While PlayStation has produced a number of legendary franchises—God of War, Uncharted, The Last of Us, and others—there are countless underrated and often overlooked gems that deserve just as much recognition. These lesser-known titles may not have enjoyed the same mainstream success, but their innovative mechanics, mage77 compelling stories, and unique gameplay experiences have left a lasting impact on those who have played them. In this article, we will highlight some of the best hidden PlayStation gems that showcase the diversity and creativity the platform has to offer, proving that there is far more to PlayStation than the blockbuster franchises.

One such hidden gem is Journey, developed by thatgamecompany and released on the PS3 in 2012. Journey is an emotionally evocative, minimalist experience that lets players explore a vast desert landscape as a mysterious robed traveler. The game is largely devoid of spoken language, relying on visual storytelling and a beautiful score by Austin Wintory to communicate its narrative. The game’s multiplayer component, where players can encounter and cooperate with other travelers in the desert, is equally minimalistic, yet deeply moving. Journey is a true testament to the power of art in video games, and it won multiple Game of the Year awards for its innovative approach to interactive storytelling.

Another hidden gem that deserves attention is The Order: 1886. Released for the PlayStation 4 in 2015, The Order: 1886 was met with mixed reviews, with many criticizing its short length and linear gameplay. However, the game’s stunning visuals, cinematic presentation, and intriguing narrative set in an alternate Victorian London filled with werewolves, vampires, and other supernatural creatures made it stand out in a crowded market. The game blends elements of historical fiction and steampunk aesthetics, creating a unique world that stands apart from other third-person shooters. Despite its flaws, The Order: 1886 remains an underappreciated gem with an atmosphere and visual fidelity that still hold up today.

For fans of action-platformers, Guacamelee! is a must-play title that, despite being overshadowed by bigger releases, has earned a cult following over the years. Released in 2013 for the PS3 and PS Vita, Guacamelee! is a vibrant, fast-paced game that takes inspiration from Mexican culture and folklore. Players control Juan Aguacate, a humble farmer who becomes a luchador tasked with rescuing a kidnapped princess and saving the world. The game’s clever puzzles, colorful art style, and tight combat mechanics make it an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. It also incorporates an innovative “Mexiverse” mechanic, allowing players to switch between the living world and the dead world to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. Guacamelee! is the kind of indie title that many may have missed, but it’s a classic that deserves recognition for its creativity and charm.

Gravity Rush (2012), a visually striking action-adventure game for the PS Vita, is another underrated PlayStation gem. In Gravity Rush, players control Kat, a young woman who gains the power to manipulate gravity, allowing her to fly through the air and navigate the city in exciting ways. The game’s unique mechanics are complemented by a stunning, cel-shaded art style that gives the world a comic book-like feel. The game’s whimsical, dream-like atmosphere and open-world exploration make it an unforgettable experience, but it was often overlooked due to the limited reach of the PS Vita. Despite its initial underperformance, Gravity Rush has garnered a loyal fanbase, and its sequels further explored the world and mechanics introduced in the original.

Another unsung hero of the PlayStation library is The Last Guardian. Released in 2016, this game was developed by Japan Studio and Fumito Ueda, the creator of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus. The Last Guardian follows a young boy and his giant, griffin-like companion, Trico, as they navigate a mysterious and abandoned world. The bond between the boy and Trico is the heart of the game, and the narrative is driven by the emotional connection they form as they work together to solve puzzles and avoid threats. Though The Last Guardian received praise for its emotional depth and innovative AI system for Trico, it also faced criticism for its controls and occasional technical issues. Nevertheless, its deeply moving story and unique gameplay make it a hidden gem for those who appreciate atmospheric, emotionally-driven experiences.