Power Up Your PS5: The Definitive Gaming Playlist of 2025
Ah, 2025—the year our flying cars still haven’t arrived (fully), but our PlayStation 5s have more than made up for it. With half a decade under its sleek white hood, Sony's flagship console is firing on all cylinders, boasting a library that makes even the pickiest gamer shed a tear of joy. Whether you’re chasing dragons, web-slinging through futuristic cityscapes, or questioning your moral compass in deeply unsettling ways (looking at you, Naughty Dog), the PS5 has something epic just waiting to suck away your social life. So, grab your DualSense, clear your calendar, and dive into our handpicked list of the 16 best PS5 games of 2025. Just a heads-up—friends, family, and sunlight not included.
16. Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred
Kicking off our list is the gloriously dark and devilishly addictive Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred. Blizzard’s latest hellspawn invites you back into Sanctuary, now teeming with fresh horrors, fiendish bosses, and loot so shiny it could tempt even the most devout monk into avarice. Set after the core events of Diablo IV, Vessel of Hatred plunges players deeper into the abyss with an expanded story rich in lore and dread-inducing drama. The combat is fast, visceral, and deliciously chaotic, with new classes and revamped skill trees offering endless possibilities for destructive creativity. Thanks to buttery-smooth performance on PS5, every monster-slaying spree is satisfyingly cinematic, showcasing gorgeous visuals and haunting sound design. Multiplayer mayhem has also been elevated, making teaming up with friends—or mercilessly destroying rivals—more thrilling than ever. In short, if summoning the powers of darkness to obliterate endless hordes sounds like your idea of weekend fun, this game should top your must-play list.
15. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Next up, it’s time to grab your bolter, slip into your hulking ceramite armor, and embrace your inner super-soldier in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. Saber Interactive’s thunderous sequel plunges you right back into the gritty, brutal, and delightfully grimdark universe of Warhammer 40K, where diplomacy means chainswords and gentle persuasion means orbital bombardment. You step once again into the oversized boots of a Space Marine, humanity’s fiercest defender, battling relentless hordes of Tyranids intent on munching their way across the galaxy. On PS5, every swing, stomp, and shot feels explosively immersive, enhanced by buttery framerates and stunningly gory visuals. Multiplayer carnage has never been so satisfying, letting you and your battle brothers slice, dice, and pulverize your way through swarms of alien monstrosities. Space Marine 2 isn’t just mindless fun—it’s beautifully mindless fun, perfect for anyone who dreams of saving humanity with nothing but guts, glory, and absurdly large weaponry. Emperor protect us—this one’s addictive.
14. Baldur’s Gate 3
Sharpen your swords and polish your twenty-sided dice, because Baldur’s Gate 3 is the D&D adventure you’ve been craving, brought spectacularly to life on the PS5. Larian Studios delivers a sprawling, choice-driven RPG masterpiece packed with thrilling encounters, unforgettable characters, and enough moral dilemmas to make you question every decision—twice. Set in the iconic Forgotten Realms, Baldur’s Gate 3 plunges you into a rich, reactive world teeming with dragons, devils, and charismatic companions who’ll have you laughing, crying, or shouting angrily at your screen. Combat is a tactical dance, masterfully blending turn-based precision with dynamic, cinematic flair. The PS5’s hardware prowess showcases breathtaking graphics, silky-smooth performance, and nearly instantaneous load times, pulling you deeper into each quest and romanceable storyline. Whether you’re sweet-talking your way out of trouble, plotting meticulous strategies, or accidentally unleashing chaos, Baldur’s Gate 3 offers the ultimate RPG playground—where your imagination (and questionable decisions) can run deliciously wild.
13. Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade
Cloud’s iconic spiky hair never looked better than in Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade, Square Enix’s stunning reimagining of one of gaming’s most legendary adventures. On PS5, this beloved classic achieves peak nostalgia with breathtaking next-gen visuals, lightning-fast loading times, and silky-smooth combat so fluid it feels choreographed by Sephiroth himself. Intergrade expands the epic Midgar saga, adding fresh chapters, memorable characters (hello again, Yuffie!), and deeper storylines that enrich the beloved lore. Combat gracefully blends real-time action and tactical strategy, making every battle against Shinra’s robotic goons or monstrous summons feel cinematic and exhilarating. The PS5’s DualSense controller heightens the thrill, delivering satisfying tactile feedback with every swing of Cloud’s massive Buster Sword. From neon-lit alleyways to breathtaking vistas overlooking Midgar’s grim dystopia, Intergrade isn’t just a game—it’s an emotional rollercoaster that honors the original while boldly paving new paths. Simply put, this is the definitive way to experience one of gaming’s greatest stories.
12. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Swinging stylishly onto our list, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 proves there’s nothing quite like zipping through Manhattan’s skyline at blistering speed, especially on PS5’s formidable hardware. Insomniac Games returns to weave a web-slinging epic, giving fans not one, but two spider-heroes—Peter Parker and Miles Morales—to juggle alongside an electrifying storyline. The seamless character-switching mechanic spices up gameplay, allowing instant transitions between Peter’s classic moves and Miles’ bio-electric powers. Add to that a rogue’s gallery of iconic villains (Venom, anyone?) and high-stakes drama that effortlessly blends superhero action with heartfelt storytelling, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable gaming experience. The DualSense controller makes each swing, punch, and dodge feel astonishingly tangible, enhancing immersion with precision haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Plus, the city itself has never looked better, gleaming with ray-traced reflections and buzzing with life. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the spider-party, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 delivers exhilarating gameplay that sticks.
11. Elden Ring: Nightreign
Prepare to die—again—in Elden Ring: Nightreign, FromSoftware’s brutally captivating expansion to their acclaimed masterpiece. Returning to the hauntingly beautiful Lands Between, Nightreign plunges players deeper into darkness, unveiling shadowy kingdoms, sinister foes, and secrets so cryptic you’ll need your own personal lore consultant (or Reddit) to unravel them. On PS5, this grim fantasy world shines darker than ever, with jaw-dropping visuals that amplify the eerie, ethereal atmosphere FromSoft fans adore. Nightreign not only enhances Elden Ring’s celebrated combat but ups the ante with new bosses that’ll challenge even the most hardened Tarnished—prepare your controller (and your sanity) for more nail-biting battles. The DualSense integration heightens every visceral clash of steel, making each dodge, parry, and desperate healing flask gulp resonate through your fingertips. With fresh locations to explore, intricate storytelling, and countless ways to build your character, Nightreign solidifies Elden Ring’s place as a generation-defining experience. Get ready to embrace darkness—your epic quest continues.
10. Monster Hunter Wilds
Next up is Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom’s latest and greatest monster-slaying extravaganza that proves once again there’s nothing quite as satisfying as taking down a colossal beast with a weapon three times your size. This PS5-exclusive adventure thrusts you into breathtakingly lush environments teeming with vibrant ecosystems and ferocious creatures—each encounter a strategic dance of precision, teamwork, and glorious chaos. Wilds significantly expands the series’ beloved gameplay formula, introducing new hunting mechanics, dynamically changing landscapes, and monsters so spectacularly intimidating you might hesitate before charging in (though let’s be real, you’ll charge anyway). The PS5’s graphical prowess and blazing-fast SSD eliminate loading interruptions, immersing you deeper into each stunning locale. Meanwhile, the DualSense controller translates every mighty swing, thunderous roar, and ground-shaking collision into satisfying haptic pulses. Whether tackling epic hunts solo or strategizing online with fellow hunters, Monster Hunter Wilds is the definitive action-packed playground for anyone who enjoys turning mythical creatures into very stylish armor sets.
9. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Step back into medieval mayhem with Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Warhorse Studios' meticulously detailed sequel that turns historical accuracy into an immersive gaming experience. This isn't your typical sword-and-sorcery fantasy—expect gritty realism, brutally authentic combat, and quests that challenge your ethics more than your reflexes. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 15th-century Europe, Kingdom Come II weaves a captivating narrative filled with political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and impressively muddy roads. On PS5, the game's remarkable attention to detail shines brighter than ever, from lifelike facial animations during tense negotiations to dynamic weather effects that make you appreciate modern plumbing. Combat demands strategic thinking and precise timing—no mindless button-mashing here—making every duel a tense, rewarding showdown. Plus, DualSense feedback elevates immersion, making each clash of steel feel convincingly visceral. If you're craving a sophisticated, challenging RPG experience that values authenticity as much as entertainment, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II deserves a royal spot in your gaming library.
