The PlayStation 4 offers a massive library of games that cater to all kinds of players. From action-adventure titles to role-playing games, racing games to puzzlers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The console has been home to many critically acclaimed titles since its release in 2013.
Finding the best PS4 games can help you make smart choices with your gaming budget and time. Many top-rated games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and God of War have earned praise for their storytelling, gameplay, and graphics. Whether you’re new to PS4 or looking to add to your collection, the highest-rated games are often worth checking out.
1. The Last of Us Part II
The Last of Us Part II stands as one of the most acclaimed PS4 games ever made. Released as the sequel to Naughty Dog’s original masterpiece, this game puts players in the shoes of Ellie as she embarks on an emotional journey.
The game’s narrative is sometimes called controversial, but it’s this bold storytelling approach that helps it stand out. Critics widely praised how the game handles complex themes and character development.
Gameplay mechanics improved significantly from the first title. Combat feels more fluid, stealth sections create genuine tension, and the world feels alive with detail.
IGN called it “a masterpiece worthy of its predecessor”, highlighting how Ellie steps into the spotlight with confidence. The character performances, particularly through motion capture, set new standards for video game storytelling.
Visually, The Last of Us Part II pushed the PS4 hardware to its limits. From abandoned buildings reclaimed by nature to the facial expressions during emotional scenes, the graphics remain impressive even years after release.
The sound design deserves special mention too. From the crack of gunfire to the haunting soundtrack, audio elements build atmosphere in ways few games manage to achieve.
Metacritic reviews show it as “the high point of the PlayStation 4”, with many players finding the gameplay loop incredibly engaging despite the heavy themes.
For those who missed it on PS4, a remastered version for PS5 brings even more visual polish and performance improvements to an already stunning game.
The game’s difficulty options make it accessible to various skill levels. Players can tailor the experience to focus more on the story or challenge themselves with limited resources and smarter enemies.
When Reddit users reviewed the game, many noted the “truly stunning delivery of a strong narrative, coupled with great gameplay.” This balance between storytelling and player agency is rare in games of this scale.
While some players debate certain story choices, few deny the technical achievement and emotional impact of The Last of Us Part II. It remains a showcase title that demonstrates what the PS4 could achieve at its peak.
2. God of War
God of War (2018) stands as one of the most acclaimed PlayStation 4 titles ever made. This reimagining of the series takes Kratos from Greek mythology to Norse realms, creating a fresh start while honoring its roots.
The game pairs Kratos with his son Atreus on an emotional journey to scatter his wife’s ashes. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story, evolving from distant to meaningful throughout their adventure.
Combat feels weighty and satisfying. The Leviathan Axe, which can be thrown and recalled like Thor’s hammer, gives players a sense of power that’s hard to match in other games.
The game features no camera cuts, creating one continuous shot from start to finish. This bold design choice helps pull players deeper into the world and story.
Visual quality remains stunning even years after release. The detailed environments, character models, and lighting effects showcase what the PS4 hardware could achieve when pushed by talented developers.
Many critics consider God of War among the best PlayStation exclusives ever made. The game won numerous Game of the Year awards and continues to be a benchmark for action-adventure titles.
The sense of discovery when exploring the Nine Realms keeps gameplay fresh. From the frozen peaks of Midgard to the fiery depths of Muspelheim, each area feels distinct and worth exploring.
While older God of War games focused on rage and revenge, this entry examines themes of fatherhood, responsibility, and breaking cycles of violence. This mature storytelling approach helped broaden the appeal beyond action game fans.
God of War’s challenging combat system rewards skill and strategy. Boss fights, particularly against the stranger you meet early on, rank among gaming’s most memorable encounters.
The game later received a performance patch for PS5, enabling 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. This update makes the already gorgeous game even more impressive on newer hardware.
For anyone with a PS4 looking for an exceptional single-player experience, God of War delivers in every aspect. Its blend of compelling narrative, satisfying combat, and breathtaking visuals makes it essential for any PlayStation library.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out as one of the highest rated games on PlayStation 4. This western-themed action-adventure game from Rockstar Games takes players on an epic journey through a stunning American frontier.
