Looking for the best PS5 games 2024? This year has brought a lineup packed with incredible new releases and unforgettable gaming experiences, from stunning open-world adventures to intense action and captivating story-driven narratives. Discover the titles redefining gameplay on the PlayStation 5.
Prepare for an exciting adventure through the top PS5 games of 2024! As the PlayStation 5 game catalog grows, it becomes more full with must-plays, ranging from jaw-dropping AAA blockbusters to memorable indie treasures. We’ve identified the standout titles—from new releases to modern classics—that have genuinely lifted the bar for the PS5.
The PS5 had few exclusives in its early years, but it now shines with hits like Astro Bot and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, as well as expansions like Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores. And the excitement doesn’t end there: third-party jewels like Diablo 4, Dragon’s Dogma 2, Street Fighter 6, and Final Fantasy VII’s new trilogy chapters are pushing gaming to new heights. Even Baldur’s Gate 3, awarded Game of the Year in 2023, sparkles on PlayStation 5.
The PlayStation 5 has also sold over 60 million devices, cementing its position as a gaming industry leader. With the new, slim PS5 Slim and PlayStation Portal for game streaming, the system is moving beyond its standard configuration. For anyone wishing to improve their gaming experience, our recommendations for the finest PS5 controllers and headphones are a must-see.
If you’re interested in gaming across platforms, check out the best titles on Xbox Series X, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Each of them promises to provide you with hours of fantastic gameplay!
Alan Wake 2
The long-awaited return of Alan Wake lives up to its legend, capturing the eerie and surreal atmosphere fans have craved. In this intense psychological thriller, players follow two intertwined narratives: Alan Wake’s desperate escape from the mysterious “Dark Place” and FBI agent Saga Anderson’s investigation into strange, haunting events. Both characters’ stories reveal new depths in each other’s journey, adding unexpected layers to the unfolding mystery.
The gameplay experience is both visually mesmerizing and hauntingly atmospheric, offering spine-chilling moments that push the boundaries of narrative in gaming. Alan Wake 2 is a unique blend of horror and intrigue, creating an unforgettable journey where every twist is a fresh thrill.
Animal Well
Animal Well is a standout in the metroidvania genre, focusing on exploration and clever puzzles over combat. This indie gem invites players to navigate a world packed with hidden secrets, leading to a journey that feels both mysterious and richly layered. As you guide a small, egg-shaped protagonist through shadowy corridors and lush pixelated landscapes, you’ll dodge encounters with intimidating, animal-like creatures rather than engage them in battle.
The world of Animal Well grows more captivating with each discovery, unfolding in ways that constantly surprise and challenge. The art style—dark, lo-fi, yet beautifully detailed—adds to its unique appeal, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing atmosphere that feels right at home on a big PS5 screen. With a finely tuned platforming experience, the game’s haunting glow and intricate design make it a perfect match for fans who love thoughtful exploration and atmospheric storytelling.
Astro Bot
Astro, the charming PlayStation mascot, first won fans over in Astro’s Playroom, a delightful pre-installed experience on the PS5 that highlighted the impressive features of the DualSense controller. Now, in Astro Bot, our beloved Sony mascot steps up to star in a full-length sequel, delivering a platforming adventure that’s widely celebrated as one of the best-reviewed games of the year.
With Astro Bot, Sony has crafted a game that not only pushes the PS5’s technical capabilities to their limits but also offers an endlessly creative and perfectly polished experience. Each level is packed with surprises, taking players through imaginative worlds that make the most of the console’s features, from adaptive triggers to haptic feedback. This isn’t just a platformer; it’s an exhilarating journey that holds its own alongside the genre’s classics. If Astro’s Playroom gave you a taste of what the PS5 could do, Astro Bot takes it to a whole new level—making it an absolute must-play for any PS5 owner.
Baldur’s Gate 3
Larian Studios has created a true RPG marvel with Baldur’s Gate 3, offering an unparalleled sense of freedom and player-driven storytelling. It’s an RPG that captures the heart of Dungeons & Dragons like no other, allowing you to approach situations from any angle you can dream up. Whether you’re charming or outwitting allies, slaying or sparing enemies, each choice leaves a memorable mark on your journey.
The game is stunning to look at, with intricately designed landscapes and character models that bring the fantasy world to life. Although it’s packed with complex mechanics and deep lore, Baldur’s Gate 3 remains accessible, balancing depth with user-friendliness so that both newcomers and RPG veterans can dive in without hesitation. Every moment is an immersive, gripping experience, making it a standout title that’s as engaging to play as it is beautiful to behold.
