It's been over three decades since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the evolution of games and technology since then has been remarkable. Yet, the impact of the PS1 on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. From the beloved Crash Bandicoot to the adventurous Spyro, the PlayStation introduced us to some of the most iconic characters and franchises in video game history. Here, we explore the 25 best PS1 games, highlighting some of the standout PlayStation exclusives that have left a lasting legacy.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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Best PlayStation Games of All TimeBest PS2 Games of All TimeBest PS3 Games of All TimeBest PS4 Games of All TimeBest PS5 Games25. PaRappa the Rapper
**Developer:** NanaOn-Sha | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** December 6, 1996 | **Review:** IGN's PaRappa the Rapper reviewPaRappa the Rapper paved the way for rhythm games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero. This unique game featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends captivated players with its catchy tunes and quirky charm. Standing out from other "extreme" or "hardcore" PS1 titles, PaRappa's distinctive style made it an instant classic, earning a spot among the top 10 dogs in video games.
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is a blend of action, puzzle, and platforming with a bizarre, Soylent Green-inspired story. Its memorable character design and deep lore have inspired sequels like Munch’s Oddysee and Stranger’s Wrath. The game's unique mechanics, such as telepathic possession and Mudokon teamwork, make it a standout PS1 title.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
The Crash Bandicoot trilogy is a cornerstone of PlayStation history, and Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is a testament to Naughty Dog's ability to craft fun and challenging games. While it may not be as difficult as its predecessor, Warped offers a diverse range of platforming and vehicle challenges, using time travel to create a cohesive and engaging experience. The 2019 Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy remaster brings this classic back to life.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the PS1's Spider-Man set the standard for superhero games. It was the first to truly capture Spider-Man's unique traversal methods, including swinging between buildings and climbing walls. The game is packed with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, with descriptions voiced by Stan Lee himself.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 transformed the franchise by emphasizing story and character, offering a charming 3D action-adventure that improved upon its predecessor. This game showcased the series' potential beyond its traditional roots.
Ape Escape
Ape Escape was instrumental in popularizing the DualShock controller's analog sticks. Players chased mischievous apes using innovative gadgets controlled by the right stick, a novel mechanic at the time. The game's influence extended beyond the PS1 era, with real-life animal control specialists drawing inspiration from it.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing is often considered the closest competitor to Mario Kart. With original tracks, inventive weapons drawn from Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting system, this kart racer remains a fan favorite. Its modern-day remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, further cemented its legacy.
Syphon Filter
Drawing inspiration from Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action in a unique way. With a variety of weapons and flexible gameplay across 20 levels, this espionage adventure spawned several sequels and left a lasting impact.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain is a gothic masterpiece and a significant evolution of the series. Shifting between the living and spectral realms, it offered innovative puzzle-solving and storytelling directed by Amy Hennig. Despite a rushed ending, it remains a standout in the franchise.
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 standard for turn-based strategy games on consoles. Its intricate plot and super-deformed characters created a compelling experience, despite the lack of a true sequel on the PS1.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Medal of Honor: Underground is a standout first-person shooter on the PS1. With memorable characters, diverse levels, and a unique behind-enemy-lines atmosphere, it brought WWII action to life in a way that resonated with players.
Final Fantasy 9
Final Fantasy 9 returned the series to its fantasy roots, featuring knights, mages, and princesses. Its memorable characters, including Zidane and Vivi, made it a beloved entry that paid homage to earlier games while setting the stage for future installments.
See our guide to the Final Fantasy games in order.
Silent Hill
Silent Hill broke new ground in psychological horror, diverging from traditional zombie survival games. Its haunting atmosphere and focus on evasion rather than confrontation left a lasting impact, with its audio still echoing in players' minds.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage built on the success of the original game, offering a balance of challenge and fun. With seasonal hub areas and a richly realized world, this entry in the Insomniac trilogy remains a standout, available on modern consoles through the Spyro Reignited Trilogy.
Driver
Driver was a pioneering open-world driving game that focused on mission-based gameplay rather than racing. Its detailed collision modeling and Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, earning it a place in the PS1 hall of fame.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back is often regarded as the best in the trilogy. Its challenging yet achievable platforming levels cemented its place in gaming history, showcasing Naughty Dog's ability to create engaging and rewarding gameplay.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is an underrated gem in the PS1 library. Its complex systems, political intrigue, and challenging gameplay make it a standout action RPG. Despite its obscurity, it remains one of the best games the console has to offer.
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 of movement and diverse character roster attracted a broad audience. The game's influence is still felt today, with the release of Tekken 8 in 2024.
Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 remains a classic horror game, even after its 2018 remake. Its intricate puzzles, diverse enemies, and dual perspectives create an unforgettable experience in the bizarro police station setting.
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 the iconic Lara Croft. Its haunting atmosphere, intricate level design, and awe-inspiring environments set a new standard for adventure games.
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 one of the highest-rated games of all time but also a cultural phenomenon. Its arcade-style skateboarding, iconic soundtrack, and addictive skate park editor made it a standout sequel.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded on the original's success, offering nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. As the best-selling PlayStation game, it set a new standard for racing sims and remains a beloved classic.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night perfected 2D platforming with its beautiful pixel art and incredible soundtrack. Its influence is still felt today, as developers continue to draw inspiration from its gameplay and design.
Final Fantasy 7
Final Fantasy 7 brought Japanese RPGs to the Western world, captivating players with its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character designs. Its impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated, spawning numerous spin-offs and a stellar remake.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid revolutionized stealth-action gameplay and storytelling in video games. With its unique blend of gameplay, memorable characters, and fourth-wall-breaking moments, it remains one of the best entries in the series and a landmark title on the PS1.
Honorable Mentions
Selecting the best PS1 games was no easy task, given the diverse tastes of fans. Here are some honorable mentions that also deserve recognition:
EinhanderDino CrisisBrian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99Need For Speed: High StakesThe Legend of DragoonThese are our picks for the 25 best PS1 games. We understand that everyone's favorites may differ, so we encourage you to share your top picks and any classics we might have missed in the comments below.
### The 25 Best PS1 Games of All TimeThe 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
Top 25 Best PlayStation Games
The original PlayStation, released in North America on September 9, 1995, has sold over 102 million units. Here's an interactive playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played?See All
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