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Determining the best PS5 games has now become quite a tricky task. While the PS5 generation started slow and was initially flooded with cross-generation titles also playable on PS4, Sony’s flagship console has since hit its stride with a slew of must-play games you can't enjoy anywhere else.
Here at Tom’s Guide, we’ve reviewed dozens of PS5 games, from colorful platforming sidescrollers to brutally difficult RPGs with hundreds of hours of content, and we’ve narrowed down the list of available software into the below collection of 25 truly top-tier titles. These are the PS5 games that we consider utterly essential. So, if you’re looking for something new to play, you can’t go far wrong with any of these picks.
Of course, what can be considered one of the “best” PS5 games is highly subjective, so we can’t promise that every single title on this list will appeal to every type of player. But at the very least, there should be a few games here that match your personal tastes. And so, without further introduction, these are our picks for the best PS5 games that you can play right now.
The best PS5 games you can buy today
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1. God of War Ragnarök
God of War Ragnarök had the unenviable job of following up not just one of the best PS4 games, but one of the most beloved PlayStation games ever. And yet somehow the development team at Sony Santa Monica did the unthinkable and actually surpassed the critically-acclaimed God of War (2018) with a sequel that's bigger than its predecessor in practically every way. And while it is available to play on PS4, it’s a real technical marvel on Sony’s latest hardware.
In this highly-polished action-adventure game you once again play as Kratos, the perennially angry Greek demigod, as he seeks to protect his son Atreus from the wraith of the Norse pantheon out for revenge. The situation is further complicated by the prophesied end of the world that looms large over the game’s epic fantasy storyline. Remarkably impressive both on a technical and gameplay level, God of War Ragnarök combines cinematic storytelling with satisfyingly brutal combat and deeply rewarding exploration. It’s a game worthy of the gods.
Read our full God of War Ragnarök review.
2. Elden Ring
Elden Ring feels like the culmination of the so-called Soulsbourne genre. Developed by Japanese studio FromSoftware, this behemoth takes the formula established in Dark Souls and expands it into a massive open-world setting. Of course, as with almost all From games, Elden Ring’s biggest draw is its challenging difficulty level that demands near perfection from players. But Elden Ring is about more than just brutally tough boss battles.
The game’s narrative is obscure but rich in detail for those willing to unravel its mysteries, and with Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin involved in dreaming up the game’s world, it’s not surprising there is a nearly bottomless sea of lore to dive into. The real beauty of Elden Ring comes from the high level of freedom it gives players to venture off the beaten path, but also to craft and upgrade a character that suits their preferred playstyle. Yes, you’ll die a lot, but you’ll always return after each crushing defeat because the joy of overcoming Elden Ring’s toughest obstacles is a feeling that few PS5 games can replicate.
There’s never been a better time to dive into Elden Ring than now as the new Shadow of the Erdtree DLC expansion adds a whole new region to the already vast map. This DLC packs a host of new fearsome bosses to fight alongside fresh weapons and items to collect, and for those craving the ultimate challenge, it includes some of the most devilishly difficult encounters FromSoftware has ever designed.
Read our full Elden Ring review and Shadow of the Erdtree review.
3. Marvel's Spider-Man 2
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is a spectacular superhero sequel. It retains pretty much everything great about its 2018 predecessor while also building upon the experience in key areas. The biggest new addition is the ability to play as both Peter Park and Miles Morales, but other significant improvements include new traversal options, a host of fresh combat abilities, a larger open-world, and more substantial side content.
The highly cinematic main campaign missions are the real show stealer, and see you face off against iconic Spidey villains such as Kraven the Hunter and Venom. Plus, the combat is as enjoyable as ever and swinging around the expanded New York City never gets old. There's no doubt about it, Spider-Man 2 is one of the best superhero video games ever made, and an essential play for every single PS5 owner.
Read our full Marvel's Spider-Man 2 review.
4. Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 is an RPG of extraordinary depth. There’s so much to see and do that you can quite easily spend dozens of hours in BG3’s densely-packed starting area alone. If you demand value for money with your next gaming purchase, Baldur’s Gate 3 delivers, and then some. But an overwhelming amount of content isn’t necessarily a good thing if what’s on offer is bland and repetitive. Fortunately, the quality bar in this RPG is kept extremely high.
