Top 10 PlayStation 4 Games Of 2023: The Ultimate List

Alright, gamers, buckle up! We're diving headfirst into the amazing world of PlayStation 4 games! If you're anything like me, you've probably spent countless hours glued to your TV, controller in hand, lost in epic adventures and nail-biting battles. With 2023 in the rearview mirror, it's the perfect time to look back at the top 10 PlayStation 4 games that truly shined. This list isn't just about sales numbers, though those definitely play a part. It's about games that delivered unforgettable experiences, pushed the boundaries of what's possible on the PS4, and, most importantly, were just plain fun to play. So, grab your snacks, get comfortable, and let's jump into the ultimate list of the best PS4 games of 2023. Prepare to relive some awesome gaming moments and maybe discover a hidden gem or two you missed out on!

Why These Games Made the Cut: Criteria for the Top 10

Before we unveil the top 10 PS4 games of 2023, let's talk about how these games earned their spot. It wasn't just a popularity contest, you know? While sales figures and critical acclaim were definitely considered, the selection process went a bit deeper. We looked at a few key factors that helped us curate this list. First off, we considered the overall gameplay experience. Was the game fun? Engaging? Did it keep us hooked from start to finish? Next up, we evaluated the story and narrative. A great story can elevate a game from good to unforgettable. We wanted games with compelling characters, intricate plots, and moments that stuck with us long after the credits rolled. Visuals and performance were also a huge factor. The PS4 is a powerful console, and we wanted games that truly showcased its capabilities. Did the game look amazing? Did it run smoothly? Did it immerse us in its world? Finally, we thought about innovation and originality. Did the game bring something new to the table? Did it dare to be different? Games that pushed boundaries and offered fresh experiences were highly valued. Essentially, the games on this list had to excel in multiple areas to earn their place. It’s about delivering a complete, polished, and unforgettable experience. So, yeah, that’s how we picked the top 10 PS4 games of 2023. Let’s see who made the cut!

The Top 10 PlayStation 4 Games of 2023: Your Gaming Champions

Alright, the moment you've all been waiting for! Let's get right to the good stuff. Here are the top 10 PlayStation 4 games of 2023, guaranteed to bring hours of fun and excitement to your gaming life. Remember, this list is subjective, and everyone has their preferences, but we believe these games represent the best of what the PS4 had to offer during that incredible year. Let's start the countdown!

1. The Last of Us Part II

Kicking off our list is The Last of Us Part II. This game is more than just a game; it's an emotional rollercoaster. Developed by Naughty Dog, it continues the story of Ellie and Joel in a post-apocalyptic world filled with infected creatures and ruthless survivors. The storytelling is phenomenal, with complex characters, moral ambiguities, and gut-wrenching moments that will stay with you long after you put down the controller. The gameplay is a perfect blend of stealth, action, and survival, making you feel every bullet fired and every encounter survived. The graphics are stunning, pushing the PS4 to its limits, and the sound design is impeccable, creating an atmosphere of tension and dread. The Last of Us Part II is a must-play experience that will challenge you, move you, and leave you in awe. Its impact on the industry is undeniable, and it rightfully earned its place as one of the best games of 2023. If you haven't played it yet, seriously, what are you waiting for?

2. Ghost of Tsushima

Next up, we have Ghost of Tsushima, a stunning open-world action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions. Set in feudal Japan, you play as Jin Sakai, a samurai warrior who must abandon his traditions to fight against a Mongol invasion. The game's open world is absolutely breathtaking, with vibrant landscapes, lush forests, and epic vistas that will make you stop and admire the beauty. The combat is fluid and engaging, with a focus on both stealth and direct confrontation. You can choose to fight honorably as a samurai or embrace the ghost techniques, using stealth and deception to defeat your enemies. The story is compelling, the characters are memorable, and the overall experience is a love letter to samurai cinema. Ghost of Tsushima is a visual masterpiece, a thrilling action game, and a historical adventure all rolled into one. It's an essential experience for any PS4 owner.

3. Spider-Man: Miles Morales

Swinging into the third spot is Spider-Man: Miles Morales, a fantastic action-adventure game from Insomniac Games. This game lets you step into the shoes of Miles Morales as he takes on the role of Spider-Man in New York City. The gameplay is incredibly fun and fluid, with a focus on web-slinging, combat, and exploration. Miles has his own unique abilities, like venom strikes and camouflage, which add a fresh spin to the familiar Spider-Man formula. The story is heartfelt and engaging, exploring themes of identity, family, and responsibility. The graphics are stunning, with a vibrant and detailed rendition of New York City. Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a perfect example of a superhero game done right, offering an exciting and emotional experience that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. It's a must-play for fans of the Spider-Man franchise and anyone looking for a fun and engaging action game.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2

