Summary
Launched in fall 2020, the ninth generation of video game consoles, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, has already seen an incredible array of great games across various genres, catering to different player tastes. One of the highlights of this generation has been the notable reduction in single-console exclusives, bringing more flexibility to gaming than ever before and allowing players to enjoy the majority of games on their preferred platform. Almost every yearsince 2020 has produced true masterpieces— games that have joined the pantheon of thehighest-rated video gamesof all time. Below are some of the best of these titles.
This game ranking isbased on OpenCritic average scoresfor games released during this generation, meaning only titles launched after November 2020 for PS5 or Xbox Series are included. For that reason, we won’t include any Nintendo Switch games (which bridge the eighth and ninth generations) or PC-only exclusives. Additionally, while highly ratedfull-fledged remakesare listed, we’ll exclude “fresh coat of paint” titles such as remastered games, re-released editions of older games, and expansions that require the base game.
ModernGod of War’sfirst chapter was an undisputed masterpiece that managed to snag 2018’s GOTY award fromRed Dead Redemption 2, so expectations were high forGod of War Ragnarök. Even if it wasn’t possible for the sequel to reach the same earth-shattering level of greatness, essentially delivering more of the same, the follow-up brought a satisfying conclusion to another chapter for Kratos and Atreus.
The scope of the game expanded significantly, with more worlds to explore, characters to meet, and enemies to face. While some tweaks like combat were definite improvements, the more ambitious and broader focus slightly hampered thegame’s personal side. Additionally,Ragnarök’sfinal act might feel a bit too rushed — a result of the studio’s goal to complete the saga in two games rather than stretching the story into a trilogy.
The first remake on the list,Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, is the second chapter of theremade trilogy of the originalFF7, significantly expanded in every aspect. FollowingFinal Fantasy 7 Remake, fans knew what to expect fromRebirth, yet Square Enix went all-in with the sequel, delivering an open-world RPG brimming with content, emotional roller coasters, and gameplay variety.
Rebirthinitially launched to glowing reviews on PS5, but its PC version faced technical issues, resulting in Steam player reviews being notably lower than critics'. However, with most issues now resolved, players can expect a truly absorbing experience on their preferred platform.
Thanks to the unparalleled efforts of Bluepoint Studios, the groundbreaking action RPG that laid the foundation for one of today’s most popular genres has been spectacularly brought back to life, welcoming a new generation of players to its unforgiving combat.Demon’s Souls Remakelaunched to glowing reviews, marking a promising start for the PS5.
Demon’s Souls Remakewas released as a PS5 launch exclusive and remains one of the best showcases of the console’s capabilities, with stunning visuals, immersive audio, andrefined gameplay that honors the original. Additionally,Demon’s Soulsis one of the few games yet to be ported to other platforms, remaining exclusive to the PS5.
Following the roaring success of its predecessor,Forza Horizon 5unsurprisingly brought more of the same, plus an entirely new, vast, and beautiful Mexican playground. While some long-term fans might find the game’s core formula a bit too familiar, there are no real competitors for the title even years after its launch, allowingForza Horizon 5to remain hailed as the king of open-world arcade racing.
Just this year,Forza Horizon 5was released on PS5, marking a notable expansion for the once Xbox-exclusive racing series andwelcoming a new group of PlayStation playerswho can finally experience the car paradise for themselves.
FollowingStreet Fighter 5, the iconic fighting series desperately needed fresh blood, andStreet Fighter 6delivered ample, much-needed innovation while preserving its core essentials. Highly suitable for newcomers to the genre and core fans alike,Street Fighter 6is a rare example of a game that satisfies both audiences with its execution and gameplay potential.
Combining near-perfect fighting mechanics, unmatched style,rich flexibility and customization, and unique features like an explorable open-world environment,Street Fighter 6has rightfully earned its place as one of the best fighting games of this generation.
The originalResident Evil 4is already one of the most acclaimed games in history, so remaking such an iconic classic was a daunting task. Fortunately, following the successful remakes ofRE2andRE3, Capcom nailed it once again, producingarguably the greatest remake ever, improving the original in every possible aspect while addressing its few issues for a superior overall package.
As a result, there can hardly be two opinions:Resident Evil 4 Remakeis the gold-standard example of a modern gaming remake and the definitive way to playResident Evil 4today. It delivers stunning visuals, a thick atmosphere, flawlessly updated combat, and more fleshed-out characters.
An indie hit no one saw coming,Balatrotook the industry by storm, emerging as one of thegreatest modern games destined to endure. Blending poker rules with roguelike elements in an alluring, deeply captivating synergy, this card game is easy to learn yet capable of consuming one’s free time like no other.
With a flawless gameplay loop, distinctive style and execution, and an array of tricky challenges and seeds to explore,Balatrohas earned its place among enduring classics likeTetris, soon to be available on every platform imaginable. Easily one of this generation’s most relentless time sinks.
A true phenomenon of 2025,Clair Obscur: Expedition 33is the highest-rated game of the year so far, and deservedly so. The game has reignited the passion for the RPG genre for many, evoking the golden days of the genre.Expedition 33’sbold and fresh approach to both combat and narrativedelivers a truly unique experience — and a definitive front-runner for this year’s Game of the Year award.
Sandfall Interactive’s passion shines through in nearly every aspect. Despite a modest team size and budget,Clair Obscur: Expedition 33masterfully blends an emotional story full of twists, a layered combat system with tons of possibilities, well-written and complex characters, rich exploration, jaw-dropping visuals, and a gorgeous soundtrack, resulting in a journey that players won’t forget.
Another recent RPG triumph,Metaphor: ReFantaziomay not be as groundbreaking asClair Obscur: Expedition 33for the genre, stickingclosely to familiar worldbuilding and combat, yet it’s a game of the highest caliber, blending the rich allure ofPersonagames on a grander scale, set in a wholly original world.
Metaphor: ReFantazio’s epic scope demands dedication, as players gradually unravel its mysteries, the rules of its complex world, and the secrets of its characters. The effort is rewarded with an emotionally charged RPG filled with brilliant plot twists and a keen sense of adventure, lasting over 100 hours.
A textbook example of how a smaller title can outshine more prominent competitors when crafted with passion and talent,Astro Botwas hailed as a universal Game of the Year in 2024, emerging as one of thebest modern platformersto rival the finestMariogames. As spectacular in its technical achievements as in its gameplay variety,Astro Botinstantly transports players into a vibrant, out-of-this-world playground filled with boundless creativity and nostalgic nods.
Without reinventing the wheel,Astro Botdelivers pure joy from start to finish, consistently surprising players with its tight design, well-crafted mechanics, and technical marvels — from visuals to DualSense controls — with every element perfectly tuned to generate as much fun as possible.
