Why The PS1 Is The Greatest Console Ever

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Many consider the PlayStation 1 to be one of the best consoles ever made, and some even think it’s the best. Anyone who grew up in the 90s probably remembers the excitement of bringing home the gray PlayStation, putting in a game, and being amazed. Even now, the console’s startup music can give PlayStation fans a wave of nostalgia.

Okay, so as a gamer, I’ve been thinking a lot about why the PlayStation 1 is such a big deal, and why it still holds up today. Honestly, I think it might be the greatest console ever. Let me explain why – I’ll keep it simple and straight to the point.

It Brought Sony Into The Console Race

A Console For The People

It was a setback when Nintendo unexpectedly ended its partnership with Sony on a new console project. However, in hindsight, this turned out to be a huge benefit for Sony. Because the deal fell through, Sony was able to lead the way in the emerging 3D console market. The PlayStation 1 significantly outsold the Nintendo 64, largely due to its stronger game library, more affordable price, and earlier release date.

Sony’s decision to use CDs was a smart move. CDs were less expensive to manufacture than the cartridges used by the Nintendo 64, which meant PlayStation games could be sold at lower prices. Beyond gaming, the PlayStation also functioned as a CD player, fitting perfectly with Sony’s reputation for innovative audio products like the Walkman.

The Greatest Roster Of Final Fantasy Games

And One Black Sheep

The original PlayStation was home to many memorable *Final Fantasy* games, both core entries and spin-offs. *Final Fantasy 7* was particularly groundbreaking, pushing the limits of graphics, storytelling, and cinematic cutscenes. *Final Fantasy 9* beautifully concluded the series’ traditional style, while *Final Fantasy Tactics* played a key role in making tactical RPGs more widely popular.

Despite being somewhat controversial, *Final Fantasy 8* is still loved by a lot of people. These four games were so strong they could easily surpass the game collections of other consoles, and that’s not even considering all the extra spin-off titles and collections also available on the PlayStation 1.

Squaresoft’s Most Experimental Age

From Fighters To Shooters

The original PlayStation wasn’t just home to great *Final Fantasy* games; it also helped launch a fantastic period for Squaresoft, the company that would later become Square Enix. During this time, the developer became known for trying new things with its games. *Brave Fencer Musashi* was inspired by *Zelda*, *Bushido Blade* offered unique one-hit-kill combat, and *Einhander* was a fast-paced, side-scrolling shooter.

Beyond the mainstream hits, the PlayStation also saw some truly memorable RPGs with unusual gameplay or distinct worlds, like *Parasite Eve*, *Vagrant Story*, *Valkyrie Profile*, and *Xenogears*. Though these didn’t become as massive franchises as *Final Fantasy*, they were all fantastic games. While there were other excellent RPGs on the PS1 from developers beyond Squaresoft, Squaresoft was a major force in establishing the console as an RPG powerhouse.

Gave Birth To Modern Survival Horror

The Nightmare Begins

Originally released in 1996 as a PlayStation exclusive, *Resident Evil* revolutionized the horror game genre. Though the first three games can feel clunky to play today due to their control scheme, they remain influential horror experiences. They paved the way for many other horror franchises, including well-known series like *Dino Crisis*, *Fear Effect*, *Parasite Eve*, and *Silent Hill*.

To this day, Silent Hill is still probably the greatest horror franchise rival to Resident Evil, and it’s great that they’re both trying to do something different for the horror genre. Perhaps this Halloween, PS1 fans should relive the console’s full horror offerings.

Wildly Distinct Range Of Graphics

From 2D To 3D

PlayStation 1 games were known for their unique artistic styles. The intentionally blocky, low-polygon graphics are becoming popular again, and it’s clear many current game developers grew up playing PS1 games. Titles like *Resident Evil* and *Final Fantasy* were revolutionary when they were released, pushing the boundaries with their impressive 3D visuals.

The PlayStation 1 wasn’t just about fully 3D games. Many 2D games also pushed graphical boundaries, using pixel art or 3D models, as seen in titles like *Castlevania: Symphony of the Night* and *Tomba*. Games like *Mega Man Legends* and *Parappa the Rapper* stood out with their unique, cartoon-like visuals, contributing to their lasting appeal. These games demonstrate just how varied the PS1’s graphics could be.

Pushed Forward Dramatic Storytelling

Metal Gear Solid’s Reemergence

Modern games definitely have more sophisticated stories, but the original PlayStation deserves credit for really advancing how stories were told in video games. Even though some older games can feel confusing now, they still offer compelling narratives. *Metal Gear Solid* is a prime example – it was a huge step up from the games of the NES era, with its cinematic cutscenes and professional voice acting.

As a huge fan, I think *Final Fantasy 7* really showed how much the series could grow up – the story got deeper, and it wasn’t afraid to show some real intensity. And *Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver*? That game was amazing! The voice acting was fantastic, and the story of revenge just pulled you right in. It’s incredible how well these PS1 games hold up – these stories are truly timeless, even after all these years.

Future Proof Backwards Compatibility

For Two Consoles, At Least

Original PlayStation (PS1) discs were prone to scratches and smudges, but thankfully, they could often be repaired. What’s really remarkable is that many of the games people enjoyed on the PS1 remained popular with fans for over twenty years, lasting through multiple subsequent console releases.

The PlayStation 2 could play older games without needing any extra adapters. The PlayStation 3 initially played both PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games, though later models lost compatibility with PS2 titles, still retaining support for PS1 games. It’s impressive how well-built the original PlayStation was, allowing its games to be played on at least two subsequent console generations without modification. That’s a lasting impact!

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2025-09-21 09:35