PlayStation is home to some of the biggest and most beloved franchises in gaming, from Uncharted and God of War to The Last of Us. However, amidst the big-name titles, there are plenty of underrated gems that don’t always get the attention they deserve. These hidden gems often fly under the radar but offer unique and memorable experiences that are just as impactful as the more popular games. If you’re looking for something different to play on your PlayStation console, here are some underrated titles that deserve more recognition.
One such gem is Gravity Rush, a beautifully unique action-adventure game developed by SIE Japan Studio. Released for the PlayStation Vita and later remastered for the PS4, Gravity Rush allows players to control Kat, a young woman with the ability to manipulate gravity. The game’s stunning cel-shaded art style, along with its innovative gameplay mechanics, make it stand out from other action games. The ability to fly through the air, flip gravity, and explore the mysterious city of Hekseville gives the game a sense of freedom that is rarely seen in other titles. While the game didn’t gain mainstream attention, it has garnered a loyal fanbase due to its charm, creativity, and fascinating world-building.
Another underrated title is Tearaway, also developed by Media Molecule, the creators of LittleBigPlanet. Released for the PS Vita and later for the PS4 as Tearaway Unfolded, this charming platformer tells the story of a messenger named Atoi UnoVegas Alternatif who embarks on a journey through a world made entirely of paper. The game makes full use of the Vita’s unique hardware features, including the touchpad and rear touch panel, to create a fully interactive world. Tearaway is filled with creative puzzles, endearing characters, and a whimsical world that feels alive with personality. Its charm and creativity are hard to match, making it one of the most unique platformers of its generation.
Nier: Automata is another underrated PlayStation game that deserves more attention. Developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix, Nier: Automata is a stunning action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, and robots are at war with each other. The game’s thought-provoking story, blending philosophy, existentialism, and artificial intelligence, combined with fast-paced combat and a beautifully haunting soundtrack, makes it a standout title. Despite not initially attracting widespread mainstream attention, Nier: Automata has since become a cult classic, celebrated for its depth, gameplay mechanics, and emotional resonance.
Beyond: Two Souls is a narrative-driven game developed by Quantic Dream, the studio behind Heavy Rain and Detroit: Become Human. Starring Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe, the game follows the life of Jodie Holmes, a young woman connected to a supernatural entity. The game is a blend of cinematic storytelling and interactive gameplay, focusing on emotional character development, moral choices, and action sequences. While it didn’t receive the same level of critical acclaim as some of Quantic Dream’s other titles, Beyond: Two Souls offers a unique experience with its engaging story and powerful performances from the cast.
Lastly, The Order: 1886 is often remembered as a disappointment by many, primarily due to its linearity and short length. However, despite its flaws, it remains an underrated gem for its gorgeous visuals, atmospheric world-building, and intriguing premise. Set in an alternate Victorian-era London, The Order: 1886 follows a group of knights tasked with protecting the city from supernatural threats. The game’s incredible attention to detail, immersive environments, and unique take on history set it apart from other action games. While it may not have lived up to the expectations of some players, The Order: 1886 offers a fascinating narrative and stunning visuals that are worth experiencing.