Discover the Top 10 PS5 Games You Can’t Miss in 2026

Looking for the best games to play on your PlayStation 5 in 2026? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve sifted through the latest releases and enduring classics to bring you a list of the top 10 PS5 games that are absolute must-plays. Whether you’re into epic adventures, fast-paced action, or compelling stories, this selection has something for everyone. Get ready to add some serious contenders to your backlog!

Key Takeaways

• God of War Ragnarök offers an epic Norse saga with emotional depth and intense combat.
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth reimagines a classic with stunning visuals and beloved characters.
• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 blends thrilling web-slinging action with a heartfelt superhero story.
• Alan Wake 2 provides a unique, atmospheric horror experience.
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor builds on its predecessor with improved combat and a richer narrative.

1. God of War Ragnarök

Man, where do I even start with God of War Ragnarök? This game is just… a lot. In the best way possible, of course. It picks up after the last one, with Kratos and his son Atreus still dealing with everything. The story really digs into their relationship, which is honestly the heart of the whole thing. You see Atreus growing up, figuring out who he is, and Kratos is still Kratos, but you see him soften a bit, you know?

The world itself is just stunning. They really went all out with the different realms of Norse mythology. Each one feels distinct, from the snowy peaks to more fiery places. Exploring them is a blast, and there’s always something new to find or a side quest to get caught up in. It’s not just about the main story; the little details scattered around make the world feel so alive.

And the combat? Still super satisfying. It’s weighty, brutal, and you feel every hit. They added some new moves and weapons, which keeps things fresh. Fighting the different creatures and bosses is a real challenge, but beating them feels so good. It’s the kind of game that makes you want to master every move.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it so good:

• Epic Father-Son Story: The bond between Kratos and Atreus is front and center, full of emotion and tough choices.
• Gorgeous World Design: Exploring the Nine Realms is a visual treat, with lots to discover.
• Satisfying Combat: Brutal, impactful, and with plenty of new tricks up its sleeve.
• Memorable Characters: The supporting cast is just as well-written as the main duo.

Honestly, if you have a PS5, you owe it to yourself to play this. It’s one of those games that sticks with you long after you’ve finished it.

2. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Okay, so Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. This game had a lot to live up to, right? After the first part, Remake, left us all scratching our heads a bit, Rebirth had to pick up the pieces and keep the story moving. And honestly, it does a pretty good job. It takes the familiar story of Cloud and his crew and really expands on it, throwing us into some places we haven’t seen before in the games.

The world itself is just stunning to look at. From these wide-open fields to busy, neon-lit cities, everything feels so detailed. The music is another big win, mixing those classic Final Fantasy tunes we love with some fresh tracks that really fit the mood. It’s the kind of game that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.

What I really liked was how they handled the combat. It’s this mix of fast-paced action and moments where you can pause and think about your next move. It lets you try out different character abilities and team-up attacks, which is pretty fun. Plus, there’s a ton to do outside of the main story. You can spend hours just exploring different areas, finding side quests, and uncovering secrets. It’s a massive adventure, and it definitely made me feel all the emotions – happy, sad, and totally pumped.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:

• Expanded World: You get to explore way more of Gaia than before, with different regions offering unique challenges and sights.
• Deeper Characters: The main cast feels more fleshed out, with their own backstories and motivations that really add to the narrative.
• Engaging Combat: The blend of real-time action and strategic planning keeps battles interesting and requires you to think about your party’s strengths.
• Nostalgia Meets New: It honors the original game while introducing new plot points and character arcs that keep veterans and newcomers alike on their toes.

3. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Okay, let’s talk about Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. If you’re looking for a game that really shows off what the PS5 can do, this is it. Insomniac Games has seriously outdone themselves here, creating an adventure that feels both massive and incredibly personal. The way you can switch between playing as Peter Parker and Miles Morales on the fly is just brilliant, adding a whole new layer to how you approach combat and exploration.

Swinging through New York City feels even better this time around. It’s so smooth and fast, you’ll find yourself just cruising around the city for hours, taking in the sights. The combat is punchy and satisfying, especially when you start using the new abilities each Spider-Man has. Plus, the story really pulls you in. Peter’s struggle with the Venom symbiote is intense, and Kraven the Hunter as a villain brings a serious threat to the city.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Dual Protagonists: Seamlessly switch between Peter Parker and Miles Morales, each with unique abilities and story arcs.
• Expanded New York: Explore more of the city, including new areas and landmarks, with improved traversal mechanics.
• Venom Symbiote Storyline: Experience a darker, more psychological narrative as Peter grapples with the alien symbiote.
• New Villains: Face off against formidable foes like Kraven the Hunter and the Lizard.

Honestly, it’s the kind of game that makes you feel like a superhero. The visuals are stunning, the action is non-stop, and the story has real emotional weight. It’s a must-play for any fan of Spider-Man or just great action-adventure games in general. You can really see how much effort went into making Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 feel like a true next-gen experience.

