While the biggest PlayStation titles often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of hidden wajan4d gems that have flown under the radar but are absolutely worth playing. These underrated games may not have received the same level of attention as The Last of Us or God of War, but they offer rich, unique experiences that deserve to be explored. Let’s shine a light on a few of the best PlayStation games that may not have gotten the recognition they deserve.

Shadow of the Colossus (2005), though critically acclaimed, is often overlooked by mainstream audiences when discussing PlayStation classics. This action-adventure game is minimalist in design but monumental in its scope. In Shadow of the Colossus, players take on the role of Wander, a young man tasked with defeating 16 giant colossi in order to bring his deceased lover back to life. What makes the game so special is its quiet beauty, both in terms of art direction and gameplay. Each battle with a colossus feels monumental, with players needing to solve intricate puzzles to defeat the towering beasts. The vast, empty world and haunting soundtrack create an atmosphere that has a unique emotional weight. Though it lacks traditional combat or NPC interactions, Shadow of the Colossus is a masterclass in minimalist game design and one of PlayStation’s most emotionally resonant games.

Another underrated gem is Journey (2012), a short but profound experience that has since become a staple in the world of indie gaming. This visually stunning game takes players on a solitary journey through a vast desert, where they control a robed figure on a pilgrimage to the summit of a distant mountain. The game’s multiplayer elements are subtle but powerful, as players can encounter other travelers along the way, without ever being able to communicate directly. Journey is a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and emotional storytelling, all presented in a way that leaves a lasting impact. Its minimalist design and beautiful soundtrack, composed by Austin Wintory, help make it one of PlayStation’s most haunting and memorable experiences.

The Order: 1886 (2015) is another title that often gets dismissed despite its potential. Set in an alternate version of Victorian London, the game’s visual fidelity and unique setting stand out immediately. While the gameplay may be a bit linear, The Order: 1886 features a strong narrative and an intriguing world filled with mythological creatures, steampunk gadgets, and a secret order of knights tasked with protecting humanity. Its underappreciated story and atmosphere make it a hidden gem for anyone looking for a unique experience within a historical setting. While the game may not have fully lived up to its early promises, it still offers an engaging, cinematic adventure worth checking out.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice (2017), though not exclusive to PlayStation, deserves a spot on this list for its powerful portrayal of mental illness and its innovative gameplay. Developed by Ninja Theory, the game follows Senua, a warrior who embarks on a journey through the Norse underworld to rescue the soul of her deceased lover. What sets Hellblade apart is its portrayal of psychosis and the way it incorporates the mental state of its protagonist into the mechanics and audio design of the game. The use of binaural audio and visual distortions makes the player experience Senua’s mental state firsthand, adding a layer of emotional depth and immersion to the narrative. While it may not be as widely known as other PlayStation titles, Hellblade is an unforgettable experience that tackles mental health in a way few other games have done.