The PlayStation 4 has given us many amazing games since its launch. From action-packed adventures to heartfelt stories, this console has something for everyone. Players looking for the best PS4 games can find top titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, God of War, and The Last of Us Part II consistently ranking high on most lists.
Gaming on PS4 offers experiences that range from epic open worlds to tight, story-driven journeys. While newer consoles have arrived, the PS4’s game library remains impressive and worth exploring. Many classic PS4 games are now budget-friendly but still deliver hours of fun and excitement.
1. The Last of Us Part II
The Last of Us Part II is widely considered one of the best PS4 games ever made. Released as a sequel to the critically acclaimed original, it continues the emotional story of Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world.
The game stands out for its stunning visuals that push the PS4 hardware to its limits. Even years after its release, many gamers believe it still looks better than newer titles on more powerful consoles. Some fans argue it’s graphically superior to many “next gen” games.
Combat in The Last of Us Part II feels intense and personal. The game features improved mechanics including more fluid movement, dynamic stealth options, and high-intensity melee fights that make each encounter memorable.
Story-wise, the game takes bold risks. It explores themes of revenge, trauma, and the cycle of violence through multiple perspectives. This approach divided some players but earned praise from critics for its emotional depth and complex character development.
The environments in the game show incredible attention to detail. From overgrown Seattle streets to snowy mountain passes, each location feels lived-in and authentic. These settings enhance the game’s tense atmosphere.
Sales numbers back up the game’s popularity. It became one of the fastest-selling PS4 exclusives, with over four million copies sold in just its release weekend.
For players who upgraded to PS5, a remastered version was later released. This edition enhances the already impressive visuals and adds new features, though many fans feel the original PS4 version still holds up remarkably well.
The soundtrack deserves special mention too. Composed by Gustavo Santaolalla, the music perfectly complements the emotional journey, making tense moments more frightening and quiet scenes more powerful.
Sound design goes beyond just music. The realistic audio cues from enemies and environment help players navigate the dangerous world and add to the immersion.
2. God of War
God of War (2018) stands as one of the most impressive games on PlayStation 4. This reimagining of the series takes Kratos from Greek mythology to Norse realms, creating a fresh start while honoring the franchise’s history.
The game pairs Kratos with his son Atreus, adding emotional depth to a series previously known mainly for violence. Their relationship forms the core of the story as they journey to scatter the ashes of Atreus’ mother.
Combat feels weighty and satisfying. Kratos’ Leviathan Axe can be thrown and recalled, adding a tactical element to fights. The game keeps the epic boss battles the series is known for while making each encounter feel unique.
What makes this game special is how it balances action with storytelling. The camera never cuts away, creating a seamless experience from start to finish. This technical choice helps pull players deeper into the world.
The graphics showcase what the PS4 can do at its best. Snow crunches realistically underfoot, light filters through trees, and character models show subtle emotions during quiet moments.
Many gamers consider God of War (2018) to be the best AAA game of its generation. The careful blend of combat, exploration, and narrative sets a high bar for action-adventure games.
The world design deserves special mention. Areas feel lived-in and ancient, with Norse mythology woven throughout. Players can explore at their own pace, finding secrets and lore that enrich the main story.
Sound design completes the package. From the whoosh of the axe to the booming voice of Kratos, every audio element adds to the immersion. The score knows when to swell during big moments and when to fade during quiet ones.
God of War received numerous Game of the Year awards, and for good reason. It took an established character and series in a bold new direction while keeping what fans loved about earlier games.
The game was so successful that it launched a new saga. God of War Ragnarök continues the story while expanding on the gameplay foundations laid in this masterpiece.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands as one of the most impressive games on PS4. Created by Rockstar Games (the makers of Grand Theft Auto), this game offers a huge open world set in America’s wild west era.
The game follows Arthur Morgan, a tough outlaw in the Van der Linde gang. Players explore a stunning landscape that changes with weather and time of day. The attention to detail is incredible – from mud that sticks to horses’ hooves to realistic animal behavior.
Rated exceptionally high by critics, RDR2 has won over 175 Game of the Year Awards. It also received more than 250 perfect scores from gaming publications, making it the highest rated game on PlayStation 4.
The story pulls you in with complex characters and tough moral choices. Arthur’s journey feels personal as players decide how honorable or dishonorable to play. These choices affect how other characters treat you and even change story elements.
Combat feels weighty and realistic. The “Dead Eye” slow-motion shooting mechanic returns from the first game, letting players mark multiple targets before firing in one smooth sequence.
