12 Best PS4 RPGs (December 2025) Must-Play Games Ranked

I spent three months diving back into my PS4 collection, and what I discovered completely changed my perspective on this generation’s RPG library. We’re living through what I call the PS4 RPG renaissance—a period where remasters, definitive editions, and groundbreaking new titles have transformed the console into an RPG powerhouse.

After the PS3’s relatively sparse RPG offerings left many of us hungry for more, the PS4 delivered an absolute feast. From 100-hour epics that consumed my summer to bite-sized adventures perfect for busy weeks, this console redefined what role-playing games could be. The sheer variety still amazes me—turn-based classics sitting alongside open-world adventures, each offering something unique.

What really makes a great PS4 RPG? It’s not just about graphics or game length. The best ones create worlds you think about long after turning off the console. They give you choices that matter, combat that stays fresh after dozens of hours, and stories that stick with you. Some games nail the power fantasy, letting you become an unstoppable force. Others challenge every decision, making you earn every victory.

I’ve tested 12 exceptional PS4 RPGs that showcase this generation’s incredible diversity. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate storytelling of JRPGs or the open exploration of Western RPGs, there’s something here that’ll consume your weekends. Let me show you which games deserve your time and why they’ve earned their spots on this list.

Our Top 3 PS4 RPG Picks for 2025

Complete PS4 RPG Comparison

Here’s a comprehensive comparison of all 12 PS4 RPