Looking for PS5 games recommended for your next gaming binge? Whether you want jaw-dropping exclusives, couch co-op fun, or deep single-player RPGs, this guide sorts the clutter. I’ve played, compared, and prioritized titles that make the most of PlayStation 5—its haptics, load times, and eye-popping visuals. Expect short takes, practical buying tips, and clear categories so you can pick fast. If you’re new to PS5 or just picking a weekend winner, these recommendations will save you time and disappointment.
How I picked these PS5 games
I scanned performance, content value, replayability, and how well a title uses PS5 features. I favored recent patches and community reception over hype. What I’ve noticed: a good exclusive or a polished multiplayer loop usually outlasts flashy but shallow releases.
Top PS5 games recommended — Quick list
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 — Best action-experience
- Elden Ring (PS5) — Best open-world RPG
- Horizon Forbidden West — Best single-player narrative
- Gran Turismo 7 — Best racing realism
- Returnal — Best for roguelike challenge
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart — Best showcase of PS5 tech
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II — Best mainstream multiplayer
Best PS5 exclusives and why they matter
PS5 exclusives sell the console. They’re often optimized for DualSense and SSD speed—meaning smoother, more immersive gameplay.
Top exclusives
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 — Superior traversal, strong story, and DualSense feedback that actually adds to combat.
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart — Instant dimension hopping shows off near-zero load times.
- Returnal — Unique blend of narrative and roguelike design that leverages adaptive triggers.
Best PS5 multiplayer and social picks
If you play with friends or want long-term engagement, pick games with strong communities and post-launch support.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II — Tight shooter mechanics and consistent updates.
- Fortnite (PS5) — Free-to-play, regular seasons, huge player base.
- FIFA / EA Sports FC — Best for sports fans wanting competitive online matches.
Best single-player adventures and RPGs
These are the titles you’ll get lost in. They reward patience and curiosity.
- Elden Ring — Massive world, emergent combats, and deep build variety.
- Horizon Forbidden West — Strong story, gorgeous open world, and smart upgrades.
- Demon’s Souls (Remake) — Pure PS5 remake spectacle with challenging combat.
Value picks: great games that won’t burn your wallet
Buyers on a budget? Look for sales, deluxe edition discounts, or PS Plus catalog entries. These deliver hours of fun without the price shock.
- Resident Evil Village — Good single-player content, often discounted.
- Deathloop — Creative looped gameplay and frequent sales.
- Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut (PS4/PS5 upgrade) — Excellent storytelling and performance mode on PS5.
Comparison table — Quick heads-up
| Game | Genre | Why Play | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 | Action / Adventure | Fluid traversal, cinematic story | Fans of superhero narratives |
| Elden Ring | Action RPG | Huge open world, rewarding combat | Challenge seekers |
| Gran Turismo 7 | Racing | Realistic driving, deep tuning | Simulation fans |
| Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | Platformer / Action | Fast, colorful, next-gen showcase | Family-friendly tech demo |
PS5 DLC and post-launch support
When a game gets robust DLC and steady updates, its long-term value jumps. Check patch notes and community mods (where applicable) before buying.
- Horizon Forbidden West — Expansions add meaningful story and map areas.
- Call of Duty — Live seasons keep multiplayer fresh.
Buying tips — Discounts, editions, and backward compatibility
Want the best deal? Wait for seasonal sales, compare PS Store vs. physical copies, and look for PS5 upgrades included with PS4 purchases.
- Check bundled editions (season pass + base game) for value.
- Use PS Plus Collection or Game Trials to test before you buy.
- Keep an eye on performance vs. quality modes—some titles let you prioritize frame rate.
Real-world example: Weekend pick strategy
Short on time? I often pick a game by session type: 1–2 hours = Ratchet & Clank; 4+ hours = Elden Ring or Horizon. Multiplayer nights call for Call of Duty or sports titles. Try that—it helps match energy to game length.
Where to get official info
For release details, patches, and official features check the PlayStation site or official game pages. Wikipedia is often useful for background and release history.
Final picks—My top 7 PS5 games recommended
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
- Elden Ring (PS5)
- Horizon Forbidden West
- Gran Turismo 7
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
- Returnal
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II
Wrap-up
Pick based on how you like to play: narrative, challenge, or social. PS5 games shine when they use the console’s hardware to amplify immersion—so prioritize titles that do that well. Try demos or PS Plus trials if you’re unsure, and follow updates for long-term value. Now go pick one and enjoy the tech.