It's been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact of this iconic console on the gaming industry and pop culture is undeniable. The PS1 introduced us to legendary characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the witty Spyro, creating franchises that have stood the test of time. As we reflect on this legacy, we've curated a list of the top 25 PS1 games that truly define the era.
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
Before the likes of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution, PaRappa the Rapper pioneered the rhythm game genre. This quirky title, featuring a flat dog rapping his way through catchy songs, stood out with its unique charm and was a refreshing departure from the "extreme" or "hardcore" games prevalent on the PS1. Its influence is still felt today, making PaRappa a beloved character and a standout title in the console's library.
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 bizarre yet captivating blend of action, puzzle, and platforming, set against a dystopian backdrop inspired by Soylent Green. Its distinctive character designs and deep lore have spawned sequels and spinoffs, with the game's unique mechanics—like telepathic possession and Mudokon communication—remaining memorable and influential.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
The Crash Bandicoot trilogy is a cornerstone of the PlayStation legacy, and Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is no exception. While not as challenging as its predecessor, it offers a variety of fun platforming levels and vehicle challenges set across different time periods. The remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy in 2019 brought this classic back to life, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the team behind the Tony Hawk series, this Spider-Man game set the standard for superhero titles. It masterfully captured Spider-Man's unique traversal mechanics, from swinging between skyscrapers to climbing walls. Packed with Marvel cameos, unlockable costumes, and Stan Lee's character descriptions, it remains a fan favorite.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 revolutionized the franchise by emphasizing story and character. This 3D action-adventure game not only improved upon its predecessor but also delivered one of the most charming experiences on the PS1, setting a new standard for the series.
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 played a pivotal role in popularizing the DualShock controller's analog sticks. By using these to control various gadgets and capture mischievous apes, the game made innovative use of the new technology. Its unique gameplay and humor have left a lasting impression, even influencing real-life events.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing is often cited as one of the best kart racers, rivaling even Mario Kart. With innovative drifting mechanics, engaging tracks, and weapons drawn from Crash lore, CTR has retained its fanbase and was later remade as Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled.
Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Inspired by classics like Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action into a unique espionage adventure. Its variety of weapons and memorable tasing mechanic added a fun twist to the genre, leading to several successful sequels.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain is a dark and atmospheric sequel that shifted the series into a 3D gothic adventure. Its innovative gameplay, involving shifts between the living and spectral realms, and its compelling narrative, crafted by Amy Hennig, make it a standout in the PS1 library.
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 benchmark for turn-based strategy games on consoles. Its intricate plot and engaging gameplay, despite lacking true 3D graphics, have earned it a lasting place in gaming history, even without a direct sequel.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Image credit: EADeveloper: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: 24 October, 2000 | Review: IGN's Medal of Honor: Underground review
Medal of Honor: Underground was a groundbreaking first-person shooter that brought WWII action to consoles in a new way. Its memorable character, Manon Batiste, and engaging levels, coupled with the ability to trick Nazis into posing for photos, made it a memorable entry in the genre.
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, delivering a rich narrative with iconic characters like Zidane and Vivi. Its reverence for the series' past and its emotional storytelling make it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit entries on the PlayStation.
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 redefined survival horror with its psychological depth and unsettling atmosphere. The game's focus on psychological horror and its innovative use of audio and fog set it apart, making it a classic that fans hope will be remade like its sequel, Silent Hill 2.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built on the success of the original with a balanced mix of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, along with the Spyro Reignited Trilogy, keep this game relevant and beloved by fans.
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 emphasized mission-based gameplay and arcade-style action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, cementing its place in the PS1 hall of fame.
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 strikes the perfect balance between the original's platforming and the expansive nature of Warped. Its challenging yet achievable levels have kept it beloved by fans and a highlight of the Crash series.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is an underrated gem that combines complex systems with a dense narrative. Its innovative combat, weapon customization, and challenging puzzles make it a standout action RPG on the PS1, despite its relative obscurity.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: Mar 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 remains a pinnacle of fighting games, known for its accessible yet deep gameplay. Its introduction of side-stepping and eclectic characters helped it become an iconic PS1 title, with its influence still felt in the latest entry, Tekken 8.
Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2's original version remains a horror classic, even after its 2018 remake. Its intricate puzzles and relentless enemies, set in a bizarre police station, offer a thrilling experience that has stood the test of time.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider introduced players to Lara Croft and her adventurous world. Its intricate level design and iconic environments, combined with memorable gameplay like the satisfying shotgun, have cemented its place in gaming history.
See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is widely regarded as one of the greatest sports games ever, thanks to its addictive gameplay and iconic soundtrack. Its skate park editor and expanded moveset refined the formula set by its predecessor, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 built on the success of its predecessor with an unprecedented scope, featuring nearly 650 cars. Its detailed racing simulation and vast content made it a standout racing game, even including a unique scratch 'n' sniff disc.
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's decision to remain 2D allowed for refined gameplay and timeless pixel art. Its exceptional soundtrack and near-perfect design make it a benchmark for the genre, still influencing games today.
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 brought Japanese RPGs to the Western world in a big way. Its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character designs captured a global audience, becoming one of the best-selling PS1 games and spawning numerous spin-offs and a highly acclaimed remake.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid revolutionized stealth-action games with its innovative gameplay and narrative depth. Its unique cast of characters and fourth-wall-breaking moments created an unforgettable experience that remains a highlight of the series.
Honorable Mentions
Choosing the best PS1 games was challenging, and not all favorites could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that are also noteworthy:
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. While our ranking may differ from yours, we invite you to share your S-tier games and any classics we might have missed in the comments.
### 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
