The original PlayStation is a treasure trove of gaming history, but with so many titles, which ones are truly essential? We’ve curated the definitive list of the 7 best PS1 games ever released. These are the groundbreaking, genre-defining classics that are still just as incredible to play today as they were in the ’90s.
I’ll never forget the feeling of playing some of these for the first time. The cinematic scope of Metal Gear Solid felt like magic, and the world of Final Fantasy VII was so vast it felt real. These experiences shaped what I expect from games today, and this list is a guide to help you experience that same sense of wonder.
Our Top 7 Picks for the Best PS1 Games to Play in 2025
1. Metal Gear Solid
This isn’t just a game; it’s a cinematic masterpiece. MGS pioneered the stealth-action genre with its clever enemy AI, inventive gadgets, and a deep, complex story that felt like a Hollywood blockbuster. The fourth-wall-breaking moments and unforgettable boss battles make it a must-play experience that redefined video game narratives.
2. Final Fantasy VII
For millions, this was the game that showed them RPGs could be epic, emotional, and awe-inspiring. Final Fantasy VII delivered a heart-wrenching story, a revolutionary Materia system for character customization, and at the time, mind-blowing 3D graphics and cutscenes. It’s a cultural touchstone and an essential piece of gaming history.
3. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Widely considered one of the greatest games ever made, SOTN perfected 2D action-adventure. It combined the series’ classic combat with deep RPG elements and a massive, non-linear castle to explore. The fluid animation, incredible soundtrack, and rewarding gameplay loop created a new genre, the “Metroidvania,” making it timeless.
4. Resident Evil 2
The original Resident Evil created survival horror, but its sequel perfected it. With its innovative “Zapping System” that showed the story from two characters’ perspectives, terrifying enemy encounters, and a tense, foreboding atmosphere, RE2 is the pinnacle of classic survival horror. It’s a masterclass in fear and suspense.
5. Gran Turismo 2
Dubbed “The Real Driving Simulator,” Gran Turismo 2 was a paradise for car lovers. It featured an astonishing 650 meticulously recreated cars and a separate Simulation Mode disc for deep, realistic racing. The level of detail and passion for car culture was unprecedented and set a benchmark for all racing sims to come.
6. Crash Bandicoot: Warped
The third installment of the Crash saga is 3D platforming perfection. Warped is incredibly polished, with tight controls, brilliant level design, and a fun variety of gameplay, from riding a tiger cub to flying a biplane. It’s a vibrant, charming, and challenging adventure that represents the best of the genre on the PS1.
7. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Pure, addictive, arcade fun. THPS2 took everything great about the original and amplified it, adding the manual to allow for endless combos. With iconic levels, a legendary punk and hip-hop soundtrack, and deceptively deep gameplay, it’s one of the most acclaimed and replayable video games of all time.
Quick Tips / Do’s & Don’ts
- Do play with an original controller if possible. The feel of the D-pad and buttons is part of the classic experience.
- Don’t be deterred by the graphics. The core gameplay of these 7 titles is what makes them legendary.
- Do look into your display options. Modern TVs can make old games look stretched or blurry. Using an HDMI converter or playing on a CRT television can improve the visual experience. For reliable info on this, check out a trusted retro gaming resource like RetroRGB, which specializes in video standards for classic consoles.
- Don’t forget to use a memory card! There are no auto-saves here.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- These 7 games offer hundreds of hours of world-class gameplay.
- They represent the pinnacle of several different genres.
- Many are available digitally on modern PlayStation consoles.
- They provide a perfect snapshot of a revolutionary era in gaming.
Cons:
- Early 3D graphics can be jarring for modern players.
- Some controls and camera systems can feel clunky by today’s standards.
FAQs
Why isn’t [My Favorite Game] on this list?
This list focuses on 7 games that were critically acclaimed, commercially successful, and highly influential in their respective genres. The PS1 has hundreds of amazing games, but these are widely seen as the absolute essentials.
What’s a great “hidden gem” not on this list?
If you’ve played these 7, try Vagrant Story. It’s a complex and unique action RPG from the creators of Final Fantasy that many hardcore fans consider a masterpiece.
Can I still buy these games digitally?
Yes! Many of these titles, like Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2 (via its remake), and Metal Gear Solid, are available for purchase on the PlayStation Network for PS3, PS4, and PS5.
Conclusion
From cinematic stealth to epic RPGs and perfect arcade action, these 7 best PS1 games are a testament to the creativity and innovation of the 32-bit era. Playing them is not just a nostalgia trip; it’s a masterclass in game design that every fan should experience.
To discover more top-tier gaming lists and how-to guides, be sure to explore howtoresults.com.