Coming in at number four, we have Red Dead Redemption 2, a sprawling open-world western epic from Rockstar Games. This game is a true masterpiece of storytelling, world-building, and gameplay. Set in a fictionalized version of the American West in 1899, you play as Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang. The game's world is incredibly detailed and immersive, with vast landscapes, bustling towns, and a wealth of activities to discover. The story is epic and emotional, with complex characters, moral choices, and moments that will leave you breathless. The gameplay is deep and engaging, with a focus on realism and player choice. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a true achievement in gaming, a must-play experience for anyone who appreciates quality storytelling and immersive world-building. It's a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

5. God of War (2018)

Next up, we have God of War (2018), a fantastic action-adventure game that revitalized the God of War franchise. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, this game takes Kratos to the realm of Norse mythology, where he must journey with his son, Atreus, to fulfill his wife's final wish. The gameplay is brutal and satisfying, with a focus on close-quarters combat and strategic decision-making. The story is deeply emotional, exploring themes of fatherhood, loss, and redemption. The graphics are stunning, with a beautifully realized world filled with detail and wonder. God of War (2018) is a must-play for any action game fan. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and character development in gaming.

6. Persona 5 Royal

At number six, we have Persona 5 Royal, an enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Persona 5. Developed by Atlus, this JRPG offers a unique blend of social simulation and turn-based combat. You play as a high school student who becomes a Phantom Thief, fighting against corruption and injustice in a stylized and engaging world. The gameplay is addictive and rewarding, with a focus on building relationships, exploring dungeons, and battling enemies. The story is captivating, with memorable characters, a compelling plot, and plenty of twists and turns. Persona 5 Royal is a must-play for JRPG fans and anyone looking for a unique and engaging gaming experience.

7. Death Stranding

Coming in at seventh place is Death Stranding, a unique and thought-provoking game from Hideo Kojima. This game is unlike anything else you've ever played. You play as Sam Porter Bridges, a delivery man tasked with reconnecting a fragmented America after a mysterious cataclysm. The gameplay is a mix of exploration, resource management, and social interaction. The story is complex and philosophical, with a focus on themes of connection, isolation, and hope. Death Stranding is a polarizing game, but its originality, ambition, and artistic vision make it a must-play for anyone looking for something different. It's a testament to the power of games as a medium for artistic expression.

8. Horizon Zero Dawn

Next on the list is Horizon Zero Dawn, a thrilling open-world action RPG developed by Guerrilla Games. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where machines roam the land, you play as Aloy, a skilled hunter who must uncover the mysteries of her past. The gameplay is engaging and rewarding, with a focus on strategic combat, exploration, and crafting. The story is captivating, with a compelling plot and memorable characters. The graphics are stunning, with a beautiful and detailed world to explore. Horizon Zero Dawn is a must-play for fans of open-world games and anyone looking for a thrilling and immersive gaming experience.

9. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Nearing the end of our list, we have Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, a terrifying survival horror game from Capcom. This game is a return to form for the Resident Evil franchise, with a focus on atmosphere, suspense, and claustrophobic environments. The gameplay is tense and engaging, with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and resource management. The story is creepy and unsettling, with plenty of scares and jump scares to keep you on the edge of your seat. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a must-play for fans of the horror genre and anyone looking for a truly terrifying gaming experience.

10. Bloodborne

Rounding out our top 10 PS4 games of 2023 is Bloodborne, a challenging and rewarding action RPG from FromSoftware. Set in the gothic city of Yharnam, you play as a hunter who must fight against monstrous creatures and unravel the mysteries of a mysterious plague. The gameplay is fast-paced and brutal, with a focus on skill, precision, and strategic combat. The story is cryptic and atmospheric, with plenty of lore and secrets to discover. Bloodborne is a challenging game, but its rewarding gameplay, gothic atmosphere, and compelling story make it a must-play for fans of the action RPG genre.

Honorable Mentions: Games That Almost Made the Cut

While the top 10 PS4 games of 2023 are truly exceptional, there were a few other games that came incredibly close to making the list. These honorable mentions deserve recognition for their quality and contributions to the PS4 library. First, we have Marvel's Spider-Man, which, while not from 2023, was a fantastic game that set the stage for Miles Morales. The web-slinging mechanics were pure joy, and the story was a love letter to the character. Another great game that almost made the cut was Days Gone. The open world, the hordes of zombies, and the motorcycle riding experience are just awesome. While it had its flaws, it had enough strengths to make it memorable. Then, there's Uncharted 4: A Thief's End, a visual masterpiece and a great ending to Nathan Drake's story, but it was released earlier. Finally, the remake of Final Fantasy VII delivered a new take on the classic. It's a great experience, but not quite in the top 10 for this list. These games, and many others, showcase the incredible variety and quality of games available on the PS4. You should definitely check them out if you have the chance!

Conclusion: Celebrate the Best of PS4 Gaming!

So there you have it, folks! The top 10 PlayStation 4 games of 2023 as we see them. We hope this list has brought back some great memories, introduced you to some new games to try, and maybe even inspired you to revisit some old favorites. The PS4 had an amazing run, providing players with countless hours of entertainment. We hope you've enjoyed this look back at some of the best the console had to offer. What were your favorite PS4 games of 2023? Let us know in the comments! Happy gaming, and keep enjoying the amazing world of video games!