6 Must-Have PS5 Games You Absolutely Can’t Miss

I still remember the first time I powered up my PS5. It was a cool Friday evening, and I had just unboxed the sleek white beast that had taken months to finally get my hands on. As the blue light pulsed to life and the startup chime echoed through the room, something clicked—not just the controller, but that feeling of pure gamer bliss.

I sat there, controller in hand, coffee getting cold on the table, ready to dive into a new world. But here’s the thing nobody tells you: the real magic of the PS5 doesn’t start with the console—it starts with the games.

Now, after three decades in the game , I’ve reviewed hundreds of titles, dissected launch libraries, and tracked every update and patch note like a hawk. But some games? They rise above the rest. They’re the ones that make you lose track of time, shout at your screen in joy or frustration, and text your friends “you have to play this NOW.”

So whether you’re a casual weekend warrior or a hardcore completionist chasing platinum trophies, these are the 6 must-have PS5 games that you simply can’t miss—because they’re not just games, they’re experiences.

If you’ve got your hands on a PlayStation 5, congratulations—you’re officially part of the next-gen gaming revolution. But here’s the deal: owning a PS5 is just half the fun. The real magic? It’s in the games.

Table of Contents

Why the PS5 Is a Game-Changer

The PS5 isn’t just a console—it’s a powerhouse of immersive gameplay, ultra-fast load times, and jaw-dropping visuals. With its custom SSD and ray tracing capabilities, it’s turning every game into an experience you’ll never forget.

What Makes a Game “Must-Have” for PS5

When we say “must-have,” we’re talking about titles that offer:

Graphics & Performance

Thanks to 4K resolution, HDR, and 60+ FPS support, these games look and feel phenomenal.

Immersive Storytelling

Games that pull you in with rich plots, meaningful choices, and unforgettable characters.

Multiplayer & Replayability

The kind of games that make you say “just one more round” until the sun comes up.

Top 6 Must-Have PS5 Games

1. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Swing Through the Streets of Harlem

Miles Morales isn’t just another hero in a spandex suit—he’s a teenager figuring out his identity, balancing responsibility, and stepping up in a world that’s changing around him. This game is more than just epic web-slinging; it’s a deeply personal, emotional, and energetic experience that captures the soul of Harlem and the power of finding your voice.

Set shortly after the events of Marvel’s Spider-Man, this spin-off from Insomniac Games puts you in the shoes of Miles—new to the Spider-Man gig, but eager to live up to the expectations left by Peter Parker. As Peter goes abroad, Miles is left to protect New York City solo, and trust me—it’s not a walk in Central Park.

The city feels alive, buzzing with snowflakes, street music, murals, and a cultural richness that reflects Harlem’s diverse community. And Miles? He’s not just swinging—he’s vibing through the city with style, charisma, and powers that even Peter doesn’t have.

Features That Make It Stand Out

Lightning-Fast Load Times: Thanks to the PS5’s SSD, there’s virtually no waiting. Fast travel happens in the blink of an eye, and reloading after death is near-instantaneous.
DualSense Controller Magic: Every thwip of a web, every Venom-powered punch, and every electric zap is delivered straight to your fingertips with the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. It’s like your hands are actually in the suit.
A Cinematic and Personal Storyline: The narrative hits home—family, friendship, legacy, and community. You’ll laugh, you’ll get chills, and yeah, you might tear up a little.
Venom Powers and Camouflage: Unlike Peter, Miles has bio-electric Venom powers that zap enemies with style and force. Oh, and did I mention he can go invisible? Total game-changer during stealth missions.
Stylish Suits & Side Missions: Unlock dozens of slick Spidey suits, each with unique mods. And the side quests? They’re actually worth your time, diving deep into local stories that make the city feel personal.

Whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan or just here for a good time, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is one of the most heartfelt and fun experiences on the PS5. It’s not just about saving the city—it’s about becoming your own kind of hero.

2. Demon’s Souls (Remake)

A Visual Spectacle of Brutal Beauty

Welcome to Boletaria—a kingdom drowned in fog, haunted by demons, and rebuilt from the ground up for the PS5. Demon’s Souls (Remake) isn’t just a tribute to the 2009 cult classic that sparked the Soulsborne genre—this is a total next-gen rebirth that merges the brutal soul of the original with the power of the PlayStation 5.

From the moment you step into the eerie, mist-soaked world, you’ll know this isn’t your average fantasy RPG. It’s haunting, atmospheric, and absolutely stunning. Every corridor you explore, every grotesque enemy you face, and every boss you battle looks like it belongs in a dark fantasy movie—but it’s all rendered in real-time at 60 frames per second.

This is the kind of game that’s not just played—it’s survived.