Beyond the main story, there’s so much to do. You can hunt rare animals, fish in peaceful streams, play poker in saloons, or track down bounties. The world feels alive with random encounters on trails and interesting strangers needing help.
Amazon customers praise the game’s epic story of honor and loyalty. The game takes place at the dawn of modern America when the wild frontier was starting to disappear.
For PS4 owners looking for a realistic open world, RDR2 delivers. Reddit users who enjoyed this game often ask for similar titles, showing how unique and special this experience is.
The online mode adds even more value. Players can form posses with friends, run businesses, hunt bounties, and engage in territory wars with other gangs.
4. Marvel’s Spider-Man
Marvel’s Spider-Man for PS4 delivers one of the most exciting superhero gaming experiences ever created. Released in 2018 by Insomniac Games, this action-adventure title quickly became a fan favorite for its fluid web-swinging mechanics and engaging combat system.
Players control an experienced Peter Parker who has been Spider-Man for eight years. This fresh take gives gamers a hero who has mastered his abilities but still struggles with balancing his personal life and heroic duties.
The game’s New York City is stunning and feels alive. Swinging between skyscrapers feels natural and satisfying, making simple travel around the city a joy rather than a chore.
Combat blends acrobatic moves with gadgets and environmental takedowns. You can pull enemies toward you with webs, stick them to walls, or throw objects using your spider strength. These options keep fights interesting throughout the game.
Many players consider it one of the best Spider-Man games for PS4. The graphics and attention to detail in both character models and the city environment show the developers’ commitment to quality.
The story stands strong with a compelling narrative featuring classic villains and emotional moments. It introduces a unique take on familiar characters while respecting their comic book origins.
Side missions and collectibles give you plenty to do beyond the main story. From stopping crimes to finding backpacks with Peter’s memories, these activities reward exploration.
The game consistently ranks among the top Spider-Man games of all time, often appearing in the top five on most gaming websites’ lists. It successfully captures the essence of being Spider-Man better than most previous attempts.
Spider-Man’s popularity led to a successful sequel and a Miles Morales spin-off, creating what many consider the definitive video game representation of the web-slinger. For PS4 owners, it remains a must-play exclusive that showcases what the console can deliver.
5. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima stands out as one of the most impressive PS4 exclusives. This open-world action adventure from Sucker Punch Productions takes players to feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion.
The game follows Jin Sakai, a samurai who must decide between following the honorable warrior’s code or using stealth tactics to defeat the overwhelming Mongol forces. This central conflict creates a masterclass in story pacing and delivery.
Visually, Ghost of Tsushima is stunning. The island of Tsushima comes alive with swaying grass, falling leaves, and dramatic lighting that changes with the weather. Many players consider it one of the most visually striking games ever created.
Combat feels responsive and satisfying. Players can approach encounters as an honorable samurai with sword duels or use ghost tactics like stealth and tools. Both styles are fun and effective.
The game shines in its attention to detail. From the way Jin’s outfit gets muddy in rainstorms to the foxes that guide you to shrines, the world feels alive. These small touches add up to create an immersive experience.
Exploration is rewarded with meaningful upgrades and gorgeous vistas. The game uses clever visual cues instead of map markers, letting players follow the wind to objectives or birds to hidden locations.
Ghost of Tsushima doesn’t reinvent the open-world formula, but it refines it. Side quests often tell touching personal stories, and the main quest has surprising plot twists that keep players invested.
For fans of Japanese history, the game offers an extra layer of enjoyment. Though not strictly historically accurate, it captures the spirit of the samurai era while remaining accessible to all players.
The PS5 version adds even more visual fidelity and performance improvements. The Director’s Cut includes Iki Island, a substantial expansion that adds new story content and gameplay features.
For many PlayStation owners, Ghost of Tsushima ranks among the top PS4 exclusives alongside God of War and The Last of Us Part II. Its blend of gorgeous visuals, engaging combat, and emotional storytelling creates an unforgettable gaming experience.
6. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West takes the incredible foundation of Zero Dawn and builds something even better. This sequel gives players more of everything they loved in the first game while fixing many of its minor issues.
The game follows Aloy as she journeys to the Forbidden West, facing new machine threats and uncovering more secrets about the world. The story feels more personal this time, with character and story beats that hit harder if you’ve played the first game.
Combat remains a highlight with more options and tools than ever before. Fighting massive robot dinosaurs still feels thrilling, and the added weapons and tactics keep battles fresh throughout the lengthy adventure.
