In just five years, PlayStation 5 has built an impressive and genre-defining library of games. Discover how Game8 ranked our top picks, the reasoning behind each choice, and why every PS5 owner needs these titles in their collection.
Best PS5 Games of All Time
It’s hard to believe that nearly five years have passed since the PlayStation 5 launched on December 11, 2020. The console still feels fresh, largely due to the incredible lineup of games it has delivered in such a short span. Over time, PS5 has cultivated a diverse range of titles, including RPGs, platformers, fighting games, shooters, and more.
From PlayStation exclusives like Spider-Man 2 to exciting new IPs such as Black Myth: Wukong and Korea’s Stellar Blade, the console demonstrates how effectively Sony fosters, celebrates, and creates unforgettable gaming experiences that stand the test of time. It is clear that PS5 has established itself as one of Sony’s most successful systems, with no shortage of must-play games.
While the future will undoubtedly bring even more incredible titles, the first five years alone have provided plenty of strong contenders for the best PS5 games ever made. At Game8, we’ve compiled a list of what we consider the cream of the crop since the console’s launch—games every PlayStation 5 owner should own.
1. Elden Ring
When Elden Ring first released its teaser, some skeptics claimed it would simply be Breath of the Wild with a Dark Souls skin. Fortunately, those naysayers were proven wrong. Not only did Elden Ring win countless awards, including 2022’s Game of the Year at The Game Awards, but it also redefined the open-world RPG genre as a whole. It changed the game and inspired an entire wave of Soulslike titles, cementing its influence in the industry. Even today, countless players are still exploring its vast world, discovering hidden secrets, and streaming endless runs.
The game’s lore, co-written by modern fantasy legend George R.R. Martin, combines his rich storytelling with the dark mystery and world-building that Hidetaka Miyazaki perfected in the Souls series. The result is a truly immersive, challenging, and rewarding experience that sets the standard for single-player RPGs. Without Elden Ring, we might not have seen other giant, ambitious titles like Lies of P, Black Myth: Wukong, or Stellar Blade. Its influence on PS5 and gaming as a whole cannot be overstated.
For newcomers, Elden Ring is an excellent starting point for the Dark Souls series and Soulslikes in general, offering accessibility on PS5 without sacrificing challenge. And with the critically acclaimed Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, which many consider a mini-sequel due to its sheer amount of content, the game only gets bigger, better, and more rewarding.
For these reasons, we at Game8 believe that Elden Ring is without a doubt the best PS5 game of all time. If it’s not already in your library, it’s an absolute must-buy—out of all the games on this list, this is the one you need to purchase immediately.
