Top 25 PS1 Games: All-Time Classics

It's been over 30 years since the launch of the original PlayStation, and in that time, games and technology have evolved tremendously. Yet, the impact of the PS1 on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. From beloved characters like the jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot and the witty Spyro, the original PlayStation has given us some of the most iconic video game franchises. But which PS1 games stand out as the best of the best?

After careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 25 PS1 games, including some standout PlayStation exclusives. Here's our definitive ranking of the best 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 predates popular rhythm games like Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution. Featuring a flat cartoon dog and his animal friends, this quirky rapping game captivated players with its catchy tunes and unique charm, setting itself apart from other "extreme" or "hardcore" PS1 titles. Its distinctive style paved the way for the later release of Um Jammer Lammy and earned PaRappa a spot among the top 10 video game dogs. 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 bizarre yet memorable action/puzzle/platformer with a Soylent Green-inspired narrative set in outer space. Its quirky character design and deep lore have inspired numerous sequels and spinoffs, including Munch's Oddysee and Stranger's Wrath. Abe's unique abilities, such as telepathic possession and Mudokon teamwork, make this game stand out. 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

While Crash Bandicoot 2 might rank higher, the entire Crash trilogy is essential to the PlayStation legacy. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped offers a blend of challenging platforming and vehicle-based levels, set across a variety of time-hopping environments. Its robust design and cohesive feel make it a standout in the trilogy, and the 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy revitalizes its visual appeal.

22. Spider-Man

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

Developed by Neversoft, the team behind the Tony Hawk franchise, PS1's Spider-Man set the standard for superhero games. It captured Spider-Man's unique movement, from swinging between skyscrapers to climbing walls, and included numerous Marvel cameos and unlockable costumes. With Stan Lee narrating character descriptions, this game remains a fan favorite.

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. This charming 3-D action/adventure game refined the formula established by its predecessor, offering a unique and engaging experience that stands out in the Mega Man franchise.

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 popularized the use of the DualShock controller's analog sticks by challenging players to capture mischievous apes using wacky gadgets. Its innovative gameplay and fun mechanics made it a standout title, influencing future games and even real-life animal control scenarios.

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 is often considered the closest rival to Mario Kart. With its original tracks, unique weapons inspired by Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting/boost system, CTR remains a beloved entry in the kart racing genre, further enhanced by its modern-day remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled.

18. Syphon Filter

Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review

Inspired by games like Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter offers a mix of stealth and action across 20 levels of espionage. Its diverse weaponry and the ability to tase enemies added a unique twist to the genre, earning it a lasting legacy and several sequels.

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, macabre sequel that shifted the series into a 3D action/adventure format. Its intricate puzzles, shifting between the living and spectral realms, and compelling narrative by Amy Hennig make it a standout in the PS1 era.

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 console turn-based strategy games upon its 1998 release. Its intricate plot and unique character designs are complemented by engaging gameplay, despite lacking a true sequel on the PS1, its influence endures.

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 is one of the best first-person shooters on the PS1. Arriving late in the console's lifespan, it offered a compelling WWII narrative, memorable characters like Manon Batiste, and innovative gameplay, including the ability to trick Nazis into posing for photos before dispatching them.

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 returned the series to its fantasy roots, featuring knights, mages, and princesses. Its memorable characters, like Zidane and Vivi, and its homage to earlier entries made it a poignant conclusion to the single-digit Final Fantasy games, beautifully setting the stage for the series' future.

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 diverged from traditional survival horror, embracing psychological horror with its eerie atmosphere and unsettling creatures. Its impact on the genre and its unforgettable audio have left a lasting legacy, with fans eagerly awaiting a potential remake of the original.

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's foundation, offering a balance of challenge and fun within a richly realized world. Its seasonal hub areas and diverse mini-worlds, combined with smart collectibles and engaging side characters, make it a standout in the Insomniac trilogy.

11. Driver

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

Driver was a pioneering open-world driving game that blended mission design with arcade-style action. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own Hollywood-style action sequences, cementing its 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 the quintessential middle entry in the trilogy, offering a perfect balance between the original's platforming and Warped's expansive elements. Its challenging yet achievable levels have kept it beloved among fans.

9. Vagrant Story

**Developer:** Square | **Publisher:** Square | **Release date:** May 16, 2000 | **Review:** IGN's Vagrant Story review

Vagrant Story is an often-overlooked gem in the PS1 library, offering a complex action RPG with deep political intrigue and innovative gameplay mechanics. Its challenging battles and intricate systems make it a standout title despite its underrated status.

8. Tekken 3

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

Tekken 3 remains one of the most respected fighting games ever made, known for its innovative 3D combat and diverse character roster. Its impact on the genre and its ability to attract non-fighting game fans solidified its iconic status on the PS1.

7. Resident Evil 2

**Developer:** Capcom | **Publisher:** Capcom | **Release date:** January 21, 1998 | **Review:** IGN's Resident Evil 2 review

Resident Evil 2's original release remains a horror classic, set in an eerie police station filled with puzzles and terrifying creatures. Its dual-perspective gameplay and relentless pursuit by the tyrant make it an unforgettable experience, further enhanced by its 2018 remake.

6. Tomb Raider

Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review

The original Tomb Raider established Lara Croft as a gaming icon, offering a solo adventure through diverse and intricately designed environments. Its blend of real and fantastical creatures and memorable gameplay, like the iconic 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 a seminal entry in the series but also one of the highest-rated games of all time. Its blend of arcade-style skateboarding, 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 built upon the original's success, offering an expansive racing simulation with nearly 650 cars and two CDs of content. Its scope and depth made it a standout racing game on the PS1, rivaling contemporaries like Need for Speed: High Stakes.

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's decision to remain 2D allowed for refined gameplay and timeless pixel art. Its exceptional soundtrack and perfect blend of exploration and action have made it a benchmark for future games in the genre.

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 Japanese RPGs in the West, blending dark sci-fi elements with whimsical fantasy. Its groundbreaking narrative and character design, along with its stellar remake, have cemented 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 redefined stealth/action gaming with its unique blend of gameplay, bizarre yet captivating characters, and a narrative that challenged traditional video game storytelling. Its lasting impact and innovative fourth-wall breaks make it a pinnacle of the PS1 era.

Honorable Mentions

Choosing the best PS1 games was no easy task, and many excellent titles didn't make the top 25. Here are some honorable mentions that 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 best games on the original PlayStation. We understand that everyone's favorites may differ, so feel free to use the Tier List below to share your rankings and tell us which classics we might have missed.

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 SolidKonami
2Final Fantasy VIISquare
3Castlevania: Symphony of the NightKCET
4Gran Turismo 2Polyphony Digital
5Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2LTI Gray Matter
6Tomb Raider -- Featuring Lara CroftCORE Design Limited
7Resident Evil 2 [1998]Capcom
8Tekken 3Namco
9Vagrant StorySquare
10Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes BackNaughty Dog