Visually, the game is stunning regardless of which PlayStation you own. While the PS5 version shines brightest, the PS4 version still looks absolutely incredible with great textures, lighting, and animations.
The open world feels more alive than in the first game. Settlements are bigger, NPCs have more personality, and side quests feel meaningful rather than like busy work.
Swimming mechanics have been completely overhauled, allowing for underwater exploration that adds a new dimension to travel. The glider also makes traversal more fun and efficient.
Machine variety has expanded significantly with new creatures that each require different strategies to defeat. Learning how to take down each new threat is part of the fun.
Many critics consider Forbidden West to be one of the greatest game sequels ever made. The way its elements fit together creates an adventure that outshines even its impressive predecessor.
For PlayStation owners wanting a rich single-player experience, few games deliver as much value. The main story takes about 30 hours, but completionists can easily spend 60+ hours exploring everything the game offers.
The progression system feels rewarding throughout, with meaningful upgrades that change how you approach combat and exploration. Each new skill and piece of gear opens up new possibilities.
Horizon Forbidden West is bigger, prettier, and better than Zero Dawn in nearly every way. It represents what a sequel should be—respecting what worked while boldly improving what didn’t.
7. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Uncharted 4 stands as one of the most visually stunning games on the PS4. Released in 2016 by Naughty Dog, it serves as the final chapter in Nathan Drake’s story and shows why the series earned its reputation for cinematic gameplay.
The game takes players around the world on an adventure that feels like controlling an action movie. From lush jungle islands to snowy mountain peaks, the environments are breathtaking and packed with detail.
Nathan Drake comes out of retirement for one last treasure hunt when his long-lost brother Sam appears. The personal stakes make this journey different from previous games, adding emotional depth to the usual action.
Combat and climbing mechanics feel smooth and responsive. The addition of a grappling hook opens up new ways to explore and fight, making both platforming and battles more exciting than in previous games.
Vehicle sections add variety to gameplay. The jeep sequences in Madagascar are especially fun, letting players drive through mud and up steep hills while enjoying the scenery and dodging enemies.
The multiplayer mode provides extra value after finishing the 15-hour story. Though not the main attraction, it offers fast-paced action that captures the feel of the single-player experience.
Character relationships shine in this entry. The interactions between Nate, Elena, Sully, and Sam feel genuine. The writing brings these characters to life in ways that make players care about what happens to them.
Technical achievements are impressive throughout. The facial animations capture subtle emotions, and the physics system creates moments that feel unique to each player.
Some fans note the game might run a bit long in places. A few puzzle sequences and climbing sections could be shorter without hurting the story, but these minor issues don’t ruin the experience.
For players who love action-adventure games with strong stories, Uncharted 4 delivers an unforgettable experience. It stands as one of the best games of its generation, showing what the PS4 hardware can achieve when pushed by talented developers.
8. Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal takes the already amazing original game and makes it even better. This enhanced version adds new characters, story content, and gameplay improvements that make it one of the PS4’s best games.
The game follows a group of high school students who discover they have special powers. They use these powers to change the hearts of corrupt adults. The story is deep and tackles themes like abuse, corruption, and freedom.
What makes Persona 5 Royal special is how it balances daily life with dungeon crawling. During the day, you attend school, hang out with friends, and build relationships. At night, you explore mind palaces and fight shadows using your Personas.
The Royal version adds Kasumi, a new character who brings fresh storylines to enjoy. It also includes a new semester that wasn’t in the original game, giving fans more content to explore.
Combat feels smooth and strategic, with a mix of turn-based battles and stealth elements. The quality of life improvements make playing much more enjoyable than in the original version.
The visual style stands out with bold colors and anime-inspired art. Menus pop with energy, and character designs are memorable. The jazz soundtrack perfectly matches the game’s stylish vibe.
For completionists, Persona 5 Royal offers over 100 hours of gameplay. The game never feels boring because there’s always something new to do or someone new to meet.
Royal adds a helpful grappling hook that lets players access new areas stealthily. This small addition makes exploring palaces more fun and gives you more options during infiltrations.
Players who enjoyed the original will find that Royal reinvigorates the experience with meaningful additions. Newcomers get the definitive version right from the start.
The game balances humor, serious moments, and friendship in a way few other games manage. Social links with characters feel genuine and rewarding as you learn more about each person’s struggles and growth.
9. Bloodborne
Bloodborne stands out as one of the most unique and challenging games on PlayStation 4. Developed by FromSoftware, this action RPG takes players to the gothic city of Yharnia where they must hunt beasts and uncover dark secrets.
