The original PlayStation was revolutionary when it was released. As Sony’s first foray into the game console business, it pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible with consumer electronics. While not the first 3D-capable home console, the PS1 was certainly the most prolific—and to this day, hundreds of incredible games were released for the platform.
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Below, we’ve tried to catalog just a few of these standout titles. From Final Fantasy to Tomb Raider, many of the greatest video game franchises of all time grew up on the PlayStation. Here are the best PS1 games.
Image Credit: Square Enix
Perhaps the most iconic game on this list, Final Fantasy VII is an undisputed classic—and one of the very best games on the PS1. While remasters and remakes can take away some of the original charm, nothing quite beats playing FFVII on its original console.
While the turn-based RPG genre has evolved a lot since its release, FFVII is still enjoyable to play, though the three-disc story pacing may feel dated by modern standards. But this game’s cultural influence cannot be denied, and it’s rightly regarded as one of the best Final Fantasy games of all time.
Image Credit: Square Enix
It may seem lazy to go back to Final Fantasy for this next entry, but Final Fantasy VI—originally released as Final Fantasy III in the US—remains one of the best games on the PS1. With its epic story, charming sprite work, and reactive battle system, FFVI was the rightful send-off for 2D Final Fantasy games.
These days, you’re spoiled for 100-hour RPGs with beautiful sprite art and gripping storytelling, but on release, Final Fantasy VI was the gold standard—and it still holds up today.
Image Credit: Konami
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night was released on the Sega Saturn and PS1, but it became one of the latter’s best games. With a haunting soundtrack, the conceptual birth of the Metroidvania genre, and a visual peak for sprite-based games, SotN is often mimicked but never improved.
At launch, the game’s over-the-top voice acting was ridiculed, but in today’s world of quippy dialogue, its earnestness is actually charming. It’s a challenging game, but rarely unfair. If you’re waiting for something to play before Silksong, consider SotN—one of the best PS1 games ever made.
Image Credit: Activision
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater was a revolutionary game that born the skateboarding subgenre. Released during skateboarding’s mid-’90s peak, it was a must-have game for teenagers. The sequel, however, is the real gem—polishing the graphics and streamlining the already incredible gameplay.
While later entries added open worlds and missions, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is the best pure skating game in the series. It also features one of the greatest video game soundtracks ever. A classic PS1 game that must be played.
Image Credit: Psygnosis
In many ways, racing games were the signature genre for the PlayStation. For the first time, simulated driving was accessible at home, and developers pushed the limits of what was possible. Wipeout transformed that experience into stylized sci-fi, with hyper-fast vehicles and a thumping techno soundtrack.
The third installment, Wipeout 3 (stylized as Wip3out), was the franchise’s high point on the PS1. Visually impressive and fast-paced, it pushed the console to its limits. If you want to see peak low-poly racing, Wip3out is the place to go.
Image Credit: Insomniac Games
With Nintendo and Sega having instantly recognizable mascots, there was a sense in the late ’90s that PlayStation needed its own. Many characters tried, but Spyro the Dragon became one of the most successful.
This replayable platformer laid the foundation for numerous sequels and spin-offs while delivering crisp, clean gameplay. It still holds up today—and it’s easy to sink dozens of hours into this charming title.
Image Credit: Core Design
Lara Croft was once PlayStation’s unofficial mascot—and that began with Tomb Raider. The action-adventure game laid the foundation for the genre, with expansive levels and 3D exploration.
The PS1 had five Tomb Raider titles, and any one could make this list. But the original remains the most iconic. Despite some janky puzzles and a now-dated movement system, its charm is undeniable.
Image Credit: Square Enix
With the recently announced remake, we don’t feel bad including a third Final Fantasy game in this list. Final Fantasy Tactics helped popularize—and controversial perfect—the strategy RPG subgenre.
A compelling story, beautiful sprite work, and the introduction of the Ivalice setting (used in later Final Fantasy games and spin-offs) make this a special title. One of our favorites—and one of the best on the PS1.
Image Credit: Oddworld Inhabitants
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is a puzzle-platformer with a bizarre aesthetic unlike anything else. You play as Abe, trying to rescue fellow Mudokons from a meat processing plant.
We’ll be honest: This game gave us nightmares as kids. The visuals, the dark tone, the fact that you can accidentally send the characters you’re trying to save to their deaths—it’s all memorable. Though remastered in 2014, the PS1 original is still worth experiencing.
Image Credit: Naughty Dog
Crash Bandicoot is another iconic PS1-era character. Rather than offering fully 3D exploration, Crash focused on pseudo-2D platforming and vertical sprint levels that delivered tension and challenge.
The game’s visuals are instantly recognizable, and while Crash never reached the heights of Mario or Sonic, he remains a beloved PlayStation icon.
Image Credit: Sony Computer Entertainment
A rhythm game trailblazer, PaRappa the Rapper featured stylish visuals, catchy songs, and unforgettable characters. It’s a shame the franchise has faded into obscurity, but this PS1 title is a true standout.
Image Credit: Crystal Dynamics
The Soul Reaver/Legacy of Kain series has fallen into obscurity, but during the PS1 era, it was one of the most compelling adventure game franchises.
It’s hard to imagine series like God of War or Assassin’s Creed existing without it. You can still see its influence in modern games.
Image Credit: Polyphony Digital Inc.
Gran Turismo is one of the best-selling and most critically acclaimed PlayStation franchises. The series began on the PS1, but Gran Turismo 2 was the true pinnacle on the console.
At the time, it offered the most realistic driving experience available at home—second only to arcades. If you can find an old steering wheel peripheral, it’s the perfect way to experience peak ’90s driving game vibes.
Image Credit: Namco
Tekken debuted on PlayStation and quickly became Sony’s flagship fighting game. Tekken 3 was the franchise’s high point on the PS1—arguably the most advanced 3D fighter of its time.
It introduced key elements that still define the series: sidestepping, unique character flow, and refined mechanics. A blueprint for all future 3D fighters.
Image Credit: Konami
Revolutionizing stealth gameplay, Metal Gear Solid was both visually and technically iconic. Many modern stealth mechanics began with this title.
While the series peaked on the PS2, MGS remains one of the best PS1 games—and it’s still infinitely replayable.
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