It’s been over 30 years since the original PlayStation hit shelves, and its influence on gaming and pop culture still echoes today. The PS1 era marked a turning point in interactive entertainment — pushing boundaries in storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and visual design. From iconic mascots to genre-defining masterpieces, the PlayStation One laid the foundation for many modern franchises.

Whether you were drawn into immersive RPGs, adrenaline-fueled platformers, or groundbreaking stealth-action titles, there was something on the PS1 for every type of gamer. We’ve curated what we believe are the very best games from that legendary console — not just great titles, but ones that helped shape the industry and remain beloved by fans to this day.

Below is our definitive list of the 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time, ranked based on impact, innovation, and lasting appeal.

🏆 The 25 Best PS1 Games Ever

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25. PaRappa the Rapper

Before rhythm games like Guitar Hero and Dance Dance Revolution, PaRappa the Rapper pioneered the genre with its charming visuals and catchy soundtrack. Featuring a flat, rapping dog navigating quirky scenarios, it stood out among the more aggressive, “extreme” titles of the time. Its unique art style and engaging gameplay made it an instant classic — so much so that IGN named PaRappa one of the top dogs in video game history.

24. Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee

Image credit: Oddworld Inhabitants
Developer: Oddworld Inhabitants | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release Date: September 18, 1997

A bizarre blend of action, puzzle, and platforming wrapped in a surreal sci-fi narrative, Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee offered deep lore and unforgettable characters. Players guided Abe through a dystopian world, rescuing fellow Mudokons using inventive mechanics like telepathic possession and strategic crowd control. A cult classic that spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs, including Munch’s Oddysee and Stranger’s Wrath.

23. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped

The final entry in the original trilogy refined everything that made the first two games great. With time-travel elements and a variety of level types — including vehicle-based challenges — Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped delivered a rich, diverse experience. Its remastered version in the N. Sane Trilogy reintroduced the game to a new generation with stunning visuals.

22. Spider-Man

Developed by the creators of Tony Hawk, this Spider-Man title set the standard for superhero games. It captured the essence of web-slinging and acrobatic combat, offering players a thrilling traversal system across New York City. Packed with Marvel Easter eggs and unlockable costumes, it was both fun and faithful to the comics.

21. Mega Man Legends 2

While the Mega Man franchise was known for its fast-paced action, Legends 2 shifted toward deeper storytelling and exploration. This sequel improved upon its predecessor with tighter controls, expanded gameplay mechanics, and a more mature tone — proving that Mega Man could thrive beyond side-scrolling adventures.

20. Ape Escape

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release Date: June 18, 1999

A groundbreaking title that showcased the DualShock controller's analog stick functionality, Ape Escape had players capturing mischievous monkeys using creative gadgets. Its intuitive use of motion controls (for the time) and humorous premise made it a must-play, while also helping drive adoption of the DualShock.

19. Crash Team Racing

Long before Mario Kart, Crash Team Racing emerged as a serious contender in the kart racing space. With tight controls, a robust drifting system, and a roster of Crash characters, CTR became a fan favorite. Its 2019 remake, Nitro-Fueled, brought the game back into the spotlight with modern enhancements.

18. Syphon Filter

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release Date: January 31, 1999

Inspired by Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth, action, and espionage into a compelling single-player campaign. With a wide array of weapons and flexible approaches to combat, it offered depth rarely seen on the PS1. Its legacy continued with multiple sequels and eventually evolved into the Socom series.

17. Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain

This dark, atmospheric sequel redefined gothic storytelling in video games. With a complex narrative penned by Amy Hennig, Soul Reaver introduced time-travel mechanics between the physical and spectral realms. Despite a rushed ending, it remains one of the most influential action-adventure titles of its era.

16. Final Fantasy Tactics

Developer: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release Date: January 28, 1998 (NA)

A masterpiece of tactical strategy, Final Fantasy Tactics blended deep character progression with a morally complex story. Though it never received a direct sequel, its influence can be seen in countless modern strategy RPGs. Its charm lay in its balance between cute aesthetics and brutal difficulty.

15. Medal of Honor: Underground

Image credit: EA
Developer: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release Date: October 24, 2000

One of the earliest console FPS experiences, Medal of Honor: Underground stood out with its WWII setting and cinematic presentation. Featuring memorable missions and a strong female protagonist, it elevated the genre during a time when shooters were still finding their footing on consoles.

14. Final Fantasy 9

Image credit: Square Enix
Developer: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts | Release Date: July 7, 2000

A return to the series' fantasy roots, Final Fantasy 9 celebrated everything that made early entries special — knights, mages, crystals, and heartfelt characters. Zidane, Vivi, and Steiner became fan favorites, making this a fitting end to the pre-digital era of Final Fantasy.

13. Silent Hill

Image credit: Konami
Developer: Team Silent | Publisher: Konami | Release Date: February 23, 1999

Breaking away from typical zombie survival horror, *