Best Games On PlayStation Plus Premium & Extra

On June 13, 2022, Sony launched its new PlayStation Plus in North America. Split into three tiers, this model combines the previous version of PS Plus with PS Now; depending on which level someone subscribes to, they will gain access to certain services and games.

• PlayStation Plus Essential ($9.99/month): This tier is the equivalent of the old PS Plus. A subscription includes online access, monthly free games, and discounts.
• PlayStation Plus Extra ($14.99/month): Along with the Essential tier benefits, Extra provides access to hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games.
• PlayStation Plus Premium ($17.99/month): Along with the Essential and Extra tier benefits, Premium includes a library of classic games (PS3, PS2, PSP, and PS1), trials, and cloud streaming in certain regions.

PS Plus Premium has over 700 games covering more than two decades of PlayStation history. Such a huge collection can be overwhelming, and the PS Plus app does not make it very easy to browse through the library; as such, it can be useful to know this tier’s highlights before investing in a subscription. Each month, Sony adds a handful of new games. While most of these are PS5 and PS4 releases, they are occasionally accompanied by a few classic titles.

What are the best games on PS Plus Extra? What are the standout PS Plus Premium classic games?

Each entry states whether the game is also accessible with a PS Plus Extra subscription. Also, if a game is on Amazon, a link to its listing page has been provided in case somebody prefers to own a physical copy.

Sable (December 2023 Essential)

Metascore: 75

Another month, another batch of free PS Plus Essential games. The December 2023 lineup features three titles that are relatively similar in terms of quality, all the while being wildly different from each other and catering to separate audiences. While none of them are massive additions, they all have something to offer and could hit the spot with plenty of subscribers.

Lego 2K Drive is probably the biggest December 2023 freebie, at least for racing fans. The May 2023 release is set in a gorgeous brick-based open-world that is expansive and littered with fun content. While kart racers are relatively common, the subgenre has very few open-world projects, and Lego 2K Drive executes the concept well. Beyond just the tight driving and fun setting, the game features an impressive vehicle customization tool that also requires quite a bit of grinding.

Powerwash Simulator might not sound all that appealing on the surface, but its gameplay loop can be relaxing. The campaign puts players in charge of a cleaning business that generally involves taking on jobs that require drenching a house or car with water. Simple but oddly enjoyable. As a business sim, the game is quite straightforward and has a decent sense of progression.

Finally, there is Sable, a game that has been available since 2021. While “old news” by this point, the indie open-world project is still an easy recommendation, and it is arguably the highlight of PS Plus’ December 2023 free games. Set in a picturesque desert world, players are granted the freedom to explore the map as they see fit, meeting NPCs and learning their stories along the way. Lacking combat and favoring a methodical pace, Sable is a refreshing experience compared to many of the other open-world projects found on Sony’s service. It is also quite short, at least compared to other entries in the genre.

PS Plus’ December 2023 games can be downloaded until January 1, 2024. After that point, people with active subscriptions can continue to play them, provided they were “purchased” during their free spell.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Metascore: 88

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is among the most high-profile PS5 games available on PS Plus Extra. As a console exclusive, this reveal seemed destined to transpire sooner or later, although almost two years from the game’s debut had to pass for this moment to arrive. Rift Apart might very well still be the most beautiful PS5 title on the market, a testament to Insomniac’s mastery of technology and talent for creating vibrant and stunning worlds that would not look out of place in a Pixar movie.

Rift Apart backs up its good looks with fantastic gameplay and an enjoyable story that allows its lovable characters to shine. Although Ratchet and his robotic companion take center stage, they are accompanied by a new playable Lombax in the form of Rivet, who also comes with her own partner. In combat, the characters largely control the same; however, the game does a great job of establishing Rivet’s own identity through her personality.

Ultimately, Ratchet & Clank lives and dies on the strength of its gameplay, and Rift Apart is right up there with the franchise’s best efforts. Ratchet and Rivet have access to a wide assortment of fun weapons, all of which serve a purpose within the campaign.

Teardown

Metascore: 78

After roughly 18 months on PC, Teardown is now available on consoles, and it debuted directly on PS Plus Extra and Premium. Focusing on gratifying destruction, this game is at its best when it drops players into a sandbox and tells them to cut loose with a wide variety of vehicles and weapons. While the appeal is simple and straightforward, Teardown does have a fair amount of variety thanks to its range of maps and tools, along with mod support that will hopefully flourish on consoles.

If someone wants a more curated experience, they can jump into a surprisingly lengthy campaign, an addition the developer could have gotten away with skipping, but its inclusion is nevertheless appreciated. The story is silly but enjoyable, with most missions playing out like heists rather than the chaotic action of the more liberating sandbox mode. Look, not every game needs to be complex; sometimes, nothing hits the spot like wanton destruction, and Teardown caters to this activity better than most titles.

Sea Of Stars

Metascore: 88

Although day-one PS Plus games are not commonplace, they have been becoming more frequent. August 2023 contained two of these releases: Moving Out 2 and Sea of Stars. Both titles garnered positive critical receptions and are, overall, fantastic additions to the streaming service, even if they are not the most mainstream projects on paper. Moving Out 2 is a co-op party game with a quirky sense of humor, a charming visual style, and an admirable ability to turn a frustrating real-life experience into a fun and only periodically frustrating gaming event. It builds nicely on the original game’s ideas, to the point that newcomers should jump into the sequel rather than starting with Moving Out.

As good as Moving Out 2 is, Sea of Stars is the star of the show. By the same studio responsible for The Messenger, Sabotage’s 2023 project is a turn-based RPG that takes obvious inspiration from genre classics like Chrono Trigger. Utilizing pixel graphics, Sea of Stars is more than pleasant on the eyes, and the game’s beautiful visuals demonstrate why so many indie studios opt for a retro art style. Combat-wise, Sabotage took plenty of lessons from classic and modern JRPGs, and Sea of Stars combines them to create a system that is familiar but also different enough to remain engaging. The story, while not breaking new ground, is generally well-written and fueled by likable characters, along with some impressive world-building.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim

Metascore: 85

Quite a few Vanillaware games are on PS Plus, and they are all worth playing. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is unlike anything else available on the streaming service, even if it does take ideas from a few different genres. Basically, this anime-inspired mecha title largely plays out like a visual novel, albeit with an integrated combat system to provide more interactivity than typical for this type of project. Narratively, the game revolves around teenagers who pilot robots to take on huge beasts, which is a description that makes the story sound more generic than it actually is. 13 Sentinels does an impressive job of exploring its characters, shining a light on each of its 13 pilots. The campaign is long, well-written, and ambitious.

The turn-based strategy combat works well without being too demanding or complicated. Even though it prioritizes its story, the game does not treat the battle system as an afterthought either, and a satisfying progression system helps keep things moving along well. 13 Sentinels could be considered an acquired taste since it combines two niche genres in visual novels and strategy games, but the project should be tried by all PS Plus subscribers since it provides such a singular experience.

Kena: Bridge Of Spirits

Metascore: 81

AA games have become fairly uncommon in recent years, but when they do show up, they tend to be quite special. Kena: Bridge of Spirits is gorgeous considering it was developed by a relatively small team, and pretty graphics are far from the only thing this game gets right. The story follows a spirit guide who must free souls in order to stop the spread of corruption, which is slowly corroding a peaceful and beautiful village. As far as premises are concerned, Kena is nothing too unusual; however, the game creates a world overflowing with personality, both in terms of environmental detail and NPCs.

Following a classic action-adventure formula, Kena incorporates exploration, combat, platforming, and puzzles. While not bringing anything substantially new to any of these elements, Ember Labs generally does an admirable job in each area. The gameplay does suffer from the occasional difficulty spike when it comes to the story’s bosses, but the fights themselves are largely enjoyable.

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus

Metascore: 87

PS Plus Extra has all four modern Wolfenstein games, and the best one is arguably The New Colossus​​​​​​. Building nicely on The New Order‘s strong foundations, the sequel is bigger and generally better. Featuring an all-time great villain and an appreciation for scale and spectacle, The New Colossus is an action-packed blockbuster that looks, controls, and sounds great.

PS Plus does not have an overabundance of brilliant first-person shooters, but MachineGames’ mainline Wolfenstein trilogy is now available in its entirety to Extra and Premium subscribers. When taken as a whole, these games are arguably the genre’s best representatives on the service. William “B.J.” Blazkowicz’s journey is one filled with visceral action, gore, stealth kills, satisfying weapons, and glorious set pieces that put many Hollywood productions to shame. For the most part, these games tell entertaining stories that usually have just the right amount of cheese without coming across as try-hard.

Rogue Legacy 2

Metascore: 90

Roguelikes have grown exponentially in popularity over the last few years, and Rogue Legacy played a role in amplifying the genre’s exposure. The sequel builds nicely on its predecessor’s ideas, offering a more fine-tuned experience while not deviating too far from the beaten path.

Rogue Legacy 2 follows a knight as they try to power through an array of dungeons in pursuit of treasure. Naturally, they will eventually die, forcing players to start from scratch. The twist is that, rather than playing with the same character, players jump to the next generation, a process that is repeated whenever death comes knocking. Rogue Legacy 2 also slips into roguelite territory by incorporating permeant upgrades and abilities, so a new run is not a completely fresh start.

Tchia

Metascore: 77

Launching directly on PS Plus Exra, Tchia is a stunning open-world game, and that goes beyond just its vibrant presentation. Set on a tropical island, the title follows the eponymous girl as she goes on an important adventure to free her home from the control of a dictator. The story is straightforward but memorable, mainly thanks to its roster of characters. Tchia herself is especially endearing.

Tchia‘s main mechanic is liberating in the best possible way. The protagonist has the ability to jump into both living and non-living entities, allowing her to temporarily take control of her targets. While this concept has been done before, Tchia expertly uses the freedom afforded by this idea to heighten its explorative element, encouraging players to experience the world from a wide range of perspectives.

Uncharted: Legacy Of Thieves Collection

Metascore: 87

Prior to March 2023, PS Plus Extra subscribers could already play the PS4’s Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End and its spin-off, The Lost Legacy; however, the Legacy of Thieves Collection presents PS5 owners with the ultimate versions of Naughty Dog’s beloved action-adventure games. Now, to be clear, this package does not remaster the titles in many significant ways, at least when it comes to the graphics.

The main reason PS5 owners should play these iterations is due to their performance options, as they do allow the games to run at a higher frame rate. Ultimately, if someone has already played through the entirety of Uncharted, they might not find much of a reason to return for the Legacy of Thieves Collection.

Humanity

Metascore: 86

Debuting directly on PS Plus Extra, Humanity is an endearingly bizarre puzzle game that follows a dog as it tries to navigate hordes of humans around various scenarios and obstacles. Literally barking orders, Shiba Inu must earmark a path for the crowds to follow since if they are left to their own devices, they will blindly make a beeline to their doom. At any given point, Humanity can flood the screen with hundreds of humans, paving the way to a satisfying flow of bodies once a level has been solved.

Although decently popular, puzzle games are still relatively niche, and many projects struggle to find the right balance between accessibility and challenge. Humanity succeeds in walking this tightrope by gradually expanding the scope of its brainteasers in a way that facilitates the introduction of new components and ideas without overwhelming players. Even though it takes inspiration from older games, Humanity is nevertheless a singular entity brimming with originality and creativity.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Metascore: 85

Insomniac Games’ repertoire speaks for itself, and the developer’s current focus is on Marvel’s Wall-Crawler. 2018’s Marvel’s Spider-Man is a great open-world game with satisfying movement, acrobatic free-flowing combat, and a respectable narrative; unfortunately, on May 16, the game will leave PS Plus. However, at the moment, Miles Morales is not set to follow suit. Although it feels more like an expansion than a proper follow-up, the spin-off retains all of its predecessor’s strengths, including the best web-swinging mechanics in gaming.

Miles Morales establishes its eponymous protagonist as a viable alternative to Peter Parker, expanding on the character’s backstory and personality for players who might not be familiar with Miles’ comic version. Short as it might be compared to the main entry, the game tells an engaging story that focuses on the hero’s dual life, something he is only just starting to come to grips with since he is still new to this whole Spider-Man thing.

Inscryption

Metascore: 87

Roguelikes have taken over the indie scene over the last decade, and PS Plus has quite a few of the genre’s heavy hitters. Dead Cells, Enter the Gungeon, and Slay the Spire are all fantastic projects that can keep someone entertained for months on end, and they are all fairly popular in their own right. While perhaps not as well known as those titles, Inscryption deserves to be mentioned alongside them, although it is unlike most other roguelikes on the market.

For one, the game focuses quite a bit on its story, one that comes with a few shocking and well-executed twists that will not be spoiled here. Gameplay-wise, Inscryption plays out like a tabletop card game with a deck-building mechanic. Although not especially unique, this system is polished, fun, and works well; more importantly, it is just part of a much larger whole.

Horizon Forbidden West

Metascore: 88

Almost exactly a year following its debut, Horizon Forbidden West came to PS Plus Extra. While there is way too little data to try and pinpoint a trend, this addition could be an indication of how Sony plans to handle first-party projects moving forward.