8. Forza Horizon 5
Buckle up, racing fans—Forza Horizon 5 roars onto the PS5 in style, bringing with it an adrenaline-fueled road trip you won’t soon forget. Playground Games expertly blends breathtaking open-world exploration with high-octane racing, setting this latest entry in vibrant, sun-drenched Mexico, a location teeming with lush jungles, towering mountains, and vibrant cities begging to be explored (or crashed into at high speeds). With hundreds of meticulously modeled cars ranging from exotic supercars to rugged off-road beasts, you’ll spend hours fine-tuning your dream machine, testing its limits on asphalt, dirt, and everything in between. Thanks to PS5’s blazing-fast SSD, load times are practically nonexistent, making your drive seamless and immersive. Plus, the DualSense controller turns every gear shift, drift, and collision into tactile thrills, delivering a level of feedback that elevates every race. Whether you're competing fiercely online or leisurely cruising the coastline, Forza Horizon 5 is the ultimate playground for anyone craving speed, style, and absolute driving freedom.
7. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
Dust off your spellbooks and sharpen those swords—Bethesda's beloved classic, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, has arrived gloriously on PS5, transporting gamers back to Cyrodiil in stunning, next-gen detail. Whether you’re reliving your nostalgia or venturing into this fantasy epic for the first time, this meticulously remastered edition dazzles with dramatically enhanced visuals, vastly improved performance, and lightning-fast load times. Experience again the gripping storyline, where portals to the demonic realms of Oblivion threaten to consume the world, now enriched by beautifully overhauled textures, realistic lighting, and character models so expressive you’ll finally forgive the original’s infamous potato-faced NPCs. The PS5’s DualSense controller adds immersive weight to every swing, spell, and stealthy maneuver, pulling you deeper into Oblivion’s captivating world. Dive into hundreds of hours of adventures, side quests, and charmingly unpredictable encounters, rediscovering what made Oblivion a timeless RPG. Simply put, Oblivion Remastered is the nostalgic fantasy escape your gaming library—and heart—deserves.
6. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Enchanting, heartfelt, and visually mesmerizing, Kena: Bridge of Spirits is a captivating blend of adventure, mystery, and Pixar-level charm. Ember Lab’s breakout hit introduces you to Kena, a spirited young guide whose journey involves rescuing adorable creatures known as the Rot, and restoring balance to a hauntingly beautiful world corrupted by lingering darkness. Rich storytelling, tight platforming, and deceptively challenging combat ensure Kena’s adventure is as rewarding as it is emotionally resonant. On the PS5, the game's gorgeous, animation-inspired visuals flourish with vibrant colors, fluid animations, and stunning particle effects that transform every battle into a dazzling spectacle. The DualSense controller deepens your connection to the world, providing immersive haptic feedback that makes each encounter feel intimate and powerful. Whether solving cleverly designed puzzles, battling sinister spirits, or simply exploring the lush landscape, Kena: Bridge of Spirits delivers a magical experience that reminds us why games can be truly unforgettable journeys.
5. Alan Wake 2
Enter the chilling twilight of Alan Wake 2, Remedy Entertainment’s masterclass in modern survival horror and a standout PS5 experience. This dual-protagonist thriller weaves together the harrowing tales of Saga Anderson, an FBI agent investigating ritualistic murders in the cursed town of Bright Falls, and Alan Wake, a tormented writer trapped within the supernatural “Dark Place.” Their terrifying realities intersect in a narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and nightmare.
On PS5, the game reaches its peak—spectacular visuals and full support for mesh- and ray-traced lighting create eerily realistic environments, while virtually instant load times keep tension taut. A free “anniversary” update added immersive DualSense motion control and enhanced haptic feedback, amplifying every flashlight flick, heart-pounding chase, and dread-soaked moment.
Critics hailed Alan Wake 2 as one of the finest horror games in recent memory—packed with twists, environmental puzzles, live-action sequences, and a twisted meta‑narrative that truly haunts.
4. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Enter the hauntingly beautiful world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Sandfall Interactive’s breakout RPG that became one of 2025’s most talked‑about releases. Set in a Belle Époque–inspired alternate France, players join the volunteers of Expedition 33 as they hunt the enigmatic Paintress—an entity whose yearly ritual, the Gommage, erases all citizens of a certain age from existence. Combat is a brilliant fusion of turn‑based mechanics and real‑time elements: timed dodges, parries, quick‑time events, and free‑aiming attacks elevate every encounter into a tense, cinematic dance.
