It really doesn’t take much debate — PlayStation won the 1990s console wars. Although both Sega and Nintendo produced amazing games and hardware, PlayStation simply had more games. More than any other genre. For example: RPGs that introduced the West to JRPGs; Stealth games that revolutionized game design; Platformers that demonstrated that 3D games could succeed; Racing games with a level of depth that arcade games would never achieve; Fighting games that got arcade gamers to buy consoles; Horror games that developed a new genre of game.
For three weeks we argued not about whether PS1 dominated the console wars — that was evident — but about which ten games best represented the dominance of PS1. Not which were the most historically significant (they all are); not which were the best selling (most were); but which games represented PlayStation at its very pinnacle — technically, creatively, and philosophically. Because PS1’s dominance was not due to luck. It was due to the appropriate hardware at the appropriate time and after that, a huge number of quality games across virtually every category.
PS1 was launched in Japan on December 3rd, 1994, and in North America on September 9th, 1995. With 32-bit processing ability that allowed for true 3-D graphics, CD-ROM media that stored many times more data than cartridges, and manufacturers that were willing to aggressively pursue third party developers, the end result was a boom in diversity of games that no previous console had ever experienced.
Quick Rankings
- Final Fantasy VII — The JRPG that made Western gamers interested in the genre
- Metal Gear Solid — The stealth game that changed everything
- Resident Evil — The survival horror game that created the genre
- Tekken 3 — The 3D fighting game that proved that 3D fighting games could work
- Crash Bandicoot — The 3D platformer that validated the hardware
- Gran Turismo — The racing simulation that showed how deep racing simulations could be
- Castlevania: Symphony of the Night — The Metroidvania that perfected the formula
- Spyro The Dragon — The charming 3D platformer
- Chrono Cross — The ambitious sequel that took the risk of being entirely unique
- Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee — The innovative design that illustrated the value of being unique.
1. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Genre: JRPG | Developer: Square
Before Final Fantasy VII, JRPGs were a niche product. They had dedicated fan bases, particularly for Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, but they certainly weren’t mainstream. When Square released Final Fantasy VII, they released a 120-hour epic with pre-rendered 3D backgrounds, 3D character models, a phenomenal soundtrack, and a story that genuinely left gamers emotionally battered. Your main character was Cloud, a conflicted anti-hero who went through a complete arc of character development. The world seemed vast and living. And the antagonist, Sephiroth, has become an icon in his own right.
Why is it un-touchable?: The sheer scale of the game. The size of the game’s world and the length of the game’s story were previously unmatched. You traveled the world on an airship. You snuck into enemy bases. You fought against gods. The Materia System allowed you to customize your magical and combat abilities to suit your preferences. Each character had their own Limit Break, giving each one unique special attacks. The story had emotional moments that are still felt today. Final Fantasy VII was more than a good JRPG, it was a JRPG that helped prove that JRPGs could be mainstream.
The One-Winged Angel battle theme remains iconic. Nobuo Uematsu’s soundtrack is still among the greatest. The pre-rendered backgrounds remain vivid and detailed. The story takes a dramatic twist halfway through the game, leaving the gamer questioning what they believed was going on. Without spoiling anything, the game shows respect for the gamer’s emotional investment by showing that the emotions you felt during the events that occurred in the game mattered.
Does it still hold up?: The polygonal character models look dated but the proportions and animation are so good that you quickly get used to it. The story is engaging. The Materia System remains as deep as ever. The difficulty curve is fair.
See Joe’s review of how Final Fantasy VII established itself as the game that changed mainstream gaming for JRPGs:
2. Metal Gear Solid (1998)
Genre: Stealth Action | Developer: Kojima Productions
Metal Gear Solid proved that stealth could be a primary mechanism in a video game. You were tasked with infiltrating a military base to prevent a rogue military unit from obtaining nuclear missiles. While you can fight, the optimal method is to sneak past every soldier and enemy undetected. The game respects this philosophy and allows the gamer to beat the entire game without taking a single life.
The controls are smooth. The mechanics teach themselves. The AI is intelligent enough to challenge the gamer’s strategic thinking. The gamer must always consider guard patrols, use environmental objects to hide behind, and manage the limited equipment they have available. The story is ridiculous — a cybernetic man-child with psychic powers, genetically modified super-soldiers, and a nuclear missile — but the game presents it with total seriousness.
What makes it un-touchable?: The integration of the game’s narrative and gameplay through cinematic cut-scenes and codec conversations. The breaking of the fourth wall throughout the game that challenges the gamer’s perceptions of reality. The high-quality voice acting, especially for 1998. The soundtrack by Harry Gregson-Williams that is still great. The memorable boss battles that each feature a unique, visually striking fight. Psycho Mantis’s ability to read the gamer’s mind by accessing their saved game. This game was developing meta-narratives long before meta-narratives were popular.
Does it still hold up?: The controls are a little clunky compared to modern standards, but they function perfectly for Metal Gear Solid’s deliberate pace. The story is totally absurd, but presented with such seriousness that the gamer becomes invested in it. The stealth gameplay is still solid. This is a game that respects the gamer’s intelligence and rewards them for playing strategically.
See Carl’s analysis of Metal Gear Solid’s innovative design:
3. Resident Evil (1996)
Genre: Survival Horror | Developer: Capcom
Resident Evil started the survival horror genre. You are trapped in a mansion overrun with bioterrorism experiments. Slow-moving tank controls, limited ammunition to manage, and puzzles to solve are just a few of the systems designed to create fear in the player. The game trusts that if you limit the player’s movement, you will generate fear in addition to frustration.
The static camera angles that many gamers complained about were actually an excellent way to create atmosphere. As you round a corner and the camera pans back, you see a horrific scene. The fixed cameras create atmosphere. The mansion is full of detail and intentionally confusing — you find yourself getting lost in the mansion, and that creates actual tension in the player.
What makes it un-touchable?: Total dedication to horror design. Every aspect of the game supports generating fear and tension. The tank controls are slow and deliberate. The limited resources mean that every battle is meaningful. The inventory system demands strategy and planning. The typewriter saves give the feeling that progress is valuable. The creatures in the game are unsettling. The music is atmospheric but does not overwhelm.
The puzzle design is reasonable without being too obscure. You observe your surroundings, find clues, and solve logical puzzles. None of the puzzles require guesswork.
Does it still hold up?: Yes. The tank controls feel awkward at first, but fit perfectly with the game’s deliberate pace. The graphics are obviously outdated, but the visuals are strong. The creature designs are still frightening. The atmosphere is still scary. This is a game that defines the survival horror genre.
See Timothy’s analysis of Resident Evil’s survival horror design:
4. Tekken 3 (1997)
Genre: 3D Fighting Game | Developer: Namco
Tekken 3 proved that 3D fighting games can be successful. There are 8 fighters, each with their own unique style and abilities. All of the fighters are viable for competitive play. The frame data is correct. The combos are rewarding. The difficulty curve is balanced. This is a fighting game where every fighter plays uniquely, not just a reskin of another fighter.
Each fighter has an extensive list of moves, but it is learnable. The difficulty curve learns you the mechanics of the game through the various modes of gameplay. The multi-player is competitive. Frame data is important. Positioning is important. Understanding fighter matchups is important. This is a fighting game that works.
What makes it un-touchable?: The balance of eight fighters that all play uniquely. Kazuya is an all-around solid choice. Paul is a aggressive rush-down character. Jack is a grappler. Nina is a complicated hit-confirm character. King is a pure grappler. Lei is an unpredictable evasionist. Eddy is a mobile character based on flashy kick moves. Yoshimitsu is an unconventional mix-up player. All eight fighters are competitively viable.
Does it still hold up?: The graphics are dated, but the fighter designs are still easy to distinguish and understand. The gameplay is still fun. Modern fighting games may have more flashy graphics, but the fundamental fighting game mechanics in Tekken 3 are still valid. Experienced fighting gamers can enjoy competing in Tekken 3.
See Samuel’s technical breakdown of how Tekken 3 achieved balance in its 3D fighting game mechanics:
5. Crash Bandicoot (1996)
Genre: 3D Platformer | Developer: Insomniac Games
Crash Bandicoot proved that 3D platformers can work. You are Crash Bandicoot, and you are traversing vibrant worlds filled with fruit while avoiding obstacles and enemies. The controls are responsive. The level design is excellent. The difficulty curve is ideal. This is 3D platforming that respects the player’s time and skill level.