Based on the fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons, this turn-based tactical role-playing game emphasizes player choice. Throughout the sprawling story and worthwhile sidequests, you’ll have to make tough decisions, and you also have near-total freedom to approach objectives and battles in whatever manner you wish. Best of all is the incredibly engaging writing and loveable (or sometimes intentionally hateable) characters. Your companions steal the show. Baldur’s Gate 3 offers an unforgettable fantasy quest, crammed with memorable moments, and when all is said and done, don’t be surprised if you want to re-roll a new character.
5. Astro Bot
Every PS5 console comes with a free copy of Astro’s Playroom, a delightfully charming 3D platformer you can beat in a couple of hours. This pack-in title was so well-received that Sony opted to turn it into a full game, and Astro Bot takes everything good about its predecessor (as well as the best bits from Astro's first PSVR game, Astro Bot: Rescue Mission) and makes it even more joyful.
Astro Bot is one of the most unrelentingly enjoyable games on the PS5 console. You play as the pint-sized PlayStation mascot across more than 80 levels as you tackle platforming challenges, simple combat encounters (and boss battles) and hunt for your missing bot friends. The game also celebrates the history of the PlayStation brand with V.I.P. bots that are styled to look like classic video game characters.
The family-friendly game is a tech showcase too, sporting the best use of the DualSense controllers to date and is bursting with creative energy. It's impossible to play Astro Bot and not have a huge grin on your face the entire time. If you enjoyed the taster that was Astro's Playroom just wait until you sample the full Astro meal.
Read our full Astro Bot review
6. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Sometimes the best games come almost out of nowhere, and that was certainly the case with Clair Obscure: Expedition 33. While it looked pretty promising in the preview stage, the final result was better than we could have ever hoped.
It's a masterful RPG that combines a highly cinematic and emotionally resonant story with one of the best turn-based battle systems ever. It’s magnifique!
You play as a team of expeditioners traveling to a mysterious land to try and end the annual reign of terror inflicted by a malevolent deity known as the Paintress. Your mission isn’t easy, and the revelations along the way will have your jaw gaping. But each twist feels well earned, and the cast of core characters is so compelling you’ll genuinely care about their ultimate fates. It’s not often that a game’s main narrative grips to this remarkable degree.
Clair Obscure: Expedition 33 also looks phenomenal on PS5, but it's the combat system that shines brightest. Encounters are turn-based but incorporate parries and dodges to keep you engaged. Battles feel active, energetic and rewardingly tough. Plus, there’s a wealth of worthwhile side content, and everything is set to a phenomenal and fitting music score.
Read our full Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 review
7. 007 First Light
We’re currently enjoying a golden era of video games based on popular movie franchises, but even with this increased competition, 007 First Light stands out as something truly special. It’s the best James Bond game ever made. Yes, even better than the legendary GoldenEye on the Nintendo 64. Hitman makers IO Interactive have crafted a cinematic experience that brings Bond into a new era, while retaining the classic soul of the spy.
Playing as a younger, fresh-faced James Bond, you follow him from his first steps into the world of espionage to becoming a certified 00 agent. The gameplay blends the blockbuster spectacle of games like Uncharted with more open sandbox-style levels found in IO’s own Hitman: World of Assassination. That combination is just as good as it sounds. Frankly, 007 First Light is better than the vast majority of James Bond movies, and a must-play whether you’re a superfan of the secret agent or a newcomer to the franchise. Oh, and let’s not forget the fitting soundtrack led by an excellent Bond theme performed by singer Lana Del Ray.
Read our full 007 First Light review
8. Ghost of Yotei
The sequel to 2020’s Ghost of Tsushima transports the samurai action to a new setting and stars a new playable protagonist, but the fundamentals that made Jin Sakai’s quest to reclaim his homeland have been retained and smartly expanded upon. Set in the Ezo region of Japan in the 17th century, you play Atsu, the daughter of a swordsmith, who watched her family brutally murdered at the hands of the Yōtei Six as a youngster. Now she’s grown up and on a mission to claim vengeance against the six at any cost.
