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35 of the Best PS4 Games You Can Play Right Now

35 of the Best PS4 Games You Can Play Right Now

Choosing only the 35 best PS4 games is an impossible task. Trying to focus on games we didn’t cover on our list of the best Xbox One games is even harder. But don’t worry dear reader; we’re up to the challenge of giving the best PlayStation 4 games their time to shine.

The PlayStation 4 is one of the most successful consoles in recent memory. Upon release, it was a rousing success with critics and fans alike. This was the start of a beautiful relationship between console and gamer. 

To celebrate the PS4, we’re going to run down 35 of the best PlayStation 4 games. We’re using a mixture of critical acclaim, fan response, and personal opinion. You may agree with this list. You’ll probably disagree, but that’s okay! Just keep the conversation going in the comments below. 

Let’s begin!

Persona 5 Royal Does the Impossible and Invalidates One of the Best Games Ever Made

Persona 5 Royal does the impossible and invalidates one of the best games ever made
Photo Credit: SEGA of America, Inc.

(Metascore: 95)

The original Persona 5 is an all-time classic. It delivers a stellar JRPG experience that you’ll never forget, thanks to slick visuals, unforgettable characters, and addicting gameplay. 

Then comes Persona 5 Royal and says “yeah, that old stuff is out of date. This is the new hotness, now.”

Royal makes you want to relive the Persona 5 experience and enjoy the 100-hour adventure all over again. 

The Last of Us Remastered Allows a Masterpiece to Reach Its True Potential

The Last of Us Remastered allows a masterpiece to reach its true potential
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 95)

Naughty Dog already perfected the cinematic action-adventure experience with the Uncharted franchise. With The Last of Us, they perfect post-apocalyptic horror. 

The Last of Us is never afraid to show the gruesome realities of humanity with its back up against the wall. It blends in the best themes of survival horror and stealth action to deliver a mature, unflinching, and brutal experience. 

Its original release in 2013 came around the height of the trope regarding video games transcending their media and becoming art. For better or worse, The Last of Us is the poster child for that, being a true work of art. 

The PlayStation 4 remaster unlocks the game’s true potential. Despite being originally released on the PS3, it’s undoubtedly also one of the best PS4 games and we can’t wait to see the current remaster in development. 

The Last of Us Part Ii Is Not Afraid to Tell the Story It Wants to Tell

The Last of Us Part II is not afraid to tell the story it wants to tell
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 93)

Sometimes it’s important to stick to your guts and deliver the story you want to tell. That’s the mantra of The Last of Us Part II. Despite the divided response upon release, it’s hard to argue that it’s one of the greatest PlayStation 4 games to grace the console. 

The sequel ups the ante from the original, driving deeper into the brutal, relentless, and at times uneasy themes. Playing through Last of Us Part II  undoubtedly takes something out of you, but I’d argue that’s the point of the game.  It’s supposed to make you question everything that unfolds on your screen. 

Naughty Dog has proven time and time again that they are on another level when it comes to delivering gaming masterpieces. We can’t wait to see what’s next. 

God of War Revitalizes the Franchise as One of the Best PS4 Games Available Today

God of War revitalizes the franchise as one of the best PS4 games available today
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 94)

Since its debut in 2005, the God of War franchise established itself as one of the best hack and slash action series on the market. After the trilogy’s conclusion with 2010’s God of War III, the franchise lumbered around for a bit. With 2018’s God of War, that lumbering around is over. 

Santa Monica Studio brings the franchise back to its roots while also delivering a more mature, grounded experience. Portraying Kratos as an older, more grizzled veteran alongside his song Atreus delivers a more intimate experience in both the narrative as well as combat.

This is only enhanced by gameplay that focuses less on rapidly pulling off combos and more on stirring along your moves in succession. It’s almost as if the player performs a dance, resulting in the relentless and brutal action that takes place on the screen. 

Resident Evil 2 Is a Remake That Properly Updates the Original, Resulting in One of the Best Playstation 4 Games

Resident Evil 2 is a remake that properly updates the original, resulting in one of the best PlayStation 4 games
Photo Credit: Capcom

(Metascore: 91)

The original Resident Evil 2 is one of the best PS1 games of all time. The remake does it justice, delivering the authentic experience we deserve. 

