Top 25 PS1 Games Ever Ranked

It’s been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact it has had on the gaming industry and pop culture is undeniable. The PS1 introduced us to some of the most iconic video game characters and franchises, from the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot to the wise-cracking Spyro. We've carefully curated a list of the 25 best PS1 games of all time, showcasing some of the greatest PlayStation exclusives.

The Best PS1 Games Ever

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25. PaRappa the Rapper

**Developer:** NanaOn-Sha | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** December 6, 1996 | **Review:** IGN's PaRappa the Rapper review

Before the era of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution, PaRappa the Rapper set the stage. This quirky game, featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends, captivated players with its catchy songs and unique charm. Unlike other "extreme" or "hardcore" PS1 games, PaRappa stood out with its distinctive style, later echoed by Um Jammer Lammy. Its beloved status is evident, as it's been named one of the top 10 dogs in video games. I gotta believe!

24. 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 delightfully bizarre game, blending action, puzzle, and platforming elements with a Soylent Green-inspired plot. Its memorable character designs and deep lore have inspired sequels and spinoffs like Munch’s Oddysee and Stranger’s Wrath. What sets Abe's Oddysee apart are its innovative features, such as communicating and collaborating with fellow Mudokons, and the ability to possess or manipulate enemies telepathically. Don't think - drink!

23. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped

**Developer:** Naughty Dog | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** October 31, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped review

While Crash Bandicoot 2 may rank higher, the entire Crash trilogy is integral to the PlayStation legacy. Naughty Dog crafted these games to be both fun and challenging. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped, though not as demanding as Cortex Strikes Back, offers a variety of engaging platforming levels and vehicle challenges. Its time-hopping theme provides diverse levels, enemies, and settings, all seamlessly integrated into a cohesive experience. In 2019, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy remastered these classics, making Warped look as good as ever.

22. Spider-Man

**Developer:** Neversoft | **Publisher:** Activision | **Release date:** August 30, 2000 | **Review:** IGN's Spider-Man review

Developed by Neversoft, the creators of the Tony Hawk series, 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 climbing walls and acrobatically defeating enemies. The game is packed with Easter eggs, including numerous Marvel cameos and unlockable costumes like Spider-Man 2099 and the Amazing Bag Man. Even Stan Lee provided character descriptions, adding a personal touch to the experience.

21. Mega Man Legends 2

**Developer:** Capcom | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** October 25, 2000 (NA) | **Review:** IGN's Mega Man Legends 2 review

Before Mega Man Legends, the series was not known for its storytelling or character development. Mega Man Legends 2 changed that, delivering a unique and charming 3D action/adventure experience. The sequel refined the formula, enhancing the narrative and gameplay to create one of the most memorable entries in the franchise.

20. Ape Escape

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: June 18, 1999 | Review: IGN's Ape Escape review

The DualShock controller's analog sticks were once considered a gimmick, but Ape Escape changed that perception. The game's premise of capturing mischievous apes using various gadgets, like hula hoops and remote control cars, was controlled by the right stick, introducing players to this new technology. Ape Escape's innovative mechanics and solid implementation made it a standout title, even predicting real-life events like the escape of a chimpanzee named Chacha in 2016.

19. Crash Team Racing

**Developer:** Naughty Dog | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** September 30, 1999 | **Review:** IGN's Crash Team Racing review

Crash Team Racing came close to dethroning Mario Kart, offering a mascot racer that delighted fans with its original tracks, wacky weapons drawn from Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting/boost system. Its innovative gameplay and fun elements have made it one of the most beloved kart racing games to this day.

18. 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 to create a unique espionage adventure. With a variety of weaponry and 20 levels, players could approach challenges in multiple ways. The game's memorable feature of tasering enemies to death was ahead of its time.

17. Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain

**Developer:** Crystal Dynamics | **Publisher:** Eidos Interactive | **Release date:** April 1, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain review

Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain, often considered "Legacy of Kain 2," is a gothic and macabre sequel that shifted the series from a top-down action RPG to a 3D adventure. Its innovative gameplay, involving shifting between the living and spectral realms, and its deep narrative, crafted by Amy Hennig, set it apart from other PlayStation games of its time.

16. 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 juxtaposition that has stood the test of time. Despite lacking a true sequel, its impact on the genre remains significant.

15. 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 standout first-person shooter on the PS1, bringing WWII action into the third dimension. Its memorable protagonist, Manon Batiste, and engaging levels, combined with a behind-enemy-lines atmosphere, made it one of the best shooters of its era. The ability to trick Nazis into posing for embarrassing photos before dispatching them added a humorous twist.