What makes it un-touchable?: The response of the controls. The movement is fast and immediate. Jumping is precise. The collision detection is fair. The gradual introduction of new mechanics in the level design (e.g., spinning into a spin attack, riding rhinos, navigating underwater) do not overwhelm the player. The variety of creative environments, including jungles, temples, and factories. The charm of the character that encourages the player to care about Crash’s adventure. The music that is memorable, yet non-intrusive.
The difficulty of the game increases in a natural manner. The early levels teach the player the basic mechanics. The later levels require the player to master all of the mechanics simultaneously. The bonus areas are difficult, but optional. The sense of accomplishment from progressing through the game is substantial.
Does it still hold up?: Completely. The graphics are obviously dated, but the colors of the game are still vibrant. The controls are still responsive. The level design is still excellent. The 3D platforming is still enjoyable. This game holds up because the fundamental elements of the game are correct.
6. Gran Turismo (1997)
Type: Racing | Developer: Polyphony Digital
Gran Turismo proved that racing games could be serious console simulators. More than 150 vehicles were included with unique handling properties. Many race venues were also available. There was a career mode that progressed from amateur to pro racer. Arcade-style racing games typically feature more realistic physics and weight transfer impacts and tire wear affects overall vehicle performance.
Driving feels heavy. Vehicles respond to user input and exhibit momentum. Planning is necessary for braking. Understanding the limitations of your vehicle is key to cornering.
What makes it unmatchable: The sheer amount of content. If you attempt to play every possible way to play, there are over 60 hours of racing. The learning experience of progressive difficulty allows users to learn basic racing skills through the act of racing itself and not through tutorials. Endurance racing, time trials and circuit racing are some examples of the many types of racing that are represented in the game. Car tuning provides a means of creating genuine customizations to the vehicle. The game features an excellent soundtrack. Graphics that create readable track layouts and visually appealing vehicles.
Still holds up?: Obvious graphics aging. Not overly intelligent AI. However, the racing design remains fundamentally solid. Vehicles still handle realistically. Tracks remain challenging. A racing game that does respect the concept of simulation, but does not go too far in terms of complexity.
Read Samuel’s review of Gran Turismo’s depth of racing simulation →
7. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)
Type: Metroidvania | Developer: Konami
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night perfected the Metroidvania format that was developed by Super Metroid. You explore an enormous castle with a 2D side-scrolling perspective. Power-up acquisitions open new areas. Secrets are found by paying close attention to details. Controls are tight. Level design is genius. Difficulty is reasonable.
What makes it unmatchable: 2D graphics that are incredibly beautiful and still look that way today. Hand-drawn animation that is fluid and expressive. Castle layout that feels vast and interconnected. Equipment acquisition system that allows for total control of your build. Secret areas that are enjoyable to discover and not difficult to find. The soundtrack created by Michiru Yamane is fantastic. The gradual increase in difficulty allows you to master techniques as you go along. Boss designs are creative and challenging without feeling unfair.
The Familiar system provides you with various creature companions that give you a range of benefits. You’re not simply improving your ability to directly perform actions — you’re building a complete character through equipment and Familiar selection.
Still holds up?: Yes. The 2D graphics are timeless due to being hand drawn and animated. The level design is still incredible. Exploring is still fun. Combat is still exciting. This game holds up because the fundamental elements of Metroidvania design are correct in this version.
Read John’s defense of Symphony of the Night’s Metroidvania design →
8. Spyro The Dragon (1998)
Type: Platformer | Developer: Insomniac Games
Spyro The Dragon is a 3D platformer that demonstrates how simplicity outperforms complexity. You are a little purple dragon who breathes fire on enemies, charges with your horns, and flies for short periods. The controls are easy to understand and work well. Levels are colorful and varied. The difficulty is suitable for the age group targeted by the game and is challenging enough for adults.
What makes it unmatchable: Pure charm. Spyro has a lot of personality. Worlds are full of color and detail. The controls are natural; a child can pick this up and know exactly what to do right away. Cleverness without frustration exists in the level design. Plenty of collectables exist without needing obsessive searching. Side characters are cute. Music is memorable. The game respects your time by not wasting it.
Difficulty progression is perfect. Initial levels will teach you the basics of gameplay. Later levels will require mastery, but will never be frustratingly difficult. Bonus levels will be extremely challenging, but optional.
Still holds up?: Yes. Graphics may be dated, but they are charming. The controls are still good. The level design is still clever. The charm is still present. This game holds up because it fully commits to what it wants to do.
Read Timothy’s praise for Spyro’s design elegance →
9. Chrono Cross (1999)
Type: JRPG | Developer: Square
Chrono Cross is the sequel to Chrono Trigger that decided to be entirely different. Instead of having one hero, you have 45 heroes you can recruit into your party each with their own history. Instead of the threat of global catastrophe, you navigate politics and alternate dimensions. Instead of linear storytelling, the game tells a complex story involving real philosophy about destiny and choice.
This is a bold sequel. It doesn’t try to repeat Chrono Trigger — it uses that as a springboard for something entirely new.
What makes it unmatchable: The sheer audacity. Double and triple switching in the element system, where the current character changes affect the abilities. 45 party members each with a personality and history. Complex, but understandable, story. Phenomenal music by Yasunori Mitsuda. Ability to recruit any of the 45 into your party in any order — this completely alters the story. Multiple endings dependent upon player decisions. Willingness to tell a story that is philosophically complex.
Still holds up?: The story is still very engaging. The element system is still interesting. The variety of characters is still amazing. The music is still great. The graphics have aged but the visual style is excellent. This game holds up because the ambition is real and the execution is nearly flawless.
Read Joe’s defense of Chrono Cross’s bold design →
10. Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee (1997)
Type: Puzzle Platformer | Developer: Oddworld Inhabitants
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee demonstrated that originality matters. You are Abe, a mudokon attempting to escape a meat factory where your people are being hunted for food. The controls are simple: you run, you jump, you talk to other creatures. But the puzzles are first-class: you need to communicate with creatures, take possession of them, use their powers to progress through environments while evading the hunters.
What makes it unmatchable: The originality. No other game has this aesthetic, this mechanics, or this style of game. Hand-drawn animation that is charming and expressive. Excellent voice acting (Abe has an excellent, personality-rich voice actor). The puzzle design that relies on observation and communication, rather than violence. Dark humor throughout. Atmosphere that is genuinely tense despite the fact that the game is not trying to be survival horror.
The difficulty is perfectly balanced. The puzzles are challenging but solvable. Precision jumping is required for platforming but is not unnecessarily brutal. The combination of both results in real engagement.
Still holds up?: Yes. The hand-drawn animation is timeless. Voice acting is still excellent. Puzzle design is still clever. Originality is still striking. This game holds up because it committed to its unique vision entirely and executed it wonderfully.
Read John’s tribute to Oddworld’s original design →
The Games That Did Not Make the Cut (And How PS1’s Game Library Is Extremely Strong)
Suikoden II. Parasite Eve. Intelligent Qube. Ape Escape. Tenchu. Soul Blade. Vagrant Story. Digimon World. Dino Crisis. Ridge Racer Type 4. The PS1 has many, many really good games outside of the top 10.
Each one of these got debated in our meeting. Joe made a passionate case for Parasite Eve. Carl argued for Vagrant Story. Timothy thought Ape Escape should be higher because of its innovative use of analog sticks. Sam showed frame data to argue for Soul Blade’s fairness. John defended Tenchu’s early stealth innovations compared to Metal Gear Solid.
However, these 10 games represent not only quality but also the titles that demonstrate what the PlayStation was capable of accomplishing and would influence video game design for years to come. If your favorite did not make the cut, we get it. The PS1 has such a ridiculous number of great games that any Top 10 is going to exclude someone’s beloved game. Go ahead and shout at us in the comments. We’re ready for it. We’ve been shouting at each other about this for months.
Individual game reviews by the New Player Ready team member that most passionately advocated for his/her favorite game to be included. Passion should be rewarded. Even when it’s used to defend magnificent games that almost didn’t make a Top 10 of magnificent games.
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