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Introduction: Why PlayStation 5 Continues to Dominate Gaming in 2024
If you’re lucky enough to have a PlayStation 5, you’re probably wondering: What are the best PS5 games to dive into right now? Whether you’re a fan of thrilling action, deep storytelling, fast-paced multiplayer, or stunning open worlds, there’s something on this list for everyone. The PlayStation 5 has firmly established itself as the premier gaming console, offering experiences that push the boundaries of what video games can achieve.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top must-play PS5 games you won’t want to miss in 2024, diving deep into what makes each title special, who they’re perfect for, and why they deserve a spot in your gaming library. From sprawling RPGs to heart-pounding horror experiences, we’ve curated a selection that showcases the very best the platform has to offer.
Why PS5 Games Are a Must-Try Right Now
The PlayStation 5 has completely transformed the gaming experience with technological innovations that were once thought impossible. The console features blazing-fast load times thanks to its custom SSD, smoother graphics powered by advanced ray-tracing capabilities, and immersive haptic feedback through the revolutionary DualSense controller. It’s like going from VHS to 4K — once you’ve experienced it, there’s no going back.
The Technology Behind the Magic
The PS5’s custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 graphics architecture work in harmony to deliver stunning 4K visuals at up to 120 frames per second. But the real game-changer is the DualSense controller. Its adaptive triggers provide variable resistance that makes every action feel unique — from drawing a bowstring to pressing a car’s accelerator. The haptic feedback is so precise you can feel the difference between walking on sand versus trudging through mud.
These improvements make already-great games even more amazing, creating immersive experiences that blur the line between playing and living inside the game world. Developers have learned to harness this power, crafting experiences specifically designed to showcase what the PS5 can do.
The Best PS5 Games of 2024: Our Top Picks
1. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty – A Second Life for Night City
Cyberpunk 2077 had a rocky start that became gaming industry legend for all the wrong reasons. But with the release of the Phantom Liberty expansion and multiple PS5-specific updates, it’s grown into a completely revamped experience that realizes the original vision. This isn’t just redemption — it’s a total renaissance.
Genre: Open-world RPG
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Perfect for: Players who love sprawling sci-fi stories with rich environments and choice-driven gameplay
What Makes It Special
Phantom Liberty introduces an entirely new district of Night City called Dogtown, a lawless combat zone controlled by militech forces. The expansion brings a darker, more espionage-focused tone with thrilling missions that feel ripped from a spy thriller. The unforgettable appearance by Idris Elba as Solomon Reed adds gravitas and emotional depth to an already compelling narrative.
The PS5 version now runs at a stable 60fps in performance mode, with ray-traced reflections that make Night City’s neon-soaked streets look absolutely phenomenal. The DualSense implementation is superb — you’ll feel every cybernetic enhancement activate through haptic feedback, and the adaptive triggers add weight to every weapon.
Why You Should Play It Now
If you were put off by the disastrous launch, it’s time to give this one another shot. Cyberpunk’s redemption story is now one of the most surprising comebacks in gaming history. The game CD Projekt Red promised in 2020 is finally here, complete with revamped police systems, improved AI, a completely overhauled skill tree, and a city that feels genuinely alive. Character customization has been expanded, side quests are more meaningful, and the main story branches in ways that give real weight to your decisions.
For newcomers, this is the perfect time to jump in. The game offers 100+ hours of content between the base game and expansion, with multiple endings that encourage replay. The world-building is second to none, presenting a cyberpunk dystopia that feels both alien and uncomfortably plausible.
2. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – Swinging Back in Style
If you thought the first two games were good, Spider-Man 2 swings past them with ease. Insomniac Games has perfected the superhero game formula, delivering an experience that feels like stepping into a Marvel blockbuster while maintaining the interactivity and freedom that makes games special.
Genre: Superhero action-adventure
Developer: Insomniac Games
Perfect for: Fans of fast-paced combat, web-slinging exploration, and emotional storytelling
Dual Protagonists, Double the Fun
Join both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as they tackle new villains, including the menacing Venom, in a story that balances personal drama with world-ending stakes. The ability to switch between both Spider-Men adds variety to gameplay and story, with each character bringing unique abilities and perspective.