Ghost of Yotei’s revenge story is fairly pedestrian, but it manages to still feel exciting largely because of the game’s extreme cinematic quality. From the jaw-dropping visuals (you’ll be using Photo Mode often) to the well-voiced cutscenes, you’re instantly drawn into Atsu’s world from the very start. The combat is also seriously stylish and very bloody, with each enemy type requiring a different weapon to take down. And naturally, as an open-world action game, there’s plenty of optional quests just off the beaten path.
Read our full Ghost of Yotei review
9. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West doesn't significantly depart from the formula set by its predecessor, Horizon Zero Dawn, but that’s not a bad thing as its PS4 forefather was already a highly compelling open-world action/adventure. And the few tweaks that Forbidden West does make are entirely for the better, building upon what worked and refining various gameplay systems.
This sequel sees franchise protagonist Aloy venture to new lands in her quest to discover truths about the old world and also to prevent the rapid degrading of the planet’s biosphere. Once you arrive in the Forbidden West, you’ll discover new herds of animalistic robots to battle in surprisingly tactical combat that puts the focus on picking your shots rather than just unloading arrows into your enemies. There are also dozens of side activities and distractions to discover. Not to mention, the game looks absolutely stunning on PS5. You’ll likely lose countless hours just drinking in the breathtaking scenery and vistas.
Read our full Horizon Forbidden West review.
10. Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart
Back in 2021, we labeled Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart the game the PS5 was born to play. And even two years later it continues to stand as an excellent showcase of the PS5’s capabilities. That’s primarily because of its rapid load times and strong use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. But also because it basically looks like a playable Pixar movie with colorful cartoonish graphics and wonderfully expressive character animations.
Rift Apart plays very similar to every other mainline Ratchet & Clank game but that actually works in the game’s favor as the franchise's established formula is so strong. This latest adventure for the spunky Lombax and his robot companion once again sees the pair travel to distant planets, encounter new friends (and enemies) and collect a shiny new arsenal of creative weaponry. What Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart lacks in new ideas, it makes up for with a great abundance of fun.
Read our full Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart review.
11. Resident Evil Requiem
Resident Evil makes sticking to this list's “one game per franchise” rule particularly tricky. There are half a dozen excellent RE games on PS5, including the phenomenal Resident Evil 4 remake. However, it’s the latest step into the iconic horror-survival series, Resident Evil: Requiem, that edges it by a whisker. What makes this 9th mainline entry in the franchise so spectacular is that it’s the most successful blend of horror and action the series has offered.
Playing as dual protagonists, newbie Grace Ashcroft and the returning Leon S. Kennedy, you unearth another sinister conspiracy and can play in either first-person or third-person (or you can pick a mode that switches between the two). Most of all, Requiem is more of the trademark Resident Evil gameplay that fans have loved for two decades. RE's mixture of pulpy storytelling and genuinely terrifying enemy encounters remains as compelling as ever. Plus, the main narrative feels like a true love letter to the series, with some great callbacks and some important revelations that will likely prove significant in the inevitable Resident Evil 10.
Read our full Resident Evil Requiem review
12. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Hideo Kojima is the closest gaming has to an auteur. For better (and occasionally worse), there’s nobody else making games quite like Kojima. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach continues the adventure of Sam Porter Bridges (played by Norman Reedus), essentially a post-apocalyptic mailman trekking across the ruins of Australia to reconnect settlements and deliver all sorts of packages. With some of the best visuals on the PS5, Death Stranding 2 is a real graphical showcase, and this time, the story is a little more straightforward to follow.
In fact, making things more accessible seems to have been the core design principle for this sequel. The gameplay once again revolves around walking across large stretches of land, but you’re given more tools than before to make each journey less taxing. There’s also a wealth of side content, and the game’s combat has been refined to make enemy encounters less of a chore. It’s a strong sequel that retains the best elements of its predecessor while refining the rough edges. Not to mention, it’s all imbued with Kojima’s trademark humor.