Capcom’s remake is filled with love and homage, resulting in the proper reimaging of the PlayStation One classic. It’s more than just a fresh new coat of paint, but also brings the best of old school and new school to the table. The setting, story, and atmosphere of the original survival horror games blend perfectly well with modern gameplay and controls. 

The remakes of the original Resident Evil games have done well for Capcom, and we can’t wait for the remake of Resident Evil 4. It’s going to be hard to top Resident Evil 2, though. 

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is not just peak Metal Gear Solid, but also one of the best PS4 games

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is not just peak Metal Gear Solid, but also one of the best PS4 games
Phoot Credit: Konami

(Metascore: 93)

The Phantom Pain isn’t just a game; it’s an experience. 

This is Metal Gear Solid in its purest and loudest form. The franchise has never seen a scale this large before, resulting in an open-world environment that rivals any other in gaming. The same can be said for the story, though that will undoubtedly be a bit more divisive. 

Some enjoyed the narrative while others will be left scratching their heads in disappointment while they softly chuckle to themselves. Phantom Pain is pure Kojima at his best and worst. 

If you can look past its flaws, then you’re hard-pressed to find a better game than Metal Gear Solid V. 

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn is a crowning MMORPG achievement and one of the best PlayStation 4 games

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn is a crowning MMORPG achievement and one of the best PlayStation 4 games
Photo Credit: Square Enix

(Metascore: 86)

The resurgence of Final Fantasy XIV is a literal rebirth. The recent success and attention the game has received are well deserved. FFXIV isn’t just one of the best MMORPGs you can play today. It’s also one of the best PS4 games available. 

Naturally blending a meaningful story arc into an MMO is a job well done by Square Enix. Playing through the main scenario quests isn’t a chore; it’s something you look forward to completing. 

Doubly impressive is the game’s job system, allowing for an amazing amount of flexibility and character control. The rotations are a little daunting at times, but the combat system allows for plenty of action and engagement. 

Whether on PlayStation 4 or PC, Final Fantasy XIV is worth playing, even if you don’t fully participate in the MMO side of things. The game’s narrative is just that good. 

Final Fantasy VII: Remake delivers a new take on a beloved classic

Final Fantasy VII Remake delivers a new take on a beloved classic
Photo Credit: Square Enix

(Metascore: 87)

Technically, this isn’t a remake of Final Fantasy VII. It’s a remake of the first handful of hours of Final Fantasy VII. Despite this and other flaws, it’s still one of the best PlayStation 4 games. 

The story lost a bit of its charm and mystique with the remake, but it was never going to have the same appeal anyway. The game’s twists and turns are too engraved into gaming culture. VII Remake is fully aware of this, making the preservation of the main timeline a plot point. 

Where Final Fantasy VII: Remake truly shines is the combat. The seamless blend of real-time combat with turn-based roots is a match made in heaven. Honestly, it’s going to be hard to ever go back. Boss battles are as engaging and entertaining as ever, whether they’re the most serious encounters against antagonists or the over-the-top boss fights that have, thankfully, been preserved. 

Bloodborne Is a Haunting and Beautiful Masterpiece That Ranks Among the Best Playstation 4 Games

Bloodborne is a haunting and beautiful masterpiece that ranks among the best PlayStation 4 games
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 92)

It’s the game everyone wants a remaster of! Spending five minutes with one of the best From Software games will tell you why: Bloodborne may just be one of the best PS4 games ever made. 

Instead of acting as a direct Souls sequel, Bloodborne is a spin-off inspired by the main franchise. As a result, combat is far more proactive and furious. The game’s design doesn’t just encourage you to be the aggressor, it rewards it. By allowing players to regain lost health when landing successful attacks, it opens up a whole new level of gameplay.

Bloodborne’s brutal difficulty is the icing on the cake here. It follows the FromSoftware logic of being tough but fair, resulting in a rewarding experience. 

Marvel’s Spider-Man truly makes you feel like Spider-Man

Marvel's Spider-Man truly makes you feel like Spider-Man
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metacritic: 87)

Insomniac Games knows exactly how to make you feel like Spider-Man

On a serious note, Marvel’s Spider-Man is easily one of the best PS4 games you can play today. By forging its own path with a unique narrative and characters untethered to the MCU, it’s not bound by any requirements or restrictions.

