The 25 Best PS1 Games Of All Time
- By Brooklyn
- May 14,2025
It’s been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact it had on the gaming industry and pop culture remains unparalleled. From beloved characters like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro to groundbreaking titles, the PS1 introduced some of the most iconic video game franchises ever. We've carefully curated a list of the 25 best PS1 games, celebrating the console's legacy and highlighting some unforgettable PlayStation exclusives.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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- PaRappa the Rapper
PaRappa the Rapper was a trailblazer in the rhythm game genre before the likes of Rock Band and Guitar Hero took the stage. This charming game, starring a 2D cartoon dog, captivated players with its catchy tunes and unique style, setting it apart from other PS1 games. Its legacy is so strong that PaRappa was even named one of the top 10 dogs in video games, a testament to its lasting impact.
- 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 with its bizarre yet captivating storyline and innovative gameplay. This action-puzzle-platformer introduced players to a world filled with peculiar creatures and deep lore, spawning a series of sequels and spinoffs. Its unique mechanics, such as telepathically possessing enemies and communicating with fellow Mudokons, make it a memorable and influential title.
- Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped, while not as challenging as its predecessor, remains a beloved part of the Crash trilogy. With a diverse range of levels and time-hopping adventures, this game showcases Naughty Dog's knack for creating engaging and fun platforming experiences. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy further cemented its place in gaming history.
- Spider-Man
Neversoft's Spider-Man set the standard for superhero games with its innovative web-slinging mechanics and rich content. Featuring numerous Marvel cameos, unlockable costumes, and a detailed cityscape, this game offered players an immersive experience that captured the essence of being Spider-Man, complete with Stan Lee's character descriptions.
- Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 elevated the series with its engaging story and vibrant characters. This sequel not only refined the gameplay but also introduced a more immersive 3D world, solidifying Mega Man's place in the action-adventure genre.
- 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 cleverly utilized the DualShock controller's analog sticks, turning what was initially seen as a gimmick into an essential part of gameplay. By tasking players with capturing mischievous apes using unique gadgets, the game not only entertained but also showcased the potential of new controller technology, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
- Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing rivaled Mario Kart with its innovative drifting and boost system, as well as its engaging tracks and weapons. This kart racer not only provided thrilling races but also integrated elements from the Crash universe, making it a standout title in the genre.
- Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Syphon Filter combined elements of stealth and action to create a unique espionage experience. Its diverse weaponry and engaging levels offered players multiple ways to tackle missions, setting a high standard for the genre and leading to several successful sequels.
- Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain delivered a dark and atmospheric sequel to the Legacy of Kain series. With its gothic setting and complex narrative, penned by Amy Hennig, this game redefined the series and left a lasting impression on players, despite its rushed ending.
- 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 is renowned for its intricate turn-based strategy and compelling storyline. Despite its lack of 3D graphics, the game's depth and charm have made it a beloved classic, often cited as one of the best in its genre.
- 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 action to the PS1 with its gripping storyline and engaging gameplay. As a standout first-person shooter, it offered memorable levels and a unique blend of stealth and action, cementing its place in gaming history.
- 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 with a rich narrative and memorable characters. As a fitting end to the single-digit entries, it paid homage to its predecessors while setting the stage for future installments, earning its place as a cherished title in the franchise.
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 broke new ground in psychological horror, offering a haunting experience that diverged from traditional survival horror. Its atmospheric storytelling and unsettling creatures have left an indelible mark on the genre, with fans eagerly awaiting potential remakes.
- Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage expanded on the original with a richly realized world and engaging challenges. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds offered players a delightful adventure, further solidified 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 players to an open-world driving experience that focused on missions and car chases rather than racing. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, making it a memorable addition to the PS1 library.
- 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 struck a perfect balance between platforming and exploration, offering some of the series' most challenging and rewarding levels. Its enduring appeal lies in Naughty Dog's ability to create a game that was both demanding and achievable.
- Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is a hidden gem that blends action RPG elements with intricate systems and a dense narrative. Its challenging gameplay and unique mechanics have made it an underrated yet exceptional title in the PS1 catalog.
- 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 eclectic roster of characters. Its accessibility and depth made it a beloved title, influencing future entries in the series and introducing gamers to new fighting styles.
All these years later, the series has now moved on to acclaimed Tekken 8, which was released in 2024.
- Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic, combining intricate puzzles with terrifying enemies in a bizarre police station setting. Its dual-perspective gameplay and relentless pursuit by the tyrant have made it a standout title, further enhanced by its 2018 remake.
- Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider introduced players to the iconic Lara Croft and her adventurous world. With its intricate level design and awe-inspiring environments, the game set a new standard for action-adventure titles, solidifying Lara's place in gaming history.
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 greatest sports games ever made. Its addictive gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and skate park editor have left a lasting legacy, making it a cultural phenomenon that continues to be celebrated.
- Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded on its predecessor with an unprecedented scope, featuring nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. As the best-selling PlayStation game of all time, it set a new standard for racing simulations and remains a benchmark in 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 perfected the 2D platforming genre with its refined gameplay and stunning pixel art. Its enduring soundtrack and influential design have made it a timeless classic, still celebrated by gamers and developers 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 introduced Japanese RPGs to a global audience with its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character design. As one of the best-selling PlayStation games, it spawned a vast universe of spin-offs and remains a beloved classic, despite its flaws.
- Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid transformed the stealth-action genre with its innovative gameplay and cinematic storytelling. Its unique blend of stealth, action, and memorable characters, along with its fourth-wall-breaking moments, have made it a landmark title in gaming history.
Honorable Mentions
Choosing the best PS1 games was challenging due to the diversity of titles and fan preferences. Here are some honorable mentions that also deserve recognition:
- Einhander
- Dino Crisis
- Brian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99
- Need For Speed: High Stakes
- The Legend of Dragoon
These games, while not making the top 25, are exceptional in their own right and contributed to the PS1's rich gaming library.
The 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 over 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