Read our full Death Stranding 2: On the Beach review
13. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a textbook example of a sequel that improves and expands upon practically every element of its predecessor. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order established solid foundations and the development team at Respawn Entertainment has deftly refined that formula and in turn crafted arguably the best Star Wars game of the last two decades.
Combining third-person action combat and Metroidvania-level design with a small sprinkling of elements from the Dark Souls series, Star Wars: Jedi Survivor is a cinematic adventure that encourages considered play and thorough exploration. It’s also got an engaging main story filled with likable characters and complex, even occasionally sympathetic, villains. Its technical performance on PS5 is a little disappointing, but if these issues can be remedied via post-launch patches, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor will be practically perfect.
Read our full Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.
14. Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo 7 thoroughly earns its given moniker as “the real driving simulator.” This latest entry in the long-running racing franchise is the most complete to date, and a must-play for petrolheads. Across a variety of modes, you’ll race on iconic real-world tracks in some of the most impressive cars in existence. And if you want to ensure your drive experience is exactly to your liking, you can even fine-tune many of the available vehicles tweaking everything from tire grip to suspension levels.
You don’t have to be a car enthusiast to enjoy Gran Turismo 7 either. The career mode is highly approachable for newcomers, and the controls are extremely accessible. Even better, this already excellent racing simulator has been made even more immersive thanks to a free update that adds comprehensive PSVR 2 compatibility to the entire game. The Gran Turismo series has always been one of PlayStation’s most consistent, and this seventh mainline entry is another racer that comfortably tops the podium.
Read our full Gran Turismo 7 review.
15. The Last of Us Part 1
The Last of Us Part 1 is a from-the-ground-up remake of one of the most acclaimed PlayStation games of all time. While some may debate the necessity of remaking The Last of Us when a perfectly playable PS4 remaster already exists, once you’ve seen this new version in action that conversation becomes almost entirely moot. This is now the definitive way to experience Joel and Ellie’s journey across post-apocalyptic America.
This is a shot-for-shot remake of the PS3 original so there are practically no changes to speak of beyond the stunning visual overhaul. However, the action and narrative of The Last of Us have held up remarkably well to this day, and remain utterly stellar. Plus, with the recent success of The Last of Us HBO show this remake is ideal for first-time players. And the package also includes the game’s DLC chapter Left Behind, which expands Ellie’s backstory and includes some of the game’s most intense combat encounters.
Read our full Last of Us Part 1 review.
16. Saros
Saros is the spiritual sequel to Returnal, taking its predecessor's fast-paced bullet hell gameplay and roguelike structure and sanding down some of the friction that made Returnal quite a hostile experience at times. Some players may lament Saros’s more generous approach to player upgrades and the reduction in overall difficulty. Still, there’s no denying that developer Housemarque has again crafted a gameplay-first PS5 exclusive, with an increased cinematic quality and a renewed focus on giving players the tools to succeed.
You play Arjun Devraj, a soldier working for the Solatri corporation. You arrive on the mysterious planet of Carcosa in the hopes of discovering what happened to a group of colonists who disappeared without a trace. To survive on this nightmarish planet, you’ll need to master the game’s relentless third-person shooter combat, which places just as much focus on getting out of the way of enemy fire as dishing out damage yourself. While death comes easily, accrued resources let you upgrade Arjuan, so that each time you step back into the ever-changing world of Carcosa, the odds are tipped slightly more in your favor.
Read our full Saros review
17. Demon’s Souls
Another remake of a PS3 classic, Demon’s Souls is the precursor to Dark Souls and is a must-play for anybody who enjoys FromSoftware’s iconic brand of tough-as-nails action RPGs. Rebuild by Bluepoint games, the original spirit of Demon’s Souls has been retained. But the whole experience has been upgraded with a breathtaking level of graphic polish and a rock-solid framerate.
If you’re familiar with other FromSoftware games such as Elden Ring, you’ll know the score here. Demon's Souls drops you into the dark fantasy world of Boletaria where just about everything has the capability to kill you in just a couple of hits. And while it might seem overwhelmingly difficult at first, take the time to learn the game’s various systems and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most satisfying gaming experiences on PS5.
