2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest years yet for PlayStation 5, with a packed lineup of blockbuster exclusives, long-awaited sequels, and ambitious new IPs. From dark superhero adventures and expansive RPGs to intense survival games and cinematic action, PS5 owners will have no shortage of must-play experiences. Here’s a closer look at the best new PS5 games coming in 2026 and why they’re generating so much excitement.
Most Anticipated PS5 Releases of 2026
Marvel’s Wolverine (Insomniac Games)
One of the most hyped PS5 exclusives, Marvel’s Wolverine promises a darker, more mature superhero experience. Developed by Insomniac Games, this single-player action title focuses on Logan’s brutal combat style, personal struggles, and visceral storytelling. Expect cinematic presentation, fast-paced melee combat, and a tone closer to gritty comic arcs than traditional superhero fare.
Dune: Awakening
Set on the unforgiving planet of Arrakis, Dune: Awakening blends survival mechanics with RPG progression in a massive open world. Players must manage resources, navigate political factions, and survive the deadly desert while shaping their own destiny. With its emphasis on exploration and player choice, it’s one of the most ambitious survival RPGs announced for PS5.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword
The legendary samurai action series returns with Onimusha: Way of the Sword. This new entry leans into dark fantasy themes, precision swordplay, and cinematic combat. Fans of challenging action games can expect a modernized take on the franchise while retaining its classic atmosphere and intense duels.
Fable
The beloved fantasy RPG makes its return with a reimagined Fable. Featuring deep character customization, moral choices, and a living world that reacts to player decisions, this new entry aims to capture the charm of the original while delivering modern RPG depth. Humor, fantasy, and meaningful consequences are at the heart of the experience.
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight expands the LEGO formula with a fully open-world Gotham City. Mixing light stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving, it offers a family-friendly but surprisingly deep adventure. It’s a standout choice for co-op players and fans of both LEGO games and DC Comics.
Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined
This classic JRPG receives a modern makeover in Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined. With updated visuals, quality-of-life improvements, and refined combat, the remake preserves the charm of the original while making it more accessible to modern players. A must-play for RPG fans who love traditional storytelling and turn-based gameplay.
Key Action & RPG Titles to Watch
- Nioh 3 – Continues the brutal, skill-based combat of the series with deeper systems and new mythological threats.
- Resident Evil 9: Requiem – The next chapter in Capcom’s iconic survival horror franchise, expected to push atmosphere and tension even further.
- Code Vein II – A follow-up to the vampire-themed action RPG, expanding on its anime-inspired style and Souls-like mechanics.
- Tides of Tomorrow – A story-driven adventure focusing on narrative choices and emotional storytelling.
Other Potential PS5 Highlights for 2026
- Marathon – Bungie’s sci-fi shooter revival, blending competitive gameplay with a mysterious, atmospheric world.
- Crimson Desert – A large-scale action-adventure game featuring cinematic combat and an expansive open world.
- 007 First Light – A fresh take on James Bond, offering a modern origin-style experience with stealth and action.
- No Sleep For Kaname Date – An investigative puzzle game from the creators of AI: The Somnium Files, focusing on mystery and narrative depth.
Why 2026 Is a Big Year for PS5
The 2026 PS5 lineup highlights Sony’s continued focus on high-budget exclusives, cinematic single-player experiences, and diverse genres. Action-adventure and RPG fans, in particular, are in for a treat, with everything from dark fantasy and survival horror to lighthearted LEGO adventures.
Whether you’re looking for intense combat, immersive storytelling, or expansive open worlds, the best new PS5 games of 2026 promise something for every type of player—and could make this one of the most memorable years in the console’s history.
The Best Games From 2025
The PlayStation 5 continues to expand its impressive library of games in 2025, giving players plenty of new experiences to explore. With exclusive titles and cross-platform releases, gamers have numerous options to consider when looking for their next adventure. Finding the best new PS5 games can help players make informed decisions about which titles deserve their time and money.
