The Most Underrated PS4 Games

The PlayStation 4 era defined a generation of gaming with a vast library of titles that pushed technical and narrative boundaries. While mainstream hits dominated the sales charts, numerous high-quality experiences struggled to find the massive audience they deserved due to release timing or niche appeal. These games often feature innovative mechanics, striking art styles, and compelling stories that offer significant value to players looking beyond the blockbusters. This list explores the titles that remain hidden gems or undervalued classics within the console’s expansive catalog.

‘Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition’ (2014)

Developed by United Front Games and published by Square Enix, this title is an updated version of the original open-world action-adventure game. Players control Wei Shen, an undercover police officer infiltrating the Sun On Yee Triad in Hong Kong. The gameplay emphasizes martial arts combat, parkour, and high-speed driving mechanics within a dense urban environment. This edition includes all previously released downloadable content and features improved graphical fidelity and audio. It is often cited for its narrative depth and unique setting compared to other contemporary crime-based titles.

‘The Order: 1886’ (2015)

Developed by Ready at Dawn and SCE Santa Monica Studio, this action-adventure game is set in an alternate history London. Players assume the role of Sir Galahad, a member of an ancient order of knights dedicated to protecting humanity from half-breed monsters. The title was published by Sony Computer Entertainment and features a cinematic presentation designed to mimic a widescreen film aesthetic. It emphasizes cover-based shooting mechanics and tactical use of specialized Victorian-era weaponry. The game is frequently discussed for its world-building and narrative potential.

‘Gravity Rush 2’ (2017)

‘Gravity Rush 2’ was developed by SIE Japan Studio’s Project Siren team and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It serves as a direct sequel to the original game, continuing the story of Kat, a girl with the power to manipulate gravity. The gameplay features an expanded open world and introduces new gravity styles that alter Kat’s movement and combat capabilities. Players explore a vibrant city inspired by South American and Southeast Asian architecture while engaging in missions that involve environmental navigation.

‘Concrete Genie’ (2019)

Developed by the small Sony first-party team Pixelopus, ‘Concrete Genie’ follows a boy named Ash in the abandoned town of Denska. Using a magical paintbrush, Ash brings graffiti creatures called Genies to life to help him solve puzzles and restore light to the polluted streets. The game was published by Sony Interactive Entertainment and features a distinct art style that blends realistic environments with vibrant, hand-drawn animations. It also includes several PlayStation VR modes that allow players to interact with the world in a more immersive way. The narrative focuses on themes of creativity and overcoming bullying.

‘Mad Max’ (2015)

‘Mad Max’ is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Avalanche Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the game focuses on vehicular combat and exploration as Max builds his ultimate survival vehicle, the Magnum Opus. Players must scavenge for resources to upgrade equipment and cars to survive encounters with various hostile factions. The title features a deep car customization system and intense melee combat mechanics similar to other Warner Bros. titles. It gained a following for its atmospheric depiction of the franchise’s universe.

‘Prey’ (2017)

Developed by Arkane Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks, ‘Prey’ is a first-person sci-fi thriller set on the Talos I space station. Players control Morgan Yu as they navigate a facility overrun by hostile extraterrestrials known as Typhon. The game emphasizes emergent gameplay, allowing players to utilize alien powers, tools, and environmental manipulation to solve problems. It is a spiritual successor to the immersive sim genre, providing multiple paths to complete objectives. The narrative explores themes of identity and human experimentation within a meticulously detailed environment.

‘Titanfall 2’ (2016)

‘Titanfall 2’ was developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts as a sequel to the 2014 original. Unlike its predecessor, it includes a dedicated single-player campaign that explores the bond between a rifleman and his Titan, BT-7274. The multiplayer component features expanded Pilot movement and a wider variety of Titans with unique abilities. The game received critical acclaim for its level design and fluid movement mechanics, particularly the “Effect and Cause” mission. It is frequently cited as one of the most refined first-person shooters of its generation.

‘Days Gone’ (2019)

Developed by Bend Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, ‘Days Gone’ is an open-world survival horror game. Players take on the role of Deacon St. John, a bounty hunter navigating a post-apocalyptic Oregon filled with “Freakers.” The gameplay heavily features a customizable motorcycle, which serves as the primary mode of transportation and a mobile storage unit. The title focuses on resource management, stealth, and large-scale encounters with massive enemy hordes. It explores a narrative centered on loss, hope, and the human condition in the wake of a global pandemic.

‘The Last Guardian’ (2016)

‘The Last Guardian’ was developed by Japan Studio and GenDesign, directed by Fumito Ueda, and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. The story follows a young boy who befriends a massive, feathered creature named Trico as they attempt to escape a crumbling fortress. Players must give commands to Trico to solve environmental puzzles and navigate hazardous terrain. The game spent nearly a decade in development and is known for the complex artificial intelligence governing Trico’s behavior. It emphasizes the emotional bond and communication between the two central characters through gameplay.