Horizon Forbidden West tells the next chapter in Aloy’s story, and Guerrilla Games largely opted to fine-tune the original game’s mechanics. With a bigger open-world, refined combat, and a better-paced campaign, the sequel presents a convincing argument that it surpasses its predecessor. Combined, HZD and HFW can easily keep players entertained for more than 100 hours.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

Metascore: 85

While not without a few low points, TMNT has a long and storied history in gaming. The property is predominantly known for its ’90s beat ’em ups, with games like Turtles in Time holding up well today. Shredder’s Revenge pays homage to these classics, all the while delivering an approachable experience capable of attracting people who did not grow up in arcades. Boasting a vibrant and gorgeous pixel art style, the 2022 release matches cartoonish visuals with flashy combat that is easy to grasp but surprisingly difficult to master.

With seven playable characters who are not palette swaps, Shredder’s Revenge is quite replayable, which makes up for its fairly short campaign. Although solo players will not feel like they are missing out, the TMNT game supports and shines in co-op, allowing up to 6 people to work together to take on the Foot Clan.

The Legend Of Dragoon

Metascore: 74

A beloved PS1 cult classic that JRPG fans have spent years hoping would receive a remake or a sequel, The Legend of Dragoon is, at least, now accessible on modern consoles. Ambitious for its era, Japan Studio’s project had great visuals, which are still charming in their own way. Although not too far removed from the genre’s other late ’90s releases, the game’s turn-based combat system has a few unique features that set it apart from the crowd. For instance, players need to time button prompts during attack animations to earn a boost.

The Legend of Dragoon is one of the best games on PS Plus Premium. Hopefully, the service will continue to add these sorts of titles in the future.

Devil May Cry 5

Metascore: 89

Devil May Cry was a staple of the PS2 era, and those games’ HD versions and Devil May Cry 4 have been on PS Plus Premium since the service’s launch. In January 2023, the franchise’s most recent entry was finally added to PS Plus Extra, including the PS5’s Special Edition. Personal preference will dictate someone’s preferred entry in the series, but DMC 5 is undoubtedly a contender for that crown.

In a risky move, Capcom opted to include three playable characters who all have wildly different playstyles. Nero and Dante are both melee-focused fighters, although they are still nothing alike. The latter might have the most complete combat system in the hack and slash genre, which is saying something. The third character, V, only stars in a couple of chapters, but his range-based abilities provide a nice change of pace. The Special Edition even makes Vergil playable.

Kingdom Hearts Collection

Metascore (Kingdom Hearts 3): 83

Except for some browser games, Square Enix’s entire franchise is available to Extra and Premium subscribers. Overall, this selection contains eight games and three cinematic experiences; if someone were to accompany Sora, Goofy, and Donald for a full adventure, they would have to dedicate roughly 200 hours.

Kingdom Hearts is infamous for splitting its story among various platforms, making it unnecessarily complicated for fans to get the full picture. In recent years, Square Enix has taken steps to rectify this issue by releasing compilations that brought lesser-known entries onto consoles like the PS4. With Kingdom Hearts on PS Plus Extra, it has never been simpler to jump into this universe.

Metascore: 81

Skyrim has been around for more than a decade, and yet the game is still a big deal. From November 15, PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers can take on the mantle of the Dragonborn and start their journey in Skyrim. The Special Edition is generally considered the definitive iteration of Bethesda’s masterpiece, and the 2016 release was included in 2021’s Anniversary Edition that came out on the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

Skyrim‘s longevity lies in its ability to immerse players in a fully realized world that makes exploration fun and satisfying. The combat might be a bit dated compared to more recent RPGs, but the game makes up for it through customization and build options. Even if most people have already experienced everything the campaign has to offer, Skyrim debuting on PS Plus makes the service’s library seem more complete.

Destiny 2: The Witch Queen

Metascore: 87

Destiny 2 has been free-to-play for a while, so anyone with the required hardware can jump into Bungie’s game and get a taste of the Guardian life. Although a nice option, the free version only includes a limited range of content, to the point that it is closer to a sample or demo than a full showcase of everything the game has to offer. Basically, if someone wants to really experience Destiny 2, they will need to pick up an expansion. The first-person shooter has produced seven expansions so far, most of which are at least decent; however, The Witch Queen is a leading contender for the top spot.

Featuring a fairly lengthy campaign, this expansion is basically its own game, and it can be played without completing the rest of the DLC or even much of the base content. The story is primarily set in Savathûn’s Throne World, which is one of the title’s better settings. While accessible to an extent, players who are familiar with Destiny 2‘s overall lore will get a fuller overall adventure, although newcomers can look forward to great gunplay.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade

Metascore: 89

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is a huge get for PS Plus Extra subscribers, particularly those who love action JRPGs. The 1997 original helped put the PS1 on the map, and while the remake takes quite a few creative liberties with both the story and gameplay, it still respectfully pays homage to FF7‘s legacy. Focusing on Midgar, the modern game chronicles Cloud Strife’s early days as part of AVALANCHE, showcasing the resistance group’s attempts to undermine Shinra’s authority.

Over the last decade, Square Enix has firmly shifted towards real-time action over turn-based combat, and FF7 Remake serves as the strongest representative of this gameplay style. As a sequel, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, has been officially announced, this is the perfect time for newcomers to jump into the remake train, and PS Plus is the ideal platform to do so.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

Metascore: 87

There are roughly a billion Dragon Ball games, and some of them are pretty great. However, for the longest time, the franchise seemed incapable of putting out a proper competitive fighter. Dragon Ball FighterZ changed that forever, with Arc crafting a project that could show up in eSports events alongside Street Fighter 5 and Super Smash Bros. Melee.

Dragon Ball is synonymous with flashy battles where a wayward ki blast could potentially blow up a planet, and FighterZ captures this element beautifully. Visually, the game not only echoes the source material but, at times, even looks better. Unlike some of Arc’s other fantastic games, FighterZ‘s combat system is relatively easy to grasp, although it is still hard to master. The single-player campaign is split into three non-canon arcs, and, while enjoyable from a fan-service point of view, overstays its welcome. However, Dragon Ball FighterZ is all about its online scene.

Ghost Of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

Metascore: 87

Insomniac’s Ghost of Tsushima ended the PS4’s life as Sony’s main console on a high, and the Director’s Cut is just a better version of that already great game. Taking place during the Mongolian invasion of Japan, This samurai epic tells a tale of revenge as Jin Sakai seeks to protect Tsushima Island.

Ghost of Tsushima might be the most beautiful game on PS Plus Premium, and it is not just a looker. The hack and slash combat is a great deal of fun, managing to be deep and also cinematic. Narratively, the title does not do anything too out of the ordinary, but the unique setting helps set GOT apart from the many other open-world games on the market.

