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The best PS5 games for every kind of gamer

Discover the best PS5 games out now that combine breathtaking visuals and immersive gameplay for hours of entertainment.

Published Feb 16, 2024
9 min. reading time
stray, the last of us part II, death stranding, tekken 8 and cyberpunk 2077 on green background

The PlayStation 5 is a few years into its run now, and there are a lot of great games there — so many that it’s hard to know which ones are for you. 

From heart-pounding action adventures to immersive open-world epics, and hilariously frustrating co-op games, we’ve rounded up 20 of our personal favorite must-have PS5 games. 

With at least one for every kind of gamer out there, whether it’s your first try, or if you’re looking to break into a new genre, we’re sure you’ll find your new favorite. 

Read more: Check out our review of the Steam Deck

The top PS5 games

custom playable character in baldur's gate 3
Baldurs Gate 3
$59.99 at gog.com
horizon zero daw forbidden west game cover
Horizon Zero Dawn: Forbidden West
$49.99 at Target
red dead redemption 2 game cover
Red Dead Redemption 2
$19.99 at Best Buy
moving out 2 game cover
Moving Out 2
$30.80 at Walmart
We tested it
custom playable character in baldur's gate 3
Photo: gog.com

Specifications

  • Genre: RPG

  • Playtime: 75-150 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

The Steam Awards 2023 ‘Game of the Year’ winner, “Baldurs Gate 3” is a clear choice for the top of our favorite games for the PS5.

Based on “Dungeons & Dragons”, and set in the world of Faerûn, your fully customizable protagonist wakes up on an ilithid (mind-flayer) ship, where you find yourself infected with a parasitic tadpole. Together with friends you meet on the ship and during your journey, you’ll fight to rid yourselves of the parasite and save the world from impending doom. 

The choices you make along the way can drastically change the story’s outcome, from interacting with a seemingly innocuous NPC to persuading an evil ruler to put down their sword — meaning every playthrough is completely different. 

This is the perfect game for both people experienced in RPGs and beginners. With the online mode, you can play with friends and enjoy your epic journey together.

Specifications

  • Genre: RPG

  • Playtime: 28.5 hours

  • Online mode: No

A sequel to ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’, this is an absolute must-have for every fan of action RPGs. 

The game follows the story of Aloy, a young hunter of the Nora Tribe (and clone of an ‘Old World’ scientist), who lives a thousand years after modern human civilization has fallen, and the world is taken over by living machines. She leads a team of companions across the frontier region known as the Forbidden West to find the origin of a plague that kills all it infects. 

It’s an enjoyable (albeit shorter) game that contains a variety of enemies, and you can deploy your style of gameplay, whether you prefer a stealth approach or going all guns blazing. The world itself is also stunning and it’s a great game to buy if you love expansive open worlds.

We tested it
red dead redemption 2 game cover
Photo: Best Buy

Red Dead Redemption 2

You save $40 (66.68%)
$19.99$59.99

Specifications

  • Genre: Action-adventure

  • Playtime: 50 hours

  • Online mode: Yes (no longer being updated)

Our personal favorite game of all time, “Red Dead Redemption 2” is an absolutely unmissable game for every gamer. 

Set in the late 19th century, the story follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van Der Linde gang — who is currently on the run following a failed (and fatal for many members) bank heist. As you progress through the story, you’ll see Arthur’s journey where he tries g to grapple with the person he has become on and attempts to make up for his past misdeeds. 

It’s a thought-provoking game that makes you question your own morality, and the world is second to none in terms of open-world gameplay.

We tested it
moving out 2 game cover
Photo: Target

Specifications

  • Genre: Co-op simulator

  • Playtime: 5-16 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

If you’re looking for a fun co-op game to play with friends and family, we can’t recommend “Moving Out 2” enough. 

In this game, you’ll play a group of movers and your one job is to remove items from your client's homes — That sounds easy right?

The thing is, these tasks are timed, and you’ll face problems like narrow doorways, inconveniently placed pools and troublesome ghosts. 

It’s a game of teamwork and coordination, which brings out the competitive nature of those we love. Laughs, frustration, and (potentially tears) will almost definitely follow a game of this, and we can’t recommend it enough.

Specifications

  • Genre: Horror survival

  • Playtime: 15-30 hours

  • Online mode: No

This remake of the iconic 2005 horror survival game is a must-have for any horror fans looking to sink their teeth into something new. 

You’ll play as special agent Leon S. Kennedy, who embarks on a mission to infiltrate a religious cult in rural Spain who have kidnapped the US president’s daughter. Along the way, you’ll have to fight and survive against various enemies infected by a mind-controlling parasite and reunite with an old friend. 

