The PlayStation platform has long been home to some of the most beloved and influential RPGs in gaming history. From sprawling open worlds to deeply emotional narratives, the console has provided fans with unforgettable adventures across multiple generations. Whether you’re a veteran RPG fan or new to the genre, PlayStation has a vast library of games that should be on every RPG lover’s radar. Here’s a look at some of the must-play RPGs that define the PlayStation experience.
One of the most iconic RPG series on PlayStation is Final Fantasy, and Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020) is a perfect entry point for newcomers and a must-play for longtime fans of the franchise. Building on the legacy of the original Final Fantasy VII (1997), this remake reimagines the classic story with stunning visuals, real-time combat, and expanded narrative depth. Players follow Cloud Strife and his band of rebels as they fight against the megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic villain Sephiroth. The game’s beautiful presentation and emotional storytelling are complemented by a fast-paced battle system that strikes a perfect balance between traditional turn-based mechanics and modern action-oriented combat. With the upcoming sequel, Final Fantasy VII Remake: Rebirth (2025), it’s the perfect time to dive into this reimagined classic.
Another standout RPG on PlayStation is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015), an open-world fantasy RPG that has become a modern classic. Developed by CD Projekt Red, the game follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, as he embarks on a quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, while dealing with the looming threat of the Wild Hunt. The Witcher 3 is renowned for its vast open world, branching storylines, and richly detailed environments. The choices players make throughout the game can dramatically alter the course of the narrative, leading to multiple endings and an incredibly immersive experience. With its deep lore, memorable characters, and engaging combat, The Witcher 3 is a must-play for anyone who loves story-driven RPGs with a mature edge.
Persona 5 Royal (2020), the definitive edition of Persona 5, is another game that has earned its place as a modern RPG classic. Developed by Atlus, this turn-based JRPG follows a group of high school students who, under the guise of their “Phantom Thieves” personas, cendanabet must navigate the real world while also battling supernatural forces in a parallel world known as the Metaverse. Persona 5 Royal is an expertly crafted game, with an engaging narrative, memorable characters, and a deep social simulation element where you can build relationships with other characters, improve your skills, and uncover secrets. The game’s stylish aesthetic, unique combat mechanics, and focus on personal growth make it a standout RPG in the PlayStation library.
For fans of dark fantasy and intense combat, Bloodborne (2015) is a must-play title. Developed by FromSoftware, Bloodborne is a spiritual successor to the Dark Souls series, featuring a gothic, Victorian-inspired world filled with terrifying creatures and challenging boss fights. The game’s fast-paced combat, combined with its atmospheric world, creates an experience that is both punishing and rewarding. Unlike its predecessors, Bloodborne encourages a more aggressive combat style, with players needing to be fast and precise to survive the numerous threats that lie in wait. The game’s unsettling lore, tight gameplay mechanics, and haunting soundtrack make it one of the best RPGs of the PS4 generation and a standout title for fans of the genre.
In the realm of action RPGs, Horizon Zero Dawn (2017) is one of the PlayStation 4’s defining titles. Developed by Guerrilla Games, this open-world RPG takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been wiped out by robotic creatures. Players take on the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter and archer, as she uncovers the secrets of her past while taking on deadly robotic foes. The game’s combination of exploration, puzzle-solving, and tactical combat make it a thrilling and immersive experience. Aloy’s journey is both personal and epic, with the game offering a vast world to explore and a deep narrative that slowly unfolds. Horizon Zero Dawn was widely praised for its innovative gameplay and its strong female protagonist, and the upcoming sequel, Horizon Forbidden West (2022), continues the adventure with even more complex mechanics and a larger world to explore.