From action-packed adventures to immersive role-playing experiences, the PS5 offers games across various genres that take advantage of the console’s powerful hardware capabilities. The system’s growing collection includes both anticipated sequels from beloved franchises and exciting new intellectual properties that push creative boundaries. These games showcase enhanced visuals, faster loading times, and innovative features that weren’t possible on previous console generations.
1. Elden Ring: Nightreign
FromSoftware’s latest creation, Elden Ring: Nightreign, is set to launch on May 30, 2025. This standalone adventure brings a fresh multiplayer experience to PS5 gamers who enjoyed the original Elden Ring universe.
Unlike its predecessor, Nightreign focuses on cooperative multiplayer PvE combat. Players team up to face the challenges of a world consumed by darkness, adding a new social dimension to the traditionally solitary FromSoftware experience.
The gameplay spans across three in-game days, culminating in battles against magnificent boss encounters. Each boss presents unique mechanics that require strategic teamwork rather than individual skill alone.
Nightreign introduces new character classes called Nightfarers. Each class offers distinct abilities and playstyles that complement each other during the challenging cooperative missions.
Early hands-on impressions suggest that Nightreign successfully carves its own identity in the multiplayer landscape. It offers something different in a gaming environment dominated by shooter games.
Performance on the PS5 appears impressive based on network tests. The game maintains the atmospheric world design that made the original Elden Ring so captivating while implementing new technical improvements.
Players who have spent time with the game report approximately 7 hours of gameplay during preview sessions. This suggests a focused experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome but provides substantial content.
The technical performance across platforms has been analyzed, with PS5 Pro, standard PS5, and Xbox Series consoles all showing capable handling of the game’s demands.
For PS5 owners seeking a challenging cooperative action game with FromSoftware’s signature atmospheric world-building, Elden Ring: Nightreign represents one of 2025’s most promising new titles.
2. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is an upcoming PS5 exclusive set to release on June 26, 2025. This highly anticipated sequel continues the journey of protagonist Sam, who embarks on a new mission to save humanity from extinction.
Developed as an open-world action-adventure game, players will experience the game from a third-person perspective. The gameplay focuses on delivering cargo and overcoming various obstacles throughout the beautifully rendered world.
Fans looking to get early access to the game should note that purchasing one of the premium editions provides a 48-hour head start. The standard edition releases on June 26, while those with special editions can begin playing on June 24.
A highlight for collectors is the recently revealed Collector’s Edition, which includes exclusive items and bonuses. PlayStation has showcased these special offerings in an official trailer that highlights the premium content available to dedicated fans.
The game builds upon its predecessor’s unique mechanics while introducing new companions to assist Sam on his journey. These allies will likely play crucial roles in the storyline and provide assistance during challenging moments.
Community reception thus far has been positive, with many praising what they’ve seen of the gameplay. Some fans have commented that while the dialogue can be silly at times, the game maintains its distinctive character and charm.
As one of the most anticipated PS5 exclusives of 2025, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach promises to deliver the unique blend of storytelling and gameplay that made the original title stand out. Players can expect breathtaking visuals that take full advantage of the PS5’s capabilities.
3. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stands as one of the PS5’s most impressive exclusive titles. Released to massive commercial success, it became the best-selling PlayStation Studios game to date, with 2.5 million copies sold in just 24 hours.
The game features both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as playable characters. Players can switch between the two heroes almost instantly thanks to the PS5’s impressive capabilities, allowing for seamless gameplay across different parts of Marvel’s New York.
Traversal mechanics have been enhanced significantly. The introduction of Web Wings provides quicker exploration possibilities, while the already impressive web-swinging system has been refined to feel even more fluid and responsive.
Combat and stealth systems have also received substantial upgrades. The gameplay mechanics are so polished that many consider Spider-Man 2 to have the best swinging, combat, and stealth of any Spider-Man game to date.
Technically, the game showcases what the PS5 hardware can achieve. Fast load times, stunning visual effects, and immersive city-wide surround sound create an incredibly engaging experience.
The haptic feedback features of the DualSense controller add another layer of immersion. Players can feel the tension of web-swinging and the impact of combat through the controller.