However, players stepping into Demon’s Souls who have already enjoyed later Souls games should be wary, some of the original’s more dated elements are still present, and these often alienating aspects make Demon’s Souls arguably the most esoteric game in the franchise.
Read our full Demon’s Souls review.
18. Hogwarts Legacy
Hogwarts Legacy is the first (non-mobile) game set in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for more than a decade, and it turned out to be well worth the wait. Set more than a century before the boy who lived walked the corridors of the iconic magical school, Hogwarts Legacy lets you create your own witch or wizard, get sorted onto a Hogwarts house, and then embark on a grand adventure that involves dragons, goblins and dark wizards.
While the game’s main narrative will appeal to fans of the Harry Potter novels, and the spellcasting combat is surprisingly engaging, Hogwarts itself is the real star of the show. The famous castle has been digitally recreated in remarkable detail and its halls and classrooms are stuffed with secrets to uncover. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s also a larger world to explore that includes the quaint village of Hogsmeade and several small Hamlets inhabited by all sorts of magical folk.
Read our full Hogwarts Legacy review.
19. Dead Space
Dead Space is one of the most beloved survival horror games ever made, and it’s now been reborn on the PS5. This remake of the 2008 original, makes the horrific sights and sounds of the USG Ishimura more disturbing than ever before thanks to overhauled visuals that help to make this one of the most fear-inducing experiences on any console.
While the dramatically improved graphics will be the first thing returning players notice, the Dead Space remake is more than skin-deep. Developer Motive Studios has added a smattering of new content that fleshes out the game’s story, and smart tweaks have been made to some of the more dated aspects; goodbye frustrating turret section!
If you’re a newcomer, Dead Space casts you as Isaac Clarke, a deep space miner, stuck on a massive mining ship that has been overrun with nightmarish creatures known as Necromorphs. Using repurposed mining tools, you’ve got to blast your way to safety while also trying to keep your sanity in check. It’s an essential experience for horror fans.
Read our full Dead Space remake review.
20. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
One of the best Xbox Series X games has now arrived on PS5, and it’s just as remarkable on Sony’s console as it was on Microsoft’s when it launched there in December 2024. Thanks to the power of the PS5 Pro and the unique features of the DualSense controller, PlayStation 5 might be the best place to play developer Machine Games’ Indy adventure.
While the Bethesda-owned studio could have created an Uncharted clone, instead Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is a little slower paced, with a focus on stealth gameplay, exploration and puzzle solving, which feels like a natural fit for Dr. Henry Jones. This rip-roaring action-adventure is one of the most authentic licensed games around, spinning an original Indiana Jones tale that is significantly more engaging than the last two movies.
It’s also jaw-droppingly pretty on PS5. Framed around a globe-trotting quest to find a series of mysterious stones linked to the eponymous Great Circle, you’re whisked to exotic locations from the Great Pyramid of Giza to the twisting corridors of the Vatican, each remarkably detailed and packed with worthwhile collectible treasures to seek out. It’s a thrilling journey and an essential experience for Indiana Jones fans and newcomers alike.
Read our full Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review.
21. Stellar Blade
An intriguing mix of influences, Stellar Blade plays like a combination of Devil May Cry, NieR: Automata and Sekiro: Shadow Die Twice, and it’s as effortlessly stylish and satisfyingly challenging as that blend would suggest. Hailing from South Korean developer Shift Up, Stellar Blade is a PS5 exclusive of real quality that packs slick gameplay, stunning graphics and a compelling science-fiction world to explore.
You play EVE, the lone survivor of an android squad, after she’s dropped onto a ruined Earth that has been overrun by hostile aliens known as Naytibas. Your mission is to eliminate this invading force, but along the way discover dark secrets and grapple with complex moral questions. To be honest, Stellar Blade’s story is a little hokey with some less-than-stellar (pun intended) writing, but it’s the strength of the gameplay that will keep you playing through the 20 hours it takes to complete.
