Top 10 Best PS1 Games of All Time That Fans Still Remember

If you happened to be born in the late 90s, it might be true that the PlayStation 1 was your first real encounter with a game console. The PS1, released in 1994, introduced a new era of gaming. It influenced the way stories were told about how the games look and are played today.

Even decades later, many of the PS1s have been updated but remain playable by today’s standards. So if you’re thinking of revisiting the past or are just curious what people mean when they say PlayStation 1 is legendary, you can check out these 10 best PS1 games of all time.

Ranking Factors

• Review/Ratings: Games that earned universal praise and maintained their fan following even years after release.
• Graphics: Titles that pushed the PS1’s technical limits while delivering distinctive art styles that stood out.
• Gameplay: How well the game played, including innovation, balance, and replay value, was key in ranking these titles.

Top 10 Best PS1 Games

Below are the best PS1 games that you should know as a PlayStation lover:

10. Parasite Eve

If you've never experienced the game Parasite Eve, then you are missing out on one of the most creative ideas of a game on the PS1. Parasite Eve is a combination of RPG and horror gameplay set in New York City during a strange biological outbreak.

You play as Aya Brea, a police officer with supernatural powers, and you must stop the terrifying evolution of life itself. The game features very unique combat that is a combination of real-time and turn-based combat. The cinematic storytelling is also something that was ahead of its time

9. Gran Turismo 2

For car lovers, Gran Turismo 2 was a dream come true. With more than 600 cars, real-world tracks, and realistic driving physics, it was like a racing simulator before racing simulators were a thing.

You could tune your car in a variety of ways, take on challenges in which you could use all your skills across dozens of events, and if you wanted to experience the kind of precision of driving on the PS1 the game was the ultimate test of your driving.

8. Silent Hill

As opposed to the majority of horror games of that era, Silent Hill did not rely on conventional jump scare mechanisms. The fog, unsettling sound design, and well-designed narrative grab you into a nightmare that, despite the thin allegory of a video game, felt painfully real.

It is a game that you will not forget long after the playthrough. If you love psychological horror, you absolutely must play Silent Hill.

7. Tekken 3

As far as fighting games go, it would be Tekken 3 that dominated both arcades and our home setups. At that time, the game delivered with better animations and quicker combat, which instantly became a global hit. Not to mention, it had classic characters like Jin Kazama, Hwoarang, and Ling Xiaoyu.

The gameplay was easy to pick up but incredibly deep for those who mastered combos and timing. Even today, many consider Tekken 3 one of the best fighting games ever made. If you're liking what you have been reading so far, then also consider checking out our coverage on PS5 and PC crossplay games.

6. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 was the title that made everybody want to be a skater. You could do insane tricks, explore huge skate parks, and listen to possibly one of the greatest soundtracks of all time.

In this game, once you get into the rhythm, every level feels like fun. This is still one of the most satisfying and replayable sports games to this day.

5. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

While there are a lot of great 2D exploration games, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is the one that stands out. You play as Alucard, the son of Dracula, exploring a massive castle full of secrets, monsters, and beautiful gothic design.

What makes it special is how it combines action, RPG-like mechanics, and exploration in a way that is entertaining and easy to understand. You can find new weapons, explore hidden areas, discover equipment, and even unlock an entire second castle to explore, all with different enemies and treasure.

4. Crash Bandicoot: Warped

If you owned a PS1, there’s no way you didn’t play Crash Bandicoot: Warped. This time-travelling adventure took everything great about the first two games and made it even better — tighter controls, creative levels, and addictive time trials.

Every jump, spin, and chase level felt perfectly balanced between challenge and fun. It’s one of those games you could replay for hours without getting bored. This is why it makes it one of PS1 best games.

3. Resident Evil 2

The game forces you to constantly evaluate yourself and your surroundings - should you stay and fight, or run? The limited ammo, the scary hallways, and the two independent storylines make this game even more interesting. If you enjoy games that put your hands in your chest, this is one to put on your to-play list from best games for PS1.

2. Metal Gear Solid

If you love story-driven games, Metal Gear Solid was the one that proved players could feel like Hollywood thrillers in-game, too. You take on the character of Solid Snake, infiltrating a nuclear facility full of guards, suspense, and surprises.

Aside from Kojima's directing, the voice acting throughout the game gave each mission a cinematic feel. It wasn't about shooting, but rather the focus was on thinking, hiding, and surviving.

1. Final Fantasy VII

You can’t talk about the PlayStation 1 without mentioning Final Fantasy VII. You play as Cloud Strife, a mercenary caught in a fight against the corrupt Shinra Corporation and the unforgettable villain Sephiroth.

From its stunning cutscenes to its timeless soundtrack, everything about FFVII felt great, and fans loved it. It introduced millions of players to RPGs, and its remake depicts how much people remember and care about this franchise.

This was all about our guide on the Best PS1 games of all time. Do suggest if we have missed your favourite title here. Meanwhile, you can check out our guide on the best free games on PS5. You can visit our website for more such content.