‘Nex Machina’ (2017)

Developed and published by Housemarque, ‘Nex Machina’ is a twin-stick shooter created in collaboration with industry veteran Eugene Jarvis. The game pays homage to classic arcade shooters like ‘Robotron: 2084’ while utilizing modern voxel-based graphics. Players must fight through waves of robotic enemies across multiple levels to save humans and achieve high scores. The title is designed with a focus on speed, precision, and finding secret paths to maximize efficiency. It remains one of the final pure arcade-style games released by the studio before they shifted focus to other genres.

‘Observation’ (2019)

‘Observation’ is a sci-fi thriller developed by No Code and published by Devolver Digital. Instead of playing as a human, players assume the role of S.A.M., an artificial intelligence aboard a damaged space station. Through the station’s cameras and control systems, players assist Dr. Emma Fisher in uncovering the mystery behind the crew’s disappearance. The game utilizes a unique interface that mimics operating complex machinery and computer terminals. It emphasizes atmosphere and narrative-driven puzzles to tell a psychological story set in deep space.

‘Alien: Isolation’ (2014)

Developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega, ‘Alien: Isolation’ is a survival horror game set fifteen years after the events of the original 1979 film. Players control Amanda Ripley as she searches for her mother on the decaying Sevastopol space station. The game features a single, persistent Alien guided by a dual-layered AI system that hunts the player throughout the campaign. It emphasizes stealth and resourcefulness over direct combat, forcing players to use a motion tracker and various gadgets to survive. The visual and audio design were meticulously crafted to match the aesthetic of the first movie.

‘Darksiders III’ (2018)

‘Darksiders III’ was developed by Gunfire Games and published by THQ Nordic as the third installment in the action-adventure franchise. Players control Fury, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, on a mission to hunt down the Seven Deadly Sins. The game shifts towards a more interconnected world design and combat mechanics inspired by the soulslike genre. Fury uses a whip and various elemental forms to fight enemies and navigate the environment. This entry continues the series’ lore while offering a more challenging and focused experience compared to its predecessors.

‘Kingdom Come: Deliverance’ (2018)

Developed by Warhorse Studios and published by Deep Silver, ‘Kingdom Come: Deliverance’ is a realistic open-world RPG set in the medieval Kingdom of Bohemia. Players take the role of Henry, a blacksmith’s son who becomes involved in a civil war after his village is destroyed. The game emphasizes historical accuracy, featuring realistic combat, survival mechanics, and a branching quest system. Unlike many fantasy RPGs, it lacks magic or supernatural elements, focusing instead on authentic 15th-century life and warfare. Its complex systems require players to manage Henry’s hunger, sleep, and social standing within the world.

‘Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise’ (2018)

Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, this action-adventure title is based on the popular manga series. It utilizes the same engine and gameplay structure as the ‘Yakuza’ series, blending intense brawler combat with various mini-games. Players control Kenshiro in the city of Eden as he searches for his lost fiancé, Yuria. The game features stylized “Hokuto Shinken” combat moves that allow players to eliminate enemies through pressure point strikes. It also includes diverse activities such as racing, bartending, and managing a nightclub.

‘Tearaway Unfolded’ (2015)

‘Tearaway Unfolded’ is an expanded remake of the original Vita title, developed by Media Molecule and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. The game takes place in a world made entirely of paper and follows a messenger tasked with delivering a letter to the player. It utilizes the PlayStation 4 DualShock 4 controller’s unique features, such as the touchpad and light bar, to interact with the environment. Players can create their own paper designs that appear within the game world, fostering a sense of personalization. The title is recognized for its creative art direction and whimsical atmosphere.

‘Bound’ (2016)

Developed by Plastic and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, ‘Bound’ is a platforming game that focuses on dance and movement. Players control a ballerina who navigates an abstract, dreamlike world representing the protagonist’s childhood memories. The character’s movements are based on motion-captured ballet performances, which are used to overcome obstacles and environmental threats. The visual style is inspired by modern art movements such as Suprematism and Neoplasticism. It offers an experimental narrative that explores family dynamics and personal trauma through its unique aesthetic.

‘Shadow of the Beast’ (2016)

‘Shadow of the Beast’ is a reimagining of the 1989 classic, developed by Heavy Spectrum Entertainment Labs and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Players control Aarbron, a monstrous warrior seeking revenge against the sorcerer who transformed him. The game features side-scrolling combat that emphasizes timing, combos, and blood-soaked finishers. It includes an upgrade system that allows players to unlock new abilities and lore entries about the alien world of Karamoon. The title also includes the original Amiga game as an unlockable feature for long-time fans.

‘Deus Ex: Mankind Divided’ (2016)

Developed by Eidos-Montréal and published by Square Enix, this cyberpunk action-RPG follows the story of Adam Jensen. Set in 2029, the game explores a world where mechanically augmented humans have been segregated from the rest of society. Players can choose between stealth, hacking, or direct combat to complete objectives, with the narrative branching based on their decisions. The game features a highly detailed hub in Prague that offers numerous side quests and environmental storytelling. It continues the series’ tradition of offering deep customization through various cybernetic augmentations.

‘Pyre’ (2017)

‘Pyre’ is a party-based RPG developed and published by Supergiant Games, the creators of ‘Bastion’ and ‘Hades’. Players lead a group of exiles in a series of mystical competitions known as Rites to earn their freedom from a purgatory-like land. The gameplay blends visual novel storytelling with a unique sports-like combat system where three characters face off against an opposing team. Each character has distinct abilities and backstories that develop based on the player’s choices and performance. The game is noted for its reactive narrative, where the story continues regardless of the outcome of the Rites.

‘Resogun’ (2013)

Developed by Housemarque and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, ‘Resogun’ was a prominent launch title for the PlayStation 4. It is a side-scrolling shoot ’em up that takes place on cylindrical playfields, featuring intense voxel-based explosions. Players must pilot a spacecraft to destroy waves of enemies while rescuing the last remaining humans in each stage. The game emphasizes high-speed action and score-chasing through its multiplier system and various difficulty levels. It received critical praise for its technical performance and its modern take on classic arcade gameplay.

‘Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth’ (2016)

‘Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth’ was developed by Media.Vision and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. It is a turn-based JRPG where players take on the role of a detective investigating strange occurrences in a digital version of Tokyo. The game features over 200 Digimon that can be collected, trained, and “digivolved” through various evolutionary paths. Players navigate both real-world locations and digital dungeons while solving mysteries involving hackers and digital monsters. The title is appreciated by fans for its deep creature-raising mechanics and its more mature take on the franchise’s story.

‘Okami HD’ (2017)

Originally developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom, ‘Okami HD’ is a remastered version of the classic action-adventure game. Players control Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess in the form of a white wolf, as she works to restore light to a world cursed by darkness. The game features a unique “Celestial Brush” mechanic that allows players to draw symbols on the screen to perform magic and interact with the environment. Its visual style is inspired by traditional Japanese ink-wash paintings, known as sumi-e. The PS4 version supports 4K resolution and offers multiple control options for the brush mechanics.

‘Child of Light’ (2014)

‘Child of Light’ is a platforming RPG developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft. The game uses the UbiArt Framework engine to create a visual style resembling a watercolor painting. Players follow Aurora, a young girl who wakes up in the mythical land of Lemuria and must recover the sun, moon, and stars. The combat system utilizes an Active Time Battle mechanic similar to classic JRPGs, allowing players to interrupt enemy attacks. The entire narrative is told in rhyming verse, adding to its fairy-tale atmosphere and tone.

‘Infamous Second Son’ (2014)

Developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, this action-adventure game was an early showcase for the PS4’s hardware. Players control Delsin Rowe, a conduit who discovers he can absorb the powers of others, such as smoke, neon, and video. Set in a fictionalized version of Seattle, the game features an open-world environment where players can choose to be a hero or a villain. The “Karma” system returns, influencing the story’s outcome and the evolution of Delsin’s abilities. Despite being a major launch-window title, it is often overshadowed by later releases from the same studio.

‘Catherine: Full Body’ (2019)

Developed by Studio Zero at Atlus and published by Sega, this is an enhanced remake of the 2011 puzzle-platformer. Players guide Vincent Brooks through a series of nightmares where he must climb blocks to escape death while navigating a complicated love life in the real world. This version introduces a third love interest named Rin, adding new story paths and endings to the original narrative. It also includes new puzzle mechanics, difficulty settings, and a dedicated “Safety” mode for those focusing on the story. The game explores mature themes of commitment, infidelity, and adulthood.

‘The Evil Within 2’ (2017)

‘The Evil Within 2’ was developed by Tango Gameworks and published by Bethesda Softworks. As a sequel to the survival horror original, it follows Sebastian Castellanos as he enters a new virtual world called Union to find his daughter. The game features larger, more open environments that allow for exploration and resource gathering alongside traditional linear horror sequences. Players can upgrade Sebastian’s skills and weapons through a crafting system to better deal with grotesque enemies. The title received praise for its improved mechanics and its surreal, psychological approach to horror.

Please share which of these titles you think deserves more recognition in the comments.