What truly sets this game apart is the combat. The action is fluid and responsive, almost in an artistic way. You’re not mashing buttons and hoping for the best, but instead performing an in-combat dance against your enemies. 

Equally as impressive are the game’s visuals. The fact that Marvel’s Spider-Man is a PlayStation 4 game is nothing short of miraculous. It’s truly a sight to behold. 

Uncharted 4 is a satisfying finale that results in one of the best PS4 games

Uncharted 4 is a satisfying finale that results in one of the best PS4 games
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 93)

We already talked about Naughty Dog’s mature tour de force. Now it’s time for their cinematic masterpiece. 

The Uncharted franchise earns its place as one of the best in gaming. Uncharted 4 concludes the series in an incredibly satisfying manner. Naughty Dog continues to showcase why they’re in a league of their own. Much is made about Uncharted’s penchant for a gameplay experience like no other, but the cinematic atmosphere goes beyond just the thrilling gameplay.

Uncharted 4’s characters, narrative, and motives are enhanced by the actors’ performances. You’re drawn in by the strength of the characters, not just the gameplay sequences, which are strong enough on their own. This results in A Thief’s End being a total package of a video game. 

If this truly is the last of Nathan Drake, Naughty Dog emptied the tank with this one. It was well worth it. 

Ghost of Tsushima is an absolutely beautiful game

Ghost of Tsushima is an absolutely beautiful game
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 83)

Speaking of cinematic experiences, the next title on our list of the best PS4 games redefines what it means to be a cinematic video game.

Developer Sucker Punch made a PlayStation 4 game that looks like a next-gen experience. The open world of Japan is doubly beautiful: a work of art come to life that’s worth exploring. Your surroundings and atmosphere continue to motivate, allowing the player to easily dive deeper into the gameplay. 

Like Uncharted, Ghost of Tsushima couples the game’s cinematic experience with exceptional gameplay and combat. The action is brutal, intense, and, strangely enough, inviting. On the surface, the game seems unforgiving at times, and it is. But unlike some games where the best way to progress is to “get good,” Tsushima rewards the player for learning the ins and outs of its gameplay design. 

Death Stranding is Hideo Kojima at his most Hideo Kojima

Death Stranding is Hideo Kojima at his most Hideo Kojima
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 82)

Earlier on our list of the best PlayStation 4 games, I mentioned how Metal Gear Solid V is peak Metal Gear solid. Death Stranding is peak Hideo Kojima. 

There has been plenty of discourse, controversy, and discussion regarding the strength and merits of the game, but the themes shine through. Every second of gameplay, even the more tedious moments, serves its purpose. 

Yes, Kojima isn’t afraid to indulge himself in Death Stranding, but the deeper you dive into things, the better the experience. 

Rocket League is an exhilarating, unforgettable experience

Rocket League is an exhilarating, unforgettable experience
Photo Credit: Psyonix LLC

(Metacritic: 85)

Few games have enjoyed the sleeper success of Rocket League. Launching in the summer of 2015, it quickly became an online sensation. Watching just ten seconds of gameplay tells you all you need to know: Rocket League is a highlight reel come to life. 

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned veteran, the tricks and stunts you perform midgame will continually impress. Is it frustrating when you can’t pull off the same stunts you see online? Yes. Is it doubly annoying when your teammates can? You bet. 

Still, Rocket League is a great PS4 game since you want to keep playing despite your blunders. You want to keep going, get better, and then before you know it boom: my wife has been playing all night and lost track of the time until I got up for work. 

So yeah, Rocket League is a good game. 

Undertale is one of the best turn-based RPGs ever made and easily one of the best PS4 games

Undertale is one of the best turn-based RPGs ever made and easily one of the best PS4 games
Photo Credit: tobyfox

(Metascore: 92)

I could spend hours talking about why Undertale is one of the best PlayStation 4 games of all time. I could spend equally as long talking about why it’s the best PlayStation 4 game. Alas, I don’t have hours, so you’ll have to do with a hundred or so words.