Peter gains access to the symbiote suit, which introduces aggressive new combat abilities that feel powerful but dangerous. Miles continues to develop his bio-electric venom powers, now with new applications that make him feel distinct from Peter. The contrast between Peter’s experience and Miles’ youthful energy creates narrative tension and gameplay variety.
Technical Excellence
What makes this sequel stand out is its smooth transitions, dual protagonists, and new abilities that make fights unbelievably fun. Honestly, you can lose track of time just swinging around New York City! The map has expanded to include Brooklyn and Queens, each with its own personality and side activities.
The PS5’s power enables Insomniac to eliminate loading screens almost entirely. Fast travel is instant, and transitions between cutscenes and gameplay are seamless. The city is more densely populated than ever, with improved crowd AI and environmental detail. Web-swinging has never felt better, with the DualSense providing subtle feedback that makes every swing feel tactile and real.
Combat has been refined with new parry mechanics, environmental takedowns, and team-up abilities when both Spider-Men fight together. The boss battles are cinematic spectacles that rival anything in the MCU films, with multi-stage encounters that test different aspects of your skills.
3. Elden Ring – A Tough But Rewarding Journey
From the makers of Dark Souls, Elden Ring brings a massive open world filled with mystery, danger, and incredible boss battles. This collaboration between FromSoftware and fantasy author George R.R. Martin created one of the most acclaimed games in recent memory, earning Game of the Year honors and introducing the “Soulsborne” formula to millions of new players.
Genre: Action RPG
Developer: FromSoftware
Perfect for: Gamers who enjoy a true challenge and deep, lore-filled worlds
A World of Wonder and Terror
It’s not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment when you finally defeat that giant monster is totally worth it. The Lands Between is a hauntingly beautiful world filled with crumbling ruins, poisonous swamps, crystalline caverns, and floating cities. Every location tells a story through environmental design, with secrets hidden around every corner.
This is the kind of game where you’ll die a lot… but each death teaches you something. Think of it like a puzzle with a sword. Unlike previous FromSoftware games, Elden Ring’s open world gives you freedom to explore and return to challenging areas when you’re stronger. Stuck on a boss? Go explore elsewhere, level up, find better equipment, and come back when you’re ready.
Building Your Character
The character creation and build variety in Elden Ring is staggering. You can be a sword-wielding knight, a spellcasting sorcerer, a faith-based cleric, a stealthy assassin, or any combination thereof. The game features hundreds of weapons, spells, and abilities, each with unique movesets and strategic applications.
The summon system allows you to call spirit ashes — ghostly allies that help in tough fights. This addition makes the game more accessible without compromising its core challenge. You can also summon other players for cooperative play or invade their worlds for PvP combat.
Why It’s Essential
Elden Ring represents a landmark achievement in game design. It proves that challenging games can also be massive and open-ended. The lore is characteristically cryptic but deeply rewarding for those who dig into item descriptions and environmental storytelling. With the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC expansion adding dozens of hours of additional content, there’s never been a better time to begin your journey through the Lands Between.
4. Final Fantasy XVI – A Bold New Direction
This isn’t your typical Final Fantasy game, and that’s what makes it exciting. Final Fantasy XVI represents a bold departure for the venerable franchise, leaning heavily into fast-paced action combat while still delivering the rich storytelling, political intrigue, and fantasy spectacle the series is famous for.
Genre: Action RPG/JRPG
Developer: Square Enix
Perfect for: Fans of mature storylines, epic battles, and magical creatures
A Mature Fantasy Epic
Set in the war-torn realm of Valisthea, FFXVI tells a darker, more mature story than most previous entries. You play as Clive Rosfield, a man seeking revenge while caught in a conflict between nations that revolve around giant magical beings called Eikons — this game’s version of summons.
The narrative tackles themes of war, slavery, revenge, and redemption with surprising depth. The Game of Thrones influence is apparent in the political maneuvering and morally gray characters. Voice acting and motion capture are exceptional, making every cutscene feel like a prestige TV production.
Combat That Evolves
The combat system is a radical departure from turn-based roots. It’s a fully real-time action system developed with input from Devil May Cry 5’s combat designer. You’ll chain together sword combos, magical abilities, and Eikon powers in flashy, satisfying encounters.
As you progress, Clive gains the ability to channel multiple Eikons, each providing different combat styles and abilities. Phoenix gives you fire-based attacks and mobility, Garuda offers air combos and ranged options, while Titan provides defensive abilities and earth-shaking power. Learning to switch between Eikon abilities mid-combo creates a deep and rewarding combat system.
Why You Should Play It
Even if you’ve never played a Final Fantasy game before, this is an excellent starting point. The story is completely standalone with no connection to previous entries. The game offers accessibility options including Story Mode for those who want to focus on narrative, and the epic Eikon versus Eikon battles are jaw-dropping spectacles that push the PS5 to its limits. These kaiju-scale fights are interactive experiences that feel like controlling a disaster movie.
5. Resident Evil 4 Remake – Horror at Its Finest
The Resident Evil 4 Remake brings a beloved classic into modern gaming with stunning visual detail and refined gameplay. Capcom has masterfully balanced nostalgia with innovation, creating a remake that both honors the original and improves upon it in meaningful ways.
Genre: Survival Horror/Action
Developer: Capcom
Perfect for: Fans of tense action, puzzles, and atmospheric horror
Leon’s Mission Reimagined
You play as Leon Kennedy, a government agent on a mission to rescue the president’s daughter Ashley from a mysterious cult called Los Illuminados in a remote European village. What starts as a simple rescue mission quickly descends into a nightmare of parasitic infection, religious fanaticism, and horrific experiments.
The remake expands Leon’s character, giving him more depth and personality. His relationship with various characters — from the enigmatic Ada Wong to the tragic Luis Serra — is developed through improved writing and cinematography. Ashley has been completely overhauled from an escort mission liability to a more capable partner who can help in puzzles and occasionally combat situations.
Atmosphere and Terror
Playing this at night with headphones on is a mistake… but the good kind. It’s scary, intense, and absolutely unforgettable. The RE Engine brings the decrepit Spanish village to horrifying life with unprecedented detail. Flickering candlelight casts dancing shadows, weather effects create atmosphere, and the sound design is phenomenal — you’ll hear enemies before you see them, creating constant tension.
The DualSense implementation elevates the horror. You’ll feel Leon’s heartbeat through the controller when health is low, the adaptive triggers add resistance when weapons jam or are low on ammo, and the haptic feedback makes every knife slash and gunshot feel impactful.
Refined Gameplay
Combat is more deliberate than the original, with resource management playing a crucial role. Ammunition is scarce, forcing you to make every shot count. The knife now has durability, adding another layer of strategy. Parrying attacks with the knife at the right moment creates opportunities for counterattacks but risks breaking your blade.
The game features a robust upgrade system through the mysterious merchant, allowing you to improve weapons, increase health, and unlock new equipment. Exploring every corner rewards you with treasures that can be sold for upgrades, encouraging thorough exploration despite the danger.
6. Hogwarts Legacy – Welcome to the Wizarding World
Ever dreamed of getting your own letter from Hogwarts? Hogwarts Legacy finally brings that fantasy to life, placing you in the magical school as a student in the late 1800s. This is the Harry Potter game fans have been waiting decades to play.
Genre: Action RPG/Adventure
Developer: Avalanche Software
Perfect for: Harry Potter fans and anyone who loves open-world magic
Your Hogwarts Story
Cast spells, explore secret passageways, and get up to mischief — just like Harry and the gang! But this is your story, not a retelling of the books. You create a fifth-year student who possesses the rare ability to perceive and wield ancient magic, becoming involved in a mystery that threatens to tear the wizarding world apart.
You’ll attend classes to learn new spells, brew potions, tame magical beasts, and explore not just Hogwarts but the surrounding Highlands. The castle is faithfully recreated with moving staircases, talking portraits, and hidden rooms waiting to be discovered. Each common room has been lovingly detailed, and you’ll visit iconic locations like the library, Great Hall, and Hogsmeade village.
Magical Gameplay
The spell-casting system is intuitive and satisfying. You’ll learn dozens of spells across different categories — combat spells, utility charms, transformation spells, and the unforgivable curses. Wand combat combines spellcasting with dodge-rolling and counters, creating action-RPG combat that feels distinctly magical.
Broomstick flight is a highlight, offering exhilarating exploration of the Scottish Highlands. You can upgrade your broom for faster speeds, participate in races, and discover aerial secrets. Later, you’ll unlock other methods of magical transportation including flying mounts.
