Are you a fan of the original PlayStation (PS1)? If so, then you know that the console was home to some of the best video games of all time. From immersive role-playing games to fast-paced fighting games, the PS1 had something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best games on the PS1. From classic platformers to groundbreaking survival horror games, these are the titles that truly set the console apart. So sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the best games for the PS1!
25. Syphon Filter
Syphon Filter is a stealth-based action game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1999. It received critical acclaim upon release and is considered a classic of the PS1 era.
One of the reasons Syphon Filter is a good game is its challenging gameplay. Players take on the role of Gabe Logan, a member of a secret government agency, and must complete a variety of missions that often require stealth and strategic thinking. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets to choose from, and players must choose the right tools for the job in order to succeed.
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24. Ridge Racer Type 4
Ridge Racer Type 4 is a racing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the fourth installment in the Ridge Racer series and is considered by many to be one of the best games in the series.
One of the reasons Ridge Racer Type 4 is a great game is its fast-paced gameplay. The game features a variety of tracks and cars to choose from, and players must navigate sharp turns and make split-second decisions in order to succeed. The game also features a drift mechanic that allows players to slide around turns, adding an additional layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Another reason Ridge Racer Type 4 is a great game is its impressive graphics and sound. The game features detailed car models and environments, and the soundtrack features a variety of electronic music tracks that add to the energetic feel of the game.
Overall, Ridge Racer Type 4 is a well-designed racing game with fast-paced gameplay, impressive graphics, and a great soundtrack. It is a classic of the PS1 era and is still enjoyed by many players today.
23.Twisted Metal 2
Twisted Metal 2 is a car combat game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1996. It is the second installment in the Twisted Metal series and features a variety of vehicles and weapons to choose from.
In Twisted Metal 2, players take control of a variety of vehicles and engage in fast-paced, action-packed battles against other players or computer-controlled opponents. The game features a variety of arenas and environments, and players can choose from a wide range of weapons and power-ups to use against their enemies.
One of the standout features of Twisted Metal 2 is its wide roster of vehicles, each with its own unique attributes and abilities. Players can choose from cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even a giant robot, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
Overall, Twisted Metal 2 is a fun and fast-paced car combat game that is easy to pick up and play, but offers plenty of depth and strategy for more experienced players.
22. Tomb Raider II
Tomb Raider II is a action-adventure game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1997. It is the sequel to the groundbreaking original Tomb Raider game and builds upon its gameplay and story.
One of the ways Tomb Raider II improves upon the original game is by expanding the scope of the gameplay. In addition to the exploration and puzzle-solving that were present in the first game, Tomb Raider II introduces new gameplay elements such as vehicles and stealth gameplay. The game also introduces new weapons and abilities for players to use, such as dual pistols and the ability to turn invisible.
Another way Tomb Raider II improves upon the original is through its improved graphics and sound. The game features more detailed character models and environments, and the soundtrack features a variety of music tracks that add to the immersive atmosphere of the game.
Overall, Tomb Raider II builds upon the foundation of the original game and adds new gameplay elements, improved graphics, and a more immersive story.
21. Street Fighter Alpha 3
Street Fighter Alpha 3, also known as Street Fighter Zero 3, is a fighting game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the third game in the Street Fighter Alpha sub-series and is considered by many to be one of the top fighting games for the console.
One of the reasons Street Fighter Alpha 3 is a top fighting game for the PS1 is its wide roster of characters. The game features a large cast of characters from the Street Fighter series, as well as several new characters that are exclusive to the Alpha series. Each character has their own unique moves and abilities, giving players a wide range of options when it comes to choosing their fighter.
Another reason Street Fighter Alpha 3 is a top fighting game is its smooth gameplay. The game features intuitive controls and a variety of moves and combos that players can use to defeat their opponents. The game also introduces the “ISM” system, which allows players to choose between different fighting styles for their character, adding an additional layer of strategy to the gameplay.
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20. Suikoden II
Suikoden II is a role-playing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1999. It is the second game in the Suikoden series and is considered by many to be a classic of the genre.
In Suikoden II, players take on the role of a young warrior named Riou who is caught up in a conflict between two rival nations. The game features a large cast of characters, each with their own unique personality and story. Players must recruit these characters to their cause and build up their army in order to achieve their goals.
One of the standout features of Suikoden II is its complex storyline. The game features multiple endings and branching paths, depending on the choices players make throughout the game. Players must also make difficult moral decisions that can have significant consequences on the course of the story.
Overall, Suikoden II is a well-designed role-playing game with a large cast of characters, a complex storyline, and challenging gameplay
19. MediEvil
MediEvil is an action-adventure game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is set in a fantastical medieval world and features a protagonist named Sir Daniel Fortesque, a knight who has been resurrected to stop an evil sorcerer from taking over the world.
One of the standout features of MediEvil is its quirky sense of humor. The game is filled with humorous dialogue and character designs, and the protagonist is a bumbling, comical figure who is more interested in defeating enemies and collecting treasure than being a hero.
Another feature of MediEvil is its challenging gameplay. Players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies using a variety of weapons and abilities. The game also features puzzles that players must solve in order to progress through the levels.
Overall, MediEvil is a well-designed action-adventure game with a humorous tone, challenging gameplay, and memorable characters.
18. Wild Arms
Wild Arms is a role-playing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1996. It is set in a fantasy world with a western theme, and players take on the role of a young hero named Rudy who is on a quest to save the world.
One of the standout features of Wild Arms is its unique battle system. In addition to traditional turn-based battles, the game introduces the “Active Time Battle” system, which requires players to carefully plan their moves in order to succeed. The game also features a variety of weapons and abilities that players can use in battle, including special “Arms” attacks that are unique to each character.
Another feature of Wild Arms is its immersive storyline. The game features a variety of characters and locations, and players must uncover the mystery behind Rudy’s quest as they progress through the game.
Overall, Wild Arms is a well-designed role-playing game with a unique battle system, immersive storyline, and memorable characters. It is a classic of the PS1 era and is still enjoyed by many players today.
17. Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 is a racing simulation game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1999. It is the sequel to the popular Gran Turismo game and is considered by many to be one of the best racing games for the console.
One of the reasons Gran Turismo 2 is a great game is its wide variety of cars and tracks. The game features over 500 cars and 100 tracks to choose from, giving players a huge amount of content to explore. The game also features realistic car physics and handling, making it feel authentic and immersive.
Another reason Gran Turismo 2 is a great game is its deep gameplay. In addition to traditional races, the game features a variety of other modes, including time trials, drift challenges, and license tests, which require players to demonstrate their driving skills. The game also features a detailed car customization system, allowing players to fine-tune the performance of their vehicles.
16. Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver is an action-adventure game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1999. It is the sequel to the game Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain and follows the story of the character Raziel, a former vampire who has been resurrected as a soul-devouring creature known as a “Reaver.”
One of the standout features of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver is its immersive storyline. The game features a complex narrative that spans multiple time periods and explores themes of fate, redemption, and the nature of existence. Players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they uncover the mystery behind Raziel’s resurrection and his role in a centuries-old conflict.
Another feature of the game is its unique gameplay mechanics. In addition to traditional combat and exploration, the game introduces the concept of “shifting” between the material world and the spectral realm, which allows players to access new areas and solve puzzles. The game also features a variety of weapons and abilities that players can use to defeat enemies and progress through the levels.
15. Chrono Cross
Chrono Cross is a role-playing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 2000. It is the sequel to the game Chrono Trigger and features a complex story that involves time travel and multiple parallel worlds.
One of the standout features of Chrono Cross is its large cast of characters. The game features over 40 playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines. Players must recruit these characters to their cause and build up their party in order to succeed.
Another feature of Chrono Cross is its immersive storyline. The game features multiple endings and branching paths, depending on the choices players make throughout the game. Players must navigate a variety of worlds and defeat a variety of enemies as they try to unravel the mystery behind the parallel worlds and the mysterious entity known as “Fate.”
Overall, Chrono Cross is a well-designed role-playing game with a large cast of characters, an immersive storyline, and challenging gameplay.
14. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is a skateboarding simulation game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 2000. It is the sequel to the popular Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater game and features improved graphics, new levels, and a wider roster of skaters.