Why It’s Perfect for Hardcore Gamers

Ultra-Responsive Combat: Timing is everything here. The remake refines hit detection, dodge mechanics, and attack animations, making battles feel more fluid, precise, and unforgiving—in the best way.
Insanely Detailed Environments: From flickering torches to cracked stone bridges, everything is drenched in atmosphere. Each level has its own distinct vibe—whether it’s the hellish fire of Stonefang Tunnel or the eerie quiet of the Tower of Latria.
A Challenge That’s Unfair but Fair: You will die. A lot. But every death is a lesson. The game doesn’t pull punches, but it also doesn’t cheat. Once you start to “get it,” every victory becomes deeply satisfying.
DualSense Immersion: The adaptive triggers let you feel the resistance of a sword swing or the thud of a shield block. Haptic feedback subtly delivers the sensation of every hit, dodge, and spell.
Deep Customization: Build your character your way—whether you prefer stealthy archery, brutal melee, or magical nukes. There’s a rich class and stat system that lets you personalize your path through punishment.
Online Integration: Summon other players to help (or invade them for PvP duels). The online features are smooth and smart, enhancing replayability and adding that classic Souls unpredictability.

Demon’s Souls isn’t just a remake—it’s a love letter to fans of tough-as-nails gaming, reimagined with the kind of visual polish that makes it one of the best-looking games on PS5. If you’re up for a challenge that rewards patience, skill, and strategy, this should be at the top of your must-play list.

3. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II

Tactical Combat Has Never Felt So Real

If there’s one game that proves the PS5 was built for high-octane warfare, it’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. This is a reboot of the legendary franchise with all the grit, glory, and gunfire you’d expect—but upgraded for the next generation. From intense single-player missions to epic multiplayer showdowns, MWII doesn’t hold back.

The game kicks off with a cinematic bang, tossing you into high-risk operations alongside elite Task Force 141 operators like Ghost, Soap, and Captain Price. The story is fast-paced and full of twists, with each mission taking you to visually stunning environments—from stealthy raids in Amsterdam’s rain-slicked streets to explosive firefights in the deserts of Mexico.

Perfect Mix of Strategy, Chaos & Next-Gen Firepower

Photorealistic Visuals: Thanks to PS5’s ray tracing and 4K support, the game looks almost too real. Every shadow, explosion, and facial animation is cranked to the max.
Advanced Gun Mechanics: Each weapon feels distinct, with customizable loadouts and realistic recoil that makes gunfights feel gritty and immersive.
AI That Adapts: Enemies don’t just stand there—they flank, ambush, and react to your every move, making every mission a true tactical challenge.
Multiplayer That Hits Hard: Domination, Team Deathmatch, Search & Destroy—take your pick. With faster matchmaking and zero-lag gameplay, the competitive scene is better than ever.
Warzone 2.0 Integration: Jump seamlessly into battle royale mode, complete with a new map, gulag mechanics, and loot system.

Modern Warfare II doesn’t just look good—it plays flawlessly on PS5, with fast load times and haptic feedback from the DualSense controller that lets you feel every gunshot and grenade blast. Whether you’re a lone wolf in campaign mode or a squad leader in multiplayer, this game is a no-brainer addition to your PS5 library.

4. Horizon Forbidden West

A Post-Apocalyptic World That’s Breathtaking

In a world where nature and machines collide, Horizon Forbidden West takes the already incredible universe of Horizon Zero Dawn and dials everything up to eleven. This sequel continues the journey of Aloy, the fierce, red-haired huntress on a mission to uncover ancient secrets and save the world from ecological collapse.

But this isn’t just a post-apocalyptic game—it’s a visual and emotional feast. The world is more alive than ever, teeming with rich detail, diverse biomes, and robotic creatures that are equal parts terrifying and mesmerizing. From tropical beaches and coral reefs to desert wastelands and snowy peaks, every environment feels handcrafted, inviting exploration at every turn.

On the PS5, the experience is utterly jaw-dropping. We’re talking native 4K, buttery smooth performance, and some of the most lifelike facial animations you’ve ever seen in a game. You don’t just play Horizon Forbidden West—you live it.

Combines Exploration with Strategic Combat

Massive Open World with Ecosystems: Every region in the game has its own weather patterns, wildlife, and robotic threats. You’ll encounter herds of machines grazing peacefully one minute and then find yourself in an all-out war against a mechanical T-Rex the next.
Intriguing Storyline and Voice Acting: Aloy’s journey isn’t just about survival—it’s about unraveling a mystery tied to the Earth’s past and humanity’s future. The story dives deep into themes of climate change, technology gone wrong, and tribal politics, all told through top-tier voice acting and cinematic storytelling.
New Combat Mechanics & Robotic Beasts: Aloy has a bunch of new tools at her disposal—from the Pullcaster (a grappling hook) to the Shieldwing (basically a mechanical glider). Combat is more dynamic than ever, requiring players to scan, plan, and execute attacks with precision. Each robotic enemy has weak points, elemental vulnerabilities, and attack patterns that must be studied.
Underwater Exploration: For the first time in the series, Aloy can dive deep below the surface. And let me tell you—underwater levels aren’t just tacked on. They’re beautiful, mysterious, and full of new gameplay elements.
DualSense and 3D Audio Immersion: The PS5 controller makes every arrow shot, every dodge roll, and every machine encounter feel incredibly tactile. And with 3D audio support, you’ll hear threats before you even see them.
Side Quests That Matter: Unlike many open-world games, side missions in Forbidden West aren’t just fetch quests. They’re emotionally rich, deeply written, and often reward you with unique weapons or insights into the lore.