Why It Works
It’s not perfect, but it nails the atmosphere — from broom rides to potion-making, the magic feels real. The Vivarium allows you to care for magical creatures, the Room of Requirement lets you design your own space, and the gear system provides constant upgrades with cosmetic customization. The game truly captures the wish fulfillment of being a Hogwarts student, making it essential for any Potter fan.
7. God of War Ragnarök – A Legendary Norse Adventure
If you thought Kratos’ story ended with the 2018 hit, think again. Ragnarök dives deeper into Norse mythology, exploring the relationship between a god and his son in an emotional rollercoaster filled with myth, monsters, and massive battles.
Genre: Action/Adventure
Developer: Santa Monica Studio
Perfect for: Players who crave cinematic storytelling and intense combat
Father and Son Face Destiny
The story picks up a few years after the previous game, with Fimbulwinter gripping the realms and Ragnarök — the end of the Norse world — approaching. Kratos and Atreus must journey across the nine realms to find answers and prevent catastrophe, but their relationship is tested as Atreus seeks his own identity and purpose.
Few games manage to balance epic fights with heartfelt moments, but this one absolutely nails it. The voice acting from Christopher Judge (Kratos) and Sunny Suljic (Atreus) is exceptional, conveying complex emotions through subtle performances. The father-son dynamic is the heart of the story, exploring themes of legacy, destiny, and letting go.
Combat Evolution
The combat expands upon the 2018 foundation with new abilities, weapons, and enemies. Kratos wields both the Leviathan Axe and the Blades of Chaos, with new skills and combos for each. The addition of weapon signatures and relic powers adds variety to combat encounters.
Boss battles are spectacular, featuring gods, giants, and monsters from Norse mythology. Each encounter is uniquely designed with multiple phases and requires different strategies. The scale of these battles is breathtaking, with some taking place across entire realms.
Exploration and Realms
Ragnarök significantly expands the explorable areas, allowing you to visit all nine realms. Each realm has distinct visual design, from the dwarven forges of Svartalfheim to the golden beauty of Vanaheim. Side quests, called Favors, provide substantial content with meaningful rewards and lore.
The game features extensive post-game content including challenging optional bosses, collectibles that unlock lore, and endgame equipment sets. Completing everything can easily take 60+ hours, making this one of the meatiest games on PS5.
Bonus Pick: Stellar Blade – Style Meets Substance
Though it’s newer to the scene, Stellar Blade is gaining buzz for its slick visuals, engaging combat system, and futuristic setting. This Korean-developed title brings a unique perspective to the action genre.
Genre: Action/Sci-Fi
Developer: Shift Up
Perfect for: Sci-fi lovers and fans of stylish, high-speed combat
Humanity’s Last Hope
You take on the role of Eve, a member of the elite 7th Airborne Squad sent to reclaim Earth from monstrous creatures called Naytibas. The narrative explores themes of humanity, artificial intelligence, and survival through a post-apocalyptic lens.
Think of it as a mix of Nier: Automata and Bayonetta with its own unique twist. The combat emphasizes perfect parries and precise dodges, rewarding skillful play with devastating counter-attacks. The game features a deep skill tree, multiple weapons, and combat challenges that test your mastery.
Why It Stands Out
The visual presentation is stunning, with detailed character models and environments that showcase the PS5’s capabilities. The soundtrack blends electronic and orchestral elements to create an atmospheric soundscape. While it may not have the pedigree of some other titles on this list, Stellar Blade proves that new IPs can compete with established franchises when executed with passion and polish.
How to Choose the Best PS5 Game for You
Still unsure which game to pick? Consider your preferences:
Story-Driven Experiences
If you prioritize narrative and character development, try Final Fantasy XVI or God of War Ragnarök. Both offer cinematic storytelling with complex characters and emotional arcs. Cyberpunk 2077 also excels here with its branching narrative and moral choices.
Epic Action and Challenge
If you crave demanding gameplay that tests your skills, consider Elden Ring or Stellar Blade. These games reward patience, observation, and mechanical skill. Resident Evil 4 Remake also offers challenge through resource management and tactical combat.