Yakuza: Like A Dragon

Metascore: 86

Change is never easy. Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio took a big risk with Yakuza: Like a Dragon by not only introducing a new protagonist in place of long-time stalwart Kiryu but also swapping the franchise’s beat ’em up combat for a turn-based system. The story even introduced a new central city in Yokohama’s Isezaki Ijincho, taking the action away from Yakuza‘s classic Kamurocho map. All in all, Like a Dragon sought to launch a new era in its license’s storied history, an endeavor that could have easily backfired if not handled well.

Despite all these differences, Like a Dragon is still undoubtedly a Yakuza game. Sure, Ichiban is nothing like Kiryu, but he is also a fantastically written character who is impossible to dislike. Similar to Kamurocho, Isezaki Ijincho is a small but dense city packed to the brim with personality, side quests, and minigames. The turn-based combat balances accessibility and challenge reasonably well, all the while serving as a fun tribute to Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy.

Anyone yearning for Yakuza‘s classic gameplay should try Judgment and its sequel, Lost Judgment, as they are both on PS Plus Extra. The spin-off series focuses on a private investigator and introduces a couple of unique mechanics, but at their core, the games capture the Yakuza spirit.

Middle-Earth: Shadow Of Mordor

Metascore: 84

Shadow of War‘s controversial launch cast a cloud over Warner Bros’ Middle-earth series, which is a shame since both games are fun action-adventure projects by most metrics. Set prior to the events of The Lord of the Rings, Shadow of Mordor chronicles Talion’s quest to take out Sauron’s forces, which generally involves slaughtering as many orcs as possible. He is not alone either, as the ranger serves as a host for a wraith called Celebrimbor. Together, they are a powerful and versatile duo.

Shadow of Mordor‘s story is a fine addition to the franchise’s overall universe, and it has quite a few Easter eggs for die-hard fans of Tolkien’s books or the movies. Gameplay-wise, the 2014 game takes clear inspiration from the Arkham series, and it arguably offers one of the best implementations of this combat style. More famously, the Middle-earth games utilize the Nemesis system, which allows orcs to develop and grow depending on their interactions with Talion. This mechanic makes the campaign seem fluid and personalized, and it works well.

For all its negative publicity, Shadow of War is also a solid game.

Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

Metascore: 91

While the Heroes and Builders spin-offs that are on PS Plus Extra are enjoyable, Dragon Quest 11 S is on a whole other level as it is one of the best JRPGs on the PS4. Set in a vibrant world brimming with style and personality, DQ11 delivers familiar but addictive turn-based combat, lovable characters, and a simple but effective storyline.

Rather than reinventing a wheel that has never been broken, DQ11 opts to modernize mechanics and concepts that have been successful for decades. Ultimately, this game just proves that Dragon Quest is timeless. The version on PS Plus Extra expands on the vanilla release in a few neat ways too, including a 16-bit mode.

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege

Metascore: 73

Ever since launching in 2015, Rainbow Six Siege has been one of the leading first-person shooter games on the market. Ubisoft’s multiplayer-driven title had a somewhat rough start, but its strong tactical gameplay eventually saw the project garner a dedicated playerbase that has hardly dwindled over the last 5 years.

As it has been out for so long, Rainbow Six Siege is filled with veterans by this point. Consequently, new players might feel like they are drowning in the deep end during their first few playthroughs. However, Ubisoft’s FPS is great enough to justify sitting through these early growing pains.

Returnal

Metascore: 86

Housemarque is well represented by PS Plus Premium, with games like Resogun and Alienation being included in the service. As great as those releases are, the studio’s crowning achievement is Returnal, a sci-fi PS5 roguelike that delves into horror territory. The third-person shooter centers around Selene, a pilot who becomes stuck on a planet and within a time loop.

As tends to be the case with this genre, death means going back to square one, although Returnal dives its story into halves that serve as respawn checkpoints. One of the best PS5 games on PS Plus Premium and Extra, Returnal justifies a subscription on its own.

It Takes Two

Metascore: 88

PS Plus Extra has an impressive selection of co-op games, and an argument could be made that It Takes Two is the best of the bunch. Hazelight specializes in cooperative experiences, with both A Way Out and It Takes Two revolving around two-player gameplay. While the former is superb, it is unfortunately not on Sony’s service; luckily, the same cannot be said about its spiritual successor. The 2021 release cannot be played solo, a decision driven by not only its mechanics but also its story. Cody and May’s marriage seems set to come to an end, and they break the news of their divorce to their daughter. Unsurprisingly devastated, the girl uses her dolls to pretend her parents are still together. Naturally, this leads to Cody and May becoming trapped in their child’s toys.

It Takes Two tells an emotional storyline about communication, love, and relationships. Both Cody and May are fully realized characters who share a relatable dynamic that morphs throughout the campaign. Although technically a platformer, Hazelight’s title shakes up its gameplay frequently, resulting in an unpredictable journey filled with charming twists. It Takes Two looks fantastic, plays well, and features a great narrative.

Undertale

Metascore: 92

The 2010s was the decade of indie games, so much so that it is near impossible to select the independent scene’s crowning achievement for that period. That said, Undertale is undoubtedly one of the top contenders. Inspired by the Mother series, Toby Fox’s RPG follows a child as they explore the Underground, a seemingly typical monster-filled setting for the genre. Obviously, players can decide to adhere to RPG tradition and massacre everything that moves, but they do not have to do that. Undertale does not force anyone to play a certain way, and players can follow a few different routes.

Blending meta-commentary with nuanced world-building and a strong narrative, Undertale is the full package. Anyone remotely interested in RPGs or just gaming in general should give this seminal project a try, and the game’s player-driven structure means multiple playthroughs are encouraged.

Outer Wilds

Metascore: 82

Outer Wilds is a gem with precious few peers, both in terms of content and quality. The sun is set to explode in 22 minutes and take out the solar system with it; fortunately, the protagonist is stuck in a time loop that resets whenever everything is wiped out. Furthermore, the player character happens to be an astronaut who can quickly travel to an array of planets in search of knowledge pertaining to the sun’s destructive future.

Outer Wilds is an open-world game that focuses on exploration and puzzles, the latter of which also take the form of the overall mystery that needs to be pieced together through careful research and discovery. Outside the central plot, the game comes with quite a bit of secondary content and smaller stories that are just waiting to be heard.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Metascore: 83

PS Plus Extra has a plethora of Assassin’s Creed games, permitting players to pick their favorite setting. The Ezio Collection tells arguably the franchise’s best story, but the trilogy’s gameplay is a bit dated at this point. Origins marked a turning point for Ubisoft’s series, reshaping the combat to be more action-oriented. Set it Ancient Egypt, Origins is a very good pick and one of the most popular open-world games of the 2010s.