4. Alan Wake 2

Alan Wake 2 isn’t just a sequel—it’s a wild, creepy trip into the world of survival horror that feels more ambitious than anyone expected. Remedy Entertainment pulled off something risky by bringing back Alan after a decade. In this one, you don’t just play as Alan, the troubled writer stuck in a nightmarish realm full of shadows. You also swap over to Saga Anderson, an FBI agent on the trail of some pretty bizarre murders that connect back to Alan’s disappearance.

What sets Alan Wake 2 apart is the way it mixes horror, detective work, and straight-up psychological mind games, letting you swap between Alan’s and Saga’s stories whenever you want. Switching like this keeps you on your toes—just as you start to piece things together, the game is happy to throw you back into the unknown. There’s live-action footage woven into gameplay, moody music, and environments that constantly shift, making you question what’s real the whole time. It’s almost like Remedy channeled every weird dream you’ve had and turned it into a playable story.

If you’re big on stats, here’s what you get:

Some things that make Alan Wake 2 a must-play:

• Dual protagonists whose stories overlap and keep things unpredictable.
• A heavy focus on atmosphere—creepy lighting, haunting sounds, and oddball characters.
• A blend of action, mystery, and surreal horror that feels unique on PS5.

Alan Wake 2 isn’t perfect—sometimes the scares are a bit campy and the story goes off the rails—but that’s honestly part of its charm. If you want something that messes with your head and doesn’t feel like any other horror game out there, this is the one to play in 2026.

5. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Okay, so if you liked Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, then Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is pretty much a must-play. It takes everything that was good about the first game and just cranks it up a notch. The story picks up with Cal Kestis a few years after the events of Fallen Order, and he’s definitely grown as a character. You’ll find yourself exploring new planets and revisiting some familiar ones, all while dealing with the Empire’s continued hunt for any surviving Jedi. The lightsaber combat feels even more refined this time around, with new stances and abilities that really let you get creative in how you take down enemies. Plus, there’s a lot more to do outside of the main story, with plenty of side quests and collectibles to keep you busy.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Expanded Combat System: New lightsaber stances and Force powers give you more options in fights.
• Deeper Story: Cal’s journey and his relationships with his crew are explored more thoroughly.
• Larger Worlds: Expect bigger areas to explore, with more secrets to uncover.
• Hub Area: A central base that evolves as you progress, offering new activities and characters.

Honestly, it’s just a really solid adventure that feels like a true evolution of the first game. If you’re a fan of Star Wars or just enjoy a good action-adventure, you’ll probably have a blast with this one. It’s a great example of how a sequel should build upon its predecessor, and it really does a fantastic job of expanding the Jedi story.

6. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

Honestly, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order surprised me. It takes the classic Star Wars setting and manages to bring something fresh to the action-adventure space. Playing as Cal Kestis, you’re not just flinging a lightsaber around—though that’s ridiculously satisfying—you’re actually puzzling your way through wild environments and running into all sorts of trouble from the Empire. What makes the PS5 version stand out is how much smoother it feels, with better frame rates and sharper visuals that really do justice to the worlds you visit.

If you’re asking whether it’s worth playing in 2026, here’s what pushed me to keep pushing forward even after getting my butt kicked by a Purge Trooper:

• Exploration actually rewards you. You’re not endlessly backtracking—you’re finding new shortcuts, secret paths, and upgrades that make a real difference.
• The combat hits that sweet spot between challenging and fair. It’s not a button-masher. You have to think before every encounter.
• The story hooks you, especially if you love underdog tales. Cal’s struggles aren’t cookie-cutter and you do end up rooting for this guy and his crew.

If you haven’t played since the original release, the upgrades for PS5 make those big set pieces feel more epic. Plus, you get basically zero load times. It’s a must if you’re even a casual Star Wars fan, but even without the brand, it’s a tight adventure that totally deserves its spot on this list.

7. Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition

Alright, let’s talk about Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition. If you’re into stylish action games, this one is a must-play. It’s Capcom showing off what they do best, creating a combat system that’s just incredibly fun and deep. Seriously, the way you can string together attacks and keep the combos going is something else.

The Special Edition really shines with the addition of Vergil as a playable character. He’s a blast to use, and his moveset is just as intricate and satisfying as Dante’s or Nero’s. Plus, on the PS5, you get all the bells and whistles: super fast load times mean you’re back in the action before you know it, and there are different graphics modes to choose from. It makes an already great game even better.

Here’s a quick look at what makes the Special Edition stand out:

• Vergil Playable: Master his unique demonic powers and swordplay.
• Graphics Options: Choose between performance modes for smoother gameplay or visual fidelity.
• Legendary Dark Knight Mode: For those who want an even bigger challenge with more enemies on screen.

It’s a game that really rewards practice and experimentation. You can spend hours just trying out different move combinations and seeing what looks coolest. If you haven’t jumped into the world of Devil May Cry yet, this is a fantastic entry point, and it really shows off the power of the PS5 hardware.

8. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition

It’s kind of wild to think that Skyrim is still a thing, right? But here we are, and the Anniversary Edition on PS5 is honestly the best way to play it. Bethesda really took their time, but they finally smoothed out a lot of the rough edges that plagued earlier versions. You’re looking at a pretty stable 60 frames per second with 4K visuals, which makes exploring the vast world of Tamriel feel so much better.

Even after all these years, the sheer amount of stuff to do in Skyrim is staggering. You can spend hundreds of hours just messing around, and the Anniversary Edition throws in a ton of extra content from the Creation Club. Think new quests, new gear, and even new player homes. It’s like getting a whole new game layered on top of the one you already know and love.

Here’s a quick look at what makes this edition special:

• Smoother Performance: Finally, a Skyrim that runs well on PlayStation, hitting 60fps at 4K.
• All Creation Club Content: This includes new quests, weapons, armor, spells, and more.
• Vast Open World: Still one of the most expansive and engaging open-world RPGs ever made.
• Player Homes: Build and customize your own homes across Skyrim.

If you’ve never played Skyrim, or even if you have but haven’t touched it in years, this PS5 version is a fantastic way to jump back in. It’s a massive adventure that still holds up incredibly well.

9. Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Sackboy makes his grand return with a 3D platformer that’s all about fun, teamwork, and a bit of old-school charm. You don’t have to be a LittleBigPlanet fan to find yourself grinning ear to ear while jumping, rolling, and exploring colorful, handcrafted worlds. Unlike his earlier outings, Sackboy gets a chance to shine on his own, and the result is a tight, well-polished platformer full of inventive levels and goofy multiplayer chaos.

A few things that make Sackboy: A Big Adventure stand out:

• Cooperative play really shines here. The more friends you bring along, the wilder things get—expect plenty of shouting and laughter.
• The soundtrack is a total surprise. Every now and then, you hit a level that syncs your actions with big, recognizable songs, and it’s impossible not to smile.
• Sackboy’s moveset is simple but satisfying. It’s all jumps, grabs, and spins—super easy for kids, but tricky enough for anyone looking for a bit of a challenge.

Here’s a bite-sized table showing some quick stats from the game:

In a lineup of blockbuster action titles and big dramas, this one is just unapologetically about joy and play. If you’ve got kids, or just want something light to play after work, this is one you’ll want on your shelf.

10. Lies of P

Alright, let’s talk about Lies of P. If you’re a fan of those challenging, methodical games like Dark Souls, this one might be right up your alley. It takes the classic Pinocchio story and gives it a really dark, twisted spin, which is pretty cool. You’re thrown into the city of Krat, and it’s not exactly a cheerful place. The combat feels good, and there’s a decent amount of ways to change up your character’s abilities, which keeps things interesting.

What really stands out is the art style. It’s got this unique look that makes the whole experience memorable. It’s definitely one of those games that feels familiar if you’ve played other games in the genre, but it also brings its own flavor to the table. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a Souls-like experience that isn’t made by FromSoftware themselves.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Setting: A dark, Belle Époque-inspired city called Krat.
• Gameplay: Challenging combat, weapon customization, and strategic use of ‘Legion Arms’ (special mechanical abilities).
• Story: A dark retelling of the Pinocchio fairy tale with a focus on puppet rebellion.
• Difficulty: Expect a tough but fair challenge, especially with some of the boss fights.

So, What’s Next?

Alright, so that’s our rundown of the top PS5 games you absolutely shouldn’t miss heading into 2026. It’s been a wild ride looking back at all the amazing titles that have landed on the console, and honestly, it’s tough to pick just ten. Whether you’re into epic stories, fast-paced action, or exploring vast worlds, there’s something here for everyone. The PS5 library is only getting better, and we can’t wait to see what else comes our way. Happy gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these PS5 games stand out in 2026?

These games are chosen because they offer amazing adventures, cool stories, and fantastic graphics that really show off what the PS5 can do. They’re the kind of games you’ll want to play over and over.

Are these games only for PS5?

Most of these games were made specifically for the PS5 or have special versions that run best on it, giving you the smoothest and most impressive experience possible.

Can I play these games if I’m new to gaming?

Absolutely! While some games are challenging, many offer different difficulty settings or have simple controls, making them fun for both experienced players and newcomers.

What kind of games are on this list?

This list has a great mix! You’ll find epic action games, exciting role-playing adventures, and thrilling stories, so there’s something for everyone, no matter what you like to play.

How often are new PS5 games released?

Sony’s PlayStation 5 is always getting new games. Developers are constantly working on exciting new titles, so the library keeps growing with fresh experiences.

Why should I play these specific games in 2026?

By 2026, these games will have had time to be perfected, and you’ll be able to enjoy them with all the latest updates and possibly even new content, ensuring you get the best possible version of these amazing titles.