The First 5 Games You Should Play on Your New PS5, According to Tom’s Guide

The PlayStation 5 has been around for over three years now, and if you’re just getting on board with this generation of consoles, you’re in for a treat. With a growing list of over 600 games released for Sony’s latest PlayStation console and the added bonus of backward compatibility for the best PS4 games, there’s a vast gaming landscape waiting for you. Whether you received a PS5 as a holiday gift or treated yourself, choosing the right games to kick off your gaming journey is crucial. Here are five essential Playstation 5 games handpicked by Tom’s Guide that not only stand out on their own but also serve as fantastic showcases for the capabilities of the PS5.

The First 5 Games You Should Play on Your New PS5

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Sony’s flagship PS5 exclusive for 2023, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, is a sequel that exceeds expectations. Building upon the success of its PS4 predecessor, this instalment features two Spider-Men, Peter Parker and Miles Morales, facing off against a formidable lineup of villains. From Kraven the Hunter to Mysterio and Venom, the expanded New York City map provides the backdrop for mastering new abilities and utilizing Peter’s powerful symbiote suit. The cinematic story, filled with tightly crafted set pieces, ensures an immersive experience. If you haven’t experienced this superhero adventure, start with Spider-Man Remastered on PS5 before diving into this sequel.

Demon’s Souls

A standout in the PS5’s launch lineup in 2020, Demon’s Souls remains one of the console’s best games. A visually stunning remake of the PS3 original, it serves as the precursor to the acclaimed Dark Souls franchise. In the unforgiving land of Boletaria, every victory, no matter how hard-fought, is memorable. The high level of difficulty might be a deterrent for some, but for those willing to invest time in mastering its intricacies, Demon’s Souls offers unparalleled satisfaction. Prepare for a challenging action RPG that makes even minor victories deeply rewarding.

Returnal

For those seeking a challenging gaming experience, Returnal is a must-play PS5 exclusive. Combining a rogue-lite structure with adrenaline-pumping bullet-hell gameplay and a touch of sci-fi mystery, the game follows an astronaut stranded on a mysterious planet caught in a time loop. Each death on the hostile alien planet of Atropos leads to a resurrection at the spaceship wreckage, prompting you to venture out repeatedly. While the ambitious story may not appeal to everyone, the fast-paced gameplay, coupled with the innovative use of the DualSense controller’s features, will keep you hooked through countless runs.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

If you’re in the mood for a more forgiving gaming experience, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is the perfect choice. This sci-fi adventure featuring the iconic PlayStation mascots takes full advantage of the PS5’s speedy internal SSD, allowing seamless dimensional jumps between gorgeous levels. Beyond the stunning graphics and comedic tone, it’s the charming characters and creative weaponry that define the Ratchet & Clank series. Meet new faces, including the lovable Lombax named Rivet, as you embark on an intergalactic adventure that combines blockbuster thrills with a compelling story.

Gran Turismo 7

Gran Turismo 7 stands as the ultimate showcase of the PS5’s raw graphical power. This racing simulator, hailed as one of the best-looking console games, delivers photorealistic visuals that may be mistaken for genuine racing footage. Beyond its visual appeal, Gran Turismo 7 offers a finely-tuned racing experience, catering to petrolheads with a plethora of licensed cars, tracks, and deep customization options. While it may lack the playful charm of some racing games, its authenticity in simulating motor racing is unparalleled. For an immersive experience, consider playing it with a PSVR 2 headset.

Do I Need a PlayStation Plus Membership?

If you’re eager to explore online multiplayer on your PS5, a PlayStation Plus membership is essential. The basic tier, PlayStation Plus Essential, priced at $10 per month or $60 per year, grants access to online play, cloud saves, exclusive PlayStation Store discounts, and a rotating selection of monthly games. Upgrading to the Extra ($15 per month, $100 per year) or Premium ($18 per month, $120 per year) tiers expands the benefits, including a catalogue of over 400 PS4 and PS5 games.

Premium also includes classic games from the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP systems. These memberships offer instant access to a vast library of PlayStation games for a single monthly cost, with titles like Demon’s Souls, Returnal, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart included.

For a detailed breakdown of the differences between the three tiers, refer to Tom’s Guide full PlayStation Plus Essential vs. Extra vs. Premium guide.

In conclusion, your new PS5 opens the door to a world of gaming wonders, and these five titles serve as an excellent starting point. Whether you’re swinging through the streets of New York as Spider-Man, conquering the challenges of Demon’s Souls, navigating the time loops in Returnal, enjoying the intergalactic escapades of Ratchet & Clank, or experiencing the realistic thrills of Gran Turismo 7, each game offers a unique and immersive experience. Welcome to the PS5 family and happy gaming!