On PS5, the game shines—with Unreal Engine 5 visuals bathing its shadow‑rich locales in dramatic chiaroscuro lighting while instant SSD loading keeps momentum flowing. The voice acting—featuring stars like Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis—and Lorien Testard’s emotive soundtrack elevate this emotional journey into art.
Despite tackling heavy themes of grief and mortality, Clair Obscur strikes a perfect balance between storytelling and strategy. Its rich narrative, artful aesthetics, and refined mechanics earned it rapid acclaim—and over 3.3 million copies sold in just over a month.
3. DOOM: The Dark Ages
Ignite your battle fury in DOOM: The Dark Ages, the medieval‑setting prequel that redefines what it means to be the Doom Slayer. Released May 15, 2025 for PS5, this critically-acclaimed entry trades the acrobatics of Doom Eternal for a heavier, more deliberate combat system where the Slayer becomes truly unstoppable.
On PS5, the game shines with id Tech 8 engine visuals, ray‑traced lighting, and seamless SSD loading that immerses you in gothic castles, blackened forests, and demon‑infested warzones. New weapons like the Shield Saw, Skull Crusher, and ball‑and‑chain flail add brutal depth to melee combat, while strategic parries and glory kills heighten every visceral encounter. Plus, you’ll pilot a cyber‑dragon and a towering Atlan mech in epic set‑piece battles.
Despite missing Mick Gordon’s iconic soundtrack, the revitalized combat and ancient world storytelling deliver a thrilling, polished shooter that’s earned its place in 2025 gaming. Worthy of brutal praise and intense demon‑slaying thrills.
2. Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Sharpen your blade and embrace the shadows—Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows slices onto PS5 with style, stealth, and breathtaking precision. Transporting players to feudal Japan, a setting long-demanded by fans, Shadows masterfully blends historical authenticity with gripping storytelling. You take on the roles of Yasuke and Naoe, each with unique combat styles and narratives, uncovering secrets and conspiracies amid stunning landscapes and iconic samurai duels. Combat is fluid, fast, and cinematic, requiring careful timing and skillful positioning rather than mindless hacking-and-slashing. The PS5’s DualSense controller further elevates immersion, letting you feel the tension in every parry, the crisp release of a throwing star, and the heart-pounding suspense of each stealth kill. Enhanced visuals, buttery-smooth performance, and minimal load times combine to create a truly next-gen experience, making exploration of vibrant cities and misty forests an absolute joy. Assassin’s Creed Shadows doesn’t just meet expectations—it leaps silently over them, delivering an unforgettable stealth-action adventure.
1. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach lands as a mesmerising sequel, officially released on June 26, 2025 for PS5. Set across sprawling post‑apocalyptic landscapes in Mexico and Australia, you reprise the role of Sam Porter Bridges—now joined by his daughter Lou—to reconnect scattered survivors via the chiral network and stave off humanity’s extinction.
Enhanced with Kojima Productions’ refined gameplay, the sequel injects deeper pacing and more action while preserving its signature existential storytelling. Critics praised it as "a more accomplished achievement in nearly every facet" over the original, with visual storytelling and emotional resonance amplified by a soaring soundtrack and cinematic direction. Ratings soared, with many outlets heralding it as one of Kojima’s crowning achievements and even calling it a five-star artistic triumph.
Divisive among some legacy fans for leaning into cinematic stylings or subtle repetition of older mechanics—but overall, it's hailed for its bold, emotional journey that cements its place among the most unique PS5 experiences of 2025.
There you have it—the sweet sixteen of PlayStation 5 in 2025. Whether you're slaying demons, delivering suspiciously heavy packages, or swinging through skyscrapers, this lineup proves that the PS5 is still gaming royalty half a decade in. If you haven't played these masterpieces yet, what are you waiting for? Clear your schedules, apologize to your loved ones in advance, and dive headfirst into pixel-perfect worlds that promise adventure, heartbreak, and possibly carpal tunnel. Just remember, while your backlog might never forgive you, great gaming memories last forever. Game on!
