In recent weeks, I have explored the extensive PS Plus catalog, uncovering a variety of hidden gems that deserve more attention.
With hundreds of titles available, it’s easy for many quality games to slip under the radar, even those with impressive production values.
While iconic titles like Bloodborne and Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End are hard to miss, independent and smaller studio games often go unnoticed, which is a shame.
To share my insights into Sony’s subscription service and highlight some lesser-known titles that I believe are worth your time, I present seven underrated AA games currently available on PS Plus.
7 Mortal Shell
An Unjustly Forgotten Soulslike
The rise of Soulslike games has resulted in a certain fatigue among players, particularly with titles attempting to emulate FromSoftware’s iconic gameplay.
Although Mortal Shell may not have launched at the genre’s peak, its unique contributions to the established mechanics offer a noteworthy experience.
While the game has its flaws, such as awkward mechanics and a lackluster story, it impresses with its captivating setting and engaging moments where its class system introduces dynamic combat.
What stands out is the game’s brevity, ensuring that each moment has significance. While some players might desire more content, I appreciated Mortal Shell for its focused approach that elevates it beyond the ordinary.
6 Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden
Novel Dramas and RPG Fights
After the success of titles like Jusant, anything from Don’t Nod deserves attention, leading me to discover Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden.
This developer is often underrated, but its latest action RPG masterfully blends compelling characters and story-driven gameplay.
In a genre dominated by Soulsborne clones, it’s refreshing to engage with a title centered on emotional themes of love and loss.
Banishers thrives on tough choices and emotional narratives, offering players a blend of a graphic adventure’s depth and the excitement of an action RPG.
5 Child of Light
A Different Version of Ubisoft
Despite being a product of Ubisoft, Child of Light retains an indie spirit, breaking the mold the studio typically adheres to.
The game tells an emotional tale with a stunning soundtrack, all within a runtime that doesn’t stretch on for 80 hours.
Featuring turn-based combat and intricate world-building, Child of Light feels distinctively different from Ubisoft’s usual offerings.
If the studio were to embrace projects like this again, I believe it would quickly win back the favor of gamers.
4 Gravity Rush Remastered
A Franchise to Treasure
The closure of SIE Japan Studio was a significant loss for the gaming industry, particularly for franchises like Gravity Rush.
The remastered version not only showcases its unique gameplay within the PS Plus catalog but also serves as a reminder of the franchise’s brilliance.
Originally a PlayStation Vita project, it introduced gravity manipulation in an ambitious and visually captivating way, making it a must-play for all PlayStation fans.
Admittedly, the gameplay can be disorienting, deviating from typical action-adventure titles, but that very chaos is what makes Gravity Rush special—coupled with Kohei Tanaka’s mesmerizing soundtrack.
3 Cities: Skylines
City Builders’ Reference
Can I effectively manage a district to align policies with citizens’ needs and available resources? Probably not.But is it incredibly satisfying to oversee a city with such detailed mechanics? Yes, absolutely.
While Cities: Skylines may not be beginner-friendly due to the nature of city-building games, its quality and depth are clear to anyone willing to explore.
Ten years after its launch, it stands as a quintessential reference point for modern city builders, redefining what the genre can be.
2 Vampire
A Great A-RPG with Excellent Influences
My trust in Don’t Nod was largely solidified by the exceptional experience that is Vampyr.
This title blends vampire lore, Bloodborne-inspired combat, and Mass Effect-like storytelling, creating a deeply immersive experience.
Engaging with each decision carries weight, influencing both the story and gameplay, making it one of my memorable moments on the PlayStation 4.
All components, from dialogue and characters to the gameplay and setting, coalesce into a remarkable whole, highlighting Vampyr as a prime recommendation for ARPG enthusiasts.
1 Road 96
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The fusion of nostalgia and melancholy creates a powerful narrative, especially when delivered through a political lens as seen in Road 96.
This procedurally generated journey allows players to encounter diverse characters while providing a resonant commentary on American democracy.
Addressing themes of emigration and youth concerns during challenging times, the game successfully combines decision-making and resource management, enhancing the dynamic tension of the experience.
Road 96 intriguingly melds disparate elements to create a cohesive narrative that leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection long after the credits roll.
The uniqueness of its experience encourages a profound appreciation, as every playthrough feels distinct and unforgettable.
Since completing it, I often reminisce about the journey, marked by the bittersweet emotions that defined its exceptional campaign.
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