Featuring an ‘over-the-shoulder’ third-person view, you’ll be sucked into Leon’s world, and with hordes of terrifying enemies hunting you, we’re sure you’ll have a hair-raising time.

god of war ragnarok
Photo: Target

Specifications

  • Genre: Action-adventure

  • Playtime: 25-30 hours

  • Online mode: No

For fans of mythology, we can’t think of a better game to get your hands on than God of War: Ragnarök

In this sequel to God of War, you’ll follow protagonist Kratos and his son Atreus as they face ramifications for their actions in the last game, in the form of an upcoming Ragnarök (a great battle in Norse mythology). They also set out to end the tyrannical reign of Odin, the King of Asgard and to uncover the truth of their origins. 

With themes of father and son relationships, forgiveness and redemption, this is a stunning game to take a chance with — we don’t think you’ll regret it.

Specifications

  • Genre: First-person shooter

  • Playtime: 12 hours (single-player)

  • Online mode: Yes

In this tactical team-based shooter game, you’ll be part of an elite anti-terrorist squad — enjoy game modes from being an attacker, a defender, rescuing a hostage, defusing a bomb and completing numerous objectives. 

Whether you prefer an all-out or stealthy combat mode, it’s a great game to play with friends. This is one that’s constantly being updated, with each new season bringing new content to enjoy, including new operators weapons and maps. 

With matches lasting about 20 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick gaming fix.

Specifications

  • Genre: Action-adventure

  • Playtime: 15-18 hours

  • Online mode: No

In this sequel to “Spiderman” and “Spiderman: Miles Morales” from Insomniac Games, you’ll play both Peter Parker and Miles Morales to protect New York City from various enemies — both old and new.

Their bond as heroes will be tested, as well as their relationships with those they love as they battle symbiote-charged Venom. 

Zip and swing around the remarkably accurate model of NYC, save civilians from criminals and enjoy new abilities and high-tech gear. This is a thrilling game for superhero fans that you won’t be able to stop playing.

We tested it
dead by daylight game cover
Photo: Amazon

Dead by Daylight

You save $1.59 (7.95%)
$18.40$19.99

Specifications

  • Genre: Multiplayer horror survival

  • Playtime: 5-20 minute matches

  • Online mode: Yes

Looking for a spooky game to play with friends? If so, “Dead by Daylight” might just be perfect. 

Each match consists of four survivors (either your friends or random players online) and one killer. The survivors aim to repair enough generators to power the exit gates and escape from the killer, while the killer hunts them down using their various powers.  Chasing, and jump scares will ensue. 

With a variety of original and licensed characters (both survivor and killer) from “Stranger Things”, “Resident Evil”, “Alan Wake”, to “Chucky”, every game is different and it’s a sure-fire winner in our eyes.

We tested it
death stranding directors cut
Photo: Amazon

Specifications

  • Genre: Adventure

  • Playtime: 37 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

For those who prefer a narratively stunning gaming experience, we recommend “Death Stranding: Director’s Cut” — a remastered version of the 2019 masterpiece. 

In this unique game, you’ll follow protagonist Sam Porter Bridges (played by The Walking Dead’s Norman Reedus) as he journeys across post-apocalyptic USA, delivering supplies to remote colonies to reconnect the country and eliminate foreign entities called Beached Things.

The game has a star-studded cast, including Mads Mikkelsen, Léa Seydoux, Margaret Qualley and even Guillermo del Toro in a supporting role. 

If you want a game like nothing you’ve ever played, try this out.

Specifications

  • Genre:  Action-adventure

  • Playtime: 20-30 hours

  • Online mode: No

Following the success of Naughty Dog’s 2013 smash hit “The Last of Us”, it was only a matter of time before a sequel was released. 

Part II follows Ellie, whoes relationship with Joel is strained after learning the truth about what happened in the first game. Soon, Ellie finds herself on a mission to avenge Joel, while trying to survive against both human and zombie enemies. 

The game is widely critically acclaimed and one of the best-selling video games of all time — and it’s clear why. 

For fans of jump-scares, we promise you’ll love this.

Specifications

  • Genre: Fighting

  • Playtime: 4-13 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

With a refreshing mix of classic favorites and new fighters, “TEKKEN 8” is a great addition to the iconic franchise. 

Continuing the legacy of the ‘King of Iron Fist Tournament’, this game features cool visuals, a new set of dynamic combat mechanics and a compelling storyline.

Fight against friends using your favorite characters, or challenge people across the world in online matches.

elden ring game cover
Photo: Amazon

Specifications

  • Genre: Action RPG

  • Playtime: 60-130 hours 

  • Online mode: Yes

Experienced gamers won’t be disappointed with 2022’s game-changing RPG, “Elden Ring”. 

In the open-world epic, players will fight their way through dungeons, fight powerful bosses, solve puzzles to reunite the Great Runes and become an Elden Lord in the Lands Between. 

Your character is totally customizable, meaning you can essentially take yourself on this heroic adventure — so why not dive into this epic tale today?

gran turismo 7 game cover
Photo: Target

Specifications

  • Genre: Racing

  • Playtime: 25 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

Who doesn’t love a racing game? 

