The best games in the history of the PlayStation 5

The PlayStation 5 was launched by Sony on November 12, 2020 , in key markets such as the United States, Japan, and Australia, and on November 19, 2020, in the rest of the world, including Argentina.

Its launch was highly anticipated due to the technological improvements it promised compared to the PS4. The console debuted in two versions: the Standard PS5, with a disc drive; and the PS5 Digital Edition, without a drive, for digital games only.

It featured an all-new architecture , including: an ultra-fast SSD drive that reduces load times to near zero; 4K graphics (up to 120 fps in select titles); a new DualSense controller , with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers; and immersive 3D audio.

Since its release, it was hard to get hold of due to high demand and global stock issues. Still, it was a success: it sold more than 50 million units in its first three years, establishing itself as one of the most popular next-generation consoles. Let's take a look at its most iconic games to date.

Since its highly anticipated launch, the PlayStation 5 has received a very positive reception from both critics and the public . In fact, it sold out worldwide in a matter of minutes .

Demand was so high that it was difficult to obtain a unit during its first two years, in part due to the global semiconductor shortage. Despite this, the console broke records : in its first 12 months, it sold more than 13 million units, and by the end of 2023, it had already surpassed 50 million.

Critics praised its technical improvements over the PS4, the innovative DualSense controller, and the graphical performance. Sony's strategy of maintaining many cross-generation games , allowing those who still own PS4s to access new titles, was also well received. Thus, it wasn't long before the new selection of the most popular games resonated around the world.

Here are the top 10 must-have PlayStation 5 games so far. This selection includes both exclusive and multiplatform titles optimized for PS5, and is based on impact, technical quality, innovation, and critical reception:

1) Elden Ring (2022) – FromSoftware

• Genre: Action RPG – Open World.

Winner of Game of the Year 2022. An evolution of the souls-like style in a vast open world, designed by Hidetaka Miyazaki with collaboration from George RR Martin. It offers absolute freedom, challenging difficulty, and a fascinating, dark universe.

2) God of War: Ragnarök (2022) – Santa Monica Studio

• Genre: Action/Adventure – Norse mythology.

Direct sequel to 2018's God of War. It concludes Kratos' Norse saga, with intense combat, an emotional story, and impressive technical display on PS5. One of the most complete games on the console.

3) Spider-Man 2 (2023) – Insomniac Games

• Genre: Open world – Superheroes.

A fluid, cinematic experience that lets you switch between Peter Parker and Miles Morales. Improved graphics , faster gameplay, and revamped gameplay. Considered the best Spider-Man game to date.

4) Demon's Souls Remake (2020) – Bluepoint Games

• Genre: Action/RPG – Dark Fantasy.

A remake of the PS3 classic, completely rebuilt for PS5. Graphically stunning and faithful to the original. One of the best examples of the souls-like genre, ideal for fans of challenges.

5) Horizon Forbidden West (2022) – Guerrilla Games

• Genre: Adventure – Open world.

Sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn . Expands the world, enhances underwater exploration, and adds more narrative depth. Aloy faces new mechanical threats in a visually stunning environment.

6) Final Fantasy XVI (2023) – Square Enix

• Genre: Action RPG – Dark Fantasy.

A more mature and cinematic installment in the series. It combines spectacular combat with an epic story filled with political drama and war between nations. It moves away from the classic RPG and focuses on pure action.

7) Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021) – Insomniac Games

• Genre: Platforms/Action – Science fiction.

Designed to take advantage of the speed of the PS5's SSD. Allows instant travel between worlds in combat. Visually impeccable and fun, ideal for all ages.

8) Resident Evil Village (2021) – Capcom

The eighth main installment in the series. It combines gothic horror with action and was one of the first third-party games to showcase the full graphical potential of the PS5. Highly praised for its atmosphere and artistic direction.

9) Returnal (2021) – Housemarque

• Genre: Roguelike – Science fiction.

A PS5 exclusive with challenging gameplay, procedurally generated worlds, and a looping narrative. Take full advantage of the DualSense and 3D audio for complete immersion.

10) Astro's Playroom (2020) – Team Asobi (included with the console)

Although it's a short game, it's a technical gem that showcases the full capabilities of the DualSense. It's also a tribute to PlayStation history. It comes pre-installed on every PS5 and has delighted both new and old players.