Best PS5 launch games (Image: SONY)
The PS5 is out now in the UK, complete with a whole host of brand new next-gen games to enjoy.
There are around 30 PlayStation 5 games available at launch, not to mention hundreds and hundreds of backwards compatible PS4 games that look and play better on the powerful new device.
If you managed to secure a PlayStation 5 console at launch, then I’ve picked out a handful of the very best games to buy right now.
I’m not including Astro’s Playroom in this list because it’s free with the console, but if you do have a PS5, then you should check it out immediately.
Not only is this colourful platformer the perfect showcase for the brand new DualSense controller, but it’s also a love letter to the PlayStation brand and its entire history.
Anyway, check out my list of the best PS5 launch games below…
Demon’s Souls: It could be argued that without Demon’s Souls there wouldn’t be a Dark Souls or Bloodborne.
The original entry in the Soulsborne saga laid the foundations for the hugely influential games that would follow, featuring the same punishing difficulty, oppressive atmosphere and impeccable level design that would become staples of the series for years to come.
The only problem with the original Demon’s Souls is that it kind of flew under the radar at launch, and would never enjoy the same mainstream popularity as its successors. This is why a PS5 remake is such a good idea.
Indeed, whether you played the original PS3 release or it completely passed you by, the PS5 remake is a must-own launch title. The development team has done a great job of making the kingdom of Boletaria look better than ever, without messing around with the classic Souls gameplay.
I also can’t wait to see some of the pictures captured with the new photo mode. #DemonsSouls
Marvel’s Spider-Man Miles Morales: If you played the original Spider-Man game on the PS4, then Miles Morales should already be top of your next-gen games list. The Spider-Man sequel shifts the focus away from Peter Parker and onto rookie superhero Miles Morales, who must fill in for the established Spider-Man while he’s on holiday.
Without wishing to enter spoiler territory, Miles Morales tells a captivating story that’s full of twists and turns, and has some of the most likeable characters in any video game ever.
Even if you’re not that in to superheroes, there’s no way you won’t have fun just swinging around the city, beating up bad guys, and taking selfies with passers-by.
Also, check out the next-gen lighting and reflections. Wow!
Sackboy A Big Adventure: What a delightfully charming game! Much like Astro’s Playroom, Sackboy’s Big Adventure is another title that gives you a taste of what the DualSense controller is capable of.
Not only do you feel every jump, bounce and fall thanks to the controller’s advanced haptics, but the upgraded visuals mean you can pick out every single frayed stitch and worn out piece of fabric that adorns our loveable hero and the beautiful game world.
It’s also chock-full of innovative 3D platforming action that can be enjoyed solo or with friends. Indeed, there are some stages that are co-op only, giving you that perfect excuse to invest in another DualSense controller.
Oh yeah, and Dawn French is in it. And Richard E. Grant. That’s got to count for something, right?
Godfall: The second best Soulsborne-style game in the PS5 launch line-up, Godfall is worth a look for its stunning visuals alone.
I say Soulsborne, but there’s actually a bit more to it than that. The combat system is faster and more fluid than the Souls games, while the constant loot and upgrading feels like a cross between Diablo and Borderlands. Throw in a bit of Destiny, and you’ve got a game with hours of replay potential.
Hopefully the development team can refine some of Godfall’s more convoluted gameplay mechanics, because a game that looks this good deserves an audience.
Godfall on PlayStation 5 (Image: SONY)
Ghost of Tsushima: One of the big selling points of the next-gen is the ability to play all of your old PS4 games on the new device. One of the first games I’d recommend checking out is Ghost of Tsushima, which really benefits from a next-gen upgrade.
Already a fine looking game, Ghost of Tsushima somehow manages to look even better, although it’s the rock solid 60 frames-per-second gameplay that really makes this stand out on the PS5, to the point where it feels like a new game. (If only they could make Bloodborne run at 60fps.)
Throw in speedier loading times when fast travelling, and this is the best way to experience a PS4 classic.
Fortnite: If you’ve spent all of your money on your next-gen console and can’t afford a game, then Fortnite should be top of your list.
The Battle Royale phenomenon isn’t just playable on PlayStation 5, it’s also been given a proper next-gen upgrade, complete with noticeably improved visual effects and a rock-solid 60fps frame-rate.
But what I like most about the PS5 version of Fortnite is the DualSense support, which makes every weapon feel completely unique thanks to a combination of trigger button resistance and haptic feedback.