Undertale is a beautiful, moving game that gives the player an unparalleled amount of choice. Everything, from interacting with the characters to the combat, is wholly up to your decisions. Best of all, the game remembers your actions, your decisions, and what you’ve done.

Speaking of combat, Undertale finds a way to make turn-based combat fun and engaging. Best of all, it does it without adding in real-time agencies or tactical strategy. You’re engaged in a similar manner to the best Paper Mario titles, helping to make combat fun and enjoyable.

The game’s pretty darn funny as well. Like, seriously. It’s downright hilarious. 

Please play this game. If for some reason you haven’t, shame on you.  

Shadow of the Colossus Finally Reaches Its True Potential on Playstation 4

Shadow of the Colossus finally reaches its true potential on PlayStation 4
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 91)

The original Shadow of the Colossus was a masterpiece in gameplay design. It was undoubtedly held back by the technical limitations of the PlayStation 2 hardware, but it is a crowning achievement nonetheless. 

Developer Bluepoint Games, who also worked on the PS3 remaster, remade the game from the ground up, resulting in one of the best PS4 games you can play right now.

In addition to the beautiful graphics, overhauled controls help establish this version as the definitive title and the best way to play the game. 

Shadow of the Colossus was always a game made for high definition. Bluepoint’s remake and refinement deliver an unforgettable experience. 

Dragon Quest XI is the best Dragon Quest game in the franchise

Dragon Quest XI is the best Dragon Quest game in the franchise
Photo Credit: Square Enix

(Metascore: 86)

Originally released in 2017 and enhanced some years later, Dragon Quest XI is a quintessential turn-based RPG. It doesn’t push the genre forward, but it doesn’t have to, either. Square Enix focuses on the traditional JRPG experience and polishes it to a near-blinding shine. 

Dragon Quest XI manages to be a worthy successor to the last console entry in the series while also being a great starting point for newcomers. Impressive writing and enjoyable characters help carry the game to its success. 

Much has been made about how the game doesn’t do much to shake up or update the franchise’s fundaments. As a counterpoint, Dragon Quest XI doesn’t have to do this. Why fix what isn’t broken?

These games are pure JRPG art in their truest form. You can’t do much better than this. 

Horizon: Zero Dawn and its incredibly open-world gameplay results in one of the best PS4 games

Horizon: Zero Dawn and its incredibly open-world gameplay results in one of the best PS4 games
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 89)

The unfortunate reality is that a lot of video games with really cool hooks and ideas are bad. Horizon Zero Dawn is the exception here, not the norm. Thanks in part to successfully matching style and substance, it’s one of the best PS4 games you’re able to play today.

While not a perfect experience, the strength of Ashly Burch as protagonist Aloy helps dictate an exhilarating experience. She absolutely steals the show, helping to carry the game between its set pieces. 

Speaking of those set pieces, they’re easily the highlight of Horizon: Zero Dawn. Combatting your robotic dinosaur enemies in the open-world blends the best ideas of the genre together. These are experiences that will result in core gaming memories you’ll always take with you.

It’s a shame that it released a literal four days before a generation-defining game. Maybe the sequel will have better luck…

Horizon: Forbidden West is a genuine PlayStation 5 experience on PS4

Horizon: Forbidden West is a genuine PlayStation 5 experience on PS4
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 83)

..the sequel didn’t have better luck. Horizon: Forbidden West was released on February 18th, 2022. Seven days later, a little game called Elden Ring came out. Maybe you’ve heard of it. 

Thankfully, by comparison, Forbidden West is a far more accessible and welcoming experience. Developer Guerilla Games pulls this off without sacrificing the game’s integrity. It’s a bigger, expanded vision over the original without giving up any quality. 

While technically a PS5 game, Forbidden West is still an experience worth having on the PS4. It’s not perfect and it’s a little restrained in its technical prowess, but the fact that this game is able to even exist on the PlayStation 4 is a miracle. 

Uncharted: Nathan Drake Collection brings the classic trilogy to the PlayStation 4

Uncharted: Nathan Drake Collection brings the classic trilogy to the PlayStation 4
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metacritic: 86)

As great as Uncharted 4 is, it would be nowhere without the original trilogy. 

The Nathan Drake Collection delivers the Uncharted experience in its most definitive form. Bluepoint proves why they are in a league of their own when it comes to remakes and remasters. Delivering updated graphics and a refined gameplay experience. 

