Top 25 PS1 Games Ever Ranked

It’s been over 30 years since the original PlayStation launched, and while games and technology have evolved dramatically, the impact of the PS1 on gaming and pop culture remains undeniable.

From Crash Bandicoot to Spyro the Dragon, the first PlayStation era gave birth to some of the most iconic characters in video game history. But which titles truly stand out as the best?

After careful consideration, we’ve compiled what we believe are the 25 greatest PS1 games of all time — including must-play exclusives that helped define a generation of gaming.

The Best PS1 Games Ever

26 ImagesYou Might Also Like:

• Best PlayStation Games of All Time
• Best PS2 Games of All Time
• Best PS3 Games of All Time
• Best PS4 Games of All Time
• Best PS5 Games

25. PaRappa the Rapper

Before rhythm-based games like Guitar Hero or Dance Dance Revolution, there was PaRappa the Rapper. This charming, quirky title stood out with its unique art style and catchy soundtrack. Featuring a flat cartoon dog rapping his way through various challenges, PaRappa brought personality and humor to the PS1 library. It's no wonder fans still remember this rhyming canine fondly today.

24. Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee

Image credit: Oddworld Inhabitants
Developer: Oddworld Inhabitants | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: September 18, 1997

A bizarre blend of action, puzzle-solving, and platforming, Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee offered players an unforgettable journey filled with strange creatures and deep lore. Its standout feature was the ability to telepathically possess enemies or manipulate them into doing your bidding. A cult classic that led to a series of equally weird and wonderful sequels.

23. Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped

While Crash Bandicoot 2 often gets more praise, Warped expanded the franchise with time-travel mechanics and a variety of level designs. Though not as challenging as earlier entries, it introduced vehicle segments and creative level themes that made for a fun and diverse experience. Thanks to the N. Sane Trilogy, modern audiences can enjoy its vibrant world in remastered glory.

22. Spider-Man

Developed by the team behind Tony Hawk, Spider-Man on PS1 set the standard for superhero games. With fluid web-swinging movement, acrobatic combat, and a host of Marvel cameos, it captured the essence of being Spidey. From unlockable costumes to hidden secrets, this game remains one of the most beloved Spider-Man adventures ever made.

21. Mega Man Legends 2

Mega Man Legends 2 elevated the series with deeper storytelling and improved 3D gameplay mechanics. It built upon the foundation of its predecessor and delivered one of the most memorable entries in the franchise. Despite being overshadowed by later releases, it remains a hidden gem among PS1 RPGs.

20. Ape Escape

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: June 18, 1999

Ape Escape played a pivotal role in popularizing the DualShock controller. Tasked with capturing rogue monkeys using gadgets like hula hoops and remote-controlled cars, players had to master analog stick controls — something new at the time. Its quirky charm and innovative gameplay made it a standout title and an early showcase for PlayStation hardware.

19. Crash Team Racing

Long before Nitro-Fueled, the original Crash Team Racing took on Mario Kart and won many fans over. Offering fast-paced racing, clever weapons, and tight drifting mechanics, it became a staple of multiplayer sessions. Its legacy lives on thanks to its remake, but the original still holds up as one of the best kart racers on PS1.

18. Syphon Filter

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999

Drawing inspiration from Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter blended stealth and action into a compelling narrative. Players could take down enemies creatively — even tasing them to death. It spawned multiple sequels and remains one of the defining action titles of the PS1 era.

17. Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain

Soul Reaver redefined gothic storytelling in games. Set in the haunting world of Nosgoth, it offered a rich narrative and dual-world exploration mechanic that influenced future titles. Written by Amy Hennig, who later worked on Uncharted, this sequel stands as one of the most atmospheric and memorable RPGs of its time.

16. Final Fantasy Tactics

Developer: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 28, 1998 (NA)

When Final Fantasy Tactics launched, it raised the bar for turn-based strategy