Top 30 Best PS4 Games to Play Today
The PlayStation 4, Sony’s landmark console, has delivered a vast array of unforgettable gaming experiences. Despite the arrival of the PlayStation 5, the PS4 remains home to a multitude of critically acclaimed titles that continue to influence new releases and captivate players worldwide.
Why the PS4 Still Matters
Since its launch in 2013, the PS4 has sold over 117 million units worldwide as of 2023, cementing its position as one of the best-selling consoles ever. Its extensive library spans genres from action-adventure and RPGs to shooters and indie gems. Many of these games have been pivotal in shaping modern gaming trends and storytelling techniques.
Moreover, some of the most acclaimed PS4 exclusives have been remastered or reimagined for the newer generation, giving new and returning players a chance to experience these masterpieces with enhanced graphics and performance. Titles like Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered and the Days Gone remaster illustrate this trend.
Key Features of the Best PS4 Games
- Immersive Storytelling: Games such as The Last of Us Part II and God of War revolutionized narrative depth and character development on the PS4.
- Gameplay Innovation: Genres like action RPGs thrived with titles like Bloodborne and Monster Hunter: World, blending challenge and accessibility.
- Expansive Open Worlds: Games including Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offer breathtaking open environments teeming with life and adventure.
- Multiplayer and Replayability: Hits like Fortnite and Titanfall 2 provide engaging online experiences with ongoing updates.
The Top 30 PS4 Games
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Dark Souls 3
Developed by FromSoftware and released in 2016, Dark Souls 3 epitomizes challenging, rewarding combat within a richly atmospheric world. It refined the series’ hallmark difficulty, integrating faster gameplay elements inspired by Bloodborne. Players explore grotesque yet majestic environments filled with intricate lore and terrifying foes. This title represents the pinnacle of the ‘Soulsborne’ genre and is often the recommended entry point for newcomers.
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Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima’s 2019 masterpiece from Kojima Productions is a genre-defying journey set in a post-apocalyptic America. Featuring Norman Reedus as Sam Porter Bridges, players deliver crucial cargo across a fractured world while avoiding supernatural threats known as Beached Things. Its unique blend of walking simulator mechanics and profound storytelling distinguishes it in the PS4 catalog.
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Final Fantasy 15
Square Enix’s sprawling 2016 RPG follows Prince Noctis and his companions on a fantasy road trip blending epic battles with intimate character moments. Praised for its stunning visuals and dynamic gameplay, it balances traditional JRPG elements with open-world exploration to deliver over 100 hours of content.
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Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus
This 2017 title by Machine Games continues BJ Blazkowicz’s fight against an alternate-history Nazi regime in America. With refined combat mechanics, intense storytelling, and a potent mix of action and narrative depth, it remains one of the best first-person shooters on the console.
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Doom (2016)
id Software revitalized the franchise with this fast-paced, high-intensity shooter. Known for its brutal combat and satisfying weaponry, Doom delivers relentless action and classic horror-infused sci-fi atmosphere, earning perfect scores and critical acclaim.
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Dishonored 2
Arkane Studios’ exceptional 2016 stealth-action game offers the choice between two protagonists, Corvo and Emily, each with unique supernatural abilities. Its dynamic level design and non-lethal combat options make it a compelling experience for stealth enthusiasts and action gamers alike.
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Rise of the Tomb Raider
Crystal Dynamics’ 2015 action-adventure immersive sim continues the legacy of Lara Croft with breathtaking environments, challenging puzzles, and an engaging narrative. The ‘20 Year Celebration’ edition on PS4 includes all DLC, enhancing an already substantial game.
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Fallout 4
Bethesda’s 2015 post-apocalyptic RPG invites players to explore a vast wasteland filled with crafting, exploration, and story-driven quests. With a voice-acted protagonist and robust companion systems, Fallout 4 remains a staple for RPG fans.
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Titanfall 2
Respawn Entertainment’s surprise 2016 release delivers a fluid campaign and refined multiplayer experience. Its innovative parkour-inspired movement and mech combat mechanics stand out in the FPS genre.
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Monster Hunter: World
Capcom expanded its beloved hunting franchise in 2018 with this accessible yet deep RPG. Vast ecosystems, a wide arsenal of weapons, and cooperative multiplayer make it a highly addictive title.