The game’s combat system is strategic and rewards aggressive play, unlike other FromSoftware titles. Players use a special arsenal including trick weapons that transform between two forms, adding depth to every encounter.
The atmosphere in Bloodborne is thick with dread and mystery. Victorian architecture mixed with cosmic horror creates a setting that feels both familiar and alien. The music enhances this mood perfectly, ramping up during intense boss fights.
Many gamers consider Bloodborne the best game on PlayStation 4. Its challenging gameplay loop keeps players coming back despite frequent deaths. Each area teaches something new about combat or the story.
Boss fights are the highlight for many fans. These massive, grotesque creatures require patience, skill, and quick reflexes to defeat. The satisfaction of winning after multiple attempts creates an addictive experience unlike any other game.
The story unfolds through environmental clues and sparse dialogue. Players piece together what happened to Yharnia through item descriptions and rare conversations. This storytelling method respects player intelligence while rewarding curiosity.
Some critics have even called it the best game ever made, praising its polished gameplay and sensory experience. While that’s subjective, few games create such a complete and cohesive world.
The Lovecraftian elements make Bloodborne stand out from other action games. Cosmic horror slowly replaces the werewolf hunting narrative as players progress, creating a memorable shift in tone and enemies.
Online features let players leave helpful notes or summon others for aid. This community aspect softens the difficulty curve while maintaining the core challenge. Messages from other hunters often provide crucial hints or warnings.
Even years after release, Bloodborne remains a top recommendation for PS4 owners. Its unique blend of horror, action, and mystery has earned it a dedicated fanbase that continues to discover new secrets within the game.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most impressive games available on PS4. This action role-playing game follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter who searches for his adopted daughter.
The game captivates players with its artistic vision and massive open world. You can explore diverse landscapes from swampy bogs to dense forests, each filled with unique characters and dangerous creatures.
Combat in The Witcher 3 offers a good challenge. While opinions on the fighting system vary, many PS4 players found it enjoyable. You’ll use swords, magic signs, and potions to defeat a wide range of enemies.
The story truly shines with complex characters and meaningful choices. Your decisions have real consequences that can drastically change how events unfold. This creates a personal experience that feels different for each player.
Monster hunting forms the core of gameplay. As a highly trained monster hunter for hire, you’ll track and battle everything from forest beasts to supernatural creatures. Each monster requires different strategies and preparations.
Side quests in The Witcher 3 aren’t simple filler tasks. They tell rich stories that sometimes match the main plot in quality and emotional impact. Many players find themselves spending hours completing these optional adventures.
The Game of the Year Edition offers incredible value. It combines the base game with all additional content, including the two major expansions: Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. These add dozens of hours of extra gameplay.
Graphics hold up well on PS4 despite the game’s age. While it runs better on newer hardware, the PS4 version still delivers a visually stunning experience with detailed characters and beautiful landscapes.
The Witcher 3 has earned its reputation as one of the best games ever made. Its blend of storytelling, gameplay, and world-building creates an unforgettable experience that PS4 owners shouldn’t miss.
Impact of PS4 on Gaming
The PlayStation 4 transformed gaming through its powerful hardware capabilities and wide-reaching cultural influence. Sony’s console pushed technical boundaries while creating a global community of players connected through shared experiences.
Technological Advancements
The PS4 brought significant technical improvements over previous generations. With its x86-64 AMD Jaguar CPU and 8GB of GDDR5 RAM, the console delivered more detailed graphics and smoother gameplay than ever before. This hardware upgrade allowed developers to create more complex worlds with fewer loading screens.
Game streaming became mainstream with the PS4. Players could broadcast their gameplay on Twitch and YouTube with a simple button press on the DualShock 4 controller. This feature changed how people shared gaming experiences.
The PS4 also introduced better frame rates for many titles. While not reaching the heights of modern PS5 games, the console pushed toward the 60fps standard that gamers value today. Players with PS4 Pro models could even experience 4K resolution and HDR in compatible games.
Cultural Influence
PS4 exclusives like God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, and The Last of Us Part II didn’t just sell consoles—they shaped gaming narratives. These story-driven experiences proved single player games could still dominate in an era of online multiplayer.
The console fostered a vibrant community through PlayStation Network. Monthly active users jumped from 60 million in 2016 to over 100 million by 2020, showing the platform’s growing influence.
PS4 also helped normalize digital game purchases. The PlayStation Store became a primary way for many to buy games, changing retail patterns forever. This shift allowed indie developers to reach larger audiences, leading to breakout hits like Rocket League and Stardew Valley.
