It’s been over three decades since the launch of the original PlayStation, a console that revolutionized the gaming industry and left an indelible mark on pop culture. The PS1 introduced us to unforgettable characters like the denim-clad Crash Bandicoot and the witty Spyro, cementing their places as icons in video game history. With its vast library, the PlayStation offered a diverse range of titles that continue to captivate gamers. Here, we’ve curated a list of the 25 best PS1 games, showcasing some of the most memorable and influential PlayStation exclusives.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
26 Images
You Might Also Like:
- Best PlayStation Games of All Time
- Best PS2 Games of All Time
- Best PS3 Games of All Time
- Best PS4 Games of All Time
- Best PS5 Games
PaRappa the Rapper
PaRappa the Rapper broke the mold with its innovative rhythm gameplay before the likes of Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Featuring a cartoon dog and his animal friends, PaRappa's catchy songs and unique charm set it apart from the "extreme" and "hardcore" games of its time. Its distinct style and beloved characters earned PaRappa a spot as one of the top 10 dogs in video games.
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee stands out with its bizarre blend of action, puzzle, and platforming, set in a dystopian universe reminiscent of Soylent Green. Known for its quirky characters and deep lore, this game has inspired sequels and spinoffs. Its unique features, like telepathic possession and Mudokon teamwork, make it a memorable experience.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
The Crash Bandicoot trilogy was pivotal to the PlayStation's legacy, with Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped offering a robust mix of challenging platforming and vehicle-based levels. Its time-travel theme provided diverse settings and challenges, making it a standout title. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy brought Warped's magic to new generations.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the PS1's Spider-Man game set the standard for superhero titles with its innovative web-swinging mechanics. Packed with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, this game captured the essence of Spider-Man and even featured Stan Lee's voice narrating character descriptions.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 transformed the series by focusing on storytelling and character development, delivering a unique 3D action-adventure experience. Building on its predecessor, the sequel enhanced the engaging narrative and charming gameplay.
Ape Escape
Ape Escape ingeniously introduced the DualShock controller's analog sticks, using mischievous apes as a fun incentive for players to adopt this new technology. With quirky gadgets and innovative gameplay, Ape Escape's influence extended beyond gaming, famously aiding real-life animal control efforts.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing rivaled Mario Kart with its original tracks, inventive weapons, and skill-based drifting mechanics. Its engaging gameplay and connection to the Crash Bandicoot universe made it a beloved entry in the kart racing genre.
Syphon Filter
Inspired by classics like Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action into a thrilling espionage experience. With diverse weaponry and memorable moments, such as tasering enemies, it spawned several successful sequels.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain, the second chapter in this underrated franchise, shifted to a 3D gothic adventure. Its innovative gameplay, involving shifts between the living and spectral planes, and a compelling narrative directed by Amy Hennig, made it a standout title.
Final Fantasy Tactics
Developer: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 28, 1998 (NA) | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy Tactics review
Final Fantasy Tactics set a new standard for turn-based strategy games on consoles. Its intricate plot and charming characters, despite the lack of a true sequel, cemented its place as a genre-defining title.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Medal of Honor: Underground brought WWII action to the PS1 in a groundbreaking way. With its memorable protagonist Manon Batiste and innovative gameplay, including tricking Nazis into posing for photos, it remains one of the best shooters of its time.
Final Fantasy 9
Final Fantasy 9 returned to the series' fantasy roots with knights, mages, and crystals, delivering a beloved narrative and memorable characters like Zidane and Vivi. It served as a fitting end to the single-digit Final Fantasy entries.
Silent Hill
Silent Hill ventured into psychological horror, creating a chilling atmosphere with its obtuse setting and unsettling creatures. Its impact on the genre is undeniable, with its haunting audio and narrative still resonating with players.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built upon the original's foundation, offering a balance of challenge and fun within a richly realized world. Its seasonal hub areas and memorable mini-worlds, combined with smart collectibles, made it a standout in the Spyro trilogy.
Driver
Driver offered a unique blend of open-world mission design and arcade driving action, setting it apart from traditional racing games. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action-packed sequences.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back strikes a perfect balance between the original's platforming and the expansive elements of Warped. Its challenging yet achievable levels remain some of the franchise's best.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story, an underrated action RPG, combined complex systems with a dense, intriguing plot. Its innovative battle mechanics and challenging bosses offered a unique and exceptional experience.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 remains a pinnacle of fighting games, introducing 3D movement and a diverse cast of characters. Its influence on the genre and its enduring popularity have cemented its place in gaming history.
Resident Evil 2
The original Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic with its elaborate puzzles and terrifying enemies, from zombies to giant moths. Its dual perspectives and relentless tyrant made it a standout title.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
Tomb Raider introduced the world to Lara Croft and offered a haunting solo adventure through diverse environments. Its intricate level design and iconic shotgun made it a genre-defining game.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is widely regarded as one of the best sports games ever, combining addictive arcade action with a legendary soundtrack. Its skate park editor and extensive content made it a cultural phenomenon.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded on the original's success, offering an unprecedented scope with nearly 650 cars across two CDs. Its detailed racing mechanics and vast content made it a landmark title in the racing genre.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night perfected 2D gameplay with its refined mechanics and stunning pixel art. Its iconic soundtrack and influential design continue to inspire modern games.
Final Fantasy 7
Final Fantasy 7 revolutionized JRPGs in the West with its dark sci-fi narrative and iconic characters. Its impact on the gaming industry and its enduring legacy make it a timeless classic.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid transformed stealth-action gaming with its innovative mechanics and bizarre yet captivating narrative. Its groundbreaking storytelling and fourth-wall breaks continue to influence games today.
Honorable Mentions
Choosing the best PS1 games was challenging, and not all favorites could make the list. Here are some additional excellent titles:
- Einhander
- Dino Crisis
- Brian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99
- Need For Speed: High Stakes
- The Legend of Dragoon
These are our picks for the best games on the original PlayStation. We know everyone has their own favorites, so feel free to share your thoughts and tell us which games you consider S-tier and which ones you think should be forgotten.
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
Top 25 Best PlayStation Games
The original PlayStation was released in North America on September 9, 1995 and has sold over 102 million units. Here's an interactive playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played?
See All!
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
