The PlayStation 4 library is large and varied, with acclaimed exclusives, major third-party releases and independent gems. Because the console has been available for years, many games now cost much less, which makes it a great time to explore the back catalogue or build a collection on a budget.
Well-known exclusives
PS4 is associated with narrative-driven adventures such as The Last of Us Part II, God of War, Uncharted 4, Marvel’s Spider-Man, Horizon Zero Dawn, Ghost of Tsushima and Bloodborne. These titles show strong writing, performance and design, and many remain highly regarded long after release.
Multiplatform favourites
- Open world adventures and role-playing games.
- Sports titles such as football, basketball and racing.
- Shooters and online team games.
- Fighting games for local and online competition.
- Family and party games for shared play.
Finding good value
Look for sales on the PlayStation Store, buy used discs from trusted shops and try subscription catalogues. Check if a game has been remastered or has a complete edition that includes downloadable content. Read recent reviews, because patches can change quality.
Playing on newer hardware
Many PS4 games run better on PlayStation 5, with faster loading and sometimes higher frame rates. Save data can often be transferred, so players can continue where they left off.
Choosing for children
Check the PEGI or ESRB age ratings and descriptions of content. Use parental controls to limit spending, chat and playtime, and consider cooperative games that families can enjoy together.
Trophies and achievements
Trophies reward milestones and add extra goals. They can encourage exploration, but play at your own pace and focus on enjoying the story.
Frequently asked questions
Are PS4 games still worth buying?
Yes. Many are excellent and inexpensive.
Can I share digital games?
Account and console sharing rules apply, so check Sony’s terms.
How do I avoid scams when buying used?
Use reputable sellers and inspect discs and cases.
Local multiplayer and family titles
Couch co-op games bring people together in the same room. Look for party games, sports titles, platformers and cooperative adventures that support two to four players. Check the number of controllers you own, and read reviews for how well each title suits younger children.
Remastered collections
Several favourite games have been rebuilt with improved visuals and extra content. They often provide the best way to experience older stories, though check the price against original discs.
Caring for discs and libraries
Hold discs by the edges, store them in cases, and keep digital libraries organised by category. Regular backups of save data through cloud storage or USB protect progress.
Trying before you buy
Demos, free trials, videos and subscription catalogues let you test a game first. Many players also check community forums to see whether technical issues have been fixed.
Genres to explore on a budget
Try open world adventures, story-driven action games, football and racing titles, and cooperative shooters. Because prices have fallen, you can sample several genres without a big spend, and discover what you enjoy most before investing in the next console generation.
Reading reviews effectively
Look for reviews that mention length, difficulty, performance and value, and balance critic scores with player feedback.