Open World Exploration
Ready to explore vast, detailed worlds? Go for Hogwarts Legacy or Cyberpunk 2077. Both offer hundreds of hours of exploration with secrets, side activities, and environmental storytelling. Spider-Man 2’s New York City is also phenomenal for open-world traversal.
Fast-Paced Action
For adrenaline-pumping combat, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Final Fantasy XVI deliver spectacle and speed. The combat in these games is fluid, flashy, and endlessly satisfying, perfect for players who love feeling powerful.
The PS5 Gaming Ecosystem: More Than Just Games
PlayStation Plus Benefits
Don’t forget that PlayStation Plus subscribers get access to a rotating selection of games, including some PS5 titles. The higher tiers (Extra and Premium) provide a catalog of hundreds of games, which can be a cost-effective way to try titles before buying.
DualSense Features Worth Experiencing
Each game on this list utilizes the DualSense controller differently. Spider-Man 2 makes web-swinging feel tactile, Resident Evil 4 creates tension through haptic feedback, and Returnal (another excellent title) uses 3D audio to create spatial awareness. These features elevate gameplay in ways traditional controllers cannot match.
Performance vs. Fidelity Modes
Most PS5 games offer multiple graphics modes. Performance mode prioritizes frame rate (usually 60fps), while fidelity mode focuses on visual quality (usually 4K resolution with ray tracing). Some games even offer 120fps modes for compatible displays. Experiment to find your preference, though we generally recommend performance mode for action games where responsiveness matters.
What’s on the Horizon: Upcoming PS5 Releases to Watch
While this guide focuses on currently available games, the PS5’s future looks bright with anticipated releases including:
- Sequels to popular franchises
- New IPs from established developers
- VR experiences for PlayStation VR2
- Continued expansions and updates to live-service games
The PlayStation ecosystem continues to evolve with regular updates, seasonal content, and surprise announcements that keep the platform fresh and exciting.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your PS5 Gaming Experience
Optimize Your Setup
Ensure your PS5 is connected via HDMI 2.1 to take advantage of features like 4K 120fps and variable refresh rate. Enable HDR in system settings for compatible displays. Use a quality headset to experience 3D Tempest audio that many games support.
Storage Management
PS5 games can be large, with some exceeding 100GB. Consider expanding storage with a compatible M.2 SSD. You can also store PS5 games on external USB drives (though they must be moved to internal storage to play) and archive games you’ve completed.
Trophy Hunting
Each game offers trophies for completing objectives. Some players enjoy the challenge of platinum trophies (earning all trophies in a game). The games on this list range from relatively easy platinums (Spider-Man 2) to extremely challenging (Elden Ring).
Community and Multiplayer
Many PS5 games have active communities. Join subreddits, Discord servers, or forums to share strategies, find co-op partners, or discuss lore. Some games like Elden Ring have message systems that allow players to help each other without direct communication.
Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re in the mood to swing through skyscrapers, battle Norse gods, explore magical schools, or fight terrifying creatures, the best PS5 games of 2024 deliver unforgettable experiences. With stellar graphics, fast-paced action, and deep stories, it’s truly the best time to be a gamer.
The PlayStation 5 library has matured into one of the strongest in console history. These games represent not just technical achievements but artistic triumphs that push the medium forward. They offer hundreds of hours of entertainment, emotional storytelling, and gameplay innovation that justify the investment in Sony’s console.
No matter your taste, the PlayStation 5’s game library is stacked with winners. Even better, many of these titles are constantly getting updates, expansions, and new content — so there’s always something fresh to discover. Developers continue to unlock new potential from the hardware, meaning games will only get better as the generation progresses.
So plug in your controller, clear your weekend schedule, and prepare to get lost in these incredible worlds. Each game on this list offers something unique, whether it’s the adrenaline rush of web-slinging, the satisfaction of overcoming impossible odds, the wonder of magical discovery, or the emotional impact of masterful storytelling.
Got a favorite from the list? Or is there a hidden gem you think deserves more love? The beauty of the PS5 library is its diversity — there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer seeking the ultimate challenge or a casual player looking for an engaging story, these titles represent the pinnacle of what gaming can achieve in 2024.
The future of gaming is here, and it’s playing on PlayStation 5. Which adventure will you choose first?
Remember to check for sales on the PlayStation Store, as many of these titles regularly receive discounts. Happy gaming!