It’s been over three decades since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact of the PS1 on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. From the iconic jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot to the witty Spyro, the PS1 introduced some of the most memorable video game characters and franchises. We've curated a list of the top 25 PS1 games, showcasing the best of the best, including exclusive titles that defined the era. Here are the 25 best PS1 games of all time.

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 review

Before the likes of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution, there was PaRappa the Rapper. This quirky game, featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends, charmed players with its catchy songs and unique style. PaRappa stood out on the PS1 for its originality and fun, earning its place as one of the top 10 dogs in video games.

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 unique blend of action, puzzle, and platforming, set against a bizarre outer-space backdrop reminiscent of Soylent Green. Known for its wild character designs and deep lore, the game introduced innovative mechanics like telepathic possession and teamwork with fellow Mudokons, leading to beloved sequels and spinoffs.

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

The Crash Bandicoot trilogy was pivotal to the PlayStation's legacy, with Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped being the most expansive. It offers a mix of challenging platforming and vehicle-based levels, utilizing time-hopping themes to deliver varied and engaging gameplay. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy brought back the magic of Warped with updated visuals.

22. Spider-Man

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

Developed by Neversoft, the team behind Tony Hawk, the PS1's Spider-Man game set a standard for superhero titles. It captured Spider-Man's unique movement, swinging through cityscapes and climbing walls, while offering a treasure trove of Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, narrated by the legendary Stan Lee.

21. Mega Man Legends 2

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

Mega Man Legends 2 elevated the series with its engaging story and charming characters, offering a unique 3-D action/adventure experience that improved upon its predecessor.

20. 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 cleverly introduced players to the DualShock controller's analog sticks through a humorous premise of capturing mischievous apes. Its innovative use of the right stick for controlling gadgets was ahead of its time, making it a memorable title that even influenced real-life animal control strategies.

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 challenged Mario Kart's dominance with its innovative drifting/boost system and a fun set of tracks and weapons drawn from the Crash universe. It remains a beloved entry in the kart racing genre.

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 with a variety of weaponry, allowing for creative gameplay across its espionage-themed levels. Its use of tasers was a notable feature, predating the phrase "don’t tase me bro" by nearly a decade.

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 is a gothic masterpiece that shifted the series into a 3D world, offering a deep narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics. Despite its rushed ending, it remains a standout title with a rich story crafted by Amy Hennig.

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 set a high bar for turn-based strategy games with its intricate plot and engaging gameplay. Its super-deformed characters and complex narrative made it a standout title, even without the need for flashy 3D graphics.

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 FPS on the PS1, bringing WWII action into the third dimension with memorable characters and levels. Its innovative features, like tricking Nazis into posing for photos before shooting them, added a unique twist to the genre.

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 to the series' fantasy roots, featuring beloved characters like Zidane and Vivi. It paid homage to the earlier entries while setting the stage for future installments, making it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit Final Fantasy games on the PS1.

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 broke new ground in psychological horror, offering a haunting atmosphere and narrative that challenged players' sanity. Its innovative use of sound and fog created an unforgettable experience, paving the way for future horror titles.

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's success, offering a balanced mix of challenge and fun. Its thematic hub areas and memorable mini-worlds, along with a rich cast of characters, made it a standout in the Spyro series.

11. 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 focused on mission-based gameplay and arcade-style action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own Hollywood-style car chases, making it a memorable addition to the PS1 library.

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 remains a fan favorite for its challenging yet rewarding platforming levels. Naughty Dog's sequel struck a perfect balance between the original's gameplay and the expansive elements introduced in Warped.

9. Vagrant Story

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

Vagrant Story is an underrated gem that combines intricate systems with a dense narrative. Its action RPG mechanics, customizable weapons, and challenging puzzles make it a standout title on the PS1, despite its often overlooked status.

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, with its introduction of a third axis adding depth to the gameplay. Its eclectic characters and cinematic flair made it an iconic PS1 title, introducing many to the art of capoeira through Eddy Gordo.

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

Resident Evil 2 remains a classic horror game, set in a bizarre police station filled with puzzles and monsters. Its dual-perspective gameplay and relentless tyrant pursuit made it a landmark title in the survival horror genre.

6. 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 and her solo adventures. Its intricate level design and awe-inspiring environments, combined with engaging gameplay, 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 one of the best sports games but one of the highest-rated games of all time. Its arcade-style action, iconic soundtrack, and addictive skate park editor 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 a wealth of content across two CDs. Its detailed racing simulation and broad scope made it the definitive racing game 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 near-perfect gaming experience. Its refined mechanics and unforgettable soundtrack continue to influence modern games.

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 brought Japanese RPGs to a global audience with its dark, sci-fi storyline and iconic character design. It remains a timeless classic that has spawned 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 revolutionized stealth/action gameplay and storytelling in video games. Its unique blend of gameplay, memorable characters, and innovative narrative techniques make it a standout title that continues to influence the industry.

Honorable Mentions

Choosing the absolute best PlayStation games was challenging, and not everyone's favorites could make the list. Here are some other excellent titles that deserve recognition:

EinhanderDino CrisisBrian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99Need For Speed: High StakesThe Legend of Dragoon

And those are our picks for the best games on the original PlayStation. Let us know which ones you've played and which ones you think should be added to the list.

### 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 All1Metal 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