The 20 Best PlayStation Games of 2023

The first numbered installment in Blizzard's action/RPG/dungeon-crawler series in over a decade, Diablo IV is, like its three predecessors, another well-reviewed release. Critics feel that while Diablo IV doesn't represent a revolutionary change, the cinematic atmosphere, new emphasis on story, and open world are welcome improvements.

"Diablo IV is almost shockingly refined, with an absorbing story and addictive gameplay. The shift to always online and connected play might turn some away, and the level scaling can make combat a little same-y, but on the whole, this is still Diablo at its best. It plays very well, offers tonnes of options for tailoring your character and acquiring that all important hunt for better and better loot will keep you coming back for more." —TheSixthAxis

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The virtual reality version of the stylish 2001 rail shooter Rez has landed on multiple platforms since 2016, finally jumping to the PSVR2 at that device's launch in February of this year. Critics think it a definite improvement over the PS4/PSVR version.

"A perfect mix between contemporary art and videogame, now better because of Eye Tracking on PS VR2." —Meristation

This compilation—which came to PS4 this year after first debuting on PC and mobile platforms—bundles 2D pixel-art remasters of Square Enix's first six Final Fantasy RPG games, along with some minor extras. In addition to the new graphics, the games also feature an updated UI.

"Overall, if you're a Final Fantasy fan who has never had the chance to play most or all of the titles in this collection then you should jump at Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster, as it provides the best way to play all six entries to this day." —GGRecon

After getting a Switch release in 2021 and a PC release the following year, Capcom's monster-hunting action-RPG finally made it to PlayStation consoles in early 2023. Rise brings the fantasy action-RPG series into the new "ninja-inspired" locale of Kamura Village. Gameplay is similar to that of 2018's Monster Hunter World (albeit with new additions including a new "Rampage" survival mode), and you can hunt on your own or with up to three companions.

"With fast loading times, an impressive 120 fps mode, and added immersive features, Monster Hunter Rise on PlayStation 5 is a must-play for any fans of the franchise and newcomers looking to get into the hobby of hunting monsters." —Hey Poor Player

Currently a PlayStation 5 exclusive (though a PC port could arrive as soon as next year), the first major Final Fantasy installment in seven years is also the highest-scoring FF game since 2006's Final Fantasy XII. Though it's not a true open-world game like its immediate predecessor, FF16 does feature some openly explorable areas throughout its action/RPG gameplay. Critics see a polished game with depth, a strong narrative, and fun real-time combat, though for every reviewer who deems FF16 a franchise best there's another who finds aspects of the game slightly short of greatness.

"In ditching turn-based combat for combo-heavy melees, Final Fantasy 16 recaptures the spirit of reinvention that the series lends itself to. This new approach to action coalesces with a world you'll want to explore, and an endearing story which is powerfully executed by its voice cast. Overall, Final Fantasy 16 is an experience that stands alongside the series' greats." —GamesRadar+

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Following about six months after the release of the widely praised Resident Evil 4 remake, that survival horror game's first expansion fills in gaps in the story through the perspective of Ada Wong. Critics were pleasantly surprised by the wealth of content available in this relatively bargain-priced DLC.

"A very welcome slice of DLC that is just as enjoyable as the main game and helps flesh out a fan favourite character with their own unique abilities and agenda." —Metro GameCentral

The first expansion to Metacritic's 2022 PlayStation Exclusive of the Year adds roguelite gameplay and an extended story to the ongoing adventures of Kratos (and Mimir), serving as an epilogue to the original game. As a free release, it's a no-brainer for owners of Ragnarok.

"God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla is a brilliant addition to a brilliant game. Not only does it remix the core title's combat in a compelling, highly replayable roguelite mode, it does so with Santa Monica's usual cinematic style, weaving in meaningful story that'll keep you hooked while it lasts." —Push Square

Actually scoring a bit higher on the PS5 than the aforementioned Monster Hunter Rise, this first expansion to that game adds a variety of new monsters, locations, and more. As far as DLC goes, it's a big one that makes playing Rise even more rewarding.

