The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has arrived, bringing with it an entirely new era of gaming that emphasizes next-gen visuals, lightning-fast load times, and incredibly immersive gameplay experiences. With powerful hardware, advanced features like ray tracing, and the introduction of the innovative DualSense controller, the PS5 is pushing the boundaries of what video games can accomplish. If you’re lucky enough to own a PS5 or are considering picking one up, you’ll want to know which games are absolutely essential. Below, we dive into the best must-play PS5 games that every gamer should experience to fully appreciate the power of the console.
One of the standout launch titles for the PS5 was Demon’s Souls (2020), a remake of the 2009 bento.me/aerox88 PlayStation 3 classic. Developed by Bluepoint Games, Demon’s Souls is a stunning visual reimagining of the original, offering breathtaking environments, detailed character models, and incredibly realistic lighting. The gameplay remains true to its roots with challenging, methodical combat that requires precision and strategy. The game’s world is filled with dark fantasy elements, making it an incredibly atmospheric experience. With its jaw-dropping visuals, difficult gameplay, and expansive world, Demon’s Souls is a must-play for both newcomers and series veterans.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021) is another showcase of the PS5’s capabilities, offering both exciting gameplay and impressive visual fidelity. Developed by Insomniac Games, the title brings back the beloved duo of Ratchet and Clank on an interdimensional adventure. The game’s standout feature is its ability to instantly shift between worlds, utilizing the PS5’s fast SSD to eliminate load times. This smooth transition between dimensions creates an incredibly fluid experience and serves as a great example of the hardware’s potential. The colorful environments, engaging combat, and humorous story make Rift Apart a fun and polished platformer that fully embraces next-gen technology.
If you’re a fan of open-world action games, Spider-Man: Miles Morales (2020) is a PS5 title you can’t miss. As the follow-up to Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018), Miles Morales takes the web-slinging experience to the next level, with Miles Parker taking center stage as the new Spider-Man. The game’s narrative is deeply emotional, following Miles as he navigates his responsibilities as both a young man and a superhero in the bustling streets of New York City. The PS5 upgrade brings stunning visuals, including ray-traced reflections and realistic lighting that enhance the already visually impressive world. Swinging through the city, battling new foes, and taking in the dynamic weather and day-night cycle are all enhanced by the PS5’s technical capabilities, making this a must-play superhero game.
One of the most highly anticipated PS5 exclusives is Horizon Forbidden West (2022), the sequel to the critically acclaimed Horizon Zero Dawn. This open-world action RPG follows the journey of Aloy, a skilled hunter in a world where robotic creatures roam free. Forbidden West improves upon the original in nearly every aspect, offering a larger, more detailed world filled with lush forests, towering mountains, and underwater exploration. The game also adds more complex combat, including new weapons and a refined skill tree. The beautiful, vibrant world and Aloy’s emotional journey make Horizon Forbidden West a breathtaking next-gen experience that showcases the PS5’s graphics and power.
For fans of survival-horror games, Resident Evil Village (2021) is a must-play title on the PS5. This eighth installment in the legendary Resident Evil series continues the story of Ethan Winters, who is searching for his kidnapped daughter in a mysterious, terrifying village. Resident Evil Village combines classic survival-horror elements with modern gameplay mechanics, creating a nerve-wracking, pulse-pounding experience. The game’s photorealistic visuals, powered by the PS5, make every encounter with the horrific monsters feel even more intense. The atmospheric design, creepy environments, and engaging combat make Resident Evil Village one of the best survival-horror experiences in years.
Returnal (2021), developed by Housemarque, is a psychological sci-fi action game that takes full advantage of the PS5’s hardware. In Returnal, players control Selene, a space explorer who finds herself trapped on an alien planet, facing off against hostile creatures while reliving her own death over and over again in a time-loop. The game is a roguelike, meaning that players will encounter randomized elements each time they die, making each run feel fresh and challenging. Returnal also utilizes the PS5’s DualSense controller for immersive haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, which add a level of immersion that other games simply cannot replicate. The challenging gameplay, intriguing story, and breathtaking visuals make Returnal one of the most innovative titles on the PS5.