Top 25 PS1 Games Ever Ranked

It's been over three decades since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the impact of this pioneering console on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. The PS1 introduced us to legendary characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the witty Spyro the Dragon, cementing its place in gaming history. In this list, we've curated the top 25 PS1 games that stand out as the best of the best, including some fantastic PlayStation exclusives.

The Best PS1 Games Ever

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Best PlayStation Games of All TimeBest PS2 Games of All TimeBest PS3 Games of All TimeBest PS4 Games of All TimeBest PS5 Games25. 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 revolutionized gaming with its unique rhythm-based gameplay before the likes of Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Starring a flat, cartoonish dog and his quirky animal friends, PaRappa won hearts with its catchy tunes and distinctive charm. This game stood out on the PS1 with its originality, paving the way for future rhythm games and earning its place as one of the top 10 dogs in video games. I gotta believe!

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 is a unique blend of action, puzzle, and platforming elements, wrapped in a bizarre sci-fi narrative reminiscent of Soylent Green. Its memorable character designs and deep lore have spawned sequels and spin-offs like Munch's Oddysee and Stranger's Wrath. Abe's ability to communicate with fellow Mudokons and possess enemies telepathically adds an intriguing layer to the gameplay. Don't think - drink!

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

The Crash Bandicoot trilogy is a cornerstone of the PlayStation legacy, and Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is a standout entry. While not as challenging as its predecessor, Warped offers a diverse range of platforming and vehicle-based levels, all tied together by its time-travel theme. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy brought Warped back to life, making it look as good as we remember.

22. Spider-Man

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

Developed by Neversoft, the same team behind the Tony Hawk series, PS1's Spider-Man set a new standard for superhero games. It perfectly captured Spider-Man's iconic web-slinging and wall-crawling abilities, along with a host of Easter eggs and unlockable costumes. Stan Lee's character descriptions added a special touch to this beloved game.

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 elevated the series with its engaging story and charming characters, making it one of the most memorable 3D action/adventure games on the PS1. It built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, delivering a refined experience that showcased the series' potential in new dimensions.

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 cleverly introduced players to the DualShock controller's analog sticks through a fun premise of capturing mischievous apes. With innovative gadgets like hula hoops and remote-controlled cars, controlled by the right stick, Ape Escape turned a potentially gimmicky feature into a beloved gameplay mechanic. Its influence even extended to real-world events, as seen with the escape of a chimpanzee named Chacha in 2016.

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 with its unique tracks, weapons inspired by Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting system. It remains one of the most beloved kart racers, even before its modern remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, which reintroduced it to a new generation of gamers.

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 into a thrilling espionage adventure. With a variety of weapons and unique gameplay mechanics, like tasing enemies, it set the stage for a successful series that captivated players with its engaging levels and freedom of approach.

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, often considered "Legacy of Kain 2," is a gothic masterpiece that shifted the series from a top-down RPG to a 3D action-adventure. Its dark narrative, crafted by Amy Hennig, and innovative gameplay mechanics like shifting between the living and spectral realms set it apart, despite its rushed ending.

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 is a seminal turn-based strategy game that set a high bar for the genre. Its intricate plot and charming characters, combined with strategic gameplay, made it a standout title on the PS1. Though it never received a true sequel, its influence is still felt in modern strategy games.

15. Medal of Honor: Underground

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

Medal of Honor: Underground is one of the best first-person shooters on the PS1, bringing WWII action into 3D with its prequel/sequel narrative. The game's memorable protagonist, Manon Batiste, and its engaging levels and tone made it a standout title in the era, complete with clever mechanics like tricking Nazis into posing for photos.

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 marked a return to the series' fantasy roots, delivering a rich narrative with memorable characters like Zidane, Vivi, and Steiner. As a beautiful conclusion to the single-digit entries, it paid homage to the franchise's past while setting the stage for future installments.

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 redefined psychological horror with its haunting atmosphere and narrative, diverging from traditional zombie survival horror. Its protagonist, Henry, and the game's eerie creatures created a deeply unsettling experience that remains unforgettable, especially with its haunting audio.

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 built upon the success of the original game, offering a balanced mix of challenge and fun. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, along with memorable characters and collectibles, made it a standout in the Insomniac trilogy. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy brought this classic to modern consoles.

11. Driver

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

Driver introduced players to open-world driving missions with its arcade-style action. Its innovative features, like the Director Mode for creating Hollywood-style action sequences, and detailed collision modeling made it a standout title. Though its sequel added new elements, the original remains a classic.

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 for its perfect balance of platforming and secrets. Naughty Dog's challenging yet achievable levels, filled with jumping, spinning, and "woah"-ing, cemented this game as a beloved classic.

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 combines action RPG elements with a dense narrative filled with political intrigue and dark magic. Its complex systems and challenging bosses, along with a quasi-rhythm-based battle system, make it a unique and exceptional experience on the PS1.

8. Tekken 3

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

Tekken 3 is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever, thanks to its innovative 3D movement and eclectic characters. Its ability to attract both fighting game enthusiasts and casual players made it an iconic title on the PS1, introducing many to capoeira through Eddy Gordo.

All these years later, the series has now moved on to acclaimed Tekken 8, which 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. Set in an eerie police station, it blends intricate puzzles with terrifying creatures and a relentless tyrant. The dual perspectives of Leon and Claire added depth to the narrative, making it an unforgettable experience.

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 players to Lara Croft and her solo adventures through haunting landscapes filled with both real and fantastical dangers. Its intricate level design and iconic environments, along with the memorable shotgun, cemented its place in gaming history.

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 one of the best games in its series but also one of the highest-rated games of all time. Its perfect blend of arcade-style skateboarding, iconic soundtrack, and innovative skate park editor made it a cultural phenomenon that still resonates today.

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 upon the original's success, offering an unprecedented scope with nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. Its detailed racing simulation and vast selection of vehicles set it apart from other racing games of its time, making it a beloved classic.

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 2D gameplay to perfection, with its beautiful pixel art and unforgettable soundtrack. Its influence is still felt today, as it set a standard for exploration-based action games that continues to be emulated.

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 brought Japanese RPGs to the Western world, captivating players with its dark sci-fi narrative and iconic character designs. Its success paved the way for numerous spin-offs and a stellar remake, solidifying its place as a timeless classic despite some flaws.

1. Metal Gear Solid

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

Metal Gear Solid redefined stealth-action gaming with its innovative gameplay and narrative depth. Its bizarre yet captivating cast and boundary-pushing storytelling, coupled with memorable fourth-wall breaks, make it a standout title that remains influential to this day.

Honorable Mentions

Selecting the top PlayStation games was no easy task, and with diverse tastes among fans, not every favorite could make the list. Here are some honorable mentions that are also highly recommended:

EinhanderDino CrisisBrian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99Need For Speed: High StakesThe Legend of DragoonThese are our picks for the best games on the original PlayStation. We understand that everyone's list might differ, so feel free to share your rankings and tell us which classics we might have missed 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 102m units since. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played?See All1Metal 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