Whether you’re here for the jaw-dropping scenery, the high-stakes machine battles, or just want to see where Aloy’s path leads next, Horizon Forbidden West is one of the most polished, emotionally resonant, and ambitious games on the PS5.

5. Elden Ring

FromSoftware’s Open World Masterpiece

Let’s get one thing straight—Elden Ring is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re up for a challenge, it’s one of the most immersive, awe-inspiring experiences you can have on the PS5. Developed by the legendary FromSoftware—the studio behind Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Sekiro—and with lore co-crafted by George R. R. Martin, this game blends intense combat with rich storytelling and vast exploration.

At its core, Elden Ring is a Souls-like game, but it breaks the formula in bold new ways. Instead of linear levels, you get a massive open world known as The Lands Between—a hauntingly beautiful and dangerous realm where every hill, cave, and ruin hides a secret. It’s the kind of world where you’re rewarded not just for defeating enemies, but for being curious, observant, and brave.

What makes it shine on the PS5? Near-instant load times, stunning 4K visuals, and fluid combat at 60FPS. This game runs like a dream and looks like one too—until you’re rudely awakened by a giant monster swinging a club the size of a truck.

The Challenge That Keeps You Coming Back

Open World Full of Secrets: Elden Ring doesn’t spoon-feed you anything. You’ll discover hidden bosses, underground cities, optional dungeons, and rare loot just by wandering and experimenting. It’s a sandbox built for discovery.
Deep Combat System and Lore: Whether you want to be a stealthy sorcerer, a dual-wielding berserker, or a faith-based paladin, Elden Ring’s build diversity is insane. Every weapon, spell, and ability can be customized to suit your playstyle.
Absolutely No Hand-Holding: There’s no minimap, no objective markers telling you where to go. Just a vague direction and your instincts. It’s intimidating at first, but once you find your rhythm, it’s incredibly satisfying.
Boss Fights That Test Your Limits: From grotesque demigods to spectral knights, every boss is a puzzle in itself. You’ll likely die a few (okay, many) times, but when you finally win? It’s a moment you won’t forget.
Dynamic Weather and Day-Night Cycle: The Lands Between changes constantly. A castle might look calm by day, but at night? You’re dealing with ghost knights and ambushes. The ambiance alone keeps you on edge.
Multiplayer Features: You can summon friends for co-op help or invade other players for PvP chaos. The game blends solo exploration with community-driven gameplay in a seamless way.
Lore-Rich Worldbuilding: Every item description, every ruin, every NPC encounter adds another piece to the narrative. You’re not just playing through a story—you’re uncovering history.

Elden Ring is one of those rare games that doesn’t follow trends—it sets them. It’s punishing, sure, but it respects your intelligence, your curiosity, and your determination. If you’ve ever wanted a game that makes you feel like you earned every victory, this is the one.

6. God of War Ragnarök

A Norse Saga of Epic Proportions

If you thought Kratos’ journey ended in God of War (2018), think again. God of War Ragnarök continues the gripping father-son saga with even more emotion, more action, and more gods to slay. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, this game is nothing short of a next-gen masterpiece, and it pushes the PS5 to its absolute limits in every way imaginable.

In Ragnarök, the stakes are higher, the world is bigger, and the emotional depth is even more profound. As the apocalyptic event foretold in Norse mythology looms large, Kratos and his son Atreus must journey across all Nine Realms to prevent—or face—destiny head-on. It’s not just a battle of gods and monsters; it’s a tale about trust, identity, legacy, and what it means to be a father, a son, and a hero.

Visually, this game is a showstopper. The 4K fidelity, dynamic lighting, and character animations look like they were pulled straight from a blockbuster movie. And with near-instant load times, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers via the DualSense controller, this is one of the most immersive experiences you can have on the PS5.

