2021 has been a great year for players, with incredible PlayStation titles proving why the console is still the preferred one among most gamers (according to VGChartz). Metacritic’s list of the highest-rated games released this year includes a variety of titles with different genres, including a few indie standouts.
From remakes like The Nioh Collection to the Game of the Year winner It Takes Two, there has been no shortage of phenomenal titles for players to choose from in 2021. Those looking to catch up with what will eventually be considered the defining games of this year can start with what the critics on Metacritic consider to be the best PlayStation games of 2021.
Guilty Gear Strive – 87
Guilty Gear Strive has quickly become one of the best fighting games of the decade, thanks to its seamless mechanics, unforgettable characters, and striking visuals. The franchise is known for its iconic cel-shaded graphics and innovative character animation.
The seventh installment in the franchise is the perfect entry point for players looking to get into the fighting genre. It retains most of its memorable characters like Sol and Chipp, as well as their signature moves. There’s a number of improvements that long-time fans will notice, most noticeably in the 2D/3D hybrid graphics that have rightly been praised by both players and critics.
The Nioh Collection – 87
Set during the 1500s and 1600s in war-torn Japan, the Nioh games transport players into a magical world full of terrifying yōkai who want to make sure the protagonist fails in his quest to unify the country.
The Nioh Collection is a celebration of the relatively new franchise’s four-year anniversary. It features the 2017 title and its 2020 prequel, which have both been praised for being genre-defying action RPGs, in large part thanks to its innovative “Ki” combat mechanics. While fans who have previously completed both games may not find the remastered editions particularly exciting, players who have never delved into Nioh’s wild universe should definitely use this opportunity to check it out.
Ghost Of Tsushima: Director’s Cut – 88
The 2021 version of Ghost of Tsushima is a great example of a Director’s Cut done right. Fans can experience Jin Sakai’s grueling journey with better graphics, faster loading times, and of course, PS5 optimization.
It’s not surprising that the massively successful open-world RPG has amassed a loyal following. The title’s portrayal of feudal Japan paired with its stellar storytelling is a reminder of just how far games have come. Players who have a fascination with history and wars will not be disappointed when they meet the game’s well-written characters, especially the Mongol warrior and main antagonist, Khotun Khan.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart – 88
It’s best not to fix what’s not broken — the team behind Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart certainly kept this in mind when developing the sixteenth installment in the popular franchise. Their faithfulness to the classic gameplay mechanics and endearing characters that fans know and love paid off, and improvements like the interdimensional flair, a host of new weapons, and fun traversal options are just the cherry on top.
It’s safe to say that the title is among the few that have truly maximized the PS5’s features like the advanced haptic feedback and 3D spatial audio, allowing players to have an exciting next-gen gaming experience. Of course, it helps that its new characters like Rivet and Kit are both well-written and immediately lovable.
Deathloop – 88
Deathloop lets players experience Colt’s epic adventure in the treacherous island of Blackreef over and over again. The game is anchored on its brilliant time loop, which allows fans to decipher the best ways to figure out exactly what’s going on among the Visionaries.
With its cool 1960s aesthetic, wacky guns, and enthralling plot, it’s not too far-fetched to say Deathloop has become an instant classic that will entertain fans for years to come. Replaying the title enables fans to discover new strategies and angles that uncover more about Colt’s past and Blackreef’s enigmatic nature.
Synth Riders – 89
Whether a gamer is an expert or a complete beginner with rhythm games, Synth Riders is a must-play for anyone who owns a PS VR. Originally released in 2018, the title’s 2021 version has unsurprisingly surpassed the original thanks to its catchy music, seamless controls, and vibrant visuals.
While the game doesn’t bring anything particularly innovative to the genre, it does execute established elements of rhythm games well. Its multiplayer mode is undoubtedly a highlight of the title, as players can immerse themselves for hours on end having a fun musical battle with their friends.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – 89
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is another game that maximizes the PS5’s capacity for impressive 4k graphics and the DualSense’s haptic feedback. The city of Midgar can be explored in an exhilarating fresh way thanks to the remake’s improved visuals, faster loading times, and even more customizable difficulty settings.
Of course, it helps that Final Fantasy VII has one of the best stories in the franchise, with the PlayStation version boasting an in-depth look at Cloud Strife’s background and a host of new charming characters. It’s the ideal way for new players o jump into the popular series.
It Takes Two – 89
As the Game of the Year winner, It Takes Two is a title that needs no introduction. The co-op game is centered on the complicated story of May and Cody as they struggle to mend their failing relationship. With Dr. Hakim’s help, they rediscover their individual dreams and desires, as well as the characteristics that drew them to each other in the first place.
The game has been lauded for the way it takes inspiration from a variety of established gameplay mechanics to populate its wacky world. The several minigames, adorable NPCs, challenging puzzles, and heartwarming narrative all make the title an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 – 90
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 takes the best levels, seamless mechanics, and catchy soundtrack from the well-loved games, upgrading them to create a next-gen gaming experience for both long-time and new fans. The remastered versions of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 polish what are already considered fantastic sports titles.
Now in native 4k and complete with faster loading times and immersive haptic feedback, fans can rediscover the thrilling skater games at their best. The collection is a nostalgic skate back to the 2000s, albeit in a modern, more visually striking setting.
Hades – 93
No one could have predicted that an indie rogue-like dungeon crawler would take the gaming community by storm this year, but Hades has proven that it can do that and so much more. With Zagreus’ compelling story, a ton of complex narratives, and well-written characters, as well as innovative gameplay that can keep players glued to their controllers for hours, Hades deserves all the praise it continues to receive.
Every escape from hell brings new possibilities for the protagonist, not just for unlocking more details about the story, but for discovering new combinations of Boons, finding new rooms, and even redecorating the House of Hades. To say it has great replayability is an understatement, as players will understandably want to keep at it, even after its rewarding conclusion.