Looking for PS5 games recommended for your next gaming binge? You’re in the right place. Whether you just unboxed a PlayStation 5 or you’re hunting for the next great title to justify a weekend, this guide pulls together the best PS5 games across genres. I’ve played, researched, and kept an eye on community buzz—so expect honest takes, quick buying tips, and picks that suit different moods and skill levels. Want single-player epics, couch co-op, or something bite-sized for quick sessions? I’ll point you toward great choices and why they matter.
How I Picked These PS5 Games
I looked at playtime, reviews, community feedback, and how well each game uses the PS5 hardware (DualSense, SSD load times, visuals). I also favored games that stay fun after the first few hours. In my experience, a solid PS5 pick should feel polished and make real use of the console’s strengths.
Top PS5 Games Recommended by Genre
Below are curated picks grouped by what you might be craving right now. Short notes, quick pros, and who will likely love each title.
Action / Adventure
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 — Fluid traversal, emotional story, and excellent DualSense feedback. A must if you enjoy superhero vibes.
- Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut — Gorgeous samurai open world, satisfying combat, and cinematic presentation.
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart — Fast-paced, family-friendly, and a brilliant showcase of instant loading and dimension-hopping tech.
RPGs / Story-Driven
- Elden Ring — Open-world soulslike with deep exploration and rewarding challenge. Not for the faint-hearted, but hugely influential.
- Final Fantasy XVI — Strong narrative focus, cinematic combat, and a fresh tone for longtime fans.
- Horizon Forbidden West — Beautiful world, smart crafting, and an engaging protagonist; great for players who like exploration.
Multiplayer & Co-op
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II — Polished online play and large player base; best if you want immediate matchmaking and competitive modes.
- Returnal (co-op updates) — Roguelike shooter with tense looped runs; the PS5 version’s sensory feedback makes it intense and immersive.
- It Takes Two — Brilliant for couples or friends; creative co-op mechanics and humor.
Indie Gems
- Stray — Short, atmospheric, and surprisingly touching. A nice palate cleanser between heavy titles.
- Hades (PS5 version) — Tight roguelike combat with addictive progression and superb writing.
- Kena: Bridge of Spirits — Gorgeous art style and a warm, accessible adventure.
Quick Comparison
Need a fast reference? Here’s a simple table to compare core qualities.
| Game | Genre | Players | Why Pick It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 | Action | Single | Best traversal and superhero storytelling |
| Elden Ring | RPG/Action | Single | Expansive open-world challenge |
| It Takes Two | Co-op/Adventure | Two | Top-tier cooperative design |
| Stray | Indie/Adventure | Single | Short, atmospheric, great for casual play |
PS5 Exclusives Worth Paying Attention To
Exclusives often show what the platform can do. Titles like Spider-Man 2, Ratchet & Clank, and Returnal make deliberate use of DualSense haptics and fast loading. If you want a showcase for the console, start with those.
Best Remasters and Backward Compatible Hits
If you missed classics, PS5 remasters and backward-compatible PS4 titles remain excellent value. Look for performance modes and 60fps upgrades. Examples: God of War Ragnarök (PS5 enhanced) and remastered editions like Demon’s Souls.
Buying Tips & When to Wait for PS5 Sales
- Check if a game has a free trial or demo — try before committing.
- Wait for seasonal sales (summer, Black Friday) if price matters; many big titles drop 40–70% within a year.
- Consider Game Pass-like services (if available in your region) for value sampling.
Personal Picks: What I’d Play Right Now
From what I’ve played recently, I’d rotate between Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 for a story-heavy weekend, Elden Ring when I want a tense challenge, and Stray for a calming evening. It’s a balance of spectacle, difficulty, and chill time.
Wrap-Up
There’s no single ‘best’ PS5 game; it depends on what you enjoy. Use this guide to match mood to genre and look for titles that use the PS5’s strengths. If you’re undecided, try short demos, watch a few clips, and pick one that hooks you in the first two hours.
Further Reading
If you want hands-on hardware or platform info, check official resources and community reviews to confirm technical details.