Every PS1 Launch Title, Ranked

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Summary

  • PlayStation 1 faced stiff competition but still managed to release some banger games at launch.
  • Street Fighter: The Movie was a commercial hit despite being a disappointment with poor graphics and gameplay.
  • Total Eclipse Turbo fell short compared to Air Combat, which became a classic and laid the foundation for the Ace Combat franchise.

Initially, the PlayStation was introduced in Japan during 1994, followed by the US market in 1995. A device initially designed as an add-on for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), eventually grew into a standalone, groundbreaking electronic gadget.

During the 32-bit period, when competition was fierce, Sony’s reputation in the home console market wasn’t well-established yet. This made it challenging for them to persuade third-party game developers to collaborate with them. They didn’t have teams like Naughty Dog or Santa Monica Studio on their side at that time. However, this didn’t deter Sony from launching some great games, as well as a few disappointments.

This list looks at the launch titles in North America.

12. Street Fighter: The Movie

Not to Be Confused With the Movie, Street Fighter

The intriguingly titled “Street Fighter: The Movie” is actually the video game version based on the film “Street Fighter.” Similar to the movie, it was a major letdown among the PlayStation 1’s initial releases. What made this even more disappointing was that it came from one of the most renowned fighting game franchises in history. To call it a disappointment would be an understatement.

As a devoted fan, I must confess that the game, despite being a commercial triumph for Capcom, fell short in several areas that left me longing for improvement. The framerate was painfully slow, the voice acting was cringeworthy, and the sprites barely resembled their cinematic counterparts. Yet, it seems that the gaming community wasn’t entirely disillusioned by movie tie-ins just yet, as they continued to support this title.

11. Power Serve 3D Tennis

Impressive Graphics, Not So Impressive Game

Among the games launched alongside the PlayStation 1, the third and arguably least memorable was “Power Serve 3D Tennis”. Although its graphics received some appreciation, even being described as a sophisticated tech demo, the praise didn’t extend much further. Critics found themselves perplexed by its confusing camera angles, slow-paced gameplay, and challenging controls, using their metaphorical rackets to deliver some harsh critiques.

Tennis enthusiasts would have to be patient, as they wouldn’t get their fill until the releases of Actua Tennis in 1998 and Anna Kournikova’s Smash Court Tennis in 1999.

10. Kileak: The DNA Imperative

Not Great, Not Terrible

The original first-person shooter for the PS1 was “Kileak: The DNA Imperative”. If players haven’t come across this game before, it’s not surprising given that it’s often overshadowed by other popular titles like “Medal of Honor”, “Duke Nukem: Total Meltdown”, and the PC version of “Doom”.

Kileak wasn’t outstanding nor terrible; it was mediocre at best. Both critics and players found issues with its repetitive level designs and unoriginal gameplay, often describing it as dull or unexciting. The damning verdict: “kinda boring”. That hurts!

9. Total Eclipse Turbo

It Was Not Turbo Time

Among the two flight simulators debuting at the launch of the PS1, it was “Total Eclipse Turb”o that came up short in their aerial battle. While its unique, sci-fi setting with ’90s staple villains, extraterrestrial beings, gave it an edge, it couldn’t outperform “Air Combat”.

The older 3DO game’s re-release received little praise from reviewers since it didn’t offer anything fresh to enhance the gaming experience. Although its graphics were striking and gameplay was sound, the game was considered one of the less impressive titles that debuted with the PlayStation 1.

8. Zero Divide

Robotic Beats and Beatdowns

In a futuristic setting, Zero Divide offers a unique 3D fighting gameplay where players control agile robots resembling boxing gloves. This game was quite innovative for its era, as it allowed battles to take place not just within enclosed arenas, but also on open platforms, enabling strategic maneuvers that included hanging off the edges.

Additionally, it’s packed with cutting-edge robot designs that fully leveraged the PS1’s 32-bit capabilities. It boasted remarkably fluid animations, robust mechanics, and a pulsating synth soundtrack reminiscent of ’90s raves. However, perfecting the game’s moves was more rewarding for those with a bit of patience.

7. The Raiden Project

A Worthy Arcade Translation

Combining classic arcade games Raiden and Raiden II into a single release called The Raiden Project is an impressive tribute to the scroll shooter genre. It also offers a “Horizontal Mode” for players to enjoy the game as they would in an arcade, albeit by rotating their monitor horizontally. This wasn’t the most practical solution on TV screens in the ’90s.