The game follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as they navigate a changing world where the Wild West era is coming to an end. Players experience a deep story filled with memorable characters and tough moral choices.
The open world of RDR2 feels alive and realistic. Animals roam the wilderness, towns buzz with activity, and random events happen as you explore. The attention to detail is amazing—from mud collecting on your boots to your horse’s coat growing over time.
Many players find the gameplay satisfying and immersive. The gunplay feels “weighty” and satisfying, giving shootouts a realistic feel that many games miss. Your actions have consequences, making every decision feel important.
The graphics set new standards for gaming. The lighting is fantastic, especially in dark, misty settings where light filters through trees or fog. From snowy mountains to swampy bayous, each region looks stunning and distinct.
Beyond the main story, there’s so much to do. You can hunt rare animals, fish in peaceful streams, play poker in saloons, or take on bounty hunting jobs. Side missions often reveal touching stories about the world and its people.
Some fans consider it the best game they’ve ever played. The game gives players freedom while telling a captivating story about loyalty, redemption, and survival during changing times.
Critics agree with fans, as RDR2 has some of the highest ratings among PlayStation games. It successfully combines storytelling, gameplay, and technical achievement in ways few games manage.
For players who enjoy realistic open-world games without fantasy elements, Red Dead Redemption 2 sets the bar high. It may even appeal to those who don’t typically enjoy other open-world titles but connected with this masterpiece of interactive storytelling.
4. Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal stands as one of the most acclaimed games on PlayStation 4. It earned the title of highest-ranked game of 2020 on Metacritic with an impressive score of 95/100.
This JRPG masterpiece improves upon the original Persona 5 with new characters, expanded story content, and refined gameplay mechanics. Players take control of a high school student who leads a group of phantom thieves with supernatural abilities.
The game blends daily life activities with dungeon exploration. During the day, players attend school, build relationships, and work part-time jobs. At night, they enter the Metaverse to battle enemies in stylish turn-based combat.
What makes Persona 5 Royal special is its incredible attention to detail. The user interface pops with vibrant colors and slick animations. Even simple menu transitions feel exciting and energetic.
The soundtrack deserves special mention too. Its jazzy tunes stick in your head long after you’ve stopped playing. Each battle theme and background track perfectly matches the mood of each scene.
Story-wise, Royal adds a new semester and deeper character development. These additions give players more time with the already lovable cast. The new ending provides a more satisfying conclusion to an already emotional journey.
Combat feels both strategic and flashy. Players exploit enemy weaknesses, chain together attacks, and unleash powerful special moves. The satisfaction of finding the perfect strategy never gets old.
Even in 2022, critics continued to praise the game as one of the best JRPGs on the market. Its blend of social simulation and dungeon crawling creates a unique gaming experience that few titles can match.
For completionists, the game offers well over 100 hours of gameplay. Despite its length, the pacing rarely drags. There’s always something new to discover or a relationship to develop.
Persona 5 Royal remains the highest rated PS4 exclusive ever, surpassing even critically acclaimed titles like The Last of Us 2. For anyone who enjoys RPGs or compelling stories, this game is a must-play.
5. Marvel’s Spider-Man
Marvel’s Spider-Man for PS4 is widely considered one of the best Spider-Man games of all time. Released in 2018 by Insomniac Games, it captured what makes Spider-Man special – both as a superhero and as Peter Parker.
The game offers smooth web-swinging mechanics that make traveling through New York City fun rather than a chore. Players can zip between skyscrapers, run along walls, and perform acrobatic moves that truly make you feel like Spider-Man.
Combat is equally impressive. The fighting system combines quick attacks, web abilities, and environmental takedowns. You can pull enemies toward you, stick them to walls, or throw objects at them using your webs.
The story stands out as one of the game’s strongest elements. It features a more experienced Peter Parker who’s been Spider-Man for several years. This fresh take avoids retreading the typical origin story while introducing compelling versions of classic villains.
