I’ve spent countless hours slashing through mythical beasts, swinging across neon-lit cities, and surviving brutal battles on the PS5, and let me tell you, this console is a game-changer for action fans. Whether you crave cinematic storytelling, lightning-fast combat, or jaw-dropping visuals, the best PS5 action games deliver an experience unlike anything else.
The PlayStation 5 is a powerhouse, built to elevate action games to new heights. Its blazing-fast SSD loads massive worlds in seconds, while the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers make every swing, shot, and explosion feel visceral.
Add in 3D audio and 4K HDR visuals, and you’re not just playing, you’re living the action. As someone who’s explored every corner of these games, I’m here to guide you through the top action games on PlayStation 5 that you absolutely need to play.
But with so many titles out there, how do you know which ones are worth your time? That’s where my experience comes in. After playing (and replaying) some of the most hyped releases, I’ve curated a list of must-play PS5 action titles that dominate your gaming sessions.
From the brutal precision of Demon’s Souls to the explosive superhero thrills of Spider-Man 2, these games push the PS5’s power to its limits. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the best action games on PlayStation 5 that will keep you glued to your controller.
What Makes a Great Action Game on PS5?
What sets a great action game apart on the PS5? For me, it’s about the rush, the kind that comes from perfectly timed dodges, explosive combos, and worlds that feel alive. Action games thrive on the PS5 because of its cutting-edge tech, and I’ve seen firsthand how these features transform gameplay into something unforgettable.
First, let’s talk combat. The best gameplay mechanics on PS5 revolve around fast-paced systems, whether it’s melee-focused like God of War Ragnarök or a hybrid of shooting and slashing like Returnal.
You need responsive controls to chain attacks seamlessly, and the PS5’s processing power ensures zero lag, even in chaotic battles. I’ve lost myself in hours of combat, marveling at how smooth and precise it feels.
Then there’s the visual spectacle. The PS5’s ability to deliver 4K resolution, 60 or even 120fps, and ray tracing creates worlds that are as stunning as they are immersive.
When I first played Horizon Forbidden West, the shimmering landscapes and lifelike reflections blew me away. You’ll notice these details, too, whether you’re swinging through New York in Spider-Man 2 or exploring the haunting realms of Demon’s Souls.
The DualSense controller is the secret sauce of PS5 action game features. Its haptic feedback lets you feel the crunch of gravel underfoot or the recoil of a weapon, while adaptive triggers add resistance to bows or guns, making every action tactile.
In Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, I felt every weapon’s unique vibration, and you’ll love how it pulls you deeper into the game.
These elements, combat, visuals, and immersion, aren’t just nice-to-haves; they’re what make action games on the PS5 unforgettable. When choosing a title, you want one that leverages these strengths to deliver thrills that keep you coming back.
See; How to Connect PS5 Controller to PS5
Top Action Games to Play on PlayStation 5
Here’s my definitive list of the top action games on PlayStation 5. I’ve poured hours into each, and I’m excited to share why they’re must-play PS5 action titles for you.
1. God of War Ragnarök
God of War Ragnarök is the pinnacle of action-adventure, and playing it on the PS5 feels like stepping into a Norse myth. The story follows Kratos and his son Atreus as they navigate the Nine Realms, facing gods and monsters in a tale of family and fate. I was gripped by the emotional depth, and you’ll be hooked by the cinematic storytelling.
The combat is where God of War Ragnarök PS5 shines. Swinging the Leviathan Axe feels weighty yet precise, and the PS5’s haptics make every throw rumble in your hands. You can mix melee, magic, and Atreus’ arrows for devastating combos, and the adaptive triggers add tension to heavy attacks. The visuals are breathtaking—snowy peaks and fiery realms pop in 4K with silky 60fps.
I love this game for its balance of heart and brutality. One moment, I’m solving puzzles with Atreus; the next, I’m battling a dragon. For you, it’s a best action-adventure PS5 game because it blends story, exploration, and combat into a 30+ hour epic. Trust me, you’ll want to experience every moment.
See; Top Esports Games and Tournaments
2. Spider-Man 2
There’s nothing like web-swinging through New York in Spider-Man 2 PS5. As Peter Parker and Miles Morales, you’ll battle villains like Venom while exploring a vibrant open world. I felt like a superhero zipping between skyscrapers, and you’ll love the freedom of movement.
