Top 25 PS1 Games Ever Ranked

It's been over three decades since the debut of the original PlayStation, and the evolution of games and technology has been nothing short of spectacular. Yet, the impact of the PS1 on the gaming industry and pop culture remains indelible. From the iconic jorts-clad Crash Bandicoot to the witty Spyro the Dragon, the PlayStation introduced some of the most memorable characters and franchises in video game history. But which PS1 games truly stand out as the best of the best?

After careful consideration, we've curated a list of the 25 most exceptional PS1 games, including standout PlayStation exclusives. Here's our ranking of the top 25 PS1 games of all time.

The Best PS1 Games Ever

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25. PaRappa the Rapper

**Developer:** NanaOn-Sha | **Publisher:** Sony Computer Entertainment | **Release date:** December 6, 1996 | **Review:** IGN's PaRappa the Rapper review

PaRappa the Rapper blazed the trail for rhythm games long before the likes of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution. This quirky game featured a cartoon dog rapping his way through catchy songs, setting it apart from the "extreme" and "hardcore" games of the PS1 era. Its unique charm and memorable tunes earned PaRappa a spot among the top 10 video game dogs, proving its lasting appeal.

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 stands out as a bizarre and engaging action/puzzle/platformer with a narrative reminiscent of Soylent Green. Its quirky character designs and deep lore paved the way for unique sequels like Munch's Oddysee and Stranger's Wrath. The game's innovative communication and possession mechanics added a fresh twist to gameplay, making it a beloved classic.

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

While Crash Bandicoot 2 might rank higher for some, the entire Crash trilogy played a pivotal role in the PlayStation legacy. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped offered a blend of fun platforming and vehicle challenges, wrapped in a time-hopping narrative that kept players engaged. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy brought Warped's charm back to life, looking better than ever.

22. Spider-Man

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

Neversoft's Spider-Man game set the standard for superhero gaming, capturing the essence of Spider-Man's web-slinging and acrobatics. Filled with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes, it offered a rich experience. Even Stan Lee lent his voice to the character descriptions, adding a special touch to this beloved title.

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 transformed the series by emphasizing story and character, delivering a captivating 3D action/adventure experience. Building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, this sequel refined the gameplay and narrative, cementing its place as a standout title.

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 was instrumental in popularizing the DualShock controller's analog sticks. By tasking players with capturing mischievous apes using innovative gadgets, the game showcased the potential of this new technology. Its engaging mechanics and whimsical premise made it a standout title, even influencing real-world events like the 2016 escape of a chimpanzee in Japan.

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, offering a thrilling kart racing experience with innovative mechanics and a deep connection to the Crash Bandicoot universe. Its skill-based drifting and boosting system, along with its varied tracks and weapons, made it 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 to create a memorable espionage adventure. Its diverse weaponry and mission design allowed for varied approaches, and its taser feature was ahead of its time, adding a unique element to gameplay.

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 more immersive 3D experience. Its narrative depth, penned by Amy Hennig, and the innovative shifting between the living and spectral realms set it apart. Despite a rushed ending, it remains a seminal entry in the Legacy of Kain series.

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 redefined turn-based strategy gaming on consoles with its intricate plot and engaging gameplay. Its unique blend of cute yet serious characters and complex storytelling set a high standard, despite the lack of a direct sequel on the PS1.

15. Medal of Honor: Underground

Image credit: EADeveloper: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: October 24, 2000 | Review: IGN's Medal of Honor: Underground review

Medal of Honor: Underground brought WWII action to the PS1 with memorable characters and engaging levels. Its innovative mechanics, like tricking Nazis into posing for photos, added a playful twist to the serious tone of the game, making it a standout FPS title.

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 honored the series' fantasy roots with a compelling narrative and memorable characters. From the clever Zidane to the endearing Vivi, the game's cast and storytelling made it a fitting conclusion to the single-digit Final Fantasy entries, leaving a lasting legacy.

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 took survival horror in a new direction, focusing on psychological horror rather than zombies. Its unsettling atmosphere and narrative complexity made it a defining game in the genre, with its haunting audio still resonating with players today.

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 expanded on the original game, delivering a delightful balance of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and varied mini-worlds, along with a rich cast of characters, made it a standout in the Spyro trilogy, now playable on modern consoles thanks to the Spyro Reignited Trilogy.

11. Driver

Image credit: GT InteractiveDeveloper: Reflections Interactive | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: June 25, 1999 | Review: IGN's Driver review

Driver offered a unique blend of open-world mission design and arcade driving action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, earning it a place in the PS1 hall of fame.

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 is often considered the best in the trilogy, striking a perfect balance between platforming and exploration. Its challenging levels and rewarding gameplay have cemented its place in gaming history.

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 blends action RPG elements with a dense narrative and complex systems. Its innovative gameplay and deep storytelling make it one of the most exceptional experiences on the PS1.

8. Tekken 3

Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: March 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review

Tekken 3 is universally acclaimed as one of the best fighting games ever, appealing to both fans and newcomers. Its introduction of a third axis and engaging characters made it an iconic title, introducing many to the world of capoeira through Eddy Gordo.

All these years later, the series has now moved on to acclaimed Tekken 8, which was 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 horror classic, even after its 2018 remake. Its intricate puzzles, diverse enemies, and relentless pursuit by the Tyrant made it an unforgettable experience, playable from two different perspectives.

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 the world to Lara Croft and set a new standard for adventure games. Its intricate level design and engaging environments, combined with iconic weapons like the shotgun, made it a timeless classic.

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 the pinnacle of the series but also one of the highest-rated games of all time. Its addictive gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and innovative 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 an unprecedented scope with nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. Its detailed simulation and vast selection made it a standout racing game, even including a scratch 'n' sniff disc for added immersion.

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 refined the series' gameplay to perfection, sticking to 2D despite the trend toward 3D. Its beautiful pixel art and unforgettable soundtrack have aged gracefully, making it a near-perfect game that continues to inspire modern titles.

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 revolutionized JRPGs in the West with its dark sci-fi narrative and iconic character designs. Its massive success led to a universe of spin-offs and a stellar remake, solidifying its place as a timeless classic.

1. Metal Gear Solid

**Developer:** Konami | **Publisher:** Konami | **Release date:** September 3, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Metal Gear Solid review

Metal Gear Solid introduced a groundbreaking blend of stealth and action, paired with a bizarre yet captivating cast and narrative. Its innovative gameplay and fourth-wall-breaking moments have made it one of the most enduring games in the series.

Honorable Mentions

Choosing the best PlayStation games was a challenging task, and our varied tastes meant not all favorites could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that also deserve recognition:

Einhander
Dino Crisis
Brian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99
Need For Speed: High Stakes
The Legend of Dragoon

These are our picks for the top 25 PS1 games. We understand that everyone's rankings may differ, so feel free to share your own S-tier and forgotten games using the Tier List below. Did we miss any classics that should be on our list? Let us know in the comments.

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 102 million units since. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played? See All!

1Metal 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