It's been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact of Sony's first console on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. The PS1 introduced us to iconic characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the wise-cracking Spyro, cementing its place in gaming history. But which PS1 games stand out as the best of the best? After careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 25 PS1 games, including some exclusive titles that defined the era. Here are our picks for the 25 best PS1 games of all time.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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PaRappa the Rapper
PaRappa the Rapper was a trailblazer in the rhythm game genre, predating hits like Rock Band and Guitar Hero. This quirky game, featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends, captivated players with its catchy tunes and unique charm. Unlike other "extreme" or "hardcore" titles on the PS1, PaRappa stood out with its lighthearted approach, earning a spot among the top 10 dogs in video games.
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Image credit: Oddworld InhabitantsDeveloper: Oddworld Inhabitants | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: September 18, 1997 | Review: IGN's Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee review
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is a unique blend of action, puzzle, and platforming, set in a bizarre universe reminiscent of Soylent Green. Its memorable character design and deep lore have inspired numerous sequels and spinoffs. The game's innovative mechanics, such as telepathic possession and Mudokon communication, make it a standout title on the PS1.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
The Crash Bandicoot trilogy is a cornerstone of the PlayStation legacy, and Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is no exception. While it may not be as challenging as its predecessor, Cortex Strikes Back, Warped offers a diverse range of fun platforming and vehicle challenges. Its time-hopping theme adds variety and excitement, making it a robust entry in the series. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy further enhances its appeal.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the creators of the Tony Hawk series, the PS1's Spider-Man set the standard for superhero games. It was the first to truly capture Spider-Man's unique traversal methods, from swinging between buildings to acrobatic combat. The game is packed with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, including the iconic Captain Universe outfit, all narrated by Stan Lee himself.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 transformed the series by emphasizing story and character, delivering a charming 3D action/adventure experience. This sequel refined the formula, making it one of the most unique entries in the Mega Man franchise.
Ape Escape
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: June 18, 1999 | Review: IGN's Ape Escape review
Ape Escape was instrumental in popularizing the DualShock controller's analog sticks. The game's premise of capturing mischievous apes using various gadgets, controlled by the right stick, was innovative for its time. Its influence extended beyond gaming, as seen in real-life events like the 2016 escape of a chimpanzee named Chacha.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing is often considered the closest competitor to Mario Kart. With its original tracks, creative weapons drawn from Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting/boost system, CTR remains a beloved kart racer. Its modern-day remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, further cements its legacy.
Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Drawing inspiration from Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action into a thrilling espionage adventure. Its diverse weaponry and flexible gameplay allowed for varied approaches to its 20 levels. The game's memorable taser feature was ahead of its time.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain is a gothic masterpiece that shifted the series from a top-down RPG to a 3D adventure. Its innovative gameplay, involving shifts between the living and spectral realms, and its compelling narrative, crafted by Amy Hennig, set it apart from other PS1 titles.
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 is often hailed as one of the best turn-based strategy games on consoles. Its intricate plot and super-deformed characters create a unique experience, proving that the PS1 didn't need 3D graphics to deliver compelling gameplay.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Image credit: EADeveloper: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: October 24, 2000 | Review: IGN's Medal of Honor: Underground review
Medal of Honor: Underground is a standout first-person shooter on the PS1, bringing WWII action into the third dimension. Its memorable protagonist, Manon Batiste, and engaging levels, combined with the ability to trick Nazis into posing for photos, make it a memorable title.
Final Fantasy 9
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts | Release date: July 7, 2000 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 9 review
Final Fantasy 9 returned the series to its fantasy roots, featuring beloved characters like Zidane and Vivi. Its rich narrative and homage to earlier entries make it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit Final Fantasy games on the PS1.
See our guide to the Final Fantasy games in order.
Silent Hill
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Team Silent | Publisher: Konami | Release date: February 23, 1999 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill review
Silent Hill broke new ground in psychological horror, offering a haunting experience that diverged from traditional survival horror. Its unsettling atmosphere and innovative gameplay, where running is often smarter than fighting, have left a lasting impact on the genre.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage builds on the original game's success, offering a balanced mix of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, along with a host of collectibles and side characters, make it a standout in the Spyro trilogy.
Driver
Image credit: GT InteractiveDeveloper: Reflections Interactive | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: June 25, 1999 | Review: IGN's Driver review
Driver was a pioneering open-world driving game that focused on missions rather than racing. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, making it a memorable entry in the PS1 library.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 5, 1997 | Review: IGN's Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back review
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back is often considered the best in the trilogy, offering a perfect balance of platforming and secrets. Its challenging yet achievable levels have kept it beloved by fans for decades.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is an underrated gem that combines action RPG elements with a dense plot and intricate systems. Its challenging gameplay and unique battle mechanics make it a standout title on the PS1.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever made. Its introduction of a third axis and diverse characters helped it appeal to a broad audience, cementing its place as an iconic PS1 game.
All these years later, the series has now moved on to acclaimed Tekken 8, which released in 2024.
Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic, even after its 2018 remake. Its intricate puzzles and diverse enemies, set in a bizarre police station, create a tense and memorable experience.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider introduced the world to Lara Croft and set a new standard for adventure games. Its intricate level design and iconic shotgun have left a lasting impact on the gaming world.
See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is not only a landmark in the series but also one of the highest-rated games of all time. Its addictive gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and skate park editor have 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. Its detailed racing simulation and vast content make it a standout title in the PS1 library.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: March 20, 1997 | Review: IGN's Castlevania: Symphony of the Night review
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is often considered a perfect video game. Its refined 2D gameplay, beautiful pixel art, and iconic soundtrack have aged remarkably well, influencing countless games that followed.
Final Fantasy 7
Image credit: Sony/Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1997| Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 7 review
Final Fantasy 7 revolutionized the JRPG genre, bringing it to a global audience with its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character designs. Its impact on gaming culture is immeasurable, despite some of its dated elements.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid redefined stealth/action gameplay and cinematic storytelling in video games. Its unique blend of gameplay, memorable characters, and fourth-wall-breaking moments make it a timeless classic.
Honorable Mentions
Choosing the best PlayStation games was a challenging task, and not all favorites could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that are also worth exploring:
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 our ranking may differ from yours, so feel free to share your thoughts and let us know which PS1 classics you think we missed.
### The 25 Best PS1 Games of All TimeThe 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 102m units since. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played?See All
1Metal Gear SolidKonami
2Final Fantasy VIISquare
3Castlevania: Symphony of the NightKCET
4Gran Turismo 2Polyphony Digital
5Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2LTI Gray Matter
6Tomb Raider -- Featuring Lara CroftCORE Design Limited
7Resident Evil 2 [1998]Capcom
8Tekken 3Namco
9Vagrant StorySquare
10Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes BackNaughty Dog
