When Sony released the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2013, it was clear that the gaming world was in for a revolution. With more power, faster load times, and a broader focus on games as an immersive art form, the PS4 became home to some of the most defining and innovative games of the modern era. This generation saw an explosion in open-world experiences, gripping narratives, and technological advancements. Let’s take a look at some of the best games that defined the PlayStation 4 and solidified the console as a fan favorite.

One of the earliest standout titles on the PS4 was Bloodborne, a gothic horror action RPG from the makers of Dark Souls. In Bloodborne, players take on the role of the Hunter, a character tasked with exploring the cursed city of Yharnam, presiden cc full of grotesque creatures and dark secrets. The game’s fast-paced combat, challenging difficulty, and atmospheric world-building set it apart from other RPGs. It took the brutal difficulty of Dark Souls and refined it with a more fluid, aggressive combat system, while also presenting a unique world filled with Lovecraftian horror elements. Bloodborne remains one of the best action RPGs of the generation, and it showcased the PS4’s ability to bring dark and complex worlds to life.

God of War (2018) is another PS4 game that pushed the boundaries of both storytelling and gameplay. The franchise, once known for its over-the-top action and mythological chaos, took a dramatically different direction with this installment. Now set in Norse mythology, God of War focuses on the relationship between Kratos, the vengeful god, and his son Atreus, as they embark on a journey to fulfill the last wish of Kratos’ late wife. The game’s seamless camera work, emotionally charged narrative, and tight combat system made it one of the most critically acclaimed games of the PS4 era. The transformation of Kratos from a rage-fueled antihero to a reflective and vulnerable father figure was one of the most compelling character arcs of the generation.

Then, there’s Horizon Zero Dawn, an open-world action RPG that introduced players to Aloy, a skilled hunter in a post-apocalyptic world where robotic creatures roam free. What makes Horizon Zero Dawn stand out is its combination of breathtaking visuals, a rich narrative, and combat mechanics that involve both strategy and reflex. The game’s stunning world, filled with towering robot beasts, quickly captivated players. Aloy’s journey to uncover the truth behind the fall of humanity while battling deadly machines made it one of the best games of the PS4 generation. It also became one of the defining exclusives for the PlayStation brand, showing the console’s ability to deliver expansive and immersive open-world experiences.

Spider-Man (2018) was another game that resonated with both PlayStation fans and newcomers. Developed by Insomniac Games, the title featured a web-slinging superhero experience that had never been realized quite as seamlessly before. Players took control of Peter Parker as Spider-Man, navigating through the streets of New York City, battling iconic villains, and exploring a deep narrative. The fluid movement mechanics, the engaging story, and the fast-paced combat mechanics were some of the highlights of Spider-Man. The open-world nature of the game allowed players to swing through Manhattan, and the overall feeling of being Spider-Man was brought to life in a way that fans had been waiting for. It was easily one of the most fun and visually impressive games on the PS4.

In addition to its high-budget titles, the PS4 also saw the rise of smaller, indie games that became just as beloved. Journey, originally released on the PS3, was later ported to PS4, and it quickly became a fan favorite once again. The game’s minimalist design, stunning art direction, and emotionally evocative story—told without a single line of dialogue—demonstrated the power of games as an emotional experience. The co-op multiplayer aspect, where players can unknowingly interact with others as they traverse the world, added a layer of depth to the experience. Journey showed that even short games could have a profound impact, pushing the boundaries of what interactive art could be.