Characters are well-developed, with strong performances bringing them to life. The relationship between Peter and Mary Jane feels genuine, and the game’s version of Otto Octavius is particularly memorable.
Side missions and collectibles add depth to the experience. From stopping street crimes to finding backpacks filled with Peter’s memories, these activities never feel like boring checkboxes.
Insomniac’s Spider-Man excels in visual quality too. The detailed recreation of Manhattan includes famous landmarks and plenty of Marvel Easter eggs for fans to spot.
The game received multiple DLC chapters that continued the story, adding new suits and challenges. Its success led to a Miles Morales spin-off and a full sequel that expanded on the original’s foundation.
Critics praised how Marvel’s Spider-Man balanced superhero action with meaningful character moments. It respects Spider-Man’s legacy while bringing something new to his story, making it essential for both fans and newcomers alike.
6. Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn stands out as one of the most impressive PS4 exclusives ever created. This action RPG puts players in the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter navigating a world where mechanical creatures roam freely.
The game’s unique setting combines prehistoric tribal societies with advanced technology. Earth has been reclaimed by nature, with humans living in primitive tribes while robot dinosaurs and animals patrol the wilderness.
Combat in Horizon Zero Dawn feels fresh and exciting. Players use various weapons like bows, traps, and slingshots to target weak points on mechanical beasts. Each encounter requires strategy rather than just brute force.
The story unfolds like a mystery novel. Aloy searches for answers about her past while uncovering the truth behind civilization’s collapse. The narrative tackles big themes while keeping players emotionally invested.
Visually, the game raised the bar for PS4 graphics when it launched. Many gamers considered it the best looking PS4 game of its time. The landscapes range from snowy mountains to dense jungles, all rendered with stunning detail.
The Frozen Wilds expansion adds even more content to an already packed game. It introduces new areas, challenges, and robot types to battle.
Open-world exploration feels rewarding thanks to well-designed side quests and activities. Unlike many games where side content feels like filler, Horizon’s optional missions often contain memorable characters and situations.
The crafting and upgrade systems give players plenty of customization options. Gathering resources becomes an enjoyable part of the gameplay loop rather than a chore.
For those new to the series, Horizon Zero Dawn is the perfect starting point before moving on to Forbidden West, the sequel. The complete edition includes all DLC and offers tremendous value for the price.
Amazon reviewers frequently praise the game’s balance of combat, story, and exploration. It manages to excel in nearly every aspect without feeling overwhelming.
7. Bloodborne
Bloodborne stands as one of the most acclaimed games on PlayStation 4. Released in 2015, this action RPG from FromSoftware blends fast-paced combat with a gothic horror setting.
The game puts players in a nightmarish city called Yharnam, where they hunt monsters through winding streets and decaying buildings. Unlike its Dark Souls cousins, Bloodborne rewards aggressive gameplay rather than cautious defense.
Combat feels fluid and intense. Players use trick weapons that transform between forms, giving each battle a unique strategic element. The lack of shields forces you to master dodging and parrying.
Many fans consider Bloodborne to be FromSoftware’s best work. The game’s atmosphere combines Victorian architecture with Lovecraftian horror, creating an unforgettable world filled with cosmic mysteries.
The story unfolds through environmental details and cryptic conversations. While not explicitly stated, the lore runs deep for those willing to piece it together. This approach to storytelling has earned the game a dedicated following.
Bloodborne’s challenge is part of its appeal. Boss fights test both skill and patience, with many players spending hours mastering these encounters. Victory brings genuine satisfaction that few games deliver.
The game’s sound design deserves special mention. From haunting music to the echoing screams of enemies, every audio element enhances the eerie atmosphere.
Some players consider it their favorite game of all time, praising both its gameplay and presentation. With an estimated 80% of its appeal coming from excellent gameplay and 20% from atmosphere, it delivers a complete package.
The DLC expansion, The Old Hunters, adds new weapons, areas, and some of the game’s most challenging bosses. It’s widely considered essential content for anyone who enjoys the base game.
