As the gaming industry pushes forward with photorealistic graphics and expansive open-worlds, there’s an increasing appreciation for the retro titles that paved the way. Some of the best games on PlayStation didn’t come out babe 138 last year—they came out decades ago, on the original PlayStation and PlayStation 2. These games, built on the foundation of gameplay innovation and storytelling charm, continue to stand the test of time. For many players, revisiting these classics is more than a nostalgic journey—it’s a reminder that good design never gets old.

Titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Silent Hill, and Final Fantasy IX have carved their places in gaming history. Though they lack the modern polish of today’s PlayStation games, their unique mechanics and narrative depth still resonate. These games were designed with creativity and constraint in mind, often forcing developers to focus on gameplay substance over flash. It’s this purity that keeps retro fans coming back to them, and it’s why they frequently appear in discussions about the best games ever made.

Sony has recognized the enduring appeal of its back catalog, making many of these older PlayStation games available on modern consoles through remasters, remakes, and digital libraries. The Resident Evil series, for instance, has successfully reinvented itself while honoring its roots, and Final Fantasy VII Remake brought new life to a game that defined an entire generation. Even in their original form, these games offer experiences that are surprisingly deep and often more focused than some modern titles.

Today’s indie games, with their pixel art styles and retro sensibilities, are in many ways spiritual successors to these early PlayStation and PSP games. Developers and players alike draw inspiration from the era when creativity thrived within limitations. That’s why retro PlayStation games don’t just shine in memory—they continue to influence the best games being made today.