Critics have praised the title extensively, with many reviews describing it as spectacular and amazing. It delivers what many consider the ultimate superhero fantasy, allowing players to truly feel like Spider-Man.
The expanded open world provides countless hours of gameplay. Side missions, collectibles, and random events keep the experience fresh even after completing the main storyline.
4. Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds represents the latest evolution in Capcom’s beloved monster-hunting franchise for PS5. The game takes place in the Forbidden Lands, a dynamic environment with two contrasting faces – one harsh and unforgiving, the other vibrant and teeming with life.
Players will experience a world where monsters and humans coexist, though not always peacefully. The narrative explores this delicate balance in the ecosystem, creating a compelling backdrop for the hunting adventures that form the core gameplay.
The title has achieved record sales despite receiving mixed reviews from players, particularly regarding performance issues across platforms. Technical challenges aside, the gameplay maintains the series’ signature monster-hunting formula while introducing numerous refinements.
Critics have praised the game for its quality of life improvements that make it feel fresh while preserving the essence of what makes Monster Hunter special. The familiar loop of tracking, battling, and crafting remains intact but with welcome modernizations.
Visually, Monster Hunter Wilds is stunning on PS5. The environments display incredible detail, and monster designs continue the franchise tradition of creative and intimidating creatures that present unique combat challenges.
Some reviewers consider it the best iteration in the series, noting how it evolves nearly every aspect of the hunt with meticulous attention to detail. The combat feels responsive and weighty, with each weapon type offering distinct playstyles.
Others believe that Monster Hunter Rise might still hold the crown for the best overall experience in the franchise, suggesting that Wilds may have emphasized scale and spectacle over some gameplay elements.
The multiplayer component remains a highlight, allowing friends to team up against formidable beasts in seamless cooperative play that has defined the series for years.
5. Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered brings one of PlayStation’s most iconic adventures to new life on the PS5. Released in 2024, this enhanced version offers significant visual upgrades and technical improvements over the original game.
The remaster is the best way to experience this defining PlayStation title, with improvements visible in every aspect of the presentation. Players can once again join Aloy on her epic journey through a world dominated by machines, but now with breathtaking visual fidelity.
Guerrilla Games has carefully enhanced character models, environments, and lighting effects. The facial animations and textures show particular improvement, bringing characters closer to the quality seen in the sequel, Forbidden West.
The PS5 version takes full advantage of the console’s capabilities with two distinct visual modes. Performance mode delivers smooth 60fps gameplay, while Fidelity mode showcases the most detailed version of the post-apocalyptic landscape.
PS5 Pro owners have even more reason to celebrate, as the game truly shines on the upgraded hardware. The enhanced processing power allows for stunning visuals without sacrificing performance.
Beyond graphics, the remaster incorporates quality-of-life improvements and gameplay refinements. Combat feels more responsive, and some mechanics have been adjusted to align better with the sequel’s enhancements.
The complete package includes the base game and The Frozen Wilds expansion, providing dozens of hours of content. Players can purchase Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered for both PS5 and PC, making this sci-fi RPG adventure accessible to more gamers than ever.
For those who missed it originally or fans wanting to revisit Aloy’s first adventure, this remaster represents a worthy upgrade that brings the original closer to its sequel’s visual quality.
6. Stellar Blade
Stellar Blade is a stunning action-adventure game that has quickly become one of the most impressive titles on PS5. Released in 2024, this PlayStation exclusive puts players in control of Eve, a warrior on a mission to save humanity from extinction.
The game delivers a thrilling combat experience that many players and critics have compared to NieR: Automata, but with its own unique flair. The fighting mechanics are responsive and satisfying, offering both casual players and hardcore action fans plenty to enjoy.
Visually, Stellar Blade shines extraordinarily bright. The game features spectacular graphics that showcase what the PS5 hardware can achieve. Character models are highly detailed, and environments are beautifully crafted.
What makes Stellar Blade particularly noteworthy is its recent PS5 Pro enhancement. Digital Foundry has identified it as one of the best PS5 Pro upgrades they’ve seen, transforming an already gorgeous game into something even more impressive.
