Set in a bizarre police station, it blends intricate puzzles with a variety of monstrous enemies, from zombies to giant moths. The game's dual perspectives and relentless tyrant pursuer create a tense and unforgettable experience.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider introduced gamers to Lara Croft and her solo adventures through a dangerous world filled with real and mythical creatures. Its intricate level design and awe-inspiring environments set a new standard for action-adventure games, with the iconic shotgun leaving a lasting impact on players.
See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is not just a monumental entry in its series but also one of the highest-rated sports games ever. Its addictive skate park editor and iconic soundtrack have made it a cultural phenomenon, cementing its place as a beloved classic that continues to influence gaming today.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded upon the original's success, offering an unprecedented scope with nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. Its realistic racing simulation dwarfed its contemporaries, solidifying its status as the pinnacle of PS1 racing games and leaving a lasting legacy on the genre.
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
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night's decision to remain 2D allowed for refined gameplay and stunning pixel art that has aged beautifully. Its incredible soundtrack and near-perfect gameplay have made it a timeless classic, continuously inspiring modern developers and gamers alike.
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 played a pivotal role in popularizing Japanese RPGs in the West. Its dark, sci-fi storyline and innovative character design transformed the franchise, making it a global phenomenon. Despite some shortcomings, its impact on gaming and culture remains profound, with a successful remake further testament to its legacy.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid introduced a groundbreaking blend of stealth and action, coupled with a bizarre yet compelling cast of characters and a narrative that challenged traditional video game storytelling. Its innovative gameplay and fourth-wall breaks have made it a seminal title in the Metal Gear series and a defining moment in gaming history.
Honorable Mentions
Selecting the best PS1 games was no easy task, and not all fan favorites could make the list. Here are some additional titles worthy of recognition:
- 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 invite you to share your thoughts and favorites, and let us know if there are any classics we missed in the comments.
### The 25 Best PS1 Games of All TimeThe 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
Top 25 Best PlayStation Games
The original PlayStation was released in North America on September 9, 1995, and has sold 102 million units since. 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
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