The Mythical Adventure That Keeps You Hooked

Expansive and Rich Open Realms: Each of the Nine Realms feels like its own world, from the fiery chaos of Muspelheim to the icy beauty of Midgard. Exploration is filled with puzzles, hidden treasures, and surprises around every corner.
Refined Combat System: Kratos is back with the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos, and they’ve never felt better. Combat is brutal, fast-paced, and strategic. You’ll also wield new powers, utilize elemental attacks, and unlock devastating combos.
Atreus Steps Up: Atreus is more than just a sidekick now—he’s growing, questioning, and even taking on leadership. His abilities have expanded, and his character arc adds rich emotional layers to the story.
Incredible Boss Battles: Face off against Norse legends like Thor and Freya in cinematic, multi-stage battles that feel truly epic. Every encounter is memorable, challenging, and rewarding.
Side Quests Worth Doing: The optional content in Ragnarök is packed with world-building, unique fights, and touching moments that often rival the main storyline.
DualSense and 3D Audio Immersion: Feel every axe swing, every impact, and every rumble with the PS5 controller. Pair it with 3D audio, and you’re completely inside Kratos’ world.
A Soundtrack That Hits the Soul: Bear McCreary’s score is thunderous, emotional, and iconic, perfectly matching the game’s intensity and intimate moments alike.

God of War Ragnarök doesn’t just continue a franchise—it redefines what storytelling in games can be. It’s a love letter to mythology, family, and the warrior’s journey. And whether you’re here for the lore, the combat, or just to swing a magical axe at a frost giant, this game is a must-have for every PS5 owner.

Other Amazing PS5 Games You Shouldn’t Sleep On

Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

Gorgeous Kurosawa-mode visuals
Open-world samurai adventure
Bonus: Japanese voice acting and legends mode

Resident Evil Village

Creepy yet captivating horror
First-person action with classic RE puzzles
Lady Dimitrescu. Enough said.

Final Fantasy XVI

Darker, more mature tone
Real-time combat and epic summons
Deep lore and story arcs

Tips for Getting PS5 Games at the Best Price

Local Retailers vs Online Stores

Check local marketplaces or gaming forums—you’d be surprised what deals pop up.

Look Out for Seasonal Deals

Black Friday, New Year sales, or even summer promos can drop prices by up to 70%. Sites like CDKeys often offer regional discounts.

Are These Games Suitable for Beginners?

Difficulty Levels and Accessibility

While Elden Ring and Demon’s Souls are for more experienced players, games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Call of Duty are super friendly for newcomers with various difficulty settings.

What’s Next in the PS5 Gaming Universe?

Upcoming Releases to Watch Out For

Wolverine by Insomniac Games
Silent Hill 2 Remake
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Each promises next-gen gameplay, deep narratives, and wild graphics.

Conclusion

If you’re lucky enough to be rocking a PS5, these titles aren’t just suggestions—they’re essential experiences. Each game on this list is more than entertainment. They’re portals to other worlds, emotional rollercoasters, and adrenaline-fueled adventures. Whether you’re swinging across Harlem, battling demonic bosses, or outsmarting futuristic machines, these games showcase the very best of what next-gen gaming has to offer.

But wait—there’s more. Because you made it this far, here are four bonus games that absolutely deserve a spot in your collection. Each one offers something unique, whether you’re into sci-fi, racing, deep narratives, or mythical legends:

Returnal – Sci-Fi Roguelike Madness

Returnal is like Groundhog Day in space—but with monsters, high-tech weapons, and heart-pounding tension. You play as Selene, a space pilot stranded on a shifting alien planet, caught in a time loop where every death means starting over. It’s fast, brutal, and endlessly replayable. With stunning graphics, tight combat, and DualSense-enhanced feedback, Returnal is one of the most innovative exclusives on PS5.

Gran Turismo 7 – Racing at Its Most Refined

Whether you’re a casual car enthusiast or a hardcore gearhead, Gran Turismo 7 is a driving simulator that hits every gear just right. From meticulously recreated real-world tracks to over 400 cars with hyper-detailed interiors, GT7 is as much a love letter to motorsports as it is a game. And thanks to the PS5’s horsepower, it’s smoother, faster, and more beautiful than ever.

The Last of Us Part I (Remake) – A Heartfelt, Brutal, Cinematic Masterpiece

One of the most emotionally powerful stories in gaming history gets a full next-gen overhaul. This isn’t just a visual remaster—it’s a full remake with modernized gameplay, character models, and accessibility features. The bond between Joel and Ellie, set against a haunting post-pandemic America, hits harder than ever. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, The Last of Us Part I on PS5 is a must-play for any serious gamer.

Black Myth: Wukong – Myth Meets Modern Combat

Set to release soon, Black Myth: Wukong is shaping up to be a legendary PS5 action RPG based on the Chinese novel Journey to the West. You play as the Destined One—based on the mythical Monkey King—and the game features jaw-dropping graphics, epic boss battles, and fluid, kung fu-inspired combat. With Unreal Engine 5 powering it all, this title could be the sleeper hit that redefines Eastern mythology in modern gaming.