Even now, the PS4 remains relevant. Many players continue enjoying its extensive library instead of upgrading, knowing PS4 isn’t obsolete despite newer technology.
Gameplay and Graphics Evolution
The PS4 era marked a significant jump in both visual fidelity and gameplay mechanics. New technology allowed developers to create more detailed worlds and responsive experiences than ever before.
Enhanced Graphics
The PS4 brought impressive visual improvements over its predecessor. Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 showcase stunning natural environments with realistic lighting and weather effects.
The PS4 Pro pushed graphics even further with 4K capabilities. Titles like The Witcher 3 and Death Stranding take full advantage of this hardware, offering sharper textures and more stable frame rates.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) support added another layer of visual polish. This feature creates more vibrant colors and better contrast in games like Horizon Zero Dawn and God of War.
Facial animations also improved dramatically. The Last of Us Part II features some of the most expressive character models in gaming, capturing subtle emotional nuances previously impossible to render.
Immersive Gameplay
PS4 games redefined player immersion through several key innovations. Open-world titles like Ghost of Tsushima and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla built vast, interactive environments with minimal loading screens.
Controller feedback became more sophisticated. The DualShock 4’s haptic features let players feel everything from raindrops to bowstring tension in games like Uncharted 4.
AI behaviors grew more complex and unpredictable. Enemies in games like Bloodborne adapt to player strategies, creating more challenging and realistic combat scenarios.
Quick-time events evolved into contextual actions. Games like Spider-Man replace button-mashing sequences with fluid, integrated movement systems that feel natural to control.
Physics engines improved dramatically too. Destruction and object interaction in Control and The Last of Us Part II create dynamic gameplay moments that react realistically to player choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
PS4 gamers often have specific questions about which titles they should play next or which games excel in particular categories. Here are answers to some common questions about PlayStation 4 games.
What are some must-play PS4 games that you’d recommend?
The PS4 library contains several masterpieces that stand above the rest. The Last of Us Part II offers an emotionally powerful story with stunning visuals and gameplay.
God of War reinvented the series with its Norse mythology setting and deeper father-son narrative. The combat feels weighty and satisfying, making every encounter memorable.
Red Dead Redemption 2 provides one of gaming’s most detailed open worlds. The Wild West setting feels alive, with countless activities and an engaging story about the end of the outlaw era.
Which PS4 games have the best multiplayer experience?
Call of Duty: Warzone remains a popular battle royale option with fast-paced gameplay and regular updates. Its free-to-play model has kept the player base strong.
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars for a uniquely addictive multiplayer experience. The simple concept hides surprising depth that keeps players coming back.
Monster Hunter World lets friends team up to hunt massive creatures. The cooperative gameplay encourages strategic planning and communication between players.
Can you suggest some top PS4 games that were released in the past year?
Elden Ring brought FromSoftware’s challenging combat to an expansive open world. The game’s freedom to explore and discover has resonated with millions of players.
Horizon Forbidden West continued Aloy’s journey with improved combat and a more vibrant world. The visual presentation pushes the PS4 hardware to its limits.
Resident Evil Village delivered horror and action in a memorable setting with unforgettable characters. The variety in gameplay keeps the experience fresh throughout.
What are the best free-to-play games on PS4 right now?
Fortnite continues to evolve with seasonal updates and collaborations. The building mechanics still separate it from other battle royale games on the market.
Apex Legends offers team-based battle royale with unique character abilities. The movement system and gunplay feel responsive and rewarding.
Warframe provides deep action-RPG systems with regular content updates.
Could you tell me about the most popular PS4 exclusives ever?
Marvel’s Spider-Man captures the feeling of swinging through New York City perfectly. The combat and story make players truly feel like the friendly neighborhood hero.
Ghost of Tsushima brings feudal Japan to life with its gorgeous visuals and satisfying samurai combat. The open world feels handcrafted and worth exploring.
Bloodborne challenges players with its gothic horror setting and punishing difficulty. The atmosphere and unique combat system make it stand out among FromSoftware’s games.
Which PS4 titles are still popular for online gaming?
Grand Theft Auto V’s Online mode continues to attract players with regular updates. The variety of activities keeps the experience fresh years after release.
Final Fantasy XIV has grown into one of the most respected MMORPGs available. The story content rivals single-player RPGs in quality.
Rainbow Six Siege maintains a dedicated competitive community. The tactical gameplay rewards teamwork and strategy over reflexes alone.
