Whether they are exclusives or titles that take full advantage of the capabilities of PlayStation, anyone jumping into the PS5 for the first time may want to check out this array of games. Each one has been selected to show off a different capability of the next-gen console, with a range of games from co-op to open-world, and solo campaign experiences.
These games are fantastic on the PlayStation 5 and benefit newcomers in a variety of ways. Not all of them are super easy either, as some fans may want a slightly tougher experience and enjoy getting thrown into the deep end. There should be something for everyone here, with players getting to interact with all kinds of genres and with backward compatibility!
Horizon Zero Dawn (2017)
There are numerous expansive open worlds to explore throughout PlayStation's many titles, but the setting of Guerrilla Games' Horizon Zero Dawn really takes full advantage of the capabilities of its console. It's backward compatible on PlayStation 4 and perfectly sets up its even better sequel, Horizon Forbidden West.
It's a game that feels instantly accessible considering it doesn't have a long lineage of lore based on multiple previous franchise entries. What's more, it combines science fiction and fantasy in a way that's unique and introduces campaign lovers to a narrative worth investing in. For the solo players out there, it's the quintessential place to begin.
WWE 2K22 (2022)
The franchise thus far has had some real growing pains after the WWE license was given to 2k, but WWE 2K22 has really set the standard for the line moving forward. It's the kind of couch co-op combat title that those who love to play alongside friends would really enjoy.
WWE 2K22 has plenty of exciting new features like the return of GM Mode, which is sure to give players flashbacks to the earlier days of wrestling games, so it feels as if it's been made for the fans. It's a sports title with enough entertainment features that it should appeal to everyone and instantly become a competitive family favorite.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy (2021)
Marvel games appeal to such a huge variety of people considering the comic book world is so well established from print media alongside the big and small screen. And this ever-likable cosmic team lends all their charm and humor to Square Enix and Eidos-Montréal's Guardians Of The Galaxy.
Compared to the many open-world projects that the PlayStation platform has come to boast, this title is far more streamlined and benefits players who just want to experience a good story. While it's available on other consoles, its graphics and intuitive gameplay system seem to benefit from the PlayStation 5 the most.
Ratchet And Clank: Rift Apart (2021)
Sometimes it's hard to find a solo campaign that kids will be able to enjoy to the same degree as adults. Plenty of titles these days are too violent or include language and humor that's simply unsuitable for younger gamers. Ratchet And Clank: Rift Apart is the exact opposite.
It's gorgeously designed, features plenty of quirky action, and its whimsical narrative feels as if it's part Pixar and part comic book. Insomniac have outdone themselves here, rejuvenating the franchise so that it acts as a brilliant launching-off point even for those unfamiliar with previous installments.
Marvel's Spider-Man (2018)
Marvel titles really have a tight grip over the PlayStation right now, especially considering Insomniac has been given some exclusive licenses, partially because of Sony's relationship with the brand. Marvel's Spider-Man has become quite a defining title for the PlayStation.
With spin-offs like Miles Morales and the upcoming sequel, alongside expansions to the world like Wolverine, this is the opening chapter of a much larger comic book-inspired shared universe. Every Spider-Man side mission feels like its own classic arc, as players getting used to the PlayStation get to interact with familiar locations and iconic characters. Plus, everyone needs to get their hands on that swinging system!
Astro's Playroom (2020)
Team ASOBI and Japan Studio crafted a gameplay experience that would introduce newcomers to the PS5 in their own unique way. Featuring the classic Sony character of Astro Bot, Astro's Playroom is available with purchase and is a simple experience for the whole family to enjoy.
It takes the concept of a traditional side-scroller and completely flips it, allowing a more 3D approach to its storytelling while teaching players the general mechanics of using the DualSense Controller. There's no excuse not to play this game when first launching into the console as it's literally designed as an introductory course.
Gran Turismo 7 (2022)
While few of the franchises here are part of the legacy of PlayStation's past, it's hard to ignore the impact that the Gran Turismo series has had on Sony's consoles. Every iteration of this racing title gets more advanced, and on the PS5 it genuinely feels like getting behind the wheel of a powerful motor vehicle.
Created by Polyphony Digital, Gran Turismo 7 is the latest and perhaps best version of this brand thus far. It's vibrant, electric in its energy, and is great as both a solo and co-op experience. While there are complex story-driven challenges, the ultimate benefit here is being able to immediately jump in and set up some friendly competitions.
Sifu (2022)
Just because someone is a newcomer to the PlayStation it does not mean they want an easy time. Some players go looking for a challenge, and Sloclap and Microïds' Sifu can certainly quench that thirst. The premise is incredibly effective, with the death of the protagonist resulting in his return getting marked by an increase in his age.
While players might start as a young man, through difficult combat they'll quickly become a middle-aged warrior, desperately hoping they don't add any more deaths to their card. It's an idea that really could only be pulled off effectively with today's technology and therefore acts as a great addition to any new fan's gameplay list.
Fifa 22 (2021)
Sports titles are huge for the gaming industry, and there's perhaps no bigger global entity than the FIFA saga. Soccer or football has never looked better than on FIFA 22, which brings with it its usual modes including an improved Ultimate Team and career campaign.
EA has come to master exactly what this line delivers on, which is fast-paced competition and a realistic style of play that reflects what fans watch on TV. There's no doubt that players would have picked up a FIFA title in the past, so the authentic and familiar controls act as a great passing of the torch moment for new consoles.
It Takes 2 (2021)
Co-op play is all the rage at the moment as families, couples and friends look for new ways to interact online and through modern consoles. It Takes Two is quite whimsical but is nonetheless just as fun as the grittiest action dramas or first-person shooters.
Teamwork is the name of the game in this puzzle title from Hazelight Studios. While it's not a PlayStation exclusive it does make excellent use of the many features available and has become a real critical darling amongst reviewers. It's a game that has to be bought alongside a PlayStation as an immediate party-style action-adventure that anyone can interact with, with ease.