Control: Ultimate Edition
Originally launched in 2019, Control impressed fans with its captivating story and intense gameplay, yet struggled with performance on the PS4—especially on the base models. Now, powered by the PlayStation 5, Control: Ultimate Edition unleashes the game’s full potential. The upgraded hardware allows for stunning 4K visuals, making every particle effect a mesmerizing sight, while the game runs at a silky-smooth frame rate that makes the action feel sharper than ever.
This edition includes both expansions, further enriching an already riveting story filled with mysterious twists and unforgettable performances. Stepping into the shoes of Jesse Faden, the new director of the Federal Bureau of Control, players navigate the unsettling depths of a shadowy agency that handles all things paranormal. The combat is electrifying, blending classic third-person shooting with supernatural abilities that feel dynamic and stylish, adding flair to every encounter.
Control delivers a surreal, atmospheric experience with striking art direction and a narrative that challenges your perception of reality. If you missed it the first time, the Ultimate Edition on PS5 offers the perfect way to experience Control in all its eerie, mind-bending glory.
Deathloop
Deathloop transports players to Blackreef, a bizarre island locked in an endless time loop where wild parties rage on, and everyone has one goal: take down Colt, the story’s resilient protagonist. To escape the loop, Colt must hunt and eliminate a series of targets before the day resets. Though he retains his memories with each new loop, so do his targets, making each encounter more intense as they anticipate his every move.
This brilliantly crafted shooter seamlessly blends its time-loop mechanic with dynamic storytelling that escalates with each loop, keeping you hooked as the world and its mysteries unfold. Featuring stellar performances and an innovative gameplay structure, Deathloop immerses you in a gripping tale of survival, strategy, and intrigue. The game’s artful execution and captivating plot earned it a rare, well-deserved 10/10 in reviews, solidifying its place as a modern classic in gaming.
Destiny 2
Destiny 2 has firmly established itself as a gold standard for live-service games, captivating millions of Guardians with its polished mechanics and endless layers of customization. The game’s core shooting experience is expertly crafted, delivering satisfying, precise gunplay that sets it apart. Over the years, Destiny 2 has expanded with rich story content, thrilling cooperative missions, and dynamic competitive multiplayer modes, creating an ever-evolving universe that feels alive with new challenges and surprises.
The best part? Destiny 2 is free to download, inviting players to dive into substantial story content and test their skills in multiplayer battles without any upfront cost. The game truly shines on the PS5, with stunning 4K graphics that bring its futuristic worlds and explosive action sequences to life.
Diablo 4
Blizzard’s Diablo 4 introduces a vast, dark world brimming with endless adventure, offering an enticing mix of exploration, loot hunting, and story depth. While Diablo 3 faced a tumultuous launch, it found redemption through extensive post-launch updates, evolving into a more complex, satisfying game. Diablo 4 arrives with a more focused and refined approach at launch, emphasizing strong foundational mechanics that make it both accessible and endlessly replayable.
The game introduces a revamped build system, which allows players to craft unique characters by carefully selecting their archetypes, leading to five distinct classes that offer fresh playstyles. Diablo 4 also expands upon the franchise’s rich lore, diving deep into the story of Lilith, the demonic mother, in a more personal and cinematic narrative that makes it the most visually immersive Diablo experience to date.
With the upcoming Vessel of Hatred expansion in October, which adds a new Spiritborn class, Diablo 4 is poised to continue growing, providing fans with a robust world to dive into and conquer.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Elden Ring, the 2022 Game of the Year, continues to capture the hearts of players with its thrilling open-world experience, and this year’s much-anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree expansion has only elevated its legacy. This DLC delivers a massive, mysterious new region to explore, packed with hidden secrets and formidable challenges that will test even the most seasoned adventurers.
What makes Shadow of the Erdtree truly stand out is its masterful balance, allowing players to feel a sense of progression, even if their character is already overpowered. It’s a smart system that maintains the excitement and tension of exploring the lands, regardless of how powerful you’ve become. The expansion also dives deeper into the Elden Ring mythos, enriching the lore in ways that are both surprising and captivating, revealing new truths that expand upon the dark and intricate world of the game.
For fans of Elden Ring and those looking for a fresh adventure, Shadow of the Erdtree is a must-play, offering everything that made the original game a sensation—plus a whole lot more.
Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade
Final Fantasy VII Remake set a new standard for remakes, earning a perfect 10/10 from GameSpot for its action-packed combat, memorable characters, and breathtaking reimagining of Midgar. Now, with Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade on PS5, this modern classic gets a next-gen upgrade that takes it to a whole new level.
The PS5 version brings enhanced graphics and performance, offering two distinct modes: a 4K mode that offers stunning visuals at a lower frame rate, and a 60fps mode that prioritizes smooth gameplay at the cost of some graphical detail. Either way, Intergrade looks and feels better than ever. On top of these technical improvements, Intergrade includes the exciting Intermission DLC, where players can dive into a new story arc starring the ninja Yuffie, complete with fresh side missions and the fun Fort Condor minigame. It adds even more depth to the world of Final Fantasy VII, enriching the already vast universe.
Whether you’re a returning player who owned the PS4 version (and can upgrade for free) or new to the adventure, Intergrade is the ultimate way to experience this unforgettable journey.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Following the groundbreaking success of Final Fantasy VII Remake, which redefined what a remake could be, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth takes the saga to even greater heights. This second chapter of the trilogy opens up beyond the steampunk confines of Midgar, introducing players to a vast, lush open world brimming with new places to explore, activities to enjoy, and plenty of minigames to keep you entertained. The quest to stop the elusive Sephiroth feels even more immersive in this expansive environment.
While Rebirth shifts the focus slightly away from the tight, narrative-driven pacing of its predecessor, it more than makes up for it with enhanced combat mechanics, a rich roster of new and returning characters, and an ever-deepening mystery at the heart of this ambitious trilogy. And then there’s Queen’s Blood, the addictive new card game that’s so well-designed, it could easily stand alone as a game in its own right.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the perfect follow-up, elevating everything we loved about Remake and adding a whole new layer of depth and adventure to the story.
Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima was a crowning achievement for the PS4, showcasing the console’s capabilities to their fullest with stunning visuals and smooth performance. The PS5 upgrade, however, takes this already impressive game to the next level, making Tsushima’s lush, expansive world even more breathtaking. With enhanced 4K resolution and a steady 60fps, it feels like a truly next-gen experience.
You step into the shoes of Jin Sakai, a samurai caught in a fight for survival during the Mongol invasion of Japan. The fluid combat system is one of the game’s standout features, blending graceful swordplay with stealth mechanics in a way that feels both dynamic and rewarding. While the open-world structure may feel familiar to fans of the genre, the game’s rich narrative and polished mechanics make each journey through Tsushima feel fresh.
Beyond the campaign, Ghost of Tsushima also offers a surprisingly robust co-op multiplayer mode, Legends, where you can team up with friends to tackle a series of new challenges. For those craving even more content, the Director’s Cut introduces a whole new expansion that expands the story and adds depth to the already compelling world. Whether you’re revisiting this gem or playing it for the first time, Ghost of Tsushima remains an unmissable adventure on PS5.
God of War/God of War Ragnarok
God of War is already one of the most visually stunning games on PS4, but the PS5 upgrade takes it to new heights. With the added performance mode that supports 4K resolution at 60fps, the world of Midgard has never looked so breathtakingly alive. Whether you’re revisiting Kratos’s journey or experiencing it for the first time, God of War on PS5 is an unforgettable adventure, combining deep storytelling with thrilling combat.
The sequel, God of War Ragnarok, builds upon this foundation, delivering an even more expansive world, refined combat mechanics, and an array of new tools that make each fight feel uniquely tailored to your playstyle. The game doesn’t just push the visual boundaries of what a PlayStation title can look like—it also continues, and likely concludes, the epic tale that began in the first game, exploring the harrowing path toward Ragnarok. Together, these two games make for an exceptional duology, offering a perfect blend of myth, action, and emotion on the PS5.
Gran Turismo 7
While it may not have much competition, Gran Turismo 7 stands as the undisputed king of racing games on PlayStation 5. Given the franchise’s legacy, this might not come as a surprise, but it’s still thrilling to witness Gran Turismo return to its roots with such style and precision. After an eight-year hiatus since Gran Turismo 6, GT7 ushers the iconic series into a new era, fully harnessing the power of the PS5 to deliver breathtaking visuals and hyper-realistic car handling.