The combat is fluid, with new abilities like Miles’ electric powers and Peter’s symbiote skills. The DualSense enhances immersion—adaptive triggers make web-shooting tactile, and haptics pulse with every punch. Running at 60fps with ray-traced reflections, the city looks alive, especially at night.
I adored mastering the web-wings for high-speed traversal, but the story’s emotional beats hit hardest. For you, Spider-Man 2 is the best superhero action game because it’s accessible yet deep, with side missions and collectibles that keep you swinging. If you’re new to the series, you’ll still jump right in and feel like Spidey.
See; How to Get Early Access to New Mobile Games
3. Demon’s Souls (Remake)
Demon’s Souls PS5 is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a masterpiece of challenge and beauty. This remake of the 2009 classic rebuilds Boletaria from the ground up, with brutal combat and haunting visuals. I died countless times to its relentless enemies, yet each victory felt euphoric.
The combat demands precision, parry, dodge, or die. The PS5’s SSD means near-instant respawns, softening the sting of failure. Visually, it’s a stunner, with ray-traced shadows and 4K detail bringing gothic castles to life. The haptics make every sword clash feel real, immersing you in the grind.
My tip? Patience is key. Start with the Knight class for balance, and don’t rush. Demon’s Souls is the best Souls-like action RPG because it rewards skill and perseverance. You’ll curse it, but you’ll keep coming back to conquer its challenges.
4. Returnal
Returnal PS5 is a sci-fi thrill ride that hooked me with its relentless pace. You play as Selene, a stranded astronaut trapped in a time loop on a hostile planet. The roguelike structure means every death resets your progress, but new weapons and upgrades keep it fresh.
The third-person shooting is lightning-fast, with bullet-hell chaos that tests your reflexes. The DualSense’s haptics make raindrops patter on your controller, and adaptive triggers switch weapon modes with a half-pull. Running at 60fps, the alien world’s neon flora and grotesque creatures are mesmerizing.
I got addicted to chasing better runs, and you’ll love the adrenaline of surviving a tough biome. To master it, prioritize movement and experiment with weapons. Returnal is the best sci-fi action roguelike for its intensity and replayability—perfect if you want a game that keeps you on edge.
5. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut
Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut is a samurai epic that feels tailor-made for the PS5. As Jin Sakai, you defend Tsushima from Mongol invaders in a breathtaking open world. I was captivated by the wind-guided exploration, and you’ll love slicing through enemies with katana precision.
The combat is elegant yet brutal, with stances to counter different foes. The PS5’s 4K visuals and 60fps make cherry blossoms and stormy skies pop, while haptics add weight to every strike. The Iki Island expansion adds new story and challenges, extending the adventure.
My favorite moments were duels under falling leaves—pure cinema. For you, it’s the best samurai action game because it balances stealth, combat, and exploration. Whether you’re a history buff or just love action, you’ll lose yourself in Tsushima’s beauty.
6. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a joyous explosion of color and chaos. As Ratchet and new hero Rivet, you hop between dimensions, wielding wacky weapons like the Burst Pistol. I grinned through every planet, and you’ll love the sheer fun of it.
The gameplay is a mix of shooting, platforming, and puzzles, with the PS5’s SSD enabling instant dimension switches. Visually, it’s a 4K marvel with ray-traced lighting, and the DualSense’s haptics make every weapon feel distinct. The 60fps keeps the action buttery smooth.
This game is perfect for action fans who want something lighthearted yet deep. It’s the best action-platformer PS5 because it’s accessible for newcomers but rewarding for veterans. You’ll blast through enemies and laugh at the quirky story—pure PS5 magic.
7. Elden Ring
Elden Ring PS5 redefined open-world action RPGs for me. FromSoftware’s masterpiece drops you into the Lands Between, a vast world of danger and discovery. I spent hours exploring castles and battling dragons, and you’ll be awestruck by the scale.
The combat is classic Souls, deliberate, punishing, and rewarding. You can wield swords, magic, or bows, with builds to suit any playstyle. The PS5 delivers 60fps and crisp visuals, though ray tracing is limited. The open world encourages exploration, with secrets around every corner.
My journey was humbling, but summoning spirits helped with tough bosses. For beginners, I suggest leveling Vigor early. Elden Ring is the best open-world action RPG because it gives you freedom and challenge in equal measure. You’ll forge your own legend.
8. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West PS5 is a visual and gameplay triumph. As Aloy, you explore a post-apocalyptic West, battling robotic beasts with bows, traps, and spears. I was floored by the world’s beauty, and you’ll love the thrill of toppling a Thunderjaw.
The combat is deep, with elemental weaknesses to exploit and skill trees to customize. The PS5’s 4K HDR and 60fps make jungles and deserts shine, while haptics enhance bow tension. The story expands Aloy’s saga, with side quests that feel meaningful.
This is the best action-adventure RPG for its blend of story, exploration, and combat. My tip? Upgrade your traps early for crowd control. You’ll spend dozens of hours in this world, and every moment is a visual feast.
9. Resident Evil 4 Remake
Resident Evil 4 PS5 blends survival horror with intense action, and it kept me on edge. As Leon Kennedy, you rescue the president’s daughter from a cult, facing grotesque enemies. I jumped at every chainsaw rev, and you’ll feel the tension, too.
The combat mixes shooting and melee, with precise aiming and quick-time events. The PS5’s ray tracing and 60fps make villages and castles eerie yet gorgeous, while adaptive triggers add resistance to every shot. The DualSense’s haptics amplify jump scares.
My scariest moment was a claustrophobic cabin siege stock up on ammo for that one. For you, it’s the best survival action game because it balances fear and empowerment. If you love horror with heart-pounding action, you’ll devour this remake.
10. Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition
Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition is pure, unfiltered style. As Dante, Nero, and Vergil, you hack through demons with flair, chaining combos to rack up style points. I felt like a rockstar pulling off aerial combos, and you’ll love the rush.
The combat is the best hack-and-slash action game on PS5, with deep mechanics and a 120fps mode for silky responsiveness. The 4K visuals pop with neon effects, and the DualSense’s haptics make every slash sing. The Vergil DLC adds new moves and replayability.
This game is for action purists who want speed and skill. My tip? Practice in the training mode to master combos. You’ll keep chasing that SSS rank, and the PS5 makes every moment a spectacle.
See; How to Improve Your Gaming Skills
Honorable Mentions
Not every great game made the top list, but these underrated PS5 action games deserve your attention. Dead Space Remake delivers chilling survival action with revamped visuals and haptics. Final Fantasy XVI offers epic, story-driven combat that feels like a blockbuster. Sifu is a martial arts gem with punishing yet rewarding brawls. Lastly, The Last of Us Part I (Remake) blends stealth and action in a gorgeous, emotional journey.
Each of these more great action titles leverages the PS5’s power, from fast load times to immersive DualSense features. I’ve dabbled in all of them, and they’re perfect if you’ve already played the main list or want something niche. You can’t go wrong with any of these.
How to Choose the Right Action Game for You
With so many best PS5 action games, how do you pick the right one? It depends on your playstyle, and I’ve got some tips to help you decide.
First, consider what you love. If you want a story-driven epic, God of War Ragnarök or Horizon Forbidden West will grip you. For fast, skill-based combat, try Devil May Cry 5 or Sifu. Open-world fans will adore Elden Ring, while Spider-Man 2 is great for casual fun. Think about whether you prefer linear levels or sprawling maps.
Difficulty matters, too. Demon’s Souls and Returnal are among the hardest PS5 action games, so they suit hardcore players. If you’re a beginner, start with Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart or Spider-Man 2 for a more forgiving experience. I struggled with Elden Ring at first, but tweaking my build made it approachable.
Multiplayer is another factor. Most of these games are single-player, but Elden Ring offers co-op and PvP for online thrills. If you want to play with friends, check out its summoning system.
My recommendations? For beginners, Spider-Man 2 is the best PS5 action game for beginners due to its accessibility. For a challenge, try out Demon’s Souls. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a treat with these PS5 gems.
Conclusion
The PlayStation 5 is a haven for action fans, and these must-play PS5 games showcase why. From the mythic battles of God of War Ragnarök to the stylish chaos of Devil May Cry 5, each title leverages the PS5’s power to deliver thrills that keep you hooked. I’ve loved every minute of these games, and I’m confident you’ll find something that sparks your passion.
Whether you’re a veteran gamer or new to the PS5, these best action games 2024 offer something for everyone. Pick one based on your taste, maybe Spider-Man 2 for superhero vibes or Elden Ring for a sprawling adventure. The PS5’s tech makes every moment unforgettable.
