PlayStation, one of the leading names in gaming, has a rich history of providing unforgettable experiences across its consoles. With the release of the PlayStation 5, the franchise has continued to push the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, offering immersive worlds, breathtaking graphics, and deep narratives. At the same time, the PlayStation Portable (PSP), a handheld marvel of its time, holds a special place in the hearts of gamers with its innovative library of titles that redefined portable gaming. In this article, we’ll take a journey through some of the best PlayStation games and PSP classics that continue to captivate players in 2025.
One of the most iconic PlayStation 5 titles is Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021), a visually stunning platformer that showcases the power of the PS5’s SSD and hardware. The game follows the beloved duo, Ratchet and Clank, as they travel through parallel dimensions to stop an evil emperor from causing chaos. Rift Apart is a perfect example of the PlayStation 5’s capabilities, with fast loading times, breathtaking graphics, and seamless transitions between worlds. The game’s inventive use of the rift mechanic allows players to jump between dimensions in real-time, creating thrilling and dynamic gameplay. The charming characters, action-packed gameplay, and clever puzzles make this title a must-play for fans of platformers and action-adventure games. With its blend of humor, heart, and cutting-edge technology, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart remains a fan favorite on the PS5.
Another standout on the PlayStation 5 is Demon’s Souls (2020), a remake of the classic game that helped establish the action RPG genre as we know it today. The PS5 remake of Demon’s Souls brings the original’s haunting atmosphere, intricate world design, and challenging combat to new heights, thanks to the advanced hardware of the PS5. Players venture through the Kingdom of Boletaria, facing off against terrifying monsters and powerful bosses in their quest to save the world from an ancient curse. The game’s intricate lore, tight combat system, and strategic difficulty have made it a staple for fans of challenging RPGs. The graphical overhaul and atmospheric details bring this dark world to life in ways that were previously impossible, solidifying Demon’s Souls as a true masterpiece in the action RPG genre.
For fans of open-world games, Ghost of Tsushima (2020) offers an immersive samurai experience set during the Mongol invasion of Japan. As Jin Sakai, players are thrust into a battle for survival on the island of Tsushima, where they must fight to protect their homeland. The game’s dynamic combat system emphasizes both stealth and brutal swordplay, allowing players to approach each encounter in a variety of ways. The open world is stunning, with sweeping landscapes, bamboo forests, and serene shrines, all rendered in incredible detail thanks to the PlayStation 5’s graphics. The narrative is gripping, and the themes of honor, sacrifice, and identity make for a powerful story. Ghost of Tsushima has become one of the defining games of the PlayStation 5 era, and it’s easy to see why it remains one of the best games of 2025.
Shifting to the PlayStation Portable, Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep (2010) stands out as one of the best entries in the Kingdom Hearts series. This action RPG, set before the events of the original Kingdom Hearts, follows three new protagonists—Terra, Aqua, and Ventus—as they journey through Disney-themed worlds while facing off against the forces of darkness. The game features a unique combat system that blends real-time action with magic and special abilities, offering a fast-paced and engaging experience. The story is emotional and explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the heart’s connection to light and darkness. Birth by Sleep remains a fan favorite among Kingdom Hearts fans, thanks to its deep lore, unforgettable characters, and beautiful worlds.
On the action-adventure side of things, Uncharted: Golden Abyss (2011) for the PSP is an underrated gem in the Uncharted series. Developed by Sony’s Bend Studio, this handheld title brings the excitement and exploration of the main Uncharted games to the PSP. Players control Nathan Drake, a treasure hunter who embarks on an adventure to uncover ancient secrets in the jungles of South America. The game combines platforming, puzzle-solving, and shootouts, all while delivering a thrilling narrative. While it doesn’t have the same scale as its console counterparts, Golden Abyss captures the essence of the Uncharted series, with its engaging story and fast-paced action. The graphics are impressive for a handheld game, and the use of the PSP’s touchscreen adds a fun layer to the puzzles and exploration. Uncharted: Golden Abyss is a must-play for fans of the series who want to experience Nathan Drake’s adventures on the go.
Another PSP classic is Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007), a tactical RPG that remains one of the best strategy games on the handheld. A remake of the original Final Fantasy Tactics, this version adds new story content, updated graphics, and voice acting. Set in the land of Ivalice, the game follows a group of mercenaries as they get caught in the political turmoil of war. The turn-based combat is deeply strategic, requiring players to think ahead and make tactical decisions about their characters’ classes and abilities. The story is complex and filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. Final Fantasy Tactics has long been regarded as one of the best tactical RPGs, and the PSP version refines the experience, making it a must-have for fans of the genre.
For fans of racing games, Wipeout Pure (2005) is one of the most exhilarating and visually stunning games available on the PSP. Set in a futuristic world where players control anti-gravity ships, the game features high-speed racing, intense competition, and a techno soundtrack that enhances the adrenaline-pumping experience. Wipeout Pure offers a variety of tracks, ships, and game modes, ensuring that players always have something new to look forward to. The controls are smooth and responsive, making it easy to jump into the action, while the vibrant visuals make the futuristic settings come to life. Wipeout Pure remains one of the best racing games on the PSP, offering a thrilling and visually impressive experience on a portable platform.
A standout for platformer fans on the PSP is LocoRoco (2006), a charming and whimsical game that has earned its place as one of the most unique titles on the system. In LocoRoco, players control a group of adorable, blob-like creatures as they roll through colorful, abstract worlds. The game’s simple but fun mechanics involve tilting the environment to help the LocoRocos navigate through obstacles, collect items, and avoid enemies. The quirky art style, catchy music, and relaxed gameplay make it a delightful experience for players of all ages. LocoRoco is a great example of how the PSP could deliver fresh and innovative ideas in gaming, and it remains one of the most memorable titles on the handheld.
Lastly, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops (2006) is an important entry in the Metal Gear series that offers a unique blend of tactical espionage action and strategy. The game takes place between the events of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and follows Big Boss as he assembles a team of soldiers while investigating a dangerous conspiracy. The game’s strategic combat and stealth mechanics are similar to the console games, but the portable format allows for shorter, more mission-based gameplay. Portable Ops also introduced a new recruitment system, where players could capture enemies and add them to their team. It’s a standout title for fans of the series and a must-play for PSP owners.
In conclusion, PlayStation and PSP continue to offer some of the most captivating and diverse games in 2025, with both platforms boasting a vast range of experiences for every type of gamer. Whether you’re immersed in the gorgeous open worlds of Ghost of Tsushima and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart on the PS5, or enjoying the rich stories and strategic gameplay of Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions and Persona 3 Portable on the PSP, these games remain essential parts of the PlayStation legacy. With their unforgettable characters, deep narratives, and innovative gameplay, these timeless titles continue to captivate audiences and stand the test of time.