Uncharted 1 may be a bit dated by modern gameplay standards, but it’s still an enjoyable trip through time to relive the birth of a franchise. The follow-ups have aged far better, much like the Mass Effect franchise. 

Whether it’s your first or tenth time through, Uncharted is always a great time. 

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rootin’ tootin’ helluva time

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rootin' tootin' helluva time
Photo Credit: Rockstar Games

(Metascore: 97)

Next on the list of best PS4 games comes what may be Rockstar’s best outing ever. 

Red Dead Redemption 2 truly offers something for everyone. The standard open-world gameplay Rockstar is known for is here front and center. The wide array of missions, whether it’s the main story or side quests, offers plenty to see and do.

The characters and writing shine through, encouraging you to care about their actions. You invest in their stories in ways few games can achieve. 

Yet as strong as the game is, few things beat just aimlessly exploring the wonderfully crafted world Rockstar has created. Sometimes the best moments in Red Dead Redemption 2 are the ones where you have no purpose, exploring the world for the sake of discovering what it contains. 

Grand Theft Auto V is one of the best PS3 and PS4 games and I’m sure it will also be one of the best PS5 games, too

Grand Theft Auto V is one of the best PS3 and PS4 games and I'm sure it will also be one of the best PS5 games, too
Photo Credit: Rockstar Games

(Metascore: 97)

Maybe the reason why we haven’t heard about the next Grand Theft Auto yet is because Rockstar doesn’t know how to top near-perfection. 

The decision to interweave the story of three playable protagonists is nothing short of brilliant. Watching Michael, Trevor, and Franklin deal with their flaws and personal shortcomings as they attempt to build a better future for themselves is incredibly entertaining. 

Coupled with one of the most impressive open worlds in a video game, Grand Theft Auto V is a masterpiece. The updated remaster on PS4 truly does the game wonders. 

Dreams is a creative wonderland

Dreams is a creative wonderland
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 89)

Media Molecule has been at the forefront of imagination. The LittleBigPlanet franchise was a PlayStation 3 mainstay in terms of platforming and creativity. Dreams, released for the PlayStation 4 in February 2020, offered a new version of the “play, create, share” mantra.

For better or worse, the strength of Dreams is solely on the community. At times, it runs into the Super Mario Maker issue of having to wade through some bad community designs. Despite this, once you reach the pinnacle of what others have created, it makes everything worthwhile. 

There’s always a certain amount of charm when dealing with the quirks of community-driven games. Dreams is no exception; the community, God bless their hearts, are not professional video game developers. Yet the off-color visuals, awkward animations and voice acting, and lack of polish only add to the appeal. 

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is one of the best FromSoftware games

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is one of the best FromSoftware games
Photo Credit: Activision

(Metascore: 90)

Our list of the best PlayStation 4 games features two FromSoftware releases and neither of them are from the Dark Souls franchise. 

In many ways, Sekiro is the spiritual successor to the PS1 classic Tenchu. Yes, it helps that the game originally began as a Tenchu title. That influence is present throughout. 

Combining the trademark style of FromSoftware difficult and combat with stealth gameplay and rhythm-based combat works wonders.

Sekiro is different than other FromSoftware games but isn’t afraid to embrace its identity. It uses this to its advantage, delivering an unforgettable and exhilarating experience. 

Ratchet & Clank is the satisfying reboot the franchise needed, resulting in one of the best PS4 games

Ratchet & Clank is the satisfying reboot the franchise needed, resulting in one of the best PS4 games
Photo Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

(Metascore: 85)

The Ratchet & Clank franchise has always been a hallmark for PlayStation and 2016’s self-titled Ratchet & Clank is no exception. 

Insomniac Games brings a breath of fresh air to the franchise. They would save the innovation and new ideas for 2021’s Rift Apart on the PlayStation 5. On the PlayStation 4, the decision to focus on the foundation of what makes these games work fully pays off. 

The soft reboot works thanks in part to solid gameplay, clever and witty writing, and beautiful visuals. You have to wonder if the game wouldn’t have been so well-rounded if Insomniac didn’t focus on the basics. I understand that hitting a home run is flashy and exciting, but you have to do the little things as well. 