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Battlefield 1
Set during World War 1, DICE’s 2016 shooter impresses with gritty, large-scale multiplayer battles and a poignant single-player campaign. Free DLC content keeps the game fresh and engaging.
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Detroit: Become Human
Quantic Dream’s 2018 narrative-driven adventure explores themes of artificial intelligence and sentience in near-future Detroit. Emphasizing player choice and branching storylines, it offers immense replay value and emotional storytelling.
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Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Ubisoft’s 2018 entry deepens the RPG elements of the franchise, delivering over 100 hours of exploration in Ancient Greece. Rich storylines and an expansive world make it a standout in the series.
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The Division 2
Ubisoft’s 2019 looter-shooter sequel enhances the original with refined mechanics, an engaging narrative, and continuous content updates, securing its place as a long-lasting multiplayer favorite.
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Bloodborne
FromSoftware’s 2015 PS4 exclusive is celebrated for its fast, aggressive combat and gothic horror atmosphere. Its innovative ‘Trick Weapons’ system and intricate world design make it a must-play for action RPG enthusiasts.
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Persona 5
This 2016 JRPG mixes high school sim life with dungeon crawling and monster collecting, wrapped in a stylish package. Its commentary on society and mature themes make it highly praised and cult-classic status.
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Resident Evil 7: Biohazard
Capcom redefined survival horror in 2017 with this first-person installment focusing on tension and atmosphere. The return to horror roots, combined with smart mechanics, earned it acclaim among series fans and newcomers alike.
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Nier: Automata
PlatinumGames’ 2017 action RPG infuses philosophical storytelling and avant-garde design with fast-paced combat. Its innovative narrative techniques and memorable soundtrack elevate it beyond typical genre fare.
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Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Naughty Dog’s 2016 blockbuster adventure blends cinematic action with deep character development. The game elevates the series with stunning visuals and an emotionally resonant story, marking a high point for the PS4.
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Ghost of Tsushima
2020’s open-world samurai epic from Sucker Punch offers breathtaking scenery, fluid combat, and a story inspired by Japanese cinema. Its emphasis on choice and exploration makes it a fitting swan song for the PS4 generation.
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What Remains of Edith Finch
Giant Sparrow’s 2017 narrative-driven walking simulator is lauded for its unique storytelling and emotional impact. The game’s anthology format presents different family members’ stories, blending gameplay and narrative seamlessly.
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Grand Theft Auto 5
Rockstar’s 2013 classic remains a juggernaut with an expansive open world, engaging multi-perspective storytelling, and thriving multiplayer modes that continue to receive updates. Its influence on open-world games is immense.
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Fortnite
Epic Games’ free-to-play sensation revolutionized battle royale gaming with fast-paced action and distinctive building mechanics. Regular content updates ensure players remain engaged, making it one of the most popular PS4 games globally.
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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
CD Projekt Red’s 2015 RPG delivers an open world teeming with life, complex characters, and deep narrative arcs. Its acclaimed expansions, including Blood and Wine, add hours of quality content, cementing its status as one of the greatest RPGs ever.
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Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Despite controversies, Konami’s 2015 stealth-action title showcases Hideo Kojima’s vision of tactical espionage. It offers unparalleled player freedom and a gripping story, enhanced by a memorable ‘80s soundtrack and stellar voice acting.
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Marvel’s Spider-Man
Insomniac Games’ 2018 superhero adventure nails the feel of swinging through New York City, combining fluid traversal with engaging combat and storytelling. The game shines with its heartfelt narrative and expansive post-launch content.
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Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar’s 2018 open-world western masterpiece is celebrated for its staggering realism, emotional storytelling, and immersive world design. Its detailed environment and living ecosystem offer players endless exploration and discovery.
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Horizon: Zero Dawn
Guerrilla Games’ 2017 action RPG is praised for its innovative setting—a post-apocalyptic world ruled by mechanical creatures—and strategic combat that blends ranged and melee tactics. The Frozen Wilds DLC expands the lore and challenges further.
Conclusion
The PS4 has provided an exceptional legacy in gaming, with varied titles that cater to all kinds of players. Its collection of best PS4 games has set industry standards in graphics, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics. As new players discover these gems and veterans revisit them, the PS4 continues to leave a lasting impact on the gaming world.
Whether you’re drawn to intense action, rich narratives, or expansive worlds, this curated list of the top 30 games highlights the breadth and depth of the PS4’s catalog.