Years after release, Bloodborne continues to attract new players. Its combination of tight controls, atmospheric world-building, and satisfying challenge makes it one of the definitive PS4 experiences.
8. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima stands as one of the PS4’s most celebrated titles. Players take on the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai fighting to protect his home from Mongol invaders.
The game’s combat system balances perfectly between accessibility and depth. You can approach encounters as an honorable samurai in direct combat or embrace the “Ghost” path with stealth tactics.
The island of Tsushima itself is breathtaking. Instead of cluttering the screen with waypoints, the game uses natural elements like wind and wildlife to guide players to new discoveries. This design choice helps maintain immersion in the feudal Japanese setting.
Players have awarded Ghost of Tsushima an impressive 9.3/10 user score on Metacritic, making it one of the highest-rated PS4 games by fans.
The story offers more than just a revenge tale. Critics praise it as a masterclass in pacing and delivery, with unexpected twists that keep players invested throughout the 30-hour main quest.
While some reviewers note the game isn’t perfect, most agree it excels where it matters most. IGN’s review highlights the “incredible combat and clever solutions to longstanding issues” in open-world games.
The visual design deserves special mention. From golden forests to misty mountains, each area feels distinct and carefully crafted. The art direction emphasizes natural beauty, creating moments that feel like moving paintings.
Side quests avoid the typical fetch-quest formula. They instead focus on character development and meaningful stories that connect to the main narrative.
The game’s photo mode lets players capture stunning images, helping to showcase why many consider this one of the most beautiful games on the system.
9. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End stands as one of the most ambitious Uncharted games in the series. Released in 2016 for the PlayStation 4, this action-adventure game brings Nathan Drake’s story to a satisfying conclusion.
The game’s visuals are stunning. Thanks to the PS4’s power, players can explore larger environments with impressive detail. The character animations and facial expressions make emotional moments feel real.
Gameplay combines exciting shootouts with puzzle-solving and climbing sections. The addition of a grappling hook and more open level design gives players more freedom than in earlier games. Combat feels smooth and responsive.
The story follows Nathan Drake as he’s pulled back into the treasure hunting life when his brother Sam reappears. Their search for pirate Henry Avery’s treasure takes them across the globe. Family relationships and personal growth sit at the heart of this adventure.
Many reviewers consider it one of the best games of 2016. Critics praised its emotional depth and technical achievements. On Metacritic, the game earned high ratings for its thrilling action sequences and visual detail.
Some players felt the game could have been shorter. One Reddit user mentioned it “could have ended a little earlier” but still found it beautiful and fun overall.
The multiplayer mode adds replay value after finishing the main story. Players can compete in team-based matches with various weapons and abilities from the single-player campaign.
Naughty Dog’s attention to detail shines in every environment. From mansions to jungle ruins to pirate ships, each location feels unique and lived-in. Weather effects and lighting create a cinematic experience.
For anyone who enjoys action games with strong storytelling, Uncharted 4 delivers an enjoyable and adventurous experience. It wraps up Nathan Drake’s story while providing hours of exciting gameplay.
The blend of shooting, climbing, driving, and puzzle-solving keeps the game fresh from start to finish. Each chapter introduces new challenges and spectacular set pieces that showcase the PS4’s capabilities.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most celebrated RPGs on the PS4. Players step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with unique abilities who searches for his adopted daughter.
The game offers a massive open world filled with meaningful quests and interesting characters. Unlike many other games, even the side quests tell deep and satisfying stories. Each mission feels purposeful rather than just busy work.
Combat in The Witcher 3 shines with its strategic approach. Players must prepare for fights by crafting potions, applying oils to weapons, and learning monster weaknesses. This makes each encounter feel rewarding.
The game’s world feels alive with its changing weather and day-night cycle. Towns buzz with activity as villagers go about their daily routines. The attention to detail makes exploring every corner of the map worthwhile.
Many consider the writing to be The Witcher 3’s strongest point. The game isn’t afraid to touch on complex themes and often presents players with morally gray choices. These decisions have real consequences that may not appear until hours later.