The story takes players through a post-apocalyptic world with interesting characters and unexpected plot developments. While the narrative might not reinvent the wheel, it provides enough intrigue to keep players invested throughout the adventure.
Stellar Blade balances exploration, combat, and storytelling effectively. The game world invites players to discover hidden areas and secrets, rewarding thorough exploration with valuable items and lore.
Players have been particularly vocal about the game’s quality, with many considering it among the best PS5 games of 2024. The positive reception speaks to the game’s polished experience and engaging gameplay.
For PS5 owners looking for a new action title with impressive visuals, fluid combat, and an engaging world, Stellar Blade delivers on all fronts. It represents another strong exclusive in Sony’s PlayStation 5 lineup.
7. Rise of the Ronin
Rise of the Ronin is a combat-focused open-world action RPG set in 19th-century Japan. Released exclusively for PS5, this Team NINJA title drops players into a war-torn Japan with a solid combat system and expansive world to explore.
The game shines with its detailed recreation of feudal Japan during a pivotal historical period. Players take on the role of a masterless samurai navigating political intrigue and personal vendettas across beautifully rendered landscapes.
Combat mechanics are a highlight, offering depth and satisfaction for action game fans. The fighting system borrows elements from Team NINJA’s previous titles while introducing unique features that make battles challenging and rewarding.
Players can experiment with different combat styles and weapons to find approaches that suit their playstyle. The variety keeps encounters fresh throughout the lengthy campaign.
While the game has many strengths, it also has noticeable flaws, such as repetitive mission design. Some objectives can feel repetitive, potentially diminishing the experience for players seeking more variety.
Graphically, the game presents a mixed bag. Some players note that Rise of the Ronin looks better during actual gameplay than in promotional materials, though it doesn’t quite reach the visual polish of titles like Ghost of Tsushima.
The loot system might overwhelm some players with its abundance of items. As IGN’s review points out, beneath this mountain of equipment lies a good game with a fascinating setting.
Despite these issues, many gamers can’t stop playing Rise of the Ronin. Its immersive world and satisfying moment-to-moment gameplay create an experience that keeps players engaged for hours.
For PS5 owners looking for an action RPG with historical Japanese flair, Rise of the Ronin offers a substantial adventure worth considering.
8. God of War: Ragnarök
God of War: Ragnarök stands as one of the best PlayStation games ever released. The game continues the journey of Kratos and his son Atreus as they venture through the mythic Nine Realms.
PlayStation 5 owners have voted it as the best game on the console so far. This acclaim comes from its perfect blend of storytelling and gameplay that pushes the PS5 hardware to its limits.
The narrative picks up where the 2018 game left off, with father and son now facing the consequences of their previous adventure. Their relationship continues to develop in meaningful ways that feel natural and earned.
Combat remains satisfyingly brutal while adding new depth. Kratos wields his Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos with devastating effect, complemented by new abilities that expand tactical options.
The game features incredible environments across the Nine Realms. Each location feels distinct with its own visual identity, from icy Midgard to the golden halls of Asgard.
Character performances are captivating and carry the amazing story to emotional heights. The motion capture and voice acting create believable characters that players will become invested in.
While the game has received nearly universal praise, some critics note that it does very little new compared to its predecessor. It refines rather than revolutionizes the formula.
God of War: Ragnarök offers substantial replayability with numerous side quests and post-game content. Players can continue exploring the realms long after completing the main story.
The technical performance on PS5 is exceptional, with two visual modes: one focusing on resolution and another on frame rate. This allows players to prioritize visual fidelity or smoother gameplay based on preference.
9. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 stands out as one of the most exciting new releases for PS5 gamers in 2024. This multiplayer co-op shooter invites players to team up with up to three friends to battle alien threats that endanger Super Earth.
The game delivers an intense combat experience where teamwork is essential. Players must coordinate their efforts effectively to survive the challenging alien encounters that await them across various planets.
