Must-Play PS1 Games, Ranked – Investment Policy

Summary

Pepsiman, Vib-Ribbon, Silent Bomber, and Dino Crisis stand out as unique PS1 games that deserve attention today.
Policenauts and Vagrant Story offer compelling narratives and gameplay that showcase the console’s diverse library.
Bushido Blade 2 provides a distinctive fighting experience with one-hit kills and deserves recognition for its unique approach.

1994-1995 marked a significant period in gaming history as Sony joined the console competition in Japan and North America. The question was whether they could stand alongside giants like Nintendo and Sega, but they ended up surpassing both in some aspects during the 90s. Remarkably, the PlayStation 1 outshone its competitors, the Sega Saturn and N64. This success can be attributed to a diverse collection of platformers, RPGs, action games, and more. Although it’s tempting to explore the console’s top games, today we delve into its extensive library instead.

While some of these game titles are evergreen classics, others are unique, oddball experiences that can only truly be appreciated through gameplay. These games serve as alternative gems hidden in the shadows of the more popular PS1 games. Although they may not always get the recognition they deserve, they often offer superior genre representations and demonstrate the true potential of the PS1. Additionally, some of these games are downright peculiar, and players must experience them to believe it. The ranking will be based on quality, with the ‘weird factor’ taking a backseat.

8. Pepsiman

The 90s Were Truly Wild

The game titled “Pepsiman” might not be a universally recognized classic for the PlayStation 1, but it’s an unique gaming experience worth trying. Despite all dialogues being in English, this game was exclusively launched in Japan. It offered live-action cutscenes, or FMV, to narrate the tale of an ardent Pepsi fan who idolizes the superhero, Pepsiman, who traverses the city to satisfy the thirsty residents. The “Pepsiman” game was innovative and way ahead of its time, as it predated the auto-runner genre that became popular on mobile phones in the mid-2000s, making it remarkably strange.

7. Vib-Ribbon

Simple Graphics, Killer Music

PaRappa the Rapper advanced the concept of rhythm-based games by combining storytelling with music challenges. Although it remains impressive, Vib-Ribbon might offer a more concentrated gaming experience, featuring simple visuals yet presenting a tougher and more satisfying gameplay experience. As a rabbit-like character with semi-polygonal design, players must dance in rhythm to the songs. It’s another testament to Sony’s innovative spirit during this period, making it enjoyable today as a nostalgic glimpse into the company’s past.

6. Silent Bomber

Is That Your Bomberman?

The remake of the character, titled “Bomberman: Act Zero,” for Xbox 360 was not well-received by fans. On the other hand, “Silent Bomber” shares no connection to “Bomberman,” but it seems to be a more fitting spiritual successor. Players traverse levels from above while equipped with bracers that allow for rapid deployment of explosives.

One of the initial games developed by CyberConnect2, a company now famous for the hack series and anime adaptations of Naruto and Dragon Ball Z, is definitely worth playing. Apart from being enjoyable in itself, it serves as an educational experience, demonstrating the significant growth and evolution that CyberConnect2 has undergone as a game developer over the years.

5. Dino Crisis

The Best Jurassic Park Sequel

On the PlayStation 1, Resident Evil reigned supreme in the horror genre, and while there were many excellent games on that platform, the zombie genre was not particularly unique. However, Resident Evil went on to make a bigger impact elsewhere. Instead, PlayStation 1 enthusiasts should focus their attention on Dino Crisis, another series by Capcom, which takes place on a secluded island where a dinosaur outbreak occurs. Its plot bears some resemblance to that of Jurassic Park, but it is significantly more intense. There’s nothing else quite like it on the system.

4. Policenauts

Kojima’s Hidden Masterpiece

Experience “Metal Gear Solid” on the PlayStation 1 offers an engaging mix of storytelling and stealth gameplay that’s hard to beat. Yet, did you know that its creator, Hideo Kojima, also developed another PS1 title? That game is called “Policenauts“, which was exclusively released in Japan. Fortunately for fans worldwide, dedicated enthusiasts have translated and patched it into English.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but share my excitement about the remake of “Policenauts” from 1994, a captivating game that has found its way onto modern platforms. This intriguing title serves as the prologue to Meryl Silverburgh, a cherished character in the Metal Gear Solid universe, although it doesn’t directly link to the storyline.

It’s an adventure game with a concise runtime, but the narrative is anything but brief. The storyline is tight and engaging, managing to be both straightforward and intricate at the same time. If you’re looking for one adventure or story-driven game from the PS1 era to immerse yourself in, I wholeheartedly recommend giving “Policenauts” a try.

3. Mega Man Legends

A Unique Art Style And Twist For The Blue Bomber

During the ’90s, many popular franchises from the ’80s were transitioning from 2D to 3D graphics, with Mega Man being one of them. Compared to other 3D adaptations like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda on the N64, Mega Man Legends didn’t achieve the same level of success, but it’s clear now that its impact demonstrates how forward-thinking it was.

The visual appeal of the game remains strong due to its cel-shaded graphics overlaid on polygonal structures, making it an essential play. Additionally, it’s a brief yet amusing action-adventure title that might surpass the famed N64 Zelda series.

2. Bushido Blade 2

A Fighter Like No Other

On the PlayStation 1 (PS1), there’s an abundance of enjoyable fighting games that make mastering combos a blast. However, what stood out in Bushido Blade 2 was its distinctive combat style. In this game, players could select from numerous characters and weapons from the feudal era. A single strike between opponents would result in death, but there was an option to parry. Although there are modern games that share similar ideas, the brief PS1 series still resonates today, and it’s worth revisiting this forgotten gem.

1. Vagrant Story

Shadow Hearts’ Origins

Enthusiasts of the PlayStation 1 could effortlessly satiate themselves for extended periods, simply by immersing in SquareSoft’s array of titles, particularly the numerous installments of the beloved Final Fantasy series. However, one title that often garners high acclaim but failed to spawn a franchise is the unique RPG, Vagrant Story. In terms of console-based RPGs, there’s scarcely anything comparable, and few games since have matched its distinct charm. The protagonist, Ashley, is a knight-like character who becomes trapped within a castle, compelled to battle his way through alone. It seamlessly blends elements of horror with fantasy, resulting in an extraordinary, unforgettable journey that combines action and turn-based gameplay.

2025-07-26 09:34