Sure, you’ve played the heavy hitters—God of War, Spider-Man, and The Last of Us. But what about those lesser-known PlayStation titles that almost no one talks about? There’s an entire universe of uncut gems waiting to blow your mind, and it’s time to give them the recognition they deserve. Whether you’re into mind-bending puzzles, gripping narratives, or unique gameplay mechanics, these games will keep you hooked for hours.
1. Gravity Rush Remastered & Gravity Rush 2
Originally debuting on the PlayStation Vita, Gravity Rush introduced players to Kat, a young woman with the power to manipulate gravity. This mechanic allows for exhilarating exploration and combat, turning the world into a playground where up is down and down is up. The remastered version for PS4 enhances the experience with improved visuals and performance.
Gravity Rush 2 expands upon its predecessor, offering a larger world, more gravity-defying abilities, and a deeper storyline. Despite their innovation, both titles remained under the radar for many gamers.
Ever wanted to feel like a cybernetic ninja in a neon dystopia? Ghostrunner delivers just that. With lightning-fast parkour, one-hit-kill mechanics, and a synth-wave soundtrack that seriously slaps, this first-person action game is a pure adrenaline shot.
If you love a challenge, this is your game. Plus, if you’re looking to grab it (or any other game) at a steal, check out the deals at Eneba—PlayStation gift card prices let you load up on more PSN Wallet funds and pay less.
2. Concrete Genie
Concrete Genie is a heartfelt action-adventure game that combines creativity with a touching narrative. Players step into the shoes of Ash, a young artist who brings his paintings to life to restore his polluted hometown. The game beautifully blends street art with magical realism, offering a unique gameplay experience that emphasizes the power of creativity and redemption on PlayStation.
Gravity Rush 2 puts you in control of Kat, a gravity shifter who can soar through the skies, flip perspectives, and bash heads with gravity-defying combat moves. The world is breathtaking, the movement is intuitive, and yet—somehow—this game’s remaster never got the love it deserved. With gamers constantly complaining about the lack of originality—THIS IS IT!
3. The Witness
For puzzle enthusiasts, The Witness offers a serene yet challenging experience. Set on a mysterious island, players solve a series of intricate puzzles that gradually reveal deeper philosophical themes. The game’s minimalist design and lack of direct guidance encourage exploration and introspection, making it a standout title for those seeking a cerebral adventure on PlayStation.
4. Astro’s Playroom & Astro Bot
Often overlooked as a mere tech demo, Astro’s Playroom is a delightful platformer that showcases the capabilities of the PS5’s DualSense controller. Beyond its technical achievements, the game is a nostalgic journey through PlayStation’s history, filled with charming references and PlayStation collectibles.
Building upon this foundation, Astro Bot offers a more expansive adventure with 90 levels across six galaxies. Its inventive level design and engaging mechanics make it a must-play for platforming fans on PlayStation.
Fans of the Yakuza series already know how good this is, but if you’ve never visited Kamurocho, Judgment is a perfect place to start. Instead of playing as a yakuza, you’re a private detective solving crimes, tailing suspects, and throwing hands in spectacular street brawls. It’s got the same wacky side quests and deep storytelling as the Yakuza series, but with a fresh new take on PlayStation.
5. Hohokum
Hohokum is an artistic exploration game that defies traditional gaming conventions. Players control a colorful, serpent-like creature, navigating whimsical worlds without specific objectives. The game’s emphasis on discovery and its vibrant visuals create a relaxing and immersive experience, perfect for those seeking a break from action-packed titles PlayStation.
Yes, it looks like those anime dating sims. No, it’s not one. Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! is one of the most mind-bending, unsettling psychological horror games ever made. The less you know going in, the better—just trust that this game is way smarter, darker, and more innovative than it appears on PlayStation.
6. Odin Sphere Leifthrasir
A remake of the PS2 classic, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a 2D action RPG that combines stunning hand-drawn visuals with a compelling narrative. Players experience the intertwining stories of five protagonists, each with unique abilities and perspectives. The game’s refined combat system and rich storytelling make it a hidden gem worth exploring on PlayStation.
Katana ZERO is a side-scrolling action game where every move counts. One hit and you’re done—but so are your enemies. The fights are quick, sharp, and satisfying. It looks like an old-school game, but in the best way, with flashy pixel art and a killer retro soundtrack. The game’s story goes hard with wild twists and tough choices and will keep you stunned long after it’s done, PlayStation.
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7. The Pedestrian
The Pedestrian offers a fresh take on puzzle-platforming by placing players in the role of a stick figure navigating public signage. The game’s innovative mechanics involve rearranging signs to create pathways, challenging players to think creatively. Its minimalist art style and clever design provide a satisfying and unique puzzle experience on PlayStation.