Odyssey builds on Origins‘ ideas while introducing a few twists of its own. Set in Ancient Greece, the 2018 game might have the most gorgeous world in the franchise, and that includes Valhalla. The loot system can be overwhelming, but Odyssey does provide players with plenty of options. The combat is, for the most part, great, and the game is even challenging in places.

Alien: Isolation

Metascore: 79

Creative Assembly proved that a terrifying Alien game was not only possible but could be brilliant. Alien: Isolation feels like a proper sequel to the 1979 classic movie, delivering a campaign that captures the source material’s tension and atmosphere. As Ellen Ripley’s daughter, players find themselves on a space station that has been converted into a necromorph’s hunting grounds. Amanda is generally very vulnerable and not much of a match for the hulking alien, a dynamic that lends itself perfectly to a stealth-driven survival horror game.

Alien: Isolation‘s success comes down to the necromorph’s AI, which was outstanding in 2014. Even almost a decade later, the creature’s tracking and believability are still impressive. The campaign is also way longer than most horror games, lasting about 20 hours. While threatening to overstay its welcome at points, the game is overall fantastic and a must-play for any horror fans regardless of their familiarity with the Alien franchise.

Disco Elysium – The Final Cut

Metascore: 89

ZA/UM’s Disco Elysium shows that an RPG does not need traditional combat to be incredible. Telling a detective story that thoroughly explores its protagonist’s psyche, Disco Elysium is unlike anything else on PS Plus, and it should be tried by everyone despite being somewhat of an acquired taste.

Focusing on dialogue, the campaign is drenched in clever world-building and subtle characterization, and the game grants players agency in determining the story’s progression. Disco Elysium can be slow-moving in places since so much time is dedicated to reading text or listening to the dialogue; fortunately, the actual quality of the writing cannot be disputed.

Metascore: N/A

Twisted Metal is a glorious blast from the past. Sony’s vehicular combat series enjoyed a consistent run on the PS1, and while its output slowed down considerably after that point, the PS2’s Black and the PS3’s self-titled entry were fantastic successors by most metrics. Since 2012, Sony has basically ignored Twisted Metal; even then, hope continues to linger that a sequel or remake could be announced sooner rather than later.

At the moment, PS Plus Premium has the first two entries in the series. While the original title is by no means bad, Twisted Metal 2 improves on it in nearly every way, providing superior gameplay, locations, and even a better story. Now, newcomers who did not grow up with Sweet Tooth need to go in with realistic expectations since the game’s age is obvious, especially when it comes to the controls for the cars. Still, Twisted Metal 2 is still and will likely always be fun.

Rayman Legends

Metascore: 90

It has been almost a decade since the last non-mobile Rayman game, and Ubisoft has not shown any indication that a new title is in the works. Rayman Legends was one of the best platformers of the 2010s, and it has not aged a day since its debut. Building on the impeccable foundations of 2011’s Rayman Origins, Legends takes players on a fast-paced adventure that offers more than a hundred levels, along with supporting co-op.

Gameplay-wise, Rayman Legends barely sets a foot wrong, and the tight controls elevate the masterful level design. The game is also quite challenging, and the campaign does not wait too long to ramp up its difficulty.

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen

Metascore: 78

Dragon’s Dogma‘s stock has really risen over the last decade. Although not a flop at launch, Capcom’s game did fly slightly under the radar, but its reputation steadily blossomed as word of mouth spread of its engaging combat and unique companion system. The cult favorite eventually gained enough credit to warrant the development of a sequel, which is expected to drop in March 2024. As exciting as the upcoming release is, people who never played the first entry should use its PS Plus availability to right that wrong. While some aspects are naturally dated by this point, the overall package has aged fairly well, and the Dark Arisen version is 100% the best way to experience Capcom’s action RPG.

Set in a small but dense open-world, Dragon’s Dogma shines the brightest when its combat takes center stage. The campaign has a slow and frustrating opening few hours that can be off-putting to new players, but they should try to push through as things really pick up later down the line. The Dark Arisen expansion adds a new island that focuses squarely on delivering intense action, and it comes with a difficulty boost that sets it apart from the base content.

Dragon’s Dogma has a flexible class system that provides players with plenty of freedom in designing their characters. More importantly, the RPG uses a party system where players create an NPC who can then be summoned by other people. A clever idea that is executed well, Pawns are probably the game’s most well-known mechanic, and they are worth the hype.

Mortal Kombat 11

Metascore: 82

NetherRealm’s Mortal Kombat 11 serves as a vicious continuation of the good work done by Mortal Kombat 9 and 10. Unlike its immediate predecessor, MK11 comes with an enjoyable single-player campaign that delivers the type of over-the-top action and silliness that fans of the franchise have come to expect. It should do a decent job of introducing players to the game’s mechanics, although newcomers should definitely spend a few hours in MK11‘s tutorial mode. It is one of the best in the genre.

Mortal Kombat lives and dies on the strength of its multiplayer scene, and the 2019 entry is still active all these years after its debut. Supporting co-op and online play, the multiplayer includes plenty of customization options for those looking to add a touch of personality to their chosen fighter.

Celeste

Metascore: 91

Celeste is a highly regarded side-scrolling indie game with a steep learning curve and an absorbing narrative. As Madeline, players climb the Celeste mountain, taking on seemingly impossible challenges and dangerous foes in the process.

Celeste‘s campaign guides the character and players on an emotional journey of self-discovery. This voyage is not meant to be easy, and the game makes sure that it is not. The unforgettable story is accompanied by precise gameplay and a soundtrack that ranks among the most memorable of the late 2010s.

Death Stranding: Director’s Cut

Metascore: 85

If nothing else, Hideo Kojima can be relied upon to deliver something that is unlike anything else on the market. Death Stranding is an open-world game set in a post-apocalyptic United States, and the player’s goal is to deliver packages and build a communication system. This entails walking across inhospitable terrain while desperately trying to balance boxes to ensure they don’t smash on the floor.

Death Stranding is not for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. However, if the game clicks with someone, there is nothing else quite like it. Even with its unapologetically bizarre story and the occasional intense encounter, Death Stranding can be a meditative experience when putting one foot in front of the other is the only thing the player has to worry about.

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series

Metascore: 78

The PS1 and PS2 eras produced an expansive assortment of now-retired mascots who starred in charming adventures. While never challenging Mario’s throne or even Sonic’s status as a top contender, these IPs still found audiences and helped transform the late ’90s and early 2000s into a great period for platformers of both the 2D and 3D varieties.

Klonoa sits somewhere in the middle of those two dimensions, offering predominantly side-scrolling escapades while playing around with perspective to add depth. Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series comes packaged with remasters of the two PlayStation games, although Door to Phantomile‘s Wii remake was used instead of the original PS1 classic. Both titles are short and sweet, delivering family-friendly journeys that prioritize visual splendor above difficulty. That’s not to say they require no effort from players, but neither entry presents much of a challenge.

Players who grew up with this franchise can look forward to a healthy helping of nostalgia; meanwhile, newcomers get to experience two cult favorites that have been modernized just enough to make them more accessible to a modern audience. It also does not hurt that both Klonoa games have aged well, to the point that the original versions are still completely playable.

Pillars Of Eternity 2: Deadfire – Ultimate Edition

Metascore: 85

Containing more than 60 hours of gameplay, Pillars of Eternity 2 is a commitment, but the RPG is worth the investment. Obsidian has an impeccable track record for building detailed and fully realized worlds, and Deadfire might be the developer’s crowning achievement. A seafaring adventure, the story casts players as the Watcher, a being chosen to stop a recently revived god with a penchant for draining souls.

Pillars of Eternity 2‘s main quest tells a relatively typical tale of good versus evil, albeit with a few twists along the way. While this storyline serves its purpose, Deadfire‘s brilliance lies in its character interactions and minute-by-minute writing. Also, the game has an in-depth combat system that manages to remain engaging through the entire campaign, which is no easy feat.

Dead By Daylight

Metascore: 64

Dead by Daylight is a 4v1 horror game that has been a fixture of the online scene for many years. In the asymmetrical multiplayer title, players are cast as either four Survivors or one Killer, the former of which has to avoid the latter in order to win the match. Dead by Daylight has a massive roster of both Killers and Survivors, including famous faces from other games and horror movies.

By this point, the competitive title has a dedicated fan base on every platform, so PS5 and PS4 players should not struggle to match up with other people. Beginners might initially feel a bit lost until they come to grips with the characters’ abilities and the general strategies employed by most teams or Killers, but they should not take too long to get into the swing of things. More importantly, Dead by Daylight is just fun.

Dishonored Definitive Edition

Metascore: 80

Dishonored effectively put Arkane on mainstream gaming’s radar. Even if the developer’s subsequent projects improve on certain aspects, the 2012 release is nevertheless regarded as one of the developer’s crowning achievements; in fact, narratively, Dishonored is probably Arkane’s strongest project. Set in the impressive Dunwall city, the campaign follows Corvo as he is framed for the murder of the empress. Naturally, he sets out to clear his name and find the real culprit.

Packed with great characters, the story is captivating from the start, and it only improves with each new twist and turn. Gameplay-wise, Dishonored is very similar to Arkane’s other projects, including Deathloop. Emphasizing player freedom, the game allows situations to be tackled in more ways than one, allowing for a wide range of playstyles. There are even multiple endings that reflect the player’s gameplay-specific behavior throughout the campaign.

God Of War

Metascore: 94

There are a handful of games that anyone with a PS Plus Premium or Extra account should definitely play, and it’s arguable that 2018’s God of War should be at the top of that list. This “reboot” of the series sees Kratos living in a different part of the world, far from the Greecian roots players are used to seeing him in.

Kratos’ move to Midgard gave developers a chance to shine a spotlight on some different gods, tapping into the deep Scandinavian folklore surrounding the Norse Gods and their mythology. With RPG elements, an incredible story, breathtaking visuals, and some awesome combat mechanics, God of War is a must-play PS Plus game.

Life Is Strange Complete Season

Metascore: 85

Life is Strange takes place in Arcadia Bay, a quiet town with a tragic future ahead of it. Max learns of this upcoming disaster through a vision, prompting her to take steps to try and limit the damage. She can also rewind time, a power she makes good use of throughout the story’s five chapters.

Beautifully written and emotionally complex, Life is Strange immerses players in not only its world but also Max’s life. While gameplay largely revolves around dialogue choices and exploration, players have a fair amount of influence on the narrative’s progression, which makes it easy to get invested. Before the Storm is also on PS Plus Extra, and it is worth playing in order to get more insight into Chloe’s character.

Hotline Miami

Metascore: 87

The 2010s was a big decade for the independent scene, and Hotline Miami not only got in early but was also one of the most memorable games of that period. The title casts players as a nameless protagonist on a mission to eradicate the local mafia, a journey he embraces without much hesitation.

Split into multiple stages, Hotline Miami generally tasks players with killing everyone who happens to make an appearance. From a pure gameplay perspective, Hotline Miami is a relentless thrill ride with barely a dull moment, and clearing levels is satisfying since the game punishes mistakes severely. Thematically, the title provides a fascinating deconstruction of video games and action movies.

Fallout: New Vegas

Metascore: 82

While there is a trio of Fallout games available on PS Plus Premium, it feels right to feature New Vegas as the standout of the group. Although it might not feature the refined combat and gameplay experience of Fallout 4, New Vegas stands as one of the best story-driven RPGs ever made.

Obsidian Entertainment spent a lot of time developing the world of New Vegas and then filled it with a wide array of entertaining NPCs, giving players a playground of story-based quests to interact with. There are so many small details to be found in New Vegas and the subsequent DLC released for the game added many more.

This War Of Mine: Final Cut

Metascore: 82

War games are relatively common. Each year produces a couple of high-profile projects that either reimagine historical conflicts or bring to life fantasy ones. While some releases prioritize realism, nearly every game drops players in the heat of the action, be it through first-person gunplay or as an isometric tactician guiding armies of soldiers. This War of Mine presents a different angle than most of its peers by opting to exclusively focus on civilians caught in the middle of a battle.

In each playthrough, players are assigned four random characters from a decently sized pool, all of whom come with unique traits that need to be managed. The goal is to survive until the ceasefire, which is obviously easier said than done. The gameplay loop involves managing a base during the day and heading out to scavenge at night, two tasks that are extremely complex. The Final Cut iteration comes with all the DLC, which are all worthwhile additions to the base game.

Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir

Metascore: 87

If a game is developed by Vanillaware, then it is worth playing. A remake of a PS2 classic, Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir enhances an already near-perfect experience, smoothing the original release’s rough edges while also adding quite a few fresh ideas. The side-scrolling action RPG tells a surprisingly lengthy story featuring five playable heroes, all of whom are a joy to utilize and come with their own play styles.

Featuring stunning visuals, stylish and deep combat, robust progression, and memorable characters, Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir represents gaming at its peak powers, making it a must-play for anyone with a PS Plus subscription. Even those who played the PS2 version to death should try out the remake as it does more than enough to feel fresh.

Metascore: 87

The sequel to 2012’s XCOM: Enemy Unknown, XCOM 2 introduces an Earth that lost the war against the alien invaders. Now, players are part of a scattered resistance group that is fighting an uphill battle against an all-powerful regime.

XCOM 2 improves upon its predecessor in nearly every way, an accomplishment that definitely didn’t come easy. The turn-based tactical combat is punishing but fair, and on higher difficulties, players must carefully plan each move or they will soon find themselves overwhelmed. While newcomers should consider starting with XCOM: Enemy Within, which is also on PS Plus Premium, XCOM 2 is quite accessible as a sequel.

Sid Meier’s Civilization 6

Metascore: 87

There was a time when strategy games were destined to remain on PC, especially empire-building ones like Civilization; however, those days are now a thing of the past. In 2018 and 2019, Firaxis brought over its beloved turn-based strategy behemoth, Civilization 6, to consoles, and the transition was far more seamless than most people anticipated. While the game is still at its best on PC, the PS4 version is a more than satisfactory option.

For the uninitiated, Civilization allows players to pick a famous historical figure and then guide an empire through thousands of years. During that time, they will grow, flourish, and engage in mutually assured destruction with other kingdoms. As Civ 6 is a turn-based strategy game, players have to wait for the AI (or other people) to complete their turns before continuing their own, which just provides time to really think things through.

Detroit: Become Human

Metascore: 78

Quantic Dream’s interactive games are not for everyone, but they provide something different from the majority of PS Plus Premium’s other games. BEYOND: Two Souls is also on the subscription service, and while that title has plenty of great moments, it is quite inconsistent compared to Quantic Dream’s follow-up, Detroit: Become Human.

Set in an alternate reality where AI has become commonplace, Detroit: Become Human revolves around three androids who have very different roles in society. Throughout the engrossing campaign, players make choices that impact the story, determining who will survive or die. The sci-fi narrative is quite memorable, arguably Quantic Dream’s masterpiece up to this point, and the characters are interesting and likable.

The Last Of Us: Remastered

Metascore: 95

While the PlayStation 3 had a somewhat slow start to life, the console bowed out in style. Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us is a haunting action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun with infected creatures. The narrative follows the grizzled Joel and the immune Ellie as they travel across the United States in search of a group rumored to be able to craft a cure.

The journey is tough, brutal, and unforgettable. Both of the main characters undergo a great deal of development, particularly Joel, while The Last of Us raises questions of morality through its ambiguous storyline.

Bloodborne

Metascore: 92

FromSoftware has cornered the hard-hitting action RPG genre through its immaculate Dark Souls trilogy, and that looks set to continue with Elden Ring. Out of all the studio’s many great games, Bloodborne might just be FromSoftware’s magnum opus.

Boasting a Gothic aesthetic and reflex-based combat that demands aggression from players, Bloodborne delivers a kinetic experience that delights on a visual, auditory, and gameplay level. Naturally, Bloodborne is not an easy game, but it is one of the most rewarding PS4 exclusives. Consequently, it is easily among the best games on PS Plus.

Both versions of Demon’s Souls are also on PS Plus.

Overcooked! 2

Metascore: 81

PS Plus Premium has its share of options when it comes to co-op games, and Overcooked! 2 ranks among the very best. Building upon the extremely solid foundations of its predecessor, Overcooked! 2 once again tasks friends with efficiently running a kitchen as they desperately attempt to keep up with orders. Fun as the mechanics are, this game is also a sim, one that does a pretty impressive job of capturing the stressful nature of a high-pressure customer-oriented job.

Like the best co-op games out there, Overcooked! 2 is so good at what it does that there is always a slight chance that a play session will genuinely test a friendship. So, who has what it takes to work in this kitchen?

Doom

Metascore: 85

Following more than a decade of near-complete inactivity, Doom came roaring back onto the scene with a majestically violent entry that reminded the world of this franchise’s awesomeness. As the Doom Slayer, players rampage their way through arenas and hallways filled with demons that are just waiting to be sawed in half or blasted with a shotgun, and delivering judgment feels good time and time again.

All thrills and no filler, Doom does not have a quiet moment in it, serving as a proper throwback to classic shooters from the ’90s. There is no hiding behind cover here; diving headfirst into combat is the only way to survive. Doom is the gaming equivalent of an adrenaline shot.

Slay The Spire

Metascore: 88

PS Plus Extra and Premium have well over 500 games, so a lack of variety is not an issue. Slay the Spire shares similarities with quite a few other titles, but it combines everything in a way that sets it apart from any of its peers. The game is a roguelike deck-builder that asks players to work their way through a dungeon, with each floor containing a few enemy encounters leading to a boss fight. So far, so simple; however, battles reward players with new cards, ensuring there is a constant sense of progression.

The turn-based encounters utilize a random draw system that asks players to pick a card while rejecting the rest of their hand, creating a rhythm that constantly forces someone to take risks since they cannot horde useful options for the future. The battle mechanics are surprisingly deep, and their flexibility is taken a step further thanks to Slay the Spire‘s multiple playable characters. These classes come with their own nuances and help expand the game’s replayability.

Two Point Hospital: Jumbo Edition

Metascore (Base Version): 82

Overall, there are not all that many business sims on PS Plus Extra or Premium. Even though it has been around for a few decades, the genre is fairly niche, with most years producing only a handful of new releases. Although somewhat old by this point, Two Point Hospital is still among the best business sims on the market, and the game is a good pick for veterans of the genre and newcomers who have yet to take charge of a failing business.

Comedic in nature and boasting a colorful visual identity, Two Point Hospital does an admirable job of easing players into its loop, all the while showcasing the depth and complexity that will eventually define the experience. This is the type of game that can keep players busy for months on end, but it also works well as a short-term option when someone is struggling to decide how to spend their weekend.

Rise Of The Tomb Raider

Metascore: 88

Considering Lara Croft’s association with PlayStation, PS Plus is severely lacking in Tomb Raider, with none of the classic projects or the 2000s releases making the cut. Prior to May 2023, Lara was completely absent from Sony’s service, although that changed with the arrival of the Survivor trilogy. Rebooted in 2013 with the fantastic Tomb Raider, these games are somewhat gritty takes on the franchise’s traditional formula, featuring gameplay reminiscent of the Uncharted series. All three titles are good-to-great, and newcomers should play through the full story to get the most out of the experience.

Rise of the Tomb Raider is the most complete package out of the three. It has a solid story by the license’s standards, a strong and fairly open setting that provides plenty of room for exploration, pretty good gunplay, and engaging puzzles. Compared to 2013’s entry, the sequel has a better selection of tombs, even if they might not quite reach the standards set by the best PS1 projects. Rise of the Tomb Raider is also quite a looker, and the game has aged incredibly well considering it is nearly a decade old by this point.

