The PlayStation 4 (PS4) cemented itself as one of the most successful and influential consoles in gaming history. Released in 2013, the PS4 ushered in a new era of gaming, with an expanded focus on open-world experiences, rich narratives, and immersive gameplay. mage77 Over the years, it became home to some of the best games ever created, solidifying Sony’s reputation as a leader in the industry. From action-packed adventures to heart-wrenching stories, here’s a look at the best games that defined the PS4 era.
One of the most iconic games on the PS4 is The Last of Us Part II (2020). This sequel to the groundbreaking The Last of Us (2013) took everything that made the original so memorable—its emotional depth, engaging characters, and masterful world-building—and elevated it to new heights. The game pushed the boundaries of storytelling in video games, exploring complex themes such as revenge, guilt, and redemption, all while providing some of the most gripping gameplay of the generation. The Last of Us Part II became a cultural phenomenon, receiving widespread critical acclaim and winning numerous Game of the Year awards.
Another game that became a defining title for the PS4 is Horizon Zero Dawn (2017). This open-world action RPG introduced players to Aloy, a skilled hunter in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by robotic creatures. The game’s lush, expansive world, combined with its innovative combat mechanics and deep lore, made it a standout title. Horizon Zero Dawn not only showcased the power of the PS4 but also redefined what an open-world experience could be, offering a visually stunning world full of secrets to uncover and enemies to defeat.
God of War (2018) marked a bold new direction for the beloved franchise, taking Kratos on a deeply personal journey through the realms of Norse mythology. The game’s shift from fast-paced action to a more narrative-driven, introspective experience was met with widespread praise. God of War blended its brutal combat with an emotional, character-driven story that focused on Kratos’ relationship with his son, Atreus. The game’s seamless camera work, open-world design, and complex narrative structure made it one of the most groundbreaking action games of the PS4 era.
In a completely different genre, Bloodborne (2015) offered a dark and gothic adventure that became a cult classic. Created by FromSoftware, the same studio behind the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne took the challenging combat and atmospheric world-building of its predecessors and introduced a faster, more aggressive playstyle. Set in the Victorian-inspired city of Yharnam, Bloodborne blended horror, action, and exploration into a unique experience that tested players’ patience and skill. Its complex lore and nightmarish aesthetic made it one of the most distinctive games on the PS4.
Spider-Man (2018) also played a pivotal role in defining the PS4’s library. Developed by Insomniac Games, Spider-Man allowed players to swing through the streets of New York City as the iconic superhero. The game combined fluid combat, open-world exploration, and an emotionally rich story to create one of the best superhero games ever made. With its seamless web-swinging mechanics and a gripping narrative that balanced Peter Parker’s life as a superhero and his personal struggles, Spider-Man became an instant classic.
Finally, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End (2016) marked the end of Nathan Drake’s thrilling adventures. The game’s cinematic action, stunning visuals, and emotional depth made it a fitting conclusion to the series. As Nathan Drake searches for a lost pirate treasure, players are treated to one of the most breathtaking and exhilarating adventures in gaming history. Uncharted 4 combines tight gameplay mechanics with heart-pounding action and deep character development, solidifying it as one of the PS4’s finest titles.
The PlayStation 4’s library is filled with some of the best games ever made, from The Last of Us Part II to God of War and Spider-Man. These games not only showcased the technical capabilities of the PS4 but also pushed the boundaries of what storytelling and gameplay could achieve in the modern gaming era.