The year 2025 is officially behind us, and PlayStation Plus subscribers will likely remember it as one of the strongest years in the history of the service.
The Best PlayStation Plus Games of 2025 – A Personal Top 10
As a long-time PS+ user, I decided to put together a list of the 10 best games we received through the Essential tier or that were added to the Extra and Premium libraries throughout the year.
Games claimed via PlayStation Plus Essential (usually on the first Wednesday of each month) stay in your library forever — as long as your subscription remains active.Titles available in Extra and Premium tiers may rotate in and out of the catalog monthly. At the time of writing this article (January 5, 2026), all games listed below are still available to play.
PlayStation Plus Essential – Best Games of 2025
As mentioned earlier, last year’s Essential lineup showed not only great variety but also exceptional quality. From indie gems and platformers to co-op experiences and full-blown AAA titles — Sony delivered across the board.
Balatro
One of the biggest hits of late 2024 and early 2025. This poker-inspired roguelike is a perfect recipe for losing dozens of hours experimenting with jokers, tarot cards, and starting decks.
Balatro
Release Date: February 20, 2024
Genres: Simulator, Strategy, Indie, Card & Board Game, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
I personally fell so deep into it that I finished the game not only on my PS5, but also on PC and mobile. Relaxing, addictive, backed by fantastic music, and driven by an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop that constantly encourages experimentation.
Lies of P
Often described as one of the best and most challenging soulslikes — and I completely agree. You step into the role of Pinocchio, exploring a ruined Krat overrun by murderous puppets.
Lies of P
Release Date: September 19, 2023
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
The combat system goes far beyond the classic “attack, dodge, repeat” formula. Weapon customization is the real star here — blades and handles can be mixed freely, drastically changing scaling, move sets, and active abilities.
If you’re a fan of Dark Souls, Elden Ring, or Sekiro, this is a must-play — especially now with the Overture DLC available.
Alan Wake 2
A long-awaited continuation that throws players straight into a whirlwind of paranormal events, mystery, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Alan Wake 2
Release Date: October 27, 2023
Genres: Shooter, Adventure
Exceptional storytelling, memorable characters, and a world dripping with tension. If you’re looking for a game that delivers both narrative depth and visual excellence, Alan Wake II will not disappoint.
PlayStation Plus Extra & Premium – Best Games of 2025
Beyond Essential titles, Extra and Premium tiers unlock access to the Game Catalog and Ubisoft Classics, offering over 700 games.
If game streaming or classic PS1–PS3 titles aren’t a priority for you, PS Plus Extra remains the best value option.
God of War & God of War Ragnarök
Kratos and Atreus defined the start of my 2025 — mainly thanks to God of War Ragnarök joining the Extra tier.
A masterfully told story set across Greek and Norse mythology, packed with intense combat and unforgettable moments.
God of War
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
God of War Ragnarök
Release Date: September 19, 2024
Genres: Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure, Role-playing (RPG)
Watching Kratos evolve from a ruthless god-slayer into a protective, emotionally complex father is nothing short of brilliant.
For me, both games are mandatory experiences for anyone subscribing to PS Plus Extra.
Cyberpunk 2077
One of the best RPGs of recent years. Despite its rough launch, CD Projekt Red transformed Cyberpunk into a title every RPG fan should experience.
Cyberpunk 2077
Release Date: December 10, 2020
Genres: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
From stealth builds and melee combat to full netrunner hacking chaos — the freedom is immense. Night City stands as one of the most impressive virtual cities in gaming history.
And of course, there’s the phenomenal Phantom Liberty DLC, which (in my opinion) surpasses the base game in every way.
Wake up, Samurai. We’ve got a city to burn.
Death Stranding: Director’s Cut
What’s behind the hype surrounding Hideo Kojima’s games? There’s no better way to find out than stepping into the boots of Sam Porter Bridges and crossing the UCA.
Death Stranding
Release Date: March 30, 2022
Genres: Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
It’s a deeply unconventional experience — but once it clicks, it stays with you. Emotional, reflective, and quietly powerful, Death Stranding constantly encourages players to think beyond what’s shown on screen.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
A must-play for RPG fans and anyone determined to experience gaming classics.
FINAL FANTASY VII Remake Intergrade
Release Date: April 10, 2021
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Cloud, Aerith, and the rest of the cast return alongside the Intergrade DLC, introducing Yuffie’s story. Visually stunning, narratively rich, and backed by legendary music — this is Final Fantasy at its finest.
Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut
In my opinion, the best Ghost game — all two of them. You play as Jin Sakai, defending his homeland from the Mongol invasion.
Tsushima is one of the most beautiful open worlds I’ve ever explored. The story is packed with emotion, tension, betrayal, and moments that leave you questioning fate itself.
Ghost of Tsushima
Release Date: May 16, 2024
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Exploration never feels forced — the world naturally pulls you toward every corner through stunning vistas, meaningful side quests, and rewarding progression systems.
The Iki Island DLC included in the Director’s Cut deserves special praise — without spoilers, it surpasses the base story in the same way Phantom Liberty did for Cyberpunk.
Silent Hill 2
A true treat for horror and classic survival fans. The remake of Silent Hill 2 brings James Sunderland’s haunting journey back to life.
Silent Hill 2
Release Date: October 08, 2024
Genres: Puzzle, Adventure
Themes of grief, guilt, trauma, and loss are woven deeply into the fog-covered city. It’s the perfect game for long winter evenings when atmosphere does half the work for you.
Honorable Mentions
- The Last of Us Part I & Part II
- Sword of the Sea
- Assassin’s Creed Origins / Odyssey / Valhalla
- Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection
- Until Dawn
- Yakuza: Like a Dragon
- Cult of the Lamb
- Hogwarts Legacy
- Control: Ultimate Edition
- Undertale
What’s Next for PlayStation Plus in 2026?
January 2026 marks the final month of PlayStation 4 titles being added to PlayStation Plus.
In my opinion, this isn’t something to worry about — it’s something to celebrate. It opens the door for newer releases and high-quality remakes designed exclusively for PlayStation 5.
The PlayStation Plus lineup for January 2026 has already been revealed — you can find the full breakdown by clicking here.