In the latest installment of the “Gran Turismo” series, you can get behind the wheel of over 400 cars — from classic to super from the get-go, and unlock tons more as you work your way through the solo campaign. 

Go head-to-head with friends in the GT Sport Mode, and with raytracing and support for 4K and HDR at 60fps (frame rate per second), your races will look better than ever. 

To top it off, this game is compatible with PlayStation VR, enhancing your gaming experience even further.

Specifications

  • Genre: Puzzle

  • Playtime: 14 hours

  • Online mode: Co-op

If you’re looking for a hilariously genius game to play with your partner or bestie, then look no further than “It Takes Two”. 

The story follows married couple May and Cody, who are in the bitter divorce process. Their daughter makes a wish to her handmade dolls (which replicate her parents) that they’ll stay together — and it’s not long before May and Cody are magically turned into the dolls. 

They must learn to work together through a series of tasks and rediscover their own passions. The game seamlessly weaves artistic and gaming styles together to create a completely unique experience and it’s one we think you shouldn’t miss out on.

Specifications

  • Genre: RPG 

  • Playtime: 25-100 hours

  • Online mode: No

Despite its rocky launch (and extensive subsequent updates), we feel confident saying that “Cyberpunk 2077” is a great choice for anyone who enjoys first-person shooter games with a rich, engrossing story. 

The game follows V (who is fully customizable), a mercenary in the fictional Night City who’s on a mission to become an urban legend. Lines between humanity and technology are completely blurred in this society, and V is soon on a mission to solve a mystery that can save their own life. 

With a large, expansive open world and a wide range of supercars, this is the perfect option for both experienced and new gamers.

We tested it
hogwarts legacy game cover
Photo: Amazon

Specifications

  • Genre: Action RPG

  • Playtime: 26-68 hours

  • Online mode: No

Potterheads gather! 

Play as a mysterious new fifth-year student at Hogwarts with a connection to a long-forgotten form of ancient magic. Thrust yourself into life as a student — attend class, learn spells, learn to fly and in true Hogwarts fashion, get up to plenty of mischief. 

With a mesmerizing open world, character customization and an enthralling story where you need to quell a goblin rebellion, this is an absolute winner for lovers of the Harry Potter magical universe.

Specifications

  • Genre: Adventure

  • Playtime: 12 hours

  • Online mode: No

If you’re looking for a game where your choices matter, you can’t get much better than “Detroit Become Human”. 

In this game, you’ll control three androids — Kara, who escapes her owner to protect a young girl, Markus who after being discarded, devotes his life to freeing androids from the rule of humans and Connor, whose job it is to hunt down deviant androids. 

You’ll have to make hard decisions where your moral stances come into question — so why not have multiple playthroughs and see how many endings you can achieve?

We tested it
stray video game cover
Photo: Walmart

Stray

You save $18.00 (45.01%)
$21.99$39.99

Specifications

  • Genre: Sci-fi adventure

  • Playtime: 5-7 hours

  • Online mode: No

This is one for cat lovers.

In this 2022 release, players play as a cat in a futuristic world, completely devoid of humans. You’ll befriend a small robot as you navigate through stunning towns, encounter robots inhabiting the towns, solve puzzles, and unravel the mystery of humanity’s disappearance. 

Despite its relatively short playtime, we think this a game that will stick with you as you explore the bond between humanity and animals.

We tested it
overcooked all you can eat edition
Photo: Amazon

Specifications

  • Genre: Co-op simulator

  • Playtime: 7-12 hours

  • Online mode: Yes

In this game, you and your friends will run a kitchen. Sounds simple enough… right? 

With the kitchens laid out in bizarre fashions, demanding customers and various recipes, you and your friends will have to think quickly, coordinate, and most importantly, communicate to avoid any culinary disasters as you race against the clock. 

In Overcooked! 2”, your relationships will be tested (but with a lot of laughs along the way!). 

What are the best PlayStation 5 games?

We’ve got some of the best games for PS5 in this roundup, and we think there’s one for everyone. 

For those wanting a fun, action-packed adventure, we recommend "Baldur's Gate 3", "Detroit Become Human" or "Red Dead Redemption 2"

Want some hair-raising scares? "Resident Evil 4", "Dead by Daylight" and "The Last of Us Part II" are three of our ultimate favorites. 

If you love playing with friends and family, we think "It Takes Two", "Overcooked 2" and "Moving Out 2" are unmissable. 

Happy gaming! 


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Prices updated on 02/16/2024. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.

Phoebe Davenport Professional Headshot
Written by
Phoebe Davenport

A book aficionado, you will always be able to rely on Phoebe Davenport for the best book recommendations. On the weekend, you’ll probably find Phoebe at a bottomless brunch in London, at a museum, or chilling at home with her two cats.