8. Evil West
Evil West is an action-packed third-person shooter set in a supernatural Wild West. Players assume the role of a vampire hunter, battling monstrous creatures with an arsenal of weapons and gadgets. The game’s fast-paced combat and co-op gameplay offer a thrilling experience that blends classic Western themes with horror elements PlayStation.
9. The Forgotten City
Originally a mod for Skyrim, The Forgotten City evolved into a standalone narrative-driven game. Set in a mysterious ancient Roman city, players unravel a time-looping mystery where every decision impacts the outcome. The game’s intricate storytelling and moral dilemmas provide a thought-provoking experience that challenges players’ perceptions of right and wrong on PlayStation.
0. Child of Light
Child of Light is a poetic RPG that tells the story of Aurora, a young girl transported to a magical realm. The game’s watercolor art style and rhyming dialogue create a fairy-tale atmosphere, while its turn-based combat and character progression offer depth and strategy. It’s a charming adventure that appeals to both casual and hardcore RPG fans on PlayStation.
11. A Plague Tale: Innocence
Set during the Black Death, A Plague Tale: Innocence follows siblings Amicia and Hugo as they navigate a world ravaged by disease and persecution. The game’s stealth mechanics and emotional narrative deliver a gripping experience that explores themes of survival, family, and resilience. Its atmospheric design and compelling characters make it a standout title.
12. Dying Light
Dying Light combines parkour mechanics with survival horror, placing players in a city overrun by zombies. The game’s dynamic day-night cycle affects enemy behavior, adding tension and andPlayStation.
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It’s Time To Give Them a Chance
Sometimes, the best gaming experiences aren’t the ones plastered on billboards – they are waiting to be found. From sci-fi stories and surreal rhythm-action to a horror game disguised as a dating sim, these PlayStation hidden gems are worth putting on your radar.
And if you want to pick them up at the best price, digital marketplaces like Eneba are packed with great deals on games, gift cards, and more.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Lesser-Known PlayStation Games
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What are some underrated PlayStation games I might have missed?
Many underrated PlayStation titles don’t get the attention they deserve. Games like Gravity Rush Remastered, Concrete Genie, The Pedestrian, and Astro Bot are fantastic experiences that often fly under the radar due to minimal marketing or being exclusive to certain consoles.
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Are lesser-known PlayStation games worth playing?
Absolutely! These games often bring fresh ideas, experimental mechanics, and artistic creativity that major titles may overlook. For example, Hohokum offers a relaxing visual experience, while The Forgotten City delivers deep narrative choices that rival AAA games.
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Where can I find hidden gem PlayStation games?
You can discover hidden gems through the PlayStation Store’s “Indie” or “Critically Acclaimed but Underrated” sections. YouTube reviews, Reddit gaming threads, and curated lists from websites like Fossbytes, ScreenRant, and PSU also spotlight underrated games worth checking out.
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Why do some PlayStation games remain unknown or overlooked?
Some games remain overlooked due to poor marketing, being exclusive to less popular consoles like PS Vita, or releasing around the same time as blockbuster titles. For example, Gravity Rush was originally a PS Vita game, which limited its exposure despite its excellent gameplay.
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Are any of these hidden gems available on PlayStation Plus?
Yes! Several underrated titles like The Pedestrian and A Plague Tale: Innocence have been available on PlayStation Plus in the past. It’s worth checking the current PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium catalogs for hidden gems.
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What genre of games are most common among these hidden gems?
Hidden gems come in various genres including action-adventure (Concrete Genie), platformers (Astro’s Playroom), puzzle games (The Witness, The Pedestrian), RPGs (Child of Light), and narrative-driven mysteries (The Forgotten City). There’s something for everyone.
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Can I play these lesser-known games on the PS5?
Most of these games are playable on PS5 either natively or through backward compatibility. In fact, some games like Astro’s Playroom are built specifically for the PS5 and showcase the DualSense controller’s unique features.
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Are these games suitable for casual or beginner gamers?
Yes. Many of these titles are designed with accessibility in mind. Games like Hohokum and Concrete Genie offer laid-back gameplay and simple controls, making them perfect for casual or younger gamers.
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Do these underrated PlayStation games have good graphics and sound?
Definitely. Titles like Odin Sphere Leifthrasir feature stunning hand-drawn art, while A Plague Tale: Innocence delivers cinematic storytelling with high production value. Don’t let the lack of mainstream fame fool you—these games often look and sound amazing.
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What is the best way to discover new PlayStation hidden gems regularly?
