Sony has finally revealed the PlayStation Classic’s game lineup, and it’s about as great as we expected it to be. This retro console might be missing a few games, but the overall quality of the 20 titles included on this device is certainly high.
So which PlayStation Classic title is the greatest of them all? Here are our rankings.
20. Destruction Derby
We’re not entirely sure why this game is on here. There are far better PlayStation racing games, and there are far better PlayStation vehicular combat games. You probably won’t be spending much time with this one.
19. Battle Arena Toshinden
This one is a bit of a mixed bag. Battle Arena Toshinden isn’t awful, but it has the great misfortune of being bundled with Tekken 3. Considering that Tekken 3 improves upon the basics of Battle Arena Toshinden in nearly every way…well, we think this one is more of a curiosity.
18. Rayman
Most Rayman games are actually great, but this title isn’t nearly as impressive as it used to be. It’s a decent 2D platformer that won’t make you forget about Mario. There are better options out there.
17. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six
This one is a bit of a mixed bag. The game itself is pretty good, but these early Rainbow Six games never felt great on a console. We think some people might be surprised by this game, but some just won’t be able to deal with it.
16. Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo
Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo is fine…but it’s just fine. It’s a pretty standard puzzle game with a little more personality and a couple fresh mechanics. It will kill some time, but that’s about it.
15. Grand Theft Auto
Let’s be honest: the Grand Theft Auto series wasn’t really interesting before GTA: III. The original Grand Theft Auto games are historically important, but we doubt that many people are going to actually play much of this.
14. Cool Boarders 2
Cool Boarders 2 is no Tony Hawk, but at a time when such extreme sports games are almost non-existent, we think it might have some appeal. It’s still a solid snowboarding title that’s worth a look.
13. I.Q.: Intelligent Qube
I.Q.: Intelligent Qube is like if a 3D version of Tetris married a game of Sodoku. It’s a neat puzzle title, but it’s not necessarily something you’ll want to spend hours in front of a TV playing. Great concept, iffy format.
12. Twisted Metal
Our biggest knock against Twisted Metal is that Twisted Metal 2 is superior in nearly every way. That being said, this game’s dark premise, fun gameplay, and appealing name do justify its spot in this lineup.
11. Syphon Filter
Sure, Syphon Filter is showing its age, but this game should absolutely be a part of this collection. This spy thriller is a pretty decent action title in its own right, and its historical significance as a notable PlayStation exclusive puts it over the top.
10. Jumping Flash
The once-revolutionary technology that fuelled this game is going to drive some people crazy, but Jumping Flash remains a surprisingly solid 3D title. Its simple gameplay is surprisingly addictive, and it’s certainly an important PlayStation game.
9. Revelations: Persona
This isn’t the PlayStation’s best JRPG (not even close), but it’s a mostly underrated gem that we didn’t think would make this collection. There are other games that probably deserve this spot, but Persona has aged gracefully.
8. Mr. Driller
Mr. Driller is a clever, addictive, and colorful puzzle game that has been tragically forgotten. What this game lacks in name appeal, though, it will make up for in pure fun.
7. Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee won’t be for everyone, but it’s a genuinely clever game. Somewhere between an action title and a puzzle game, Oddysee is a dark and challenging title for the thinking gamer.
6. Resident Evil Director’s Cut
Yes, the GameCube Resident Evil remake is far superior to the original, but Resident Evil is worth playing regardless of which version you play. The game that changed horror gaming forever remains a classic.
5. Wild Arms
Wild Arms blend of the sci-fi and western genres results in an utterly JRPG world. Obviously, not every great PlayStation JRPG could be included on this console, but we’re thrilled that Wild Arms made the cut.
4. Ridge Racer Type 4
One of the most underrated racing games ever will finally get the second shot it deserves. Ridge Racer‘s incredible soundtrack, excellent courses, and silky-smooth gameplay haven’t aged a day.
3. Tekken 3
You could honestly argue that Tekken 3 is the finest 3D fighting game ever made. This sequel is loaded with gameplay options, sports a great roster of fighters, and is just as fun to play as it ever was.
2. Final Fantasy VII
Many regularly refer to Final Fantasy VII as the greatest game ever made. Even if you’re not willing to go that far, it does belong in the discussion. This true epic remains one of the true “must-play” games of its era.
1. Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid‘s use of elaborate cutscenes and complex storytelling forever changed the video game industry. Remarkably, though, this game feels about as special now as it did when it was released 20 years ago.
