Best Games Exclusive to the PS1

As someone who’s been around the gaming block a few times and has seen countless consoles come and go, I must say that the PlayStation 1 was truly a gem. And while there were many fantastic games on that console, if I had to pick my top five, it would be these:

1. Tenchu: Silent Assassin – This game took stealth gaming to new heights with its expansive sandbox levels and mobile main character. It’s a testament to what can be achieved even in the debut game from a studio!
2. Alundra 2 – A classic action-adventure that fully embraced the 3D era while still holding on to its roots. The cutscenes, voice acting, and camera control were truly impressive for the time.
3. Alundra – The original, but don’t let that fool you. This game has a timeless charm that makes it worth playing even today. Plus, who doesn’t love a good top-down 2D perspective?
4. Tenchu: Stealth Assassins – I remember spending countless hours sneaking around levels and taking down enemies silently. It was a challenge, but it was also incredibly satisfying!
5. Alundra 1 (for PS3) – While the original Alundra didn’t make it onto my top five for the PS1, its re-release on the PS3 as a PS1 classic is definitely worth mentioning. It’s a great reminder of how far we’ve come in gaming and how some games stand the test of time!

Now, let me leave you with a little joke: Why did the PlayStation 1 go to therapy? Because it couldn’t get over being overshadowed by its successors!

For decades, the original PlayStation significantly reshaped the gaming world. Sony entered the game market with an impressive impact, ruling the generation much like a wrecking ball. They strategically opted for CDs over cartridges and successfully gathered extensive third-party support, resulting in an immense collection of exceptional games.

Although numerous classic PlayStation games have migrated to other systems, there are several gems that continue to reside exclusively on the PlayStation. It would be a fantastic moment if these games could be re-released or remastered in the future. They should be preserved for future generations, but as time passes, it will become increasingly difficult to find both the console and a copy of the game.

Although games such as Parasite Eve and Xenogears seem ideally suited for this list, they were actually re-released on PlayStation 3 as PlayStation 1 classics. Regrettably, these games have yet to be updated for PlayStation 4 and 5, but fans can still acquire them and enjoy them on the earlier console model.

7. Brave Fencer Musashi

An Action RPG That Was Ahead Of Its Time

Brave Fencer Musashi boasted mechanics that were quite advanced for its era. The game’s world operates on a day-night cycle, and the protagonist, Musashi, grows weary and must sleep to restore his energy. Additionally, this role-playing game incorporated voice acting, which was a rare and intriguing element at the time.

In a different phrasing: The Square Corporation was renowned for creating exceptional turn-based RPGs on PlayStation, but with Brave Fencer Musashi, it demonstrated that it could experiment with something offbeat and unique. At the time, the graphics were impressive, and although they have noticeably aged, they continue to radiate a timeless allure.

6. Legend Of Legaia

A Cult JRPG With Beautiful Graphics In Combat

Developer: Prkion, Contrail
Genres: Role-playing, Adventure
Release: October 29, 1998

Instead of a standard attack method found in most JRPGs, Legend of Legaia distinguishes itself on the PS1 by employing a special combat system where players execute a sequence of inputs to perform powerful combos rather than using a single attack. Additionally, it stands out with its enigmatic fog that blankets the world, causing monsters to become uncontrollably strong. The 3D models used in battle are also noteworthy for their high level of detail considering the console’s capabilities.

In the game Legend of Legaia, despite towns and dungeons being spread across a world map, there are relatively few side quests and the narrative remains centered. However, it effectively portrays the distinct characteristics of various regions as characters Vahn, Noa, and Gala journey through them on their mission to dismantle the mist generators.

5. Gran Turismo 2

Old Racing Sims Still Deserve Love And Recognition

Despite the continuous improvement of each new installment in the Gran Turismo franchise, it’s bittersweet that we may never experience a rerun of Gran Turismo 2. Revisiting its groundbreaking racing simulation roots and witnessing the series’ progression since then would certainly be intriguing.

If we were to bring back Gran Turismo 2, there might be numerous licensing challenges to tackle due to its use of real-life cars. It’d be intriguing to observe if today’s younger gamers would recognize the game’s visual appeal when it initially debuted.

4. Apocalypse

Bruce Willis Shooting Up Monsters In A Dystopian Setting

In the late 1990s, it was quite unusual to find a celebrity featured in a video game. This unique aspect sets Apocalypse apart from other games in the PlayStation 1 library now. Bruce Willis provided his likeness and voice for the main character, even if the dialogue is sparse.

The gameplay is a straightforward blend of shooting and navigating platforms, allowing players to shoot in any direction they press the face button or move the joystick. Originally developed by Neversoft, this engine was later utilized for the creation of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series.

The gameplay might be drastically altered, but there are clear similarities with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, such as the employment of actual individuals as character models and the integration of licensed tunes.

3. Disruptor

Insomniac Before Spyro The Dragon

Prior to captivating an entire generation with the tumultuous spirit of Spyro the Dragon, developer Insomniac unveiled a lesser-known science fiction first-person shooter titled Disruptor, back in the day when PlayStation was still fresh and exciting. This game, unfortunately overlooked by many, was among the earlier first-person shooters to grace the original PlayStation system.

The game leverages its sci-fi style by providing players with multiple power-ups alongside advanced weaponry. Despite receiving positive reviews, it failed to create a significant impact in sales. Thankfully, the developer transitioned to more profitable franchises such as Spyro and Ratchet & Clank.

2. Alundra 2

A 3D Action-Adventure Cult Classic

Developer: Matrix Software
Publisher: Sony (Japan), Activision (Worldwide)
Release: March 21, 2000

Alundra follows the conventional 2D top-down style found in numerous ’90s action RPGs. Its sequel, however, transitions to full 3D while maintaining its original gameplay elements. This allows players to manipulate the camera for a more immersive experience. Interestingly, the first game was remastered and released on the PS3 as a classic PS1 title, but surprisingly, the sequel is exclusive to Sony’s original console.

While it may not boast the same dedicated following as some other titles, this game remains an excellent enhancement to the PlayStation 1 collection. It skillfully exploits the advancements in technology, featuring captivating camera angles in its cutscenes and even incorporating voiceovers for a more immersive experience.

1. Tenchu: Silent Assassin

Sneak Around Fully 3D Sandbox Environments

The stealthy 3D levels in Tenchu: Silent Assassin, created by a debuting studio, are even more remarkable when you consider their origin. Each stage serves as an open-ended sandbox for players to navigate covertly with limited resources. The game offers several versions of each level, enhancing the suspense and motivating repeated playthroughs.

In essence, Tenchu shares some similarities with Metal Gear Solid, but it offers additional controls like camera management and boasts a more agile protagonist compared to Solid Snake. The North American version introduced extra features such as a level editor, which was also incorporated in its subsequent release.

2024-12-30 15:34