Nier: Automata is a crazy, over-the-top action experience that deserves a spot on our list of best PS4 games

Nier: Automata is a crazy, over-the-top action experience that deserves a spot on our list of best PS4 games
Photo Credit: Square Enix

(Metascore: 88)

Nier is just pure robot mayhem. It’s exactly what you’d expect from a title developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix.

The game is constantly throughout crazy ideas, complete with the faith that they’ll work. Spoiler alert: they do. 

With the juxtaposition between the highly satisfying action sequences against the random off-the-grain moments, Nier: Automata’s pacing is an absolute delight. At times it’s a bit rough around the edges, but in a way, you come to appreciate its imperfections. 

If there was ever a poster child for “games you need to play to believe,” it’s Nier: Automata. 

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the best RPGs of all time

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the best RPGs of all time
Photo Credit: CD Projekt Red

(Metascore: 92)

The finale of the Witcher trilogy is a crowning achievement in video game design. Its ambition and scope help propel it to be something greater than the medium. 

Much has been made about the game’s combat, visuals, and world. Truly, though, the narrative, story, and characters are what cause Witcher 3 to truly shine. 

The improved characterization of Geralt is one of the high points of the game. In reality, every character, both major and minor, benefit from the strength of the game’s writers. The voice acting truly lets the writing shine, further showcasing the strength of the game’s narrative.

There’s a reason why Cyberpunk 2077 was so heavily hyped. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is that strong of a game. It’s not perfect, but it’s still one of the best PS4 games you can play. 

Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix is the definitive Kingdom Hearts experience

Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix is the definitive Kingdom Hearts experience
Photo Credit: Square Enix

(Metascore: 84)

Look, Kingdom Hearts didn’t quite stick the landing. Thankfully, we have this impressive collection to hang our hats on. 

Boasting an impressive six releases in one convenient package, the 1.5 + 2.5 remix is an essential title for any Kingdom Hearts fan. While the quality of the non-mainline games can be debated, the strength of Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2 are enough to make this one of the best PlayStation 4 franchises released on the console.

The strength of the franchise has always been the combination of accessibility, RPG-lite story, and integration with Disney characters. Being able to not just play alongside Donald and Goofy but also interact in the worlds of timeless classics is an absolute delight. 

All of this is enhanced by the strength of the franchise’s soundtrack. The music draws you in, setting the proper mood and atmosphere for each level. It’s just a shame that the series could never live up to its initial potential. 

It Takes Two is cooperative platforming perfection and undoubtedly one of the best PS4 games you and a friend can play

It Takes Two is cooperative platforming perfection and undoubtedly one of the best PS4 games you and a friend can play
Photo Credit: Electronic Arts

(Metascore: 89)

Josef Fares had already made a name for himself outside of his infamous Game Awards rant. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons and A Way Out are hallmark designs for platforming and cooperative gameplay. 

With It Takes Two, Fares delivers a platformer that’s on par with some of the best in the genre. The consistent introduction of new ideas and designs helps to keep things fresh and exciting. 

This is a game that’s serious about its platforming mechanics but never takes the game itself too seriously. It knows what works and what doesn’t work not just in terms of level design but also with the story and its characters. 

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 HD is the rebirth of a masterpiece

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 HD is the rebirth of a masterpiece
Photo Credit: Activision

(Metascore: 89)

If you look up the definition of “faithful recreation” in the dictionary, you’ll find a picture of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 HD. Vicarious Visions did such a great job with the game that parent company Activision Blizzard replaced the old Blizzard Classic Team with Vicarious Visions. 

Everything you know and love from the original Tony Hawk games is alive and well in the HD remaster. The courses, songs, tricks, and gameplay have been brought back to life in spectacular fashion. 

As great as the older games play, they don’t look nearly as good as you remember. The high-definition visuals give the Tony Hawk franchise the look it deserves. Exploring the secrets of every stage, collecting hidden tapes, and achieving high scores, have never looked or felt better. 

Detroit: Become Human is a gorgeous story-driven delight

Detroit: Become Human is a gorgeous story-driven delight
Photo Credit: Quantic Dream

(Metascore: 78)

This may be the most controversial inclusion on our list of the best PS4 games. 

Detroit: Become Human received good reviews from critics but earned more favor from fans, helping to make it a cult classic. 

The narrative depth within Become Human is impressive. The amount of detail in its world, the characters and their performances, and the impact of your decisions are all fascinating. Each choice, no matter how trivial, carries consequences. 

Visually the game is a work of art, which is what we expect from developer Quantic Dream. Beyond just the graphics, character animation works wonders, allowing the player to easily immerse themselves into the story. 

Yakuza 0 is a character-driven action beat ’em up that delivers one of the best PS4 games

Yakuza 0 is a character-driven action beat 'em up that delivers one of the best PS4 games
Photo Credit: Sega

(Metascore: 85)

Yes, this is the Yakuza with the dancing cutscene. That’s all you really need to know about it.

Do you want more? Okay.

Yakuza 0 delivers an incredible mix of beat ‘em up action with the personality and flair of a JRPG. Combat offers a simplistic yet brutal feel. 

One of the biggest strengths of Yakuza 0 is the characters. As a prequel, the game offers a new and fresh perspective compared to other entries in the franchise. The complexity of the characters and the strength of their performances come together to deliver an incredibly satisfying and entertaining story.

Monster Hunter World is the best entry in the franchise

Monster Hunter World is the best entry in the franchise
Photo Credit: Capcom

(Metacritic: 90)

The Monster Hunter franchise has never experienced the same success locally as it has in Japan. That changes with Monster Hunter World, thanks in part to updated accessibility that doesn’t sacrifice the franchise’s foundation. 

Having an impressive open world where seemingly anything can happen doesn’t hurt, either. 

The gameplay loop for Monster Hunter World is the game’s strength. Being tasked to venture into the wild in the name of, well, hunting monsters feels like a hybrid between a survival game and a combat-based RPG. 

Boss battles still go on for what feels like an eternity, which is both exhilarating and frustrating. Regardless, once you finally complete the hunt, you’re overcome with an incredible sense of accomplishment and pride. 

Rez Infinite Is a Masterpiece in Virtual Reality

Rez Infinite is a masterpiece in virtual reality
Photo Credit: Sega

(Metascore: 89)

The original Rez, released in 2001 for the Dreamcast and PlayStation 2, is a fantastic rail shooter with a gripping story and fantastic gameplay. Rez Infinite, later released for the PlayStation 4 in 2016, adds VR support. 

It’s the definitive way to play a timeless modern classic.

Thanks to an impressive visual style, an incredible catch futuristic soundtrack, and gripping gameplay, Rez Infinite is a reason to play a game in virtual reality. 

At its core, the gameplay doesn’t do much to help it stand out in a crowd, but the total package comes together in a beautiful way. Few games, regardless of their genre, are able to deliver a total package like Rez Infinite

Tetris Effect is an incredible take on a timeless classic

Tetris Effect is an incredible take on a timeless classic
Photo Credit: Enhance Games

(Metascore: 89)

Speaking of timeless, it doesn’t get more timeless than Tetris. Trying to improve on a true OG like Tetris seems foolish, yet that’s exactly what Tetris Effect does. 

Everything starts to make sense when you realize that Tetris Effect comes from Tetsuya Mizuguchi, the creator of the beloved puzzle game Lumines and the previously mentioned Rez. 

Mizuguchi’s influence is visible throughout the gameplay experience. Between the subtle yet enhanced gameplay additions, catchy soundtrack, and addicting gameplay hook, Tetris Effect is an instant hit.

The experience is only enhanced in virtual reality, not by offering a more immersive and gripping environment but by also improving the game’s latency. Dare I say, this is the best way to play Tetris.  

Wrapping Up our list of best PS4 games

There it is. 35 of the best PS4 games you can play today. 

In all honesty, we could have kept going all day. The PlayStation 4 is an incredible console packed with an impressive library. I know we may have missed some of your favorites, but hey, we had to make cuts somewhere!

So what did we miss? What’s your favorite PS4 game? What title deserves more recognition? Keep the conversation going in the comments below and let us know what you think are some of the best PlayStation 4 games out there!

Author

Written by Jake Valentine

I am the Editor-In-Chief of BossLevelGamer. I'm also a lover of video games, food, and beer.