One of the standout features of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is its intuitive controls. Players use a combination of button presses and joystick movements to perform a variety of tricks, including ollies, kickflips, and grinds. The game also introduces the “create-a-skater” mode, which allows players to create their own custom skater and skatepark.
Another feature of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is its challenging gameplay. Players must complete a variety of objectives in each level, such as collecting items, completing tasks for other skaters, and scoring points by performing tricks. The game also introduces the “career” mode, which allows players to progress through a series of levels and unlock new gear and skaters as they go.
Overall, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 is a well-designed skateboarding simulation game with intuitive controls, challenging gameplay, and a wide variety of tricks and gear to unlock.
13. Grand Theft Auto
Grand Theft Auto (GTA) is an open-world action-adventure game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1997. It is the first game in the Grand Theft Auto series and is considered a classic of the genre.
In Grand Theft Auto, players take on the role of a criminal who must complete a variety of missions in order to advance through the game. The game features a large open world that players can explore, and they can steal cars, complete missions, and engage in other activities as they see fit.
One of the standout features of Grand Theft Auto is its open-ended gameplay. Players are free to explore the game world and complete missions in any order they choose, and they can also engage in a variety of side activities, such as racing, flying planes, and participating in minigames.
Another feature of Grand Theft Auto is its immersive storyline. The game features a variety of characters and locations, and players must navigate the criminal underworld as they try to rise to the top of the criminal hierarchy.
12. Rayman
Rayman is a platforming game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1995. It is the first game in the Rayman series and features a protagonist named Rayman, a limbless hero who must save the world from an evil villain named Mr. Dark.
In Rayman, players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game. The game features intuitive controls and a variety of moves and abilities that players can use to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.
One of the standout features of Rayman is its colorful and imaginative graphics. The game features a variety of colorful environments and character designs, and the soundtrack features a variety of upbeat and energetic music tracks.
Another feature of Rayman is its challenging gameplay. The game features a variety of difficult levels and boss battles that require players to have quick reflexes and strategic thinking in order to succeed.
11. Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IX is a role-playing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 2000. It is the ninth game in the Final Fantasy series and is considered by many to be a classic of the genre.
In Final Fantasy IX, players take on the role of a variety of characters who are caught up in a conflict between rival nations. The game features a complex story that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the nature of reality. Players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Final Fantasy IX is its large cast of characters. The game features over a dozen playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines. Players must recruit these characters to their cause and build up their party in order to succeed.
Another feature of Final Fantasy IX is its immersive world. The game features a variety of locations, including cities, forests, and dungeons, and players can interact with a wide range of characters as they explore the world.
10. Spyro the Dragon
Spyro the Dragon is a platforming game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the first game in the Spyro series and features a protagonist named Spyro, a young dragon who must save the dragon kingdom from an evil sorceress.
In Spyro the Dragon, players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game. The game features intuitive controls and a variety of moves and abilities that players can use to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.
Overall, Spyro the Dragon is a well-designed platforming game with colorful graphics, challenging gameplay, and intuitive controls. It is a classic of the PS1 era and is still enjoyed by many players today.
9. Wipeout 2097
Wipeout 2097, also known as Wipeout XL in North America, is a futuristic racing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1996. It is the sequel to the game Wipeout and is considered a classic of the racing genre.
One of the standout features of Wipeout 2097 is its fast-paced gameplay. The game features a variety of futuristic tracks and vehicles, and players must navigate tight turns and avoid obstacles as they race against other players or computer-controlled opponents. The game also introduces the concept of “ag-systems,” which allow players to boost their speed and gain an advantage over their opponents.
Another feature of Wipeout 2097 is its immersive soundtrack. The game features a variety of electronic music tracks from a variety of artists, and the music is integral to the game’s futuristic atmosphere.
8. Silent Hill
Silent Hill is a survival horror game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1999. It is the first game in the Silent Hill series and is considered a classic of the horror genre.
In Silent Hill, players take on the role of Harry Mason, a man who is searching for his missing daughter in the haunted town of Silent Hill. The game features a variety of environments, including foggy streets, abandoned buildings, and otherworldly dimensions, and players must navigate these environments and solve puzzles in order to progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Silent Hill is its immersive atmosphere. The game features a variety of creepy sound effects and music tracks, and the environments are designed to be unsettling and disorienting. The game also introduces the concept of “alternate dimensions,” which allow players to access new areas and solve puzzles.
Another feature of Silent Hill is its challenging gameplay. The game introduces a variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and behaviors, and players must use a variety of weapons and tactics in order to survive.
7. Tekken 3
Tekken 3 is a fighting game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the third game in the Tekken series and is considered by many to be one of the best fighting games for the console.
In Tekken 3, players choose from a roster of characters and engage in one-on-one battles against other players or computer-controlled opponents. The game features a variety of characters, each with their own unique moves and abilities, and players must use a combination of button presses and joystick movements to execute moves and combos.
One of the standout features of Tekken 3 is its deep gameplay. The game introduces a variety of mechanics and systems, such as sidestepping and juggling, that allow players to execute advanced tactics and combos. The game also introduces a “customization” mode, which allows players to customize the appearance of their characters.
6. Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is a platforming game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1997. It is the first game in the Oddworld series and features a protagonist named Abe, a mute Mudokon who must save his fellow Mudokons from being turned into food by the evil Glukkons.
In Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee, players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game. The game features intuitive controls and a variety of moves and abilities that players can use to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.
One of the standout features of Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is its unique setting and character designs. The game is set in a fantastical world filled with bizarre creatures and environments, and the characters are designed with a distinctive art style.
5. Resident Evil 2
Resident Evil 2 is a survival horror game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the second game in the Resident Evil series and is considered a classic of the horror genre.
In Resident Evil 2, players take on the role of one of two protagonists, Leon Kennedy or Claire Redfield, who are both trying to survive a zombie outbreak in the city of Raccoon City. The game features a variety of environments, including hospitals, police stations, and sewers, and players must navigate these environments and solve puzzles in order to progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Resident Evil 2 is its immersive atmosphere. Resident Evil 2 features a variety of creepy sound effects and music tracks, and the environments are designed to be unsettling and disorienting. The game also introduces the concept of “zombie dogs,” which are fast and agile enemies that can burst through windows and attack the player.
The game introduces a variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities and behaviors, and players must use a variety of weapons and tactics in order to survive.
Overall, Resident Evil 2 is a well-designed survival horror game with an immersive atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and a variety of weapons and enemies to encounter.
4. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is a platforming game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1997. It is the fourth game in the Castlevania series and is considered a classic of the genre.
In Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, players take on the role of Alucard, the son of Dracula, who must explore a mysterious castle and defeat a variety of enemies in order to uncover the truth behind his father’s resurrection. The game features a variety of environments, including castles, forests, and dungeons, and players must navigate these environments and solve puzzles in order to progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is its deep gameplay. The game introduces a variety of mechanics and systems, such as leveling up and discovering new abilities, that allow players to customize their playstyle and explore the castle in different ways. The game also introduces a “metroidvania” style of gameplay, which allows players to access new areas by acquiring new abilities and backtracking through previously explored areas.
Another feature of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is its immersive soundtrack. The game features a variety of music tracks, ranging from classical compositions to rock and metal, and the music is integral to the game’s gothic atmosphere.
3. Crash Bandicoot
Crash Bandicoot is a platforming game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1996. It is the first game in the Crash Bandicoot series and features a protagonist named Crash Bandicoot, a wacky marsupial who must save the world from the evil scientist Dr. Neo Cortex.
In Crash Bandicoot, players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game. The game features intuitive controls and a variety of moves and abilities that players can use to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.
One of the standout features of Crash Bandicoot is its colorful graphics. The game features a variety of colorful environments and character designs, and the soundtrack features a variety of upbeat and energetic music tracks.
2. Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is a role-playing game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1997. It is the seventh game in the Final Fantasy series and is considered by many to be one of the greatest video games of all time.
In Final Fantasy VII, players take on the role of Cloud Strife, a mercenary who becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival nations. The game features a complex story that explores themes of love, loss, and the nature of reality. Players must navigate a variety of levels and defeat a variety of enemies as they progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Final Fantasy VII is its large cast of characters. The game features over a dozen playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and storylines. Players must recruit these characters to their cause and build up their party in order to succeed.
An absolute classic video game that is an essential game for any PS1 owners.
1. Metal Gear Solid – The Best Game for the PS1
Metal Gear Solid is a stealth action game that was released on the original PlayStation (PS1) in 1998. It is the third game in the Metal Gear series and is considered by many to be one of the best games for the PS1.
In Metal Gear Solid, players take on the role of Solid Snake, a special forces operative who must infiltrate a fortified military facility and defeat a variety of enemies in order to uncover the truth behind a new weapon of mass destruction. The game features a variety of environments, including warehouses, and nuclear missile silos, and players must navigate these environments and solve puzzles in order to progress through the game.
One of the standout features of Metal Gear Solid is its immersive storyline. The game features a variety of characters and locations, and players must navigate the complex world of espionage as they try to complete their mission. The game also introduces the concept of “codec” communication, which allows players to communicate with other characters and receive mission briefings and other information.
Another feature of Metal Gear Solid is its challenging gameplay. The game introduces a variety of enemies and hazards that players must avoid or defeat in order to progress through the levels. The game also introduces the concept of “stealth,” which allows players to avoid enemies and complete missions without being detected.
Overall, Metal Gear Solid is a well-designed stealth action game with an immersive storyline, and in my opinion is the best game for the original Playstation.
Here is a list of some of the main characters in Metal Gear Solid:
- Solid Snake: The main protagonist of the game. He is a special forces operative who must infiltrate the fortified military facility known as Shadow Moses Island in order to uncover the truth behind a new weapon of mass destruction.
- Meryl Silverburgh: A rookie member of FOXHOUND who is assigned to assist Solid Snake during his mission.
- Roy Campbell: The commanding officer of FOXHOUND who gives Solid Snake his mission briefing and provides him with support during the game.
- Otacon: A member of the FOXHOUND support team who helps Solid Snake by providing him with information and assistance during the game.
- Psycho Mantis: A psychic member of FOXHOUND who possesses telekinetic powers and is one of the game’s main antagonists.
- Sniper Wolf: A skilled markswoman and member of FOXHOUND who is one of the game’s main antagonists.
- Liquid Snake: The leader of FOXHOUND and the main antagonist of the game. He is Solid Snake’s genetic “brother” and has a personal vendetta against him.
- Revolver Ocelot: A member of FOXHOUND who serves as Liquid Snake’s right-hand man. He is a skilled gunslinger and tactician.
Here are some memorable moments from Metal Gear Solid:
- The intro cutscene: The game starts with a dramatic cutscene that sets the stage for the rest of the game. It introduces the main characters and the main plot points, and it sets the tone for the rest of the game.
- The boss battles: The game features a variety of memorable boss battles, each with their own unique abilities and tactics. Some of the standout boss battles include the battle with Psycho Mantis, who can read the player’s mind and manipulate their controller, and the battle with Sniper Wolf, who is a skilled markswoman and has a personal connection to Solid Snake.
- The codec conversations: The game introduces the concept of “codec” communication, which allows players to communicate with other characters and receive mission briefings and other information. These conversations are often filled with plot twists, character development, and other memorable moments.
- The “torture scene”: One of the most memorable and controversial scenes in the game is the “torture scene,” where Solid Snake is subjected to torture by Revolver Ocelot in order to extract information from him. The scene is intense and dramatic, and it has left a lasting impression on players.
- The ending: The game’s ending is one of the most memorable and emotional moments in the series. It features a number of plot twists and character developments, and it sets the stage for future games in the series.
The Best Games for the PS1
In conclusion, the original PlayStation (PS1) was home to some of the best video games of all time. From immersive role-playing games to fast-paced fighting games, the console had something for everyone. Whether you were a fan of challenging platformers, deep RPGs, or intense survival horror games, the PS1 had something for you. And with so many classic titles to choose from, it’s no wonder that the console has such a dedicated and passionate fan base to this day. If you’re a fan of the PS1, be sure to check out some of the games on this list – you won’t be disappointed!
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