Developed by Arrowhead Game Studios, Helldivers 2 offers cross-platform play between PS5 and PC. This feature expands the player base and makes it easier to find teammates regardless of gaming platform.
The gameplay feels fantastic with responsive controls and satisfying combat mechanics. Players can choose from numerous weapons and strategize their approach to missions, adding depth to the gameplay.
Value is another strong point for Helldivers 2. At a price point of $40, it offers substantial content without the excessive monetization that plagues many modern multiplayer games.
While designed as a cooperative experience, many wonder if it’s enjoyable as a solo player. According to reviews, the game can be fun alone but truly shines when played with others.
The PS5 version takes advantage of the console’s capabilities with impressive visuals and performance. The game also utilizes the DualSense controller features to enhance immersion during gameplay.
Helldivers 2 has received positive reviews from critics and players alike, with many praising its balance of challenge, humor, and cooperative gameplay elements.
For those considering a hardware purchase, some gamers have deemed Helldivers 2 as a worthwhile reason to invest in a PS5, especially when combined with the console’s growing library of exclusive titles.
10. Astro’s Playroom
Astro’s Playroom comes pre-loaded on every PS5 console, making it an instant addition to any new owner’s library. This charming platformer serves as both an entertaining game and a tech demo for the PlayStation 5’s capabilities.
The game takes full advantage of the DualSense controller’s features, showcasing haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in creative ways. Players can feel different textures and surfaces as Astro traverses various environments, adding a new dimension to the gaming experience.
Despite being a free pack-in title, Astro’s Playroom offers impressive quality and surprising depth. The game provides several hours of gameplay spread across multiple themed worlds, each representing different components of the PS5 console.
Each level contains collectibles and challenges that keep players engaged beyond the initial playthrough. Finding all the hidden PlayStation artifacts becomes an enjoyable scavenger hunt for longtime fans of the brand.
The game also serves as a celebration of PlayStation history, featuring cameos and references to iconic characters and games from past generations. These nostalgic elements add an extra layer of enjoyment for players who have been with the PlayStation brand for years.
Astro’s Playroom has received praise for its excellent implementation of the PS5’s new features, with some considering it among the best demonstrations of the console’s capabilities. Its intuitive controls and charming presentation make it accessible to players of all skill levels.
While it may lack the scope of other major PS5 exclusives, Astro’s Playroom provides a polished and enjoyable experience that shouldn’t be overlooked. It sets a high standard for how games can utilize the unique features of Sony’s newest hardware.
For those who enjoy Astro’s adventures, a full standalone game called ASTRO BOT offers an expanded experience with more worlds and features to discover.
Innovative Features of PS5 Games
The PlayStation 5 has transformed gaming through groundbreaking technological advancements. These innovations enhance immersion and provide players with experiences impossible on previous console generations.
Haptic Feedback and Adaptive Triggers
The DualSense controller represents one of the PS5‘s most revolutionary features. Its haptic feedback creates nuanced vibrations that simulate different sensations, from the patter of raindrops to the crunch of sand underfoot.
Games like Astro Bot showcase these capabilities brilliantly, letting players feel distinct textures as the character moves across various surfaces. The implementation varies by title, with each developer finding unique ways to utilize the technology.
The adaptive triggers add another dimension by adjusting resistance. In shooting games, players feel different tension when firing various weapons. Racing titles like Gran Turismo 7 simulate brake pedal resistance and terrain changes through trigger feedback.
This technology creates a tactile connection between players and virtual worlds, making experiences more immersive than ever before.
Ray Tracing and Graphics Enhancements
The PS5’s advanced GPU capabilities have enabled stunning visual improvements across compatible titles. Ray tracing technology simulates how light interacts with environments, creating realistic reflections, shadows, and ambient lighting.
Compatible games can run at 60fps or up to 120fps with ray tracing enabled, something previous consoles couldn’t achieve. Titles like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart demonstrate these capabilities with incredible detail and minimal loading times.
The PS5 Pro enhances these features further with AI-enhanced 4K resolution using PSSR technology. This allows for sharper visuals without compromising performance.