14. 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 knights, mages, and princesses. Its memorable characters, including Zidane, Vivi, and Steiner, helped make it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit entries in the series. It paid homage to its predecessors while setting the stage for future installments.

See our guide to the Final Fantasy games in order.

13. Silent Hill

Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Team Silent | Publisher: Konami | Release date: February 23, 1999 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill review

Silent Hill diverged from traditional zombie survival horror, offering a psychological experience filled with surreal creatures and a foreboding atmosphere. Its protagonist, Henry, is an everyman whose journey through the fog-laden town is more about survival than combat. The game's haunting audio and psychological depth have made it unforgettable, with hopes for a remake similar to the acclaimed Silent Hill 2.

12. Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage

**Developer:** Insomniac Games | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** November 2, 1999 | **Review:** IGN's Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage review

Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built upon the original game, offering a balance of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, from beaches to monasteries, provided a rich and engaging experience. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy has brought this classic to modern consoles, allowing new players to enjoy its charm.

11. Driver

Image credit: GT InteractiveDeveloper: Reflections Interactive | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: June 25, 1999 | Review: IGN's Driver review

Driver was one of the first non-racing games set in a car, blending open-world mission design with arcade driving action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences. Driver's impact on the genre is undeniable, securing its place in the PS1 hall of fame.

10. 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 the standout entry in Naughty Dog's trilogy, offering a perfect balance of platforming and secrets. Its challenging levels and rewarding gameplay have kept it beloved by fans for decades.

9. Vagrant Story

**Developer:** Square | **Publisher:** Square | **Release date:** May 16, 2000 | **Review:** IGN's Vagrant Story review

Vagrant Story is an underrated gem, combining action RPG elements with a dense plot and intricate systems. Its quasi-rhythm-based battle system and customizable weapons make it a challenging yet rewarding experience, often overlooked but highly regarded among PlayStation classics.

8. Tekken 3

Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: Mar 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review

Tekken 3 is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever made, appealing to both fans and newcomers. Its introduction of a third axis for dodging and circling opponents revolutionized the genre. With its eclectic characters and engaging gameplay, Tekken 3 remains a cornerstone of the PS1 library.

All these years later, the series has now moved on to acclaimed Tekken 8, which released in 2024.

7. Resident Evil 2

**Developer:** Capcom | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** January 21, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Resident Evil 2 review

Though remade in 2018, the original Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic. Set in a bizarre police station, it combines intricate puzzles with a variety of enemies, from zombies to giant moths. The relentless pursuit by the Tyrant and dual perspectives add to its enduring appeal.

6. Tomb Raider

Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review

The original Tomb Raider is a haunting solo adventure, featuring Lara Croft navigating through diverse environments filled with real and mythical creatures. Its intricate level design and iconic shotgun have cemented its place in gaming history.

See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.

5. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2

**Developer:** Neversoft | **Publisher:** Activision | **Release date:** September 20, 2000 | **Review:** IGN's Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 review

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is not only a monumental entry in its series but also one of the highest-rated video games of all time. Its arcade-style extreme sports action, iconic soundtrack, and addictive skate park editor have made it a cultural phenomenon.

4. Gran Turismo 2

**Developer:** Polyphony Digital | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** November 30, 1999 | **Review:** IGN's Gran Turismo 2 review

Gran Turismo 2 expanded on the original's success, offering nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. Its scope and detail dwarfed other racing games of its time, making it the definitive racing sim on the PS1.

3. 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 2D gameplay and pixel art have aged beautifully, offering a refined experience that many modern games still emulate. Its incredible soundtrack and perfect gameplay make it a timeless classic.

2. 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 Japanese RPGs in the West with its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character designs. Its impact on the gaming world is immense, spawning numerous spin-offs and a stellar remake.

1. Metal Gear Solid

**Developer:** Konami | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** September 3, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Metal Gear Solid review

Metal Gear Solid introduced a unique blend of stealth and action, coupled with a bizarre yet delightful cast of characters and a story that challenged traditional video game narratives. Its innovative gameplay and cinematic storytelling have made it a landmark title in gaming history.

Honorable Mentions

Choosing the best PlayStation games was challenging, and not all favorites could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that are also excellent:

• 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 on which games are S-tier and which should be forgotten. Did any PS1 classics make your list that weren’t on ours? Let us know in the comments.

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 102m units since. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played? See All!

1Metal Gear SolidKonami2Final Fantasy VIISquare3Castlevania: Symphony of the NightKCET4Gran Turismo 2Polyphony Digital5Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2LTI Gray Matter6Tomb Raider -- Featuring Lara CroftCORE Design Limited7Resident Evil 2 [1998]Capcom8Tekken 3Namco9Vagrant StorySquare10Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes BackNaughty Dog