The PlayStation 5 continues to offer a diverse gaming library in 2026, with cinematic adventures, challenging role-playing games, competitive multiplayer experiences, and creative indie releases giving players plenty of reasons to stay on Sony’s current-generation console.
From established franchises such as God of War and The Last of Us to newer experiences including Ghost of Yōtei and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the platform offers something for almost every type of player. Whether you are buying your first PS5 or searching for your next game, these titles are worth considering.
The Best PS5 Games to Play in 2026
1. Ghost of Yōtei
Developed by Sucker Punch Productions, Ghost of Yōtei is an open-world action-adventure game that combines a revenge-driven story with expansive environments and intense combat.
The game stands out for its visual presentation and its use of the DualSense controller. Players can interact with the world through features such as haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and motion-based activities, adding another layer to the experience.
2. Astro Bot
Astro Bot is one of the strongest choices for players looking for a colorful and creative platforming adventure. Developed by Team Asobi, the game takes players through imaginative levels filled with challenges, collectibles, and familiar PlayStation references.
Its playful level design and extensive use of the DualSense controller make it an excellent showcase for the PS5’s hardware. It is also an accessible option for players who want an enjoyable single-player experience without committing to a lengthy role-playing game.
3. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers a distinctive take on turn-based role-playing games. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, it combines strategic combat with real-time defensive mechanics, allowing players to parry and dodge attacks rather than relying entirely on traditional turn-based commands.
Its emotional narrative, memorable soundtrack, and striking art direction help distinguish it from other RPGs. For players who enjoy story-driven adventures and tactical battles, it is a compelling addition to the PS5 library.
4. The Last of Us Part I and Part II
Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us series remains an important example of cinematic storytelling in video games. Both installments follow characters navigating a dangerous post-apocalyptic world, combining emotional character development with tense encounters against human enemies and infected creatures.
The games offer different perspectives on survival, relationships, and revenge. Their detailed environments, performances, and combat systems make them appealing choices for players who prioritize narrative-driven experiences.
5. Marvel Rivals
Players looking for a multiplayer experience can turn to Marvel Rivals, the free-to-play team-based hero shooter developed by NetEase Games.
The game brings Marvel characters together in competitive matches where team composition, character abilities, and coordination can influence the outcome. Its expanding roster and regular seasonal updates provide reasons to return, while its recognizable heroes make it approachable for Marvel fans.
As a free-to-play option, it is also worth considering for players who want a multiplayer game without paying an upfront purchase price.
6. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 delivers cooperative third-person shooting built around missions against hostile alien forces. Players work together to complete objectives, manage limited resources, and survive increasingly chaotic encounters.
Friendly fire and powerful support weapons can turn even routine missions into unpredictable situations, making teamwork essential. The game’s combination of explosive combat and unscripted multiplayer moments makes it a strong choice for groups looking for a cooperative shooter.
7. God of War and God of War Ragnarök
Santa Monica Studio’s modern God of War games combine action-packed combat with character-focused storytelling. The 2018 installment follows Kratos and his son, Atreus, on a journey through Norse mythology, while God of War Ragnarök expands their story with new conflicts and challenges.
The series is known for its weighty combat, cinematic boss encounters, and emotional narrative. Players who enjoy mythological settings and polished single-player adventures should consider both games.
8. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West expands the world introduced in Horizon Zero Dawn, following Aloy as she explores dangerous new territories filled with mechanical creatures and environmental threats.
Its open world features varied landscapes, large-scale battles, exploration, and equipment progression. The game also makes extensive use of the DualSense controller, with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers enhancing activities such as using a bow.
For players who prefer expansive adventures with a mixture of exploration and combat, it remains a strong PS5 option.
9. Alan Wake 2
Remedy Entertainment’s Alan Wake 2 is a survival horror experience built around psychological tension, investigation, and an unconventional narrative.
The game follows two protagonists whose stories connect through a series of unsettling events. Its atmospheric environments, cinematic presentation, and use of light and darkness help create a distinctive horror experience.
Players who prefer suspense and narrative complexity over constant action may find it particularly appealing.
10. Death Stranding 2
Death Stranding 2 offers a different kind of open-world adventure, emphasizing traversal, cargo delivery, environmental challenges, and an unusual science-fiction story.
Developed by Kojima Productions, the game combines detailed landscapes with cinematic sequences and a deliberate gameplay rhythm. Its use of the DualSense controller adds physical feedback to movement and cargo handling, helping players feel the challenges faced by the protagonist.
It is an option for those looking for an atmospheric experience that differs from more conventional action-adventure games.
More PS5 Games Worth Playing
The PS5’s library extends well beyond these ten recommendations. Players interested in other genres have several additional options to explore.
- Split Fiction — A cooperative action-adventure game designed around two-player teamwork, imaginative environments, and puzzles.
- Elden Ring — FromSoftware’s expansive fantasy RPG features challenging combat, exploration, and a world filled with secrets.
- Persona 5 Royal — A lengthy role-playing game combining turn-based battles, social simulation, and a story about confronting corruption.
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth — A large-scale RPG with a character-driven narrative, real-time combat, and numerous activities across its world.
- Indiana Jones and the Great Circle — A first-person adventure centered on exploration, puzzle-solving, archaeology, and cinematic action.
- Fortnite — A free-to-play multiplayer game that combines battle royale matches with seasonal content and a broader collection of experiences.
- Destiny 2 — A science-fiction shooter featuring cooperative activities, raids, story campaigns, and competitive multiplayer modes.
- Reanimal — A cooperative survival horror adventure featuring eerie environments and a dark story about a brother and sister.
Which PS5 Game Should You Play First?
The best choice depends on the experience you want. Players who prioritize storytelling should consider The Last of Us, God of War Ragnarök, or Death Stranding 2. Those looking for exploration and large worlds may prefer Ghost of Yōtei, Horizon Forbidden West, or Elden Ring.
For cooperative gaming, Split Fiction and Helldivers 2 offer very different ways to play with friends. Meanwhile, Marvel Rivals and Fortnite are worth exploring for players who want free-to-play multiplayer options.
There is no single game that will suit every PS5 owner. However, the variety available across action, horror, RPGs, platformers, and multiplayer experiences makes it easier to find an adventure that matches your preferences.
As the console generation continues, the PS5 remains home to an extensive collection of games worth discovering. For more gaming news, reviews, and recommendations, stay tuned to Gamelevate.
