Best PS Plus Premium Games You Need to Play in 2025

As a gaming enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in virtual worlds since the days of the PS1, I can confidently say that the lineup on PS Plus Premium is nothing short of a treasure trove for retro gamers like myself. From the heart-wrenching journey of Kratos in God of War 3 Remastered to the gripping courtroom drama of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy, each game on this list offers a unique and memorable experience that’s hard to forget.

Personally, I was introduced to gaming through the PlayStation console, and titles like Syphon Filter and Jak and Daxter were part of my formative years as a gamer. These games not only provided hours of entertainment but also shaped my love for storytelling and gameplay mechanics that have stayed with me throughout my gaming journey.

One thing I’ve noticed about these games is their ability to transport you back in time, allowing us to relive the magic of our childhoods while also discovering new aspects we may have missed during our first playthroughs. It’s like finding a long-lost friend who’s grown up but still remembers the good old days.

Now, if only I could find a way to convince my fiancé that we need to replay Phoenix Wright… “You know, dear, it’s for research purposes only!

In 2025, we can anticipate another exciting year of timeless gaming classics with PS Plus Premium, as our collection continues to expand. Each month, the Premium tier becomes even more enticing, and I’ve highlighted some must-play games that you shouldn’t miss in 2025.

Over time, I’ve cycled between having a PS Plus Premium subscription, reducing my plan, and then resubscribing to discover games I’ve missed. I understand that Sony’s top-tier PS Plus plan might not be suitable for everyone. However, if you’re a gaming enthusiast who enjoys classics or wants to experience titles from the past, the Premium tier was specifically designed for you.

It proved challenging to limit it to just seven items, as there are many more I could suggest. However, these recommendations might stand out the most due to their diversity, significant influence on gaming, and my personal preference. You’re bound to appreciate them a lot.

7 PS Plus Premium Games to Play in 2025

The games available on PS Plus Premium tend to change frequently, so I recommend you download and play them promptly because they can be taken off the service. It’s not just about adding new titles; games get removed as well. Take a good look at our list, read it carefully, and see which ones catch your eye—no need for a judgment of naughty or nice, they’re all great choices!

Ape Escape

1999’s Ape Escape was the pioneer game that necessitated the use of the DualShock controller. This factoid, though familiar, remains captivating to me. The accessory was essential in controlling the chaos of monkeys. Interestingly, Astro Bot, set for release in 2024, is paying homage to Ape Escape by incorporating an entire level dedicated to the classic series. Remarkably, even after all these years, the original title continues to be humorous, endearing, and capable of keeping you engaged for several hours.

Dark Chronicle / Dark Cloud 2

Twenty years ago on Christmas Day, the bewilderment on my face was clear as I unwrapped this gift. However, over time it grew to be one of my most cherished presents, consuming many hours of my time due to its unexpected Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) nature. In America, it’s known as Dark Chronicle, but elsewhere as Dark Cloud 2. This game, developed by Level-5, offers a captivating interchange between two main characters and combines elements of dungeon combat with city-building mechanics. Its unique blend remains compelling even today, showcasing concepts that are rare in modern JRPGs.

Dino Crisis

Capcom experimented with transitioning traditional Resident Evil-style gameplay from zombies to dinosaurs as the antagonists, which led to the creation of an iconic survival-horror game that fans have been eagerly anticipating a remake for years. Similar to classic Resident Evil, the protagonist Regina must survive, gather resources, and fend off enemies while avoiding being eaten by dinosaurs. With no new Dino Crisis title in sight, enthusiasts can satisfy their craving by playing the original on PS Plus Premium.

DOOM

I didn’t jump on the DOOM bandwagon until 2012 with the BFG Edition, but once I did, I was completely captivated by it. I get really excited when discussing my affection for DOOM. With PS Plus Premium, you can access its early releases that essentially shaped the first-person genre for over three decades, and chances are, many of the FPS games you’ve played have been impacted by DOOM’s awesomeness. From its weapons, music, demons, levels, DOOM is a game of legend, and every great journey begins somewhere.

God of War 3 Remastered

As a longtime fan of the God of War series, I can confidently say that the third installment in this epic saga holds a special place in my heart. Having played through all three games multiple times, I’ve come to appreciate the evolution of Kratos’ character and the grand storytelling that unfolds across the trilogy.

God of War 3 stands out to me as a masterpiece, not just for its stunning graphics and intense action sequences, but also for the emotional depth and tragic beauty of its narrative. The brutal, violent storyline culminates in a Greek tragedy of epic proportions that leaves an indelible mark on anyone who experiences it.

I believe that every God of War fan should take the time to play through the entire trilogy, as it sets the stage for the more recent reboot and Ragnarok. The Norse-themed “Dad of Boy” spinoff is a fantastic continuation of Kratos’ story, but understanding his true origins and the events that led him there is essential to fully appreciating the spectacle and grandeur of this iconic series.

In short, God of War 3 offers an unforgettable gaming experience that should not be missed by any fan of action-adventure games or epic storytelling. It’s a testament to the power of video games as a medium for exploring complex themes and delivering emotionally resonant stories, and it stands as one of my all-time favorite gaming experiences.

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

As a diehard gamer, let me share my perspective: It’s not a common viewpoint, but I believe Jak and Daxter truly shone brightest with their debut, Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy. This game is one I’ve completed from start to finish more times than I can count. Naughty Dog, known for their work on Crash Bandicoot, really outdid themselves with this title, crafting one of gaming’s most iconic duos. Jak, the strong, silent protagonist, and Daxter, the talkative, scene-stealing Ottsel, made an unforgettable team. The Precursor Legacy not only pushed the boundaries of the 3D platformer genre on the PS2 but also stands as the pinnacle of the Jak and Daxter franchise—a peak we never quite reached again, especially with the darker turns that Jak 2 took.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy

Whoa there! You’re questioning whether Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy should be included in the PS Plus Premium list? I beg to differ! This series has been a game-changer for me, and stumbling upon it while browsing through Premium’s offerings was serendipity at its finest.

I had never given a thought to the Phoenix Wright series before, but when I saw the trilogy, curiosity got the best of me. I took a chance and downloaded it, and let me tell you, it was 30 hours well spent! My fiancé and I were hooked.

The interactive storytelling in this game is nothing short of captivating—each case keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Plus, watching how the mechanics evolve and are reimagined with each sequel is a testament to its innovative game design.

In my humble opinion, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy is the epitome of what makes PS Plus Premium great. It’s a hidden gem that deserves to be on everyone’s radar!

Syphon Filter

As someone who grew up playing video games on the original PlayStation, I can confidently say that Syphon Filter was one of the standout titles of its time. Had Metal Gear Solid 1 not been released a year earlier, it’s likely that Syphon Filter would have received even more attention and love from gamers. The game’s blend of espionage action and intricate level designs were truly ahead of its time, and the “Danger” system, use of gadgets, and varied mission parameters made for a unique gaming experience.

However, it is undeniable that Metal Gear Solid 1 had an unparalleled story that set the bar for narrative-driven games. Yet, Syphon Filter’s gameplay mechanics, graphics, and overall design were impressive in their own right. It is a testament to the quality of Syphon Filter that it remains a classic of the PS1 era, and I am grateful that its first three installments are available on PS Plus Premium with trophies for those who want to revisit this iconic series. Overall, Syphon Filter was a game that defined my childhood gaming experiences, and it continues to be a beloved title among gamers of all ages.

2025-01-01 09:48