The Witcher 3 received critical acclaim across the board. Many reviews describe it as a masterpiece and one of the best games in recent years. Its blend of storytelling, gameplay, and visuals set a new standard for RPGs.
The game also offers tremendous value with its two expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. The latter adds an entirely new region that could stand as its own game.
In 2022, CD Projekt Red released a next-gen update that enhances the game for PS5 with 4K resolution, HDR support, and ray tracing. PS4 owners received a free patch with some improvements as well.
The soundtrack deserves special mention for its haunting vocals and folk-inspired melodies. These songs help build the game’s unique atmosphere and often stick with players long after they finish.
Even years after its release, The Witcher 3 remains a benchmark for what open-world RPGs can achieve. Its mix of exciting combat, moral complexity, and genuine character development makes it a must-play for any PS4 owner.
Importance of Ratings in Game Selection
Ratings play a crucial role when choosing PS4 games, helping players make informed decisions about which titles deserve their time and money. They offer insights into game quality and potential enjoyment before purchase.
Understanding Review Metrics
Rating systems provide valuable information about games through different metrics. Most gaming platforms use a combination of numbered scores (typically 1-10 or 1-5 stars) and written reviews to evaluate games.
Professional review sites like Metacritic compile scores from multiple critics to create an average rating. These aggregated scores give a broader perspective on a game’s quality than single reviews.
Content ratings from organizations like the ESRB also help players understand if a game is age-appropriate. These ratings include content descriptors that explain why a game received a particular rating, which is especially important for parents.
Many platforms now include user-generated review scores alongside critic ratings. PlayStation has recently updated their system to ensure that only verified owners can review games, increasing review credibility.
Influence of Critics vs. Players
The debate between the value of critic reviews versus user scores remains ongoing in gaming communities. Critics typically bring gaming expertise and analytical skills to their reviews, offering more detailed assessments of game mechanics, storytelling, and technical aspects.
However, player reviews often reflect the actual experience of enjoying a game without professional obligations. They may highlight different priorities than critics, such as fun factor or value for money.
The best approach is usually to consider both perspectives. When critic and user scores align on platforms like Metacritic, it generally indicates a consensus about the game’s quality.
Sometimes significant gaps between critic and user scores can reveal controversial aspects of games that might matter to you as a player. These discrepancies are worth investigating through written reviews before making purchasing decisions.
Criteria for High Ratings
PlayStation 4 games earn high ratings based on several key elements that create memorable gaming experiences. Players and critics alike evaluate games on their innovative gameplay mechanics, compelling storylines, and visual presentation.
Gameplay Innovation
Games that score well typically offer fresh gameplay mechanics that set them apart from competitors. The best PS4 games often introduce unique systems or refine existing formulas in ways that feel satisfying and engaging.
Control schemes matter tremendously. When a game responds precisely to player input and has intuitive controls, it creates a smooth experience that keeps players immersed.
Difficulty balance is another crucial factor. Top-rated games challenge players without causing frustration. They provide a sense of accomplishment when obstacles are overcome.
Replayability also impacts ratings significantly. Games with multiple paths, different character builds, or engaging multiplayer modes offer better value and tend to receive higher scores from both critics and users.
Storytelling and Narrative
Strong narratives drive many highly-rated PS4 titles. Games like The Last of Us Remastered and Uncharted 4 demonstrate how emotional storytelling can elevate the gaming experience beyond simple entertainment.
Character development plays a vital role. When players form connections with well-written characters, they become more invested in the story outcomes. Games with complex, believable characters typically earn praise.
Worldbuilding also contributes to narrative quality. Richly detailed environments that tell their own stories through environmental details can make games feel more immersive and thoughtful.
Pacing affects how stories are received. Games that balance action sequences with quieter character moments tend to maintain player interest better than those that focus too heavily on one aspect.
Graphics and Visual Effects
Visual quality remains an important rating factor, though not merely in terms of photorealism. Games with distinctive art styles like Journey or Persona 5 often receive recognition for their visual presentation.