The game offers a deep and rewarding experience for car enthusiasts, featuring over 400 cars and 30 tracks, plus an abundance of single-player content and customization options. Whether you’re refining your skills on the track or tuning up your dream car, Gran Turismo 7 delivers a comprehensive racing experience like no other. If you’re looking to dive into racing on PS5, this is the game you shouldn’t miss.
Hitman: World of Assassination
IO Interactive’s Hitman reboot trilogy has redefined the stealth-action genre, and Hitman 3 brings it to a thrilling conclusion with an unforgettable high note for the series. The hallmark of the trilogy has always been its emphasis on player choice within intricate, sandbox-style levels, and Hitman 3 amplifies this with an overwhelming array of creative ways to complete each mission as the infamous Agent 47.
The game’s exceptional level design is paired with vibrant, unforgettable characters, drawing players into a world that’s both captivating and often delightfully absurd. But Hitman 3 doesn’t just rely on its gameplay; it deepens its narrative, giving the story more weight and adding a sense of consequence to every mission. The “World of Assassination” update brings together the content from all three games in the trilogy, along with the thrilling roguelike Freelancer mode, ensuring that players can immerse themselves in a nearly endless cycle of assassination challenges. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, Hitman: World of Assassination offers a truly captivating experience.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
After the massive success of Insomniac’s Marvel’s Spider-Man and its exhilarating spin-off Miles Morales, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 takes everything fans loved and amps it up to a thrilling new level. Now, for the first time, players get to control both Spider-Man and Miles Morales in an expansive, beautifully crafted version of New York City, packed with dynamic interactions and jaw-dropping visuals.
This time around, the two web-slinging heroes must team up to take down Kraven the Hunter, a relentless force who has come to New York with one goal: hunt down Spidey’s entire rogues’ gallery. The game’s dual protagonists offer a unique and exciting twist, with players switching between Spider-Man and Miles, each possessing their own distinct set of powers. The cinematic storytelling pulls you deeper into the world of the webslinger, delivering a gripping narrative that will keep fans on the edge of their seat. For long-time Spider-Man fans, it’s an absolute treat, and for newcomers, it’s an action-packed adventure you won’t want to miss.
No Man’s Sky
Few games have experienced such a remarkable transformation as No Man’s Sky. When it launched in 2016, Hello Games’ ambitious space exploration sim faced heavy criticism for failing to meet its lofty promises. Fast forward to today, and the game has undergone a complete renaissance, turning from a disappointment into one of the most beloved and constantly evolving games in the industry.
With numerous updates over the years, No Man’s Sky has expanded far beyond its original scope. Features like base-building, space fleet management, and an immersive multiplayer experience have completely redefined the game, offering players endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. On the PS5, the game looks and runs better than ever, with stunning 4K visuals at 60fps, more detailed planets, and enhanced lighting and shadows, all of which make the vastness of space feel even more alive. Whether you’re charting uncharted planets or embarking on interstellar adventures with friends, No Man’s Sky now offers an experience that’s truly worth the journey. It’s the ultimate redemption story for a game that once struggled to live up to expectations but has since surpassed them in every way.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
2024 kicked off with an exciting revival of the legendary Prince of Persia series, and this time, it’s a thrilling metroidvania reimagining. Set against the mystical backdrop of Mount Qaf, the game offers a rich and atmospheric world brimming with diverse biomes, from an opulent royal library to shadowy, damp catacombs. It’s an ideal playground for the exploration-focused gameplay, inviting players to uncover secrets around every corner.
The combat is finely tuned, with a deep parry and counter system that ensures each encounter feels rewarding. The difficulty is flexible, making sure that both newcomers and seasoned players are tested in just the right way. But what truly sets The Lost Crown apart is its impeccable metroidvania design. Every aspect, from the subtle visual cues to the smart map options, speaks to the developers’ love for the genre. It’s clear that this is a labor of passion, and the result is a bold step forward for metroidvanias—expect to see other games in the genre drawing inspiration from the Prince’s new adventure. The Lost Crown isn’t just a return to form; it’s a revolution.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a jaw-dropping PS5 exclusive that redefines what a next-gen adventure can be. This thrilling action-platformer introduces a brand-new character, Rivet, a fierce Lombax who joins forces with Ratchet after both are ripped from their reality and hurled into an alternate dimension. With breathtaking visuals, seamless dimension-hopping gameplay, and the immersive power of the PS5’s DualSense controller, this game delivers a truly next-gen experience. The new traversal tools and refined combat mechanics make every moment feel fresh, exciting, and fun.
