Top 30 Essential PS4 Games of 2023 – A Look Back at Gaming History
In a retrospective review of the PlayStation 4’s impressive library, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit the 30 essential PS4 games that have left an indelible mark on the world of gaming. While the PlayStation 5 has taken the center stage, these titles continue to shine on the beloved PS4 platform.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar Games proved that even with hardware limitations, they could deliver an open-world masterpiece.
2. Grand Theft Auto 5
An enduring classic with an unforgettable campaign and an ever-expanding online multiplayer experience.
3. The Last of Us Remastered
A remaster that elevated the original with improved visuals and a solid 60 frames per second, cementing its status as a timeless story-driven adventure.
4. God of War Ragnarok
Building on the success of the first game, Ragnarok delivers more of what made Kratos’ journey great.
5. The Last of Us Part Two
A brutal and unrelenting tale that pushed the boundaries of storytelling and violence in gaming.
6. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Nathan Drake’s final adventure provided epic set pieces, gorgeous visuals, and a fitting end to the series.
7. Journey, Flower, and Flow
These titles from thatgamecompany left an emotional impact and revolutionized gaming experiences.
8. Bloodborne
FromSoftware’s Gothic masterpiece continues to terrify players with challenging combat and cosmic horror.
9. Shadow of the Colossus
Bluepoint Games’ remake brought new life to this classic title, maintaining its timeless appeal.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
This best-selling RPG is renowned for its storytelling and engaging side quests.
11. Astro Bot Rescue Mission
An underappreciated 3D platformer exclusive to PlayStation VR, blending platforming and exploration seamlessly.
12. Rez Infinite
A trippy rail shooter with an even trippier soundtrack, now featuring Area X and Unreal Engine 4 visuals.
13. Tetris Effect
The classic Tetris gameplay elevated with mesmerizing visuals and sublime music.
14. Horizon Forbidden West
Guerrilla Games managed to deliver a massive open-world experience on the PS4, expanding on the first game’s success.
15. Next Machina: Death Machine
A fast-paced twin-stick shooter that pays homage to arcade classics.
16. Nioh 2
Team Ninja’s sequel added new mechanics and weapons to the masocore gameplay, providing a challenging experience.
17. Inside
A puzzle platformer that excels in pacing, with a gripping narrative set in a mysterious underwater laboratory.
18. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales
A compelling story with likable characters, expanded combat, and a vibrant Harlem to explore.
19. Gran Turismo 7
The definitive racing experience on PS4, continually updated with new cars, events, and tracks.
20. It Takes Two
It is an incredible co-op platforming adventure with diverse gameplay sequences.
21. Mortal Kombat 11
The epic finale of the series, features heroes from past and present in a battle against time.
22. Resident Evil 7 Biohazard
A return to survival horror, set in a first-person perspective, revitalizing the iconic franchise.
23. Infamous Second Son
A compelling open-world adventure with morally focused decisions and impressive superpowers.
24. Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Hideo Kojima’s sandbox masterpiece offers unparalleled freedom and replay value.
25. Ghost of Tsushima
A standout open-world title with stunning visuals and impeccable combat, set in feudal Japan.
26. Sackboy: A Big Adventure
A fun 2.5D platformer that shines in solo or co-op play, offering creative level design and customization.
27. Death Stranding
A unique and unorthodox experience set in a breathtaking world, featuring a memorable cast and soundtrack.
28. DiRT Rally
A challenging but rewarding rally racing game with an array of cars and tracks.
29. Hitman 2
Improved on the winning formula with new tools, methods, and exciting locations for assassinations.
30. Dreams
Media Molecule’s creation toolset evolved with surprising user-created content and engaging story-driven experiences.
These 30 essential PS4 games have left an indelible mark on gaming history, showcasing the platform’s diverse library and the unforgettable experiences it has offered to players over the years. While the PS5 takes the spotlight with Ultra Graphics, these classics continue to be celebrated by gamers around the world.
Video link: