The PlayStation 4 era was a defining moment for the gaming industry, marked by a rich collection of groundbreaking games that pushed the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and visual fidelity. With the PS4, Sony cemented its reputation as a leader in gaming, delivering irit4d some of the most critically acclaimed titles across a variety of genres. These games not only redefined what was possible on a console but also introduced new franchises and innovations that would go on to shape the future of the industry. Here’s a look at some of the best PlayStation 4 games that helped define the console generation.
One of the standout titles on the PS4 is The Last of Us Part II, developed by Naughty Dog. Released in 2020, the game was a continuation of the beloved The Last of Us, following Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly fungal infection. The game pushed the limits of narrative design, blending intense action with a deeply emotional story about revenge, trauma, and survival. The Last of Us Part II showcased not only the technical prowess of the PS4 but also its ability to immerse players in an emotionally complex narrative. The game received widespread acclaim for its stunning visuals, realistic combat mechanics, and groundbreaking storytelling, and it went on to win numerous Game of the Year awards.
Another iconic PS4 title that captivated audiences was God of War (2018). This reboot of the God of War franchise marked a dramatic shift in tone, moving away from the Greek mythology that defined the series and diving deep into Norse mythology. Players once again controlled Kratos, but this time with a more mature, emotionally vulnerable character. The game’s open-world design, refined combat system, and dynamic relationship between Kratos and his son, Atreus, added layers of depth to the experience. The lush environments, cinematic storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics made God of War one of the most lauded titles of the PS4 era, earning multiple Game of the Year awards and reinforcing PlayStation’s commitment to delivering world-class experiences.
In addition to action-adventure titles, the PS4 era also saw the rise of expansive open-world games, with Horizon Zero Dawn standing out as one of the most memorable. Developed by Guerrilla Games, Horizon Zero Dawn introduced players to the world of Aloy, a young hunter in a post-apocalyptic future where robotic creatures roam the Earth. The game featured a vast open world, blending exploration, combat, and an intriguing narrative. Players had to use a combination of stealth and strategy to take down massive mechanical beasts, and the game’s stunning visuals and innovative mechanics set a new standard for open-world games. The success of Horizon Zero Dawn also led to the announcement of a sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, which promised to build on the foundation laid by its predecessor.
For those who love a good story-driven RPG, Persona 5 was another standout title on the PS4. Released in 2017, this critically acclaimed Japanese RPG follows a group of high school students who become “Phantom Thieves” in a world where they can infiltrate people’s hearts and steal their desires. Persona 5 mixes turn-based combat with life simulation mechanics, allowing players to build relationships, attend school, and explore a variety of dungeons. The game’s unique art style, infectious soundtrack, and deep, engaging narrative made it one of the most beloved RPGs of the PS4 era, and it was a critical darling that garnered a massive fan base across the globe.
The PS4 also played host to a variety of indie titles that pushed the boundaries of creativity. Journey, developed by Thatgamecompany, is a prime example. Originally released on the PlayStation 3, Journey was remastered for the PS4, allowing a new generation of players to experience its emotional, wordless adventure. In Journey, players control a robed traveler navigating vast desert landscapes in search of a distant mountain. The game’s minimalist design, combined with its breathtaking visuals and haunting soundtrack, created an emotional experience unlike any other. Journey proved that even without dialogue, games could convey profound emotions and create powerful connections between players.