"For new players, the more logical difficulty curve that Sunbreak presents, with a meaningful endgame challenge now correct and present, means there has never been a better time to jump into Monster Hunter Rise. Similarly, for lapsed players who were eventually put off by how trivial things had become, Sunbreak provides the perfect excuse to jump back in. Whatever angle you're approaching Sunbreak from, sharpen those blades – you're going to need them." —Hey Poor Player

Developed by Max Payne creator Remedy Entertainment, the even-better sequel to 2010's Alan Wake switches genres from action-adventure to survival horror for its story of the titular writer, who has been trapped in a nightmarish alternate world for 13 years and tries to write his way out of his predicament. You'll play as both Wake and FBI agent Saga Anderson, who is investigating a series of murders in the real-world small town where Wake disappeared—and whose story is tied to Wake's in mysterious ways. Also named the best game of 2023 by multiple publications and winner of three Game Awards, Alan Wake 2 earned praise from critics for its innovative gameplay, spooky and surreal atmosphere, and truly stunning visuals.

"Alan Wake 2 isn't just the best horror game we've seen in years – it's one of the best games, period. Though its emphasis on exploration may progress a little too slowly for some, its unsettling presentation and jaw-dropping graphics make it one of the most ambitious titles we've seen to date. Don't miss it." —NME

One of a few VR puzzle-adventures on our list, this May release for the PSVR2 continues the story of 2018's Red Matter. The dystopian sci-fi storyline is again set in space during a future Cold War, and you again inhabit the character of agent Sasha—this time, following a distress call from an old friend to the distant edges of the solar system.

"Red Matter 2 is an amazing follow-up to one of the best games on the original PS VR. With the best graphics on the PS VR2, incredible environmental puzzles and storytelling, and one of the most polished control schemes on the market, Vertical Robot again shows why it is among the very best VR developers. If you are at all interested in VR gaming, Red Matter 2 is a game not to be missed." —Gaming Nexus

A remake of the 2008 sci-fi survival horror game of the same name—and the first release in the Dead Space series in a decade—this atmospheric next-gen take on Dead Space makes numerous changes to gameplay in addition to completely overhauling the presentation. But the story and setting—a 26th century mining ship in a distant solar system where the crew has been infected and killed—remain mostly intact ... and mostly terrifying.

"Dead Space is one of the best survival horror games ever made. It takes a masterpiece of the genre and allows its biggest strengths to shine brighter than they ever have, while also improving upon it in meaningful ways with smart changes and additions." —GamingBolt

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The first sequel to 2014's The Talos Principle is another first-person narrative puzzler hailing from Croatian studio Croteam. Like the prior game, TP2 integrates philosophical themes into its puzzle-solving and sci-fi story set in a post-apocalyptic future world in which humanity has gone extinct—but not before transferring human culture and knowledge into a race of androids.

"The Talos Principle 2 follows in its predecessor's shoes by nailing down a brilliant philosophical puzzle sequel with new and improved mechanics. If the puzzle solving doesn't get your brain ticking, then the in-depth philosophical discussions surely will. With exceptional puzzle design, glorious presentation, and thought-provoking conversations, Croteam has created a follow-up to be remembered for years to come." —Push Square

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The terrific debut game from indie Danish studio Geometric Interactive (founded by a pair of Limbo and Inside developers), Cocoon is a sci-fi puzzle-centric adventure that finds you jumping between worlds with the help of ancient alien technology. Gameplay may be as simple as it gets, but puzzle-lovers will be thrilled by the fresh and imaginative challenges on display throughout. It's the best-reviewed non-sequel on our PS5 list this year.

"With nothing more than a thumbstick and a face button, Cocoon demonstrates an elite level of game design and mechanical proficiency that few others in the genre could ever hope to achieve." —WellPlayed

Arriving on PS5/PSVR2 a year after it first debuted on the PS4 and PC, Moss: Book II is a VR puzzle-adventure game (and sequel to the 2018 release Moss) set in a magical fantasy realm where you must aid the heroic mouse Quill, who holds the key to restoring peace to her world but must evade pursuit to achieve that peace. It was one of the few standout titles in the PSVR2's launch lineup in February.

"Moss: Book II is a genuinely emotional, surprisingly creative, and incredibly gorgeous follow-up to its critically acclaimed predecessor. Book II takes the themes and gameplay ideas from the first title and nearly perfects them and in doing so has created a longer, more difficult, and more fulfilling adventure for Quill." —GamingTrend

Metacritic's Best PlayStation Exclusive of 2023.