Games like God of War Ragnarök and Helldivers 2 utilize these graphical enhancements to create stunning worlds with unprecedented detail. Water reflections, realistic lighting in dark environments, and smooth character animations all benefit from these technological improvements.
Advantages of DualSense Controller
The PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller revolutionizes gameplay through innovative technology that enhances player immersion. These features create a more engaging and realistic gaming experience.
Immersive Gaming Experience
The DualSense controller offers haptic feedback technology that replaces traditional rumble motors with dual actuators. These provide precise vibrations that match in-game actions, allowing players to feel different sensations like raindrops or footsteps on various surfaces.
Adaptive triggers are another standout feature, creating resistance that changes based on in-game activities. When drawing a bowstring or accelerating a vehicle, players feel increasing tension in the triggers.
Astro’s Playroom demonstrates these capabilities perfectly, showcasing how the controller can simulate walking on different terrains or feeling rain hitting an umbrella.
Many PS5 games take full advantage of these features, making them more interactive and immersive. Titles like Returnal and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart use the controller’s capabilities to create distinct weapon feedback and environmental effects.
The DualSense is widely regarded as a genuinely impressive new-gen gamepad that enhances how players connect with their games.
Frequently Asked Questions
PlayStation 5 gamers often have questions about which titles to play next. Here are answers to common questions about the latest and greatest PS5 games.
What are the highest-rated new releases for PS5?
Several recent PS5 releases have earned exceptional critic ratings. Astro Bot stands out as one of the highest-rated new titles, showcasing the DualSense controller’s capabilities.
Elden Ring: Nightreign has received outstanding reviews for its expansive world and challenging gameplay. Critics have praised its atmospheric design and improved combat mechanics over the original.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 continues to maintain high ratings with its fluid web-swinging mechanics and engaging storyline featuring both Peter Parker and Miles Morales.
Which multiplayer games are currently popular on PS5?
Helldivers 2 has emerged as one of the most popular multiplayer experiences on PS5. This cooperative shooter has built a dedicated community since its release.
Monster Hunter Wilds has captured multiplayer enthusiasts with its cooperative monster hunting gameplay. Players are flocking to its expansive new regions and enhanced combat systems.
Call of Duty and FIFA titles continue to maintain strong player bases with their competitive modes and regular content updates.
Can you list the latest top-selling PS5 games?
According to recent sales data, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 remains one of the best-selling PS5 games with its dual protagonist approach and spectacular open-world gameplay.
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach has performed exceptionally well in sales, with fans eager to continue Sam Porter Bridges’ journey in Hideo Kojima’s unique post-apocalyptic world.
Elden Ring: Nightreign has topped sales charts since its release, building on the massive success of the original title with expanded gameplay features.
What new titles are coming to PS5 in the next few months?
Several exciting titles are scheduled for release in the coming months. The PlayStation games catalog will soon welcome Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: Part 2, continuing Cloud’s reimagined journey.
Silent Hill 2 Remake is set to bring the psychological horror classic to modern hardware with enhanced visuals and refined gameplay mechanics.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will transport players to feudal Japan, a setting long requested by fans of the historical action series.
What are some must-play exclusive games available on the PS5?
The PS5 boasts several outstanding exclusive titles that showcase the console’s capabilities. Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered offers a visually enhanced version of Aloy’s adventure with improved textures and performance.
God of War Ragnarök remains one of the best PS5 games with its compelling father-son narrative and satisfying combat system.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stands as a premier PS5 exclusive, featuring stunning ray-traced visuals and lightning-fast loading times thanks to the console’s SSD.
Are there any recently released indie games on PS5 that are recommended?
The PS5 indie scene has flourished with several standout titles. Sea of Stars has captured players with its beautiful pixel art and turn-based combat that evokes classic RPGs.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits continues to impress with its charming characters and Pixar-like visuals that push the boundaries of indie game production values.
The PlayStation store regularly features indie gems like Dave the Diver, which blends restaurant management with underwater exploration for a uniquely engaging experience.
