The PlayStation platform is known for its blockbuster games—titles like The Last of Us, God of War, and Uncharted that often dominate headlines and gaming discussions. However, scattered throughout the PlayStation library are some hidden gems that deserve far more attention. These are the games that might not have achieved mainstream fame but offer incredibly unique experiences, whether through innovative mechanics, beautiful storytelling, or niche genres. Let’s take a look at some of the best under-the-radar PlayStation games that deserve a place in every gamer’s library.
One standout hidden gem is Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice (2017). Developed by Ninja Theory, this action-adventure game follows Senua, a Celtic warrior who embarks on a harrowing journey into the Viking underworld to rescue the soul of her dead lover. The game’s narrative is deeply personal, as it explores situs toto themes of mental illness, trauma, and grief. What sets Hellblade apart is its portrayal of psychosis—players experience Senua’s world through her eyes, with auditory hallucinations and visual distortions that create a deeply immersive, unsettling experience. The game’s stunning visuals, atmospheric sound design, and emotionally charged storytelling make it a must-play for those who enjoy thought-provoking, experimental games.
Another hidden gem that flew under the radar is Nier: Automata (2017). While it gained more recognition in the years following its release, Nier: Automata is still one of the most unique action RPGs available on PlayStation. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is at war with alien machines, and players control a combat android named 2B. The game features an eccentric mix of fast-paced combat, philosophical musings, and multiple story endings that dramatically change the narrative. Its unconventional approach to gameplay and storytelling is a refreshing change from other games in the genre. Nier: Automata is a perfect example of how PlayStation has a diverse library that caters to a wide range of tastes, including those who enjoy experimental and thought-provoking titles.
Tales of Berseria (2016) is another RPG that often gets overshadowed by other big titles in the genre, but it has one of the most compelling narratives in the Tales series. In Tales of Berseria, players follow Velvet Crowe, a young woman consumed by vengeance after a traumatic loss. This dark, character-driven story explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The game’s action-based combat system, deep character development, and beautifully crafted world make it a standout title that is often overlooked by mainstream audiences. For fans of traditional JRPGs, Tales of Berseria offers an engaging and emotional adventure worth experiencing.
Another title that deserves more attention is Outer Worlds (2019), developed by Obsidian Entertainment. Set in an alternate future where mega-corporations control space colonies, this RPG puts players in the role of a character who awakens from cryosleep to find that things have gone horribly wrong. The game offers an intriguing narrative with a heavy emphasis on player choice, as well as a retro-futuristic aesthetic that adds a distinct charm to the world. Outer Worlds mixes dark humor, clever writing, and deep role-playing elements, making it a game that rewards thoughtful decision-making. Though it didn’t get as much recognition as some of its contemporaries, Outer Worlds is one of the most entertaining and innovative RPGs of its time.
For fans of platformers and adventure games, Rayman Legends (2013) is a hidden gem that combines beautiful visuals, tight controls, and a whimsical world full of fun challenges. The game’s hand-drawn art style, lively soundtrack, and co-op gameplay make it a joy to play with friends or family. Each level is creatively designed, offering a variety of different challenges, from precision platforming to rhythm-based puzzles. Despite its charm and polish, Rayman Legends never achieved the same level of recognition as other platformers like Super Mario or Sonic, but it stands as one of the best 2D platformers available on PlayStation.