Regardless of potential screen issues, the game garnered acclaim for accurately recreating the arcade atmosphere on the PlayStation 1. Specifically, Raiden II received high praise for its captivating gameplay and exhilarating two-player cooperative mode.

6. Air Combat

Namco Aced the Flight Sim Genre

Initially known as “Air Combat”, the series that later became “Ace Combat” made its debut. This groundbreaking flight combat simulator, although less catchily named, was based on an extremely popular arcade game with the same title. It successfully transferred many of that game’s high-intensity gameplay elements to the console version. Namco delivered another classic launch title brimming with addictive action, dramatic scenes, and sounds that broke through the sound barrier.

This essential component played a significant role in its success, surpassing the flight simulation game launched alongside the PS1, named “Total Eclipse Turbo.” Notably, it gave birth to an iconic series that remains popular and thriving in the present day.

5. ESPN Extreme Games

Punch and Kick Your Way to Victory

The ’90s was a decade that epitomized extremity, and no game on this list showcased that more than ESPN Extreme Games. It later reemerged under the over-the-top 1Xtreme. This PlayStation 1 launch title allowed players to skateboard, rollerblade, street luge, and mountain bike, as well as engage in the most un-sportsmanlike physical altercations with each other.

During ESPN-sanctioned games, former anchor and sidelines commentator Suzy Kolber occasionally appeared to evaluate player performance, regardless of personal preference. Feedback ranged from moderate to favorable, yet this didn’t deter it from becoming one of the platform’s top-selling titles.

4. NBA Jam Tournament Edition

The Best of the 3 Launch Sports Titles

Prior to the release of NBA 2K revolutionizing the market, the NBA Jam series stood as the preferred choice for basketball enthusiasts. Its swift, action-packed gameplay mirrored the high-octane style of the NBA during its peak era, making it an exceptional means to immerse oneself in the NBA experience at its zenith.

On home consoles, the PS1 debut lineup showcased NBA Jam Tournament Edition, capturing the arcade thrill. Regrettably, Michael Jordan opted out, and he was not included in the public version; however, Midway did offer him a personalized edition featuring him as a player. Above all, the game offered basketball enthusiasts one of the most memorable catchphrases in sports gaming – Boomshakalaka!

3. Battle Arena Toshinden

Nearly Devoured Sega’s Saturn

At its launch, the best fighter on the PS1 was none other than Battle Arena Toshinden, which Sony had high expectations for, considering it was referred to as the “Saturn killer.” The goal was for it to surpass Sega’s highly successful Virtua Fighter, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen as planned, primarily because the game was made available on the competing console within nearly a year.

The game, Toshinden, didn’t hold back from achieving massive popularity on PlayStation, selling out in just its initial week. Not only was it a commercial triumph, but it also received acclaim from critics due to its vibrant cast of characters, dynamic camera angles, meticulously designed stages, and its pioneering role in transitioning fighters into the three-dimensional gaming world.

2. Rayman

The Beginning of a Legendary Platforming Franchise

Initially, Rayman didn’t enjoy the massive success it has today with more than 45 games released, but rather had a modest start as the first notable platformer on PlayStation 1. Although it wasn’t exclusive to PlayStation (also available on Atari Jaguar), the PlayStation 1 version was generally regarded as the optimal way to experience the game, strengthening the console’s position in competition with Nintendo and Sega.

Back then, there was a mascot that could hold its own against Mario and Sonic. Some gamers have nicknamed Rayman as the “PS1 Launch Titles‘ version of ‘Dark Souls 2′” – a title often overused. Instead, let’s say it was the “challenging and rewarding successor” among the PS1 launch titles!

1. Ridge Racer

Deservedly In Poll Position

The standout launch title for the PlayStation 1 wasn’t originally designed for it; instead, it was created for arcade machines by Namco. However, labeling it as a simple port would be misleading because Namco had to essentially rebuild this renowned racer from scratch to make it compatible with CD-ROM technology, a novel concept at the time.

In the ’90s, this game was marketed as “the most authentic racing simulation,” a claim that might seem laughable today. However, back then, for those confined to their chairs, it offered an unparalleled experience of speed and driving.

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2025-02-27 06:06