We’ve now reached the era of modern gaming. While there hasn’t been much in terms of sheer visual upgrades besides the occasional boost to 30 or 60fps performance, the PlayStation 4 remains a standout console. Far from underperforming, it has enjoyed a historic run since its release in 2013. Even today, some of my PSN friends are still gaming on their PlayStation 4.
With over 117 million units sold across its 11-year lifespan, the PS4 is one of the best-selling consoles of all time, trailing only the PlayStation 2 and the Nintendo Switch.
The PlayStation 4 offered more than just a hardware upgrade; it redefined what the next generation of video games could achieve, introducing high-definition textures and cinematic gaming experiences. Open-world games flourished during this era, spawning numerous franchises that remain topics of passionate discussion among gamers.
Here, I present my picks for the best PlayStation 4 games of all time:
The Last Of Us Part II
Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic drama delivered another emotional gut punch with this phenomenal sequel. The Last of Us Part II is an emotionally charged epic that explores the darkness and humanity within us.
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+ 5The game's core theme revolves around vengeance, and its narrative is steeped in bloodshed. Whether you play as Abby, seeking revenge for her father’s death, or Ellie, on a rampage after Joel’s demise, the story presents moral ambiguity on both sides. The conclusion ties the narrative together poignantly and unforgettably, cementing it as one of Naughty Dog’s finest stories.
The game serves as a litmus test for empathy, offering a scathing critique of human brutality. I felt guilty about killing the NPCs, as Naughty Dog masterfully humanized each one of them. While The Last of Us Part II divided audiences, it resonated deeply with those who grasped its intentions.
Bloodborne
Upon release, Bloodborne set a new benchmark for Souls-like games. Its success was so profound that it helped define the Soulsborne genre, emphasizing aggressive combat mechanics within the action RPG space.
click to enlarge + 5The game also stands as a masterclass in Lovecraftian storytelling. As my first Souls game, Bloodborne instantly captivated me with its dark and gothic atmosphere. The moment I gained enough Insight to notice the hidden horrors lurking in Yharnam, I knew I was in for something special.
Despite being a Soulsborne title, Bloodborne incorporates genuinely unsettling horror elements. Its expansion, The Old Hunters, only solidified its position as my favorite entry in the series. Sadly, we may never experience it at 60fps, as Sony appears allergic to money.
Horizon Zero Dawn
The Horizon series marked PlayStation and Guerrilla Games' bold venture into big-budget open worlds. Horizon Zero Dawn showcased the PlayStation 4 at its zenith, leveraging Guerrilla’s proprietary Decima Engine to deliver one of the most visually stunning games ever created.
The game follows Aloy’s quest to save a post-apocalyptic Earth ravaged by a catastrophic AI outbreak. Its narrative is original and thought-provoking, exploring humanity's adherence to old-world rituals while remaining blind to the harsh realities of their world.
click to enlarge + 5Beyond its captivating story, Zero Dawn offers fast-paced gameplay where players battle colossal mechanical beasts using makeshift weapons like bows, arrows, and Tripcasters. Clever tactics and precision are rewarded, making each encounter thrilling. It’s satisfying to see Aloy hit that weak spot and watch it blow up into multiple pieces.
While Horizon Forbidden West enhanced the series’ visuals and mechanics, its narrative felt less impactful by comparison.
Ghost Of Tsushima
Jin Sakai’s journey is one of redemption, sacrifice, and the struggle to uphold a fading creed. While it draws comparisons to a certain Ubisoft franchise (cough), Ghost of Tsushima excels with its masterful presentation and immersive open world.
click to enlarge + 5Unlike many open-world games, Tsushima avoids bloated open-world activities. Every side quest adds depth to Jin’s character and enriches the overall experience. Its minimalist UI, which uses natural elements like wind and wildlife to guide players, enhances immersion. Following foxes and golden birds often lead to hidden treasures and memorable moments.
The gameplay is equally compelling as well. Whether wielding a blade in honorable duels or employing stealth tactics as the titular Ghost, Jin’s combat is precise and deeply satisfying. Inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s samurai films, Ghost of Tsushima delivers a power fantasy like no other. The upcoming sequel, Ghost of Yotei, has much to live up to.
God Of War
Kratos’ transformation in God of War is one of gaming’s most remarkable character arcs. After years of rage and vengeance, his journey into Norse mythology introduces him as a father seeking redemption.
Accompanied by his boy, Atreus, Kratos evolves from a vengeful demigod into a thoughtful and protective parent. Armed with the Leviathan Axe, he faces the Norse pantheon as they conspire to disrupt his newfound peace, setting the stage for Ragnarok. Give him a break, guys.
click to enlarge + 5The gameplay marked a departure from the franchise’s traditional hack-and-slash mechanics, opting for a cinematic, over-the-shoulder perspective. The first encounter with Baldur alone demonstrated the potential of Sony Santa Monica’s reimagined combat system.
While other noteworthy games, such as Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End, Death Stranding, and Red Dead Redemption 2, deserve mention, these five stand out for their groundbreaking stories and gameplay, which will shape the gaming landscape for years to come.
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