One of the most-anticipated PS5 games of the year managed to deliver on the weighty expectations triggered by the success of its 2018 predecessor (and its 2020 sequel Miles Morales). In fact, it's an even better game. Once again developed by Ratchet and Clank studio Insomniac Games, Spider-Man 2 allows you to play as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales—swappable throughout much of the game—in a greatly expanded Marvel version of New York City, where Venom, Kraven the Hunter, and other villains stand in their way. Critics think it a surprisingly emotional and fast-paced game that takes full advantage of the PS5's technical capabilities.

"Spider-Man 2 is the greatest superhero game ever made. Period. The way it builds off the foundation laid by 2018's Spider-Man is a shining example of how to create a sequel. It pulls no punches when evolving the experience, delivering an unforgettable ride that unequivocally demands your attention. Other developers need to take note - this is how you expand upon a franchise." —COGconnected

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Arriving a decade after the first Rogue Legacy title (and a year after the PC version of RL2), this sequel is another fantasy platformer that incorporates Metroidvania and roguelike (naturally) gameplay elements. The most notable difference in the new game is the use of hand-drawn, cartoon-like visuals (rather than its predecessor's pixel art), but you'll also set forth into a much bigger, more varied world.

"Rogue Legacy 2's long gestation has benefitted it immensely. It comes to PS5 in the shape of its life, and it is easily among the best Metroidvania-style games on the market today." —PlayStation Universe

Far, far better than the previous numbered installment in Capcom's venerable fighting series, Street Fighter 6 offers three different game modes which provide a combination of single-player and online (and cross-platform) multiplayer gameplay, and combined provide plenty of content for newcomers and veterans alike. New features include real-time commentary.

"Capcom's latest takes everything you'd expect from the father of the fighting genre and turns it up to 10. There's something for everyone here, with no fat or filler to ruin the experience. Street Fighter 6 is the best fighting game experience in a long time, and in the years to come, its impact and legacy could be every bit as massive as Street Fighter 2." —Inverse

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Capcom's Resident Evil remake series has so far produced a stone-cold classic as well as Resident Evil 3. The latest remake is much closer to the former than the latter, though it helps that the source material—2005's Resident Evil 4—is one of the best videogames ever made. And so, apparently, is its remake, which modernizes the graphics, controls, and story while retaining much of what made the original a survival horror classic.

"Resident Evil 4 Remake is the legendary game given more than just a new coat of paint. The visuals and sound design are brutally oppressive, the combat is sharper than a knife's edge, and the world will make you want to uncover every corner. It's as enticing as it is engaging, and intense as it is exciting. Resident Evil 4 is back, and it's better than ever." —GLHF

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Coming to PS5 (and PSVR2) several years after reaching other platforms (including the PS4 in 2021), Tetris Effect is a modern, rhythmically enhanced version of the classic falling tile game with 30 distinct stages and a new gameplay mechanic. Play solo or—as the "Connected" subtitle implies—with others via cross-platform online multiplayer (including one mode where up to four players share a playfield).

"Tetris Effect: Connected is as essential as it ever was and its PSVR2 debut adds yet more polish and immersive features to what was already the best Tetris game money can buy. I would award Tetris Effect: Connected more than ten out of ten I could, but I can't, so here we are. Buy it." —PlayStation Universe

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Metacritic's Best New PlayStation Game of 2023.
Metacritic's Overall Game of the Year for 2023.

It's not just the best game of the year: It's the best of the current decade so far. A surprising commercial hit from Belgian indie studio Larian (who previously created the Divinity series), the first all-new numbered title in the Dungeons & Dragons-based fantasy RPG series Baldur's Gate since 2000's Shadows of Amn is the result of many years of development—including full motion-capture and voice acting for every single on-screen character by a cast of 248 actors—and three years in Early Access. All of that work, love for the source material, and feedback from gamers has paid off handsomely: The incredibly deep Baldur's Gate 3 is one of the most flexible, involving, innovative, surprising, and rewarding games in recent memory, and it is virtually impossible not to sink dozens (if not hundreds) of hours into it. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that despite plenty of dark moments it might also be 2023's funniest game.

"Baldur's Gate 3 is nothing short of a gaming phenomenon, the kind of video game sensation that surfaces only once in a blue moon. The transition to the PlayStation 5 platform not only feels natural, but remarkably seamless. In their ingenuity, Larian Studios has guaranteed that you can simply pick up a controller and effortlessly traverse the vast realms of Dungeons and Dragons." —Digital Chumps

Looking for more good PlayStation Games?
View a complete list of every 2023 PS5 game ranked by Metascore >