Technical performance matters significantly. Games that maintain steady frame rates and minimize visual glitches tend to score better with reviewers and players alike.
Lighting and particle effects create atmosphere and can transform ordinary scenes into memorable moments. The way light filters through trees or how fire illuminates a dark cave can create stunning visual experiences.
Animation quality affects immersion directly. Fluid character movements, realistic facial expressions, and smooth environmental interactions help players connect with the game world and enhance the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
PS4 gamers often have questions about which titles deserve their time and money. Here are answers to common questions about the best PS4 games available.
Which PS4 titles are must-haves for any collection?
Several PS4 games stand out as essential for any gaming collection. The Last of Us Part II offers an emotionally powerful story with stunning graphics and gameplay. God of War reimagines the series with a touching father-son narrative and exceptional combat.
Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers an immersive open-world western experience with incredible detail. For RPG fans, Persona 5 Royal provides a stylish and deep JRPG experience that can easily consume 100+ hours.
Marvel’s Spider-Man brings the superhero to life with fluid web-swinging mechanics and an engaging story. These games consistently appear on top-rated lists and offer exceptional experiences.
What are some of the highest-rated PS4 exclusives?
PS4 exclusives have earned critical acclaim for their quality and innovation. Bloodborne tops many lists with its challenging gameplay and haunting gothic setting. God of War’s reinvention of the franchise earned it numerous Game of the Year awards.
Horizon Zero Dawn combines a fascinating post-apocalyptic world with robot dinosaurs and compelling gameplay. Ghost of Tsushima offers a beautiful open-world samurai adventure with stunning visuals and satisfying combat.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End provides a fitting conclusion to Nathan Drake’s story with cinematic action and impressive production values. These exclusives showcase the PS4’s power and Sony’s commitment to narrative-driven experiences.
What are the community favorites for PS4 games according to Reddit users?
Reddit users frequently mention certain games in discussions about PS4 favorites. Rocket League tops many user lists, with God of War and Red Dead Redemption 2 following closely behind.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and The Last of Us Part II round out many users’ top five games. Community favorites also include Bloodborne, which has a dedicated fanbase that praises its challenging gameplay and atmosphere.
NieR: Automata receives frequent mentions for its unique storytelling and gameplay innovations. Monster Hunter World has built a strong community following for its cooperative hunting gameplay and constant updates.
What are the best free PS4 games that you shouldn’t miss out on?
Several free PS4 games offer excellent experiences without the price tag. Apex Legends stands out as a polished battle royale with unique character abilities and smooth gameplay.
Fortnite remains hugely popular with its building mechanics and frequent content updates. Warzone provides a Call of Duty battle royale experience with tight gunplay and huge 150-player matches.
Destiny 2’s free version offers substantial content including campaign missions, PvP modes, and open-world activities. Path of Exile gives action RPG fans a free alternative to Diablo with incredibly deep character customization options.
Can you recommend a definitive list of top 50 PS4 games I should consider playing?
While a complete top 50 would be extensive, here are some essential titles beyond the obvious hits. The Witcher 3, Bloodborne, and Uncharted 4 consistently rank in top lists.
Final Fantasy VII Remake reimagines the classic with modern gameplay and visuals. Horizon Zero Dawn, Ghost of Tsushima, and Death Stranding showcase Sony’s commitment to new IPs.
Third-party standouts include Control, Monster Hunter World, Resident Evil 2 Remake, and Doom Eternal. For RPG fans, consider Persona 5 Royal, Dragon Quest XI, and Final Fantasy XIV Online.
What standout PS4 games are still worth purchasing?
Many PS4 games remain worthwhile purchases even as the PS5 generation advances. Ghost of Tsushima offers a gorgeous open world and satisfying combat that holds up beautifully.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition provides hundreds of hours of content across the base game and expansions. God of War and Spider-Man have received PS5 upgrades but still play excellently on PS4.
Persona 5 Royal offers one of gaming’s most stylish and content-rich JRPGs. Older titles like Bloodborne and Uncharted 4 remain impressive despite their age and represent significant moments in gaming history.