Prey

Metascore: 79

While Bethesda is nowadays operating under Microsoft’s flag, a couple of games published by the company continue to be available on PS Plus Premium. Those familiar with Arkane’s Dishonored and Deathloop will feel right at home with Prey, although the 2017 first-person shooter does incorporate a hint of horror that is quite unusual for the studio.

Prey‘s gunplay is satisfying, but the game is at its best when it highlights its claustrophobic atmosphere and sense of mystery. This is a title that rewards exploration and immersion, and Prey provides players with just enough freedom that repeat playthroughs are destined to be quite distinct from each other.

Gravity Rush 2

Metascore: 82

Gravity Rush started life out on the PS Vita, before making its way to the PS4 in the form of a remaster. The latter is available on PS Plus Premium and worth a playthrough, but its sequel is the better of the two games.

Building upon the unique world and traversal mechanics of its predecessor, Gravity Rush 2 is a stylish adventure like no other. The comic-style visuals lend a timelessness to both entries in this series, while Kat is an instantaneously likable protagonist.

Nioh

Metascore: 88

Nioh takes a few ideas from Dark Souls‘ playbook, but the game’s samurai setting and fast-paced combat allow it to have a presence that is genuinely unique.

As William, players navigate open areas filled with secrets, enemies, and bosses, the latter of which are usually well-designed and very challenging. Along with a robust loot system, Nioh‘s combat allows players to swap between different stances, adding an element of strategy to encounters. Nioh is a long game that could easily take 50+ hours to complete, but its gameplay is more than strong enough to keep a player engaged as they work their way through the campaign.

Batman: Arkham Asylum

Metascore: 91

PS Plus Premium has Return to Arkham, a PS4 collection containing remasters of Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. Even though these re-releases garnered some criticism, they are still a decent way to experience two of the greatest action games of all time. PS Plus Extra members can also play Arkham Knight​​​​.

Arkham City is, in many ways, superior to Asylum. Along with improving the melee combat, the sequel expands its playground significantly while offering more side content for those willing to look for it. That said, Arkham Asylum‘s streamlined approach results in a better-paced main storyline. Furthermore, the game is the most immersive title in Rocksteady’s trilogy due to its more claustrophobic world design. That said, one cannot really go wrong with any of these masterpieces.

Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition

Metascore: 85

Hollow Knight has earned its glowing reputation. Team Cherry’s Metroidvania is rich in lore, visuals, style, and gameplay. As new players enter the strange dream-like realm that is Hallownest, they will stumble upon sights that could fill them with either wonder or fear. Throughout their journey, they will meet NPCs who need help or are willing to lend a hand. However, they will also face countless enemies and bosses who have their own stories to tell.

Hollow Knight is a masterpiece and one of the best PS Plus games. Even if its opening hours can be a bit overwhelming or confusing, the title opens up quite quickly.

God Of War 2 HD

Metascore (PS2 Version): 93

Unsurprisingly, the entire God of War franchise can be played through PS Plus Premium, although most of the games can only be streamed. Nevertheless, Sony’s subscription service is a great way for newcomers to Santa Monica’s series to experience Kratos’ full story. While 2018’s God of War is not a terrible entry point since it marks a new era in the franchise, the pre-PS4 releases are nearly all highly enjoyable action games, particularly the numbered entries.

God of War 2 marks the pinnacle of the license’s original run, arguably doing a better job of balancing epic action and storytelling nuance than either its predecessor or sequel. Expertly paced and boasting some of the best boss fights in gaming history, God of War 2 is nothing short of brilliant.

Dead Cells

Metascore: 87

The independent gaming scene is flooded with 2D Metroidvanias, some of which rank among the most memorable projects of the last decade. Even in that elite group, Dead Cells manages to stand out as something extra special. A roguelike that takes inspiration from FromSoftware’s Souls games, Motion Twin’s title delivers satisfying combat, unforgettable boss fights, and a gameplay loop that encourages a “one more run” mentality.

Although death sends players back to start, they can purchase permanent items to make subsequent runs a bit easier. Utilizing randomly-generated levels that ensure each playthrough comes with a unique flavor, Dead Cells is the type of game that can keep a PS Plus subscriber busy for months on end.

Until Dawn

Metascore: 79

Horror fans looking for something a little “different” will definitely want to check out Until Dawn. The release does a great job of blending together a gripping narrative with player choice, character interactions, and some seriously creepy environments. The end result is a spectacularly spooky “playable movie” that will have most players on the edge of their seats throughout.

Much like Telltale’s series of games, players will be forced to make tough choices during tense story moments. These decisions will have a direct influence on the story, as characters develop ideas about one another. Making decisions quickly, and correctly, is key to helping everyone survive a terrifying vacation to a remote mountain resort.

Control: Ultimate Edition

Metascore: 85

Remedy Entertainment’s portfolio is defined by games that seek to push the industry forward, be it on a technical or narrative level. While its central story might not be as strong as Alan Wake‘s, Control is the studio’s most complete release of the 2010s, mainly due to its combat system and world-building. Inspired by stories found on the SCP Foundation site, the game takes place in a government building that deals with unexplainable phenomena that can alter reality.

Jesse Faden goes to this agency in search of her brother but quickly finds herself dealing with the threat imposed by an invading force known as the Hiss. Armed with a transforming gun and a range of satisfying abilities, players will find themselves immersed in a world filled with intrigue, mystery, and the supernatural.

Resident Evil 4

Metascore: 82

Those looking for a little more action with their horror should look at Resident Evil 4. Considered one of the best Resident Evil games ever made by many fans, the fourth installment follows a battle-hardened Leon Kennedy on a quest to rescue the President’s daughter. A lot of the classic Resident Evil mechanics are here, including puzzles, third-person shooting combat, and an array of terrifying boss encounters.

With rumors floating around about the possibility of a Resident Evil 4 remake, players should revisit this classic. For those new to the Resident Evil franchise, this title is a great starting point.

Terraria

Metascore: 83

There’s no denying that Minecraft was one of the most influential titles ever created, with a lot of developers attempting their version of an “open-world procedurally generated survival crafting game.” There have been a lot of imitators over the years, many of which fell short of capturing the same magic as Minecraft. But a handful of developers have produced titles that not only stand up next to the juggernaut but put their unique spin on the formula it helped to create.

Terraria is arguably one of the greatest Indie games ever developed, taking the concepts of a procedurally generated world with crafting elements and ramping them up to eleven. The 2D epic features a wide array of items, weapons, enemies, bosses, and building materials. There are tons of NPCs to engage with, secrets to uncover, and a progression system that gets punishingly more difficult as time goes on.

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