The PlayStation 4 (PS4) has been out since 2013 and in that time has amassed an impressive library of games. With so many titles to choose from, it can be tough deciding what PS4 games are must-plays. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 PS4 games you should play right now. From epic open-world adventures to heart-pounding horror games, the PS4 has something for all tastes and styles.
Table of Contents
10 Most Prominent Games To Play On PS4
1. God of War (2018)
Santa Monica Studio’s God of War soft reboot from 2018 took the franchise in a bold new direction. Moving away from the original Greek mythology settings, this God of War is set in Norse mythology with Kratos now living in isolation with his young son Atreus. The shift in setting brought a deeper, more personal story as you guide Kratos and Atreus on their perilous journey while battling Norse beasts and gods.
God of War mixes exhilarating combat with puzzles and exploration for an epic action-adventure. The Leviathan Axe feels great to wield in battle while Atreus aids you with his bow. Exploring the beautiful realms also brings awe-inspiring sights and thoughtful narrative moments between father and son. If you only play one PS4 exclusive, make it the masterpiece that is God of War.
2. Bloodborne
The creator of Dark Souls, FromSoftware, brings their punishing yet rewarding gameplay to the PS4 with Bloodborne. As a Hunter, you’ll traverse the gothic streets of Yharnam battling twisted creatures and deranged townspeople. Bloodborne amps up the aggression with an emphasis on offense and faster mobility compared to Dark Souls.
You’ll die often in Bloodborne, but with each death you’ll inch closer to defeating the source of the mysterious illness plaguing Yharnam. Bloodborne’s air of mystery and satisfying combat makes it a must-play for any PS4 owner up for the challenge. Just be prepared to face some extremely difficult boss fights.
3. The Last of Us Part II
The Last of Us was one of the best games on PS3, so this highly anticipated sequel had big shoes to fill. Somehow Naughty Dog managed to produce an even more ambitious game with The Last of Us Part II. It picks up years after the first game, again putting you in control of survivor Ellie. This time Ellie is on a quest for retribution, leading to a violent yet emotionally resonant journey.
From the overgrown post-apocalyptic Seattle to the warring factions of former FEDRA quarantine zones, the world of The Last of Us Part II feels more fully realized. With improved gameplay and graphics, the excellent storytelling and characters are what make this a can’t miss PS4 game. Just brace yourself for some truly heartbreaking moments.
4. Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn stands out as one of the most unique open world games this generation. You play as Aloy, an outcast living in a post-apocalyptic world ruled by animalistic mechanised creatures. As you unravel mysteries about the ancient past, you’ll battle these metal beasts with high-tech bows and spears.
With its creative setting and protagonist, expansive open world full of discoveries, and the over-the-top battles against the metal monstrosities, Horizon Zero Dawn is a hugely enjoyable ride the whole way through. If you love open world RPGs, Horizon Zero Dawn is easily one of the best on PS4.
5. Nier: Automata
Looking for something weird, wild, yet oddly captivating? Then Nier: Automata is for you. At first you may be taken aback by Nier’s constantly shifting perspective, along with its mix of combat, adventure, and shoot ’em up gameplay. But as you play as android 2B battling strange machine lifeforms, you’ll become invested in the game’s cryptic story that questions existence and what constitutes life.
With multiple playthroughs unveiling new story tidbits and gameplay elements, Nier: Automata will stick with you long after the credits roll. It may seem bizarre at first glance, but those willing to give it a chance will find one of the most memorable game experiences this generation offers.
6. Resident Evil 2 Remake
Capcom’s Resident Evil 2 was a landmark game back in the PlayStation 1 days, so fans awaited with bated breath how a remake might turn out. Luckily, Capcom knocked the Resident Evil 2 remake out of the park. On top of completely revamped modern graphics, the remake does a phenomenal job of capturing the dread and tension of the PS1 original. Except this time with significantly improved controls and gameplay to go along with the new over-the-shoulder camera.
Whether you’re revisiting Resident Evil 2 or playing it for the first time, the remake offers an utterly terrifying yet thrilling horror experience. And with three distinct campaigns between Leon and Claire’s interconnected stories plus the bonus Hunk and Tofu Survivor missions, there’s plenty of content to keep you scared silly for hours.
7. Red Dead Redemption 2
Few open worlds feel as richly detailed and alive as the one Rockstar crafted for Red Dead Redemption 2. As outlaw Arthur Morgan, you’ll undertake shootouts, heists, hunting, and so much more across a sprawling Western landscape. With its picturesque vistas and dynamic weather effects, simply traversing the world on horseback is a joy.
Of course, RDR2 also delivers a riveting narrative revolving around Arthur and the notorious Van der Linde gang. Fantastic voice acting and characters make the 60+ hour story fly by. Red Dead Redemption 2’s incredible world-building and poignant tale cement it as an all-time great open world game.
8. Celeste
Who would’ve thought one of the best PS4 games is a pixelated 2D platformer? Celeste may look retro-inspired, but its superb level designs and platforming offer an incredibly fun, challenging climb up the titular Celeste Mountain. With over 700 stages to tackle along with B-side remixes of each adding an extra layer of difficulty, Celeste will put your platforming skills to the test.
While the precision platforming alone makes Celeste worth playing, the game also tells an emotional story about mental health. Don’t let Celeste’s cute art style fool you – it offers an unforgettable blend of gameplay and affecting narrative.
9. Persona 5 Royal
The Persona series has become renowned for its addictive mix of dungeon crawling, relationship building, and time management. Persona 5 Royal takes what made the original version so beloved and expands on it further for the ultimate Persona experience. You’ll easily sink 100+ hours into its stylish world battling Shadows and living your double life as a high school student.
With improved gameplay and new story content focused around a new character, Persona 5 Royal is the best way to play one of the finest JRPGs ever made. If you enjoy getting lost in rich story worlds, Persona 5 Royal’s vibrant Tokyo-inspired setting will leave an impression on you not soon forgotten.
10. Marvel’s Spider-Man
Ever wanted to truly feel like Spider-Man swinging through Manhattan while beating up bad guys? Then Marvel’s Spider-Man is as close as you’ll get without actual superpowers. Web slinging Insomniac’s open world is an absolute joy thanks to the intuitive controls and fluid physics. Creative implementation of Spidey’s abilities like web shooters and spider sense into combat ensures battles never get old. Plus this being an open world game, you’ll want to spend hours just exploring NYC and completing activities.
While the gameplay nails the signature Spider-Man experience, the original story is equally worthwhile featuring both Peter Parker struggling with his complex responsibilities and facing an all-star roster of Marvel villains like Vulture and Kingpin. If you have any affinity for the famed webhead, playing Marvel’s Spider-Man is practically a requirement.
Read More: The Best PC Games For 2024
Final Words
So there you have it – 10 phenomenal PS4 games you should dive into right now in 2024! From massive open world epics to heartfelt indie platformers, the PS4 library offers tremendous variety and quality. I hope this list helps you discover some new modern classics or inspires you to revisit some of PlayStation’s greatest hits this generation. Have fun and enjoy the amazing experiences these games provide!