The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has captivated gamers with its incredible graphics, lightning-fast loading times, and immersive haptic feedback. As the next-generation console continues to build an impressive games library, these are the top PS5 games that you must play. From stunning exclusives to multiplatform blockbusters, these titles showcase the full potential of the hardware.
The PS5 represents a massive leap forward for console gaming. The custom SSD allows games to load in the blink of an eye, while features like ray tracing and 3D audio create unprecedented levels of immersion. Exciting new titles arrive steadily, tailored specifically to harness the power of the PS5.
With so many great games releasing on PS5, it can be tough deciding which titles to play first. Here is a definitive list of the must-play games on PlayStation 5 right now. Whether you enjoy cinematic narratives, heart-pounding action, or expansive open worlds, the PS5 has something for every player.
God of War Ragnarök
The epic sequel to 2018's God of War, Ragnarök continues the story of Kratos and Atreus on their mythic journey through the realms. Set in a stunning realization of Norse mythology, this PS5 exclusive pushes the hardware to its limits with breathtaking visuals and effects.
Trek across the Nine Realms fighting iconic beasts and gods while uncovering secrets of Ragnarök. The Leviathan Axe feels weighty and devastating, while the ramped up action fully utilizes the DualSense controller. With an emotional narrative and plenty of side content, God of War Ragnarök is a must-play title.
Horizon Forbidden West
Guerrilla Games' follow-up to Horizon Zero Dawn is one of the most gorgeous open world games ever made. Set in a far-future America, Forbidden West expands the story of hunter Aloy as she braves the beautiful but deadly frontier.
Vibrant jungles, sun-scorched deserts, and ruined cities are packed with intricate detail and dangerous machines to fight. Aloy has new mobility options to traverse the world along with an expanded toolset to tackle challenges. With a compelling story and refined gameplay, Horizon Forbidden West is a PS5 exclusive not to miss.
Elden Ring
The hugely anticipated collaboration between Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin, Elden Ring delivers FromSoftware's signature gameplay within a vast open world. The Lands Between is rich with secrets, side dungeons, and challenging foes.
With hundreds of hours of content, Elden Ring rewards exploration and perseverance. The action RPG allows you to customize your playstyle, from magic and ranged attacks to melee and stealth. Epic boss battles will test your skill and endurance. Elden Ring is a must-play PS5 game for fans of dark fantasy and action.
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
In this follow-up to Marvel's Spider-Man on PS4, web-slinger Miles Morales defends his new home of Harlem using explosive bio-electric attacks and slick acrobatics. Gliding and swinging through a snowy New York never gets old, especially with the DualSense controller adding impact and tension.
A heartfelt story with connections to the wider Marvel universe complements the thrilling action. With a stunning next-gen sheen, ray tracing reflections, and instant loading, Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a true PS5 showcase. It's also a contained experience, perfect for playing through in a weekend.
Dead Space
The remake of 2008's survival horror classic Dead Space retains the terrifying atmosphere of the USG Ishimura while updating the visuals and gameplay. Engineer Isaac Clarke explores the massive abandoned starship fighting grotesque Necromorphs with an arsenal of dismembering weapons.
Ray tracing creates an eerie mood while 3D audio immerses you in the horror. The DualSense controller adds thematic haptic feedback and trigger tension. Faithful to the original but enhanced for PS5, Dead Space is a must for horror fans.
Final Fantasy XVI
The next mainline entry in the storied JRPG franchise arrives as a PS5 console exclusive. Set in the war-torn land of Valisthea, Final Fantasy XVI features a grittier tone and action-oriented combat. You play as protagonist Clive Rosfield on a quest to stop the spread of deadly blight monsters.
FFXVI boasts production values through the roof with gorgeous graphics and cinematics. Real-time combat keeps you engaged while you unleash devastating attacks and magic. Fans have high hopes for this PS5 exclusive driving the series forward.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Insomniac Games' interdimensional adventure makes perfect use of the PS5 hardware for fast loading and zany antics. Ratchet and Clank hop between worlds to stop the evil Dr. Nefarious, with trippy visuals and effects.
Vibrant alien worlds come to life through stellar art direction. Fun weapons like the Topiary Sprinkler add to the cartoon chaos. Rift Apart is an exclusive built from the ground up for PS5, sure to delight fans of the long-running series.
Returnal
A roguelike third-person shooter set in a time loop, Returnal combines tense action with psychological horror. You play as Selene Vassos, stranded on an alien planet and forced to restart after each death. The world shifts with each cycle, as does the story.
To break the loop, you'll need to carefully progress and unlock permanent upgrades. Returnal makes excellent use of the DualSense controller for immersion, while 3D audio and ray tracing enhance the eerie atmosphere. It's a PS5 exclusive that shows off the console's capabilities.
Conclusion
With exhilarating exclusives and multiplatform blockbusters, the PS5 has an incredible selection of must-play games. Stunning technical achievements like God of War Ragnarök and Horizon Forbidden West are system sellers on their own. Third parties like Elden Ring and Dead Space also provide top-tier experiences.
The PS5 library will only grow stronger over time. But these titles are more than enough reason to own Sony's latest console. Their graphics, loading times, haptics, and 3D audio simply can't be matched on previous generations. For players who want the ultimate next-gen experience, these are the top PS5 games available now.