Combat is fast, fluid and frenetic, and while regular enemies don’t pose too much of a danger, the well-designed bosses will test your skills. Prepare to parry, a lot. If rewarding gameplay is a must, and story less important, don't skip Stellar Blade.
Read our full Stellar Blade review.
22. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
The second chapter in the ambitious Final Fantasy VII Remake project is one of the grandest RPGs on PS5. In Final Fantasy VII Rebirth you again step into the black leather boots of Cloud Strife, and this time your adventure takes you beyond the walls of the industrial city of Midgar. Stepping out into a lush open world, Cloud and his companions (including fan-favorites Aerith, Barrett and Tifa) must follow in the footsteps of the villainous Sephiroth, and this quest takes you to loads of memorable locations stuffed with new characters.
The flashy combat system from 2020’s Final Fantasy VII Remake has been further enhanced and when you’re not using Materia-infused powers to crush your foes, you’ll probably be engaging in one of the game’s numerous mini-games. These range from chocobo racing to a table-top card game called Queen’s Blood (Which gives Witcher 3’s Gwent a run for its money). Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is absolutely brimming with worthwhile distractions.
Of course, I’ve not even talked about the highly cinematic story, which comes to a dramatic and emotional conclusion with plenty of unanswered questions (we need Part 3 now!), and the entire package is wrapped up in some of the strongest production values the Final Fantasy franchise has ever seen.
Read our full Final Fantasy VII Rebirth review.
23. Lies of P
In the continued absence of a Bloodborne sequel or remaster, Lies of P is an action RPG that is looking to fill the void. This Soulslike is heavily inspired by the works of From Software and is loosely based on The Adventures of Pinocchio. But you won’t find any singing crickets in this dark fantasy take on the beloved novel. Instead, you’ll explore the gothic city of Krat and face its many nightmarish inhabitants.
Much like its clear inspirations, Lies of P is a very challenging game, and some of its fearsome bosses may test the limits of your gaming abilities. However, overcoming the game’s numerous difficult obstacles provides a deep sense of satisfaction. Plus, the visual design is excellent throughout, and the weapon customization system allows you to craft a character that is finely tuned to your preferred playstyle. We may never get a Bloodborne 2, but Lies of P is pretty much the next best thing.
24. Battlefield 6
Battlefield has been stuck in the shadow of Call of Duty for years. Not since 2017's Battlefield 1 has EA’s premier shooter given the Activision juggernaut real competition. However, the latest installment in the franchise, Battlefield 6, returns the franchise to its roots, offering players warfare on a grand scale, and most importantly, brings back the much-loved class system after a poorly received experiment with Operators in the undercooked Battlefield 2042. It’s very nice to have you back on top form, Battlefield.
The single-player campaign is a bit of a misfire (though it does have some bombastic moments), but as is common with shooters these days, it’s the online multiplayer where Battlefield 6 shines. Offering the series’ reliable suite of modes across various large-scale maps, it’s a chaotic shooter where you can fight through crammed corridors one moment, and then blast away enemies in an armored tank the next. Even better, developer Battlefield Studios is promising a wealth of post-launch content and just updated the game with a Battle Royale mode, with lots more to come on the roadmap.
Read our full Battlefield 6 review.
25. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 is perhaps the most fun you can have playing online on the PS5 but there is a fairly significant caveat, you need to squad up to get the most out of this co-op shooter. The game casts you as a soldier in the eponymous Helldivers army on a quest to spread liberty and peace, by any means necessary. While regular matchmaking is an option, it's not the optimal experience because when played with friends Helldivers 2 produces truly memorable moments at a remarkable clip.
Its gameplay loop is pretty simple: You drop onto a hostile planet, complete a series of routine objectives and get out of dodge, all while battling hordes of oversized bugs or lethal robots, but with rock-solid shooting, frenetic firefighters a progression system that constantly rewards you for playing, Helldivers 2 is the type of game that will have you saying “just one more round” long into the night. Adding to the delightful chaos is permanently enabled friendly fire, which results in comical moments where your airstrike wipes out a squadmate rather than an enemy boss.
Read our full Helldivers 2 review.