From its lightning-fast load times to its vibrant, dynamic worlds, Rift Apart is a showcase of what next-gen technology can do. The rich, colorful environments are a visual treat, while the innovative gameplay keeps you hooked from start to finish. If you’re a PS5 owner, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a must-play, offering an unforgettable adventure that will make you feel like you’re truly living the next generation of gaming.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
Resident Evil 4 stands as one of the most influential third-person action games ever made, a title that set a new benchmark for the genre when it was first released. When Capcom announced the remake, expectations were sky-high—and they were more than met. This remake is not just a visual overhaul; it’s a masterful reimagining of the original, combining the best of what made RE4 iconic with modern design sensibilities.
From the ominous atmosphere to the heart-pounding combat, Capcom has carefully preserved what made the original so captivating while transforming weaker elements into refined gameplay experiences. The result is a game that feels both nostalgic and fresh, offering a seamless blend of old-school charm and cutting-edge gameplay mechanics. With its stunning visuals, revamped mechanics, and fresh narrative twists, the Resident Evil 4 remake doesn’t just pay homage to a legendary game—it redefines it for a new generation of gamers.
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Originally released on the Nintendo Switch, Shin Megami Tensei V has now been reintroduced to other platforms as SMT V: Vengeance, offering a refined experience that builds on its predecessor. This enhanced port addresses fan feedback with notable upgrades, such as improved navigation tools, making exploration and combat even more fluid and accessible.
But what truly sets Shin Megami Tensei V apart is its compelling narrative and rich character development. Vengeance deepens these elements, adding substantial new content that expands on the relationships between the game’s human protagonists and their demonic counterparts. This includes unexpected twists that will keep even the most dedicated players on their toes. For those who are returning to the series, the enhanced story promises new surprises, ensuring a fresh and immersive experience. With its blend of gripping storytelling, strategic combat, and a more refined gameplay system, Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a must-play for both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise.
Street Fighter 6
After the mixed reception of Street Fighter 5, Capcom has delivered a definitive reset with Street Fighter 6, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite in the fighting game community. This latest installment has been hailed as a perfect blend of accessibility for newcomers and deep mechanics for seasoned players. The refined combo system allows beginners not only to perform advanced moves with ease but also to grasp the strategic elements behind them, making it easier to understand when and why to use specific techniques.
But perhaps the most exciting new feature is the World Tour mode, where players can create their own custom fighter, blending moves learned from iconic Street Fighter masters like Ken and Chun-Li. It’s a fresh take on character progression, adding a personal touch to the experience. Alongside classic characters like Blanka and Dhalsim, the game introduces a slew of inventive new fighters, each with their own unique moves and personalities. With its rich mix of old and new, Street Fighter 6 stands out as the most polished and exciting entry in the franchise in years, appealing to both veteran players and newcomers alike.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
After more than a decade, the beloved Space Marine franchise has finally returned with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, and it’s everything fans could have hoped for—and more. Building on the original’s brutal, action-packed combat, this sequel takes the intensity and visceral action to new heights, making every battle feel even more fluid and satisfying.
The game excels in capturing the scale and depth of the Warhammer universe, showcasing meticulous world-building and delivering an overwhelming sense of scale. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Warhammer tabletop universe or a newcomer to the franchise, the combat is crunchy, fast-paced, and thrilling, offering something for both hardcore enthusiasts and casual players. With its refined mechanics and relentless action, Space Marine 2 proves to be a standout title that captures the heart of Warhammer while offering a fresh and exciting experience.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon on PS5 brings the beloved Sega series into a new era with stunning 4K resolution and smooth 60fps gameplay, offering a breathtaking upgrade. This entry is a bold departure from its predecessors, introducing the charismatic Ichiban Kasuga as a fresh protagonist and a completely reworked, turn-based combat system. But despite these changes, it never loses the quirky charm that has defined the Yakuza franchise, blending humor, drama, and action seamlessly.
The game boasts a rich main story and an abundance of side content that will keep you engrossed in its vibrant world. From heartwarming character moments to hilarious mini-games, Like a Dragon makes exploring every corner of its detailed environments a truly rewarding experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Yakuza, this entry offers a perfect mix of the old and the new, ensuring an unforgettable journey. Just remember, while the PS4 version offers a free upgrade, save data doesn’t transfer to the PS5 version.
