The 25 Best PlayStation 5 Games You Need to Play in 2025

Introduction: Why the PS5 Era is Unmissable

If you love video games, you’ve probably already heard friends talking about “the best PlayStation 5 games” and wondered which ones are truly worth your precious free time (and your hard-earned money). There are hundreds of new and remastered games sitting on the PlayStation Store, and—let’s be honest—some are just okay. But some? Some are flat-out legendary.

This isn’t just another boring “top” list. I’ve spent hours comparing the most respected PS5 lists out there (shoutout to IGN, TechRadar, MojoPlays, and all of you commenters with way-too-strong opinions). I’ve included fresh new releases, overlooked hidden gems, and some all-time classics that still hold up on the latest hardware. Best of all, there’s something here for everyone—whether you crave heart-pounding action, deep stories, or cosy nights with friends. So kick back, grab your favourite snack, and let’s walk through the games that make the PlayStation 5 shine in 2025!

How This List Stands Out

You might be thinking, “Okay, but don’t all these lists just copy each other?” Fair point! I dug deeper—reviewed user reviews, fan forums, and social media buzz. I found what games people actually enjoy, not just what gets hyped. More importantly, you’ll spot new info and unique insights you won’t see in other roundups. If you’re tired of reading the same old rankings, this guide is made for you. Consider this your passport to the best experiences the PS5 has to offer.

Section 1: Unforgettable Adventures – Big Names, Big Fun

Let’s start with the games that practically demand a place in every PS5 library.

1. Astro Bot (2024)

Remember when you first tried the PS5 and thought, “Whoa, this controller is wild?” That’s Astro Bot magic. This adorable robot’s newest adventure is basically a celebration of PlayStation’s history—perfect for everyone, not just gamers with nostalgia glasses. Not only will you be grinning at clever references, but the DualSense controller, with its brilliant haptic feedback, makes every jump, punch, and wave feel real. It’s an instant mood booster, and yes, it’s surprisingly deep for a platformer about a cute little robot.

2. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (2023)

Let’s be honest—who doesn’t want to swing through Manhattan like Spider-Man at least once? This sequel cranks everything up. There are two Spider-Men (Peter and Miles), so double the drama, double the fun. The story deals with real issues, the web-swinging never gets old, and (spoiler alert) the Venom sections are unforgettable. My tip: try leaping off the tallest building and free-falling for a bit. Trust me.

3. God of War Ragnarök (2022)

Kratos and Atreus are back for more myth-shattering mayhem in the Norse world. This isn’t just about hacking up monsters, though the combat is sickly satisfying—it’s real emotion, family drama, and breathtaking scenery rolled into one. If you want to be moved and thrilled (sometimes within one cutscene), this one’s a must.

Section 2: For the Bold – Tough, Deep, and Rewarding

Take a step up. These are the games that make you earn your victories.

4. Elden Ring (2022)

“Open world” gets thrown around a lot, but Elden Ring really means it. You will wander, get lost, and inevitably get ambushed by something huge. Honestly? You’ll die a lot. But each victory is sweet—think of it as a game that rewards curiosity, patience, and a bit of bravery. Bring snacks and a stubborn attitude.

5. Demon’s Souls (2020)

Speaking of challenging, this gorgeous PS5 remake is a badge of honour for any hardcore gamer. It’s not just tough—it’s stunning, too. Bluepoint Games rebuilt it from the ground up, and it shows. It’s a love letter to the old-school masochists, but thanks to the PS5’s loading speeds, those inevitable deaths don’t sting… for long.

6. Returnal (2021)

Ever had one of those “just one more try” nights turn into “I can’t believe it’s 3 am”? Returnal is the reason. This roguelike shooter blends a haunting story with lightning-fast action. And every run feels fresh, thanks to procedural level design and the PS5’s audio magic.

Section 3: Role-Playing Wonders – Stories You’ll Never Forget

From classic fantasy to dreamy sci-fi, these RPGs pull you in deep.

7. Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023)

Ready for some epic Dungeons & Dragons energy? Baldur’s Gate 3 is the closest you’ll get to the real thing. Friendship, betrayal, heroic standoffs—decisions really matter here, and the banter is top-notch. Perfect for solo strategists or chaotic co-op nights.

8. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (2024)

Cloud, Tifa, Barret, and company return in a jaw-dropping, sprawling re-imagining of the classic. This isn’t just a remake—it’s a full re-experiencing, with open-world hub areas, gorgeous visuals, and a cast that feels more alive than ever. Plus, chocobo rides are now legally mandatory (well, almost).

9. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (2025)

No other series blends crime drama, over-the-top minigames, and heartfelt storytelling quite like this one. Want turn-based battles, hilarious side quests, and the weirdest cast of characters on PS5? Jump in here. It’s big, it’s bold, and somehow, it makes karaoke feel heroic.

Section 4: Heart-Racing Action & Competitive Challengers

For those who just want to jump in and have some fast-paced fun—or test their skills online.

10. Street Fighter 6 (2023)

Street Fighter 6 brings the fighting franchise roaring back with accessible controls for newcomers, while maintaining the same technical depth for pros. The story mode is surprisingly awesome, and the online matches are fierce. Dust off your arcade stick; the competition is hot.

11. Gran Turismo 7 (2022)

Love cars? You’ll lose hours in Gran Turismo 7. It’s more than a racing game—it’s a museum, a collection, and a perfectly-balanced simulator. The PS5’s visuals and load times make it pure racing bliss.

12. Monster Hunter Wilds (2025)

What’s more fun than tracking a giant, fire-breathing beast with your friends? Doing it in an enormous world with constantly changing weather and ecosystems. Monster Hunter Wilds is the series’ most accessible entry, great for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Section 5: Chilling, Building, Exploring – Unique and Cosy Picks

Not every top game is hardcore. Some just want you to have fun, relax, or see the world in new ways.

13. Death Stranding: Director’s Cut (2021)

This one’s kinda weird, and that’s the whole point. Picture delivering packages across a broken world, all while getting caught in mysterious rainstorms and meeting strange characters (yes, Norman Reedus is here). It’s about connections, loneliness, and hope. Stick with it—the story’s worth it.

14. Astro’s Playroom (Free with PS5)

A bonus mention—every PS5 owner already has this one! It’s the perfect intro to your new system, and surprisingly heartfelt. Even after you finish, you’ll want to jump back in for the collectables.

15. Hogwarts Legacy (2023)

Let’s be honest, everyone wanted their Hogwarts letter. Now you get to explore the castle, learn magic, and discover secrets at your own pace. It’s a wish come true for Potterheads and a darn good open-world game for everyone else.

Section 6: Hidden Gems and Brand New Hits

Here are a few titles the big sites barely mention, but are winning hearts.

16. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (2025)

Stunning hand-painted art, clever new mechanics, and a wild story make this the sleeper RPG hit of the year. If you love discovering something “before it was cool,” give this a try.

17. Metaphor: ReFantazio (2025)

From the Persona creators, this JRPG is full of stylish battles, character drama, and beautiful animation. Think epic fairy tale, but with deep systems and all the emotional intensity you want from a great anime.

18. Legends: Lego Horizon Adventures (2025)

What happens when you mix Aloy’s epic robot-dino adventure with the heart and humour of LEGO? You get a game that’s ridiculously fun for families and longtime fans alike.

Section 7: Honourable Mentions – Because 25 Games Ain’t Enough

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty – Finally gets the glow up it deserves.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown – Platforming magic returns.
Hades – Addictive dungeon-crawling meets Greek drama.
Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut – One of the most beautiful stealth action games ever.
Split Fiction, Stellar Blade, Atomfall, Black Myth: Wukong, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 – All major up-and-comers for every type of gamer.

Why PS5 Gaming is Special (and Only Getting Better)

The PlayStation 5 isn’t just faster and prettier—it’s outright smarter. Features like haptic feedback (on show in Astro Bot and Returnal), near-instant loading (goodbye loading screens!), and incredible audio all mean games feel even more immersive. Don’t forget: PS5 plays nearly all the best PS4 classics even better, so your library is basically endless.

This generation has something for everyone—fast action, moving stories, big laughs. Most importantly, it brings people together, either online or on the couch. In short, if you can dream it, you can probably play it.

Final Thoughts: What Will You Play Next?

At the end of the day, these aren’t just “must buys”—they’re stories waiting for you, worlds for exploring, and, yes, a few challenges ready to break your controller (in a good way). This list is my roadmap for the best PlayStation 5 experiences in 2025—a blend of critic favourites, fan picks, and a few offbeat gems. Start with one that grabs you, and don’t be surprised if you fall in love with something unexpected.

What did I miss? Which games made you forget about sleep or dinner? Drop your favourites in the comments—let’s make this the best guide for PlayStation 5 fans, together!

There you have it—your detailed, friendly, and up-to-date guide to the best PlayStation 5 games. Now excuse me, I have some “research” (aka gaming) to catch up on!

The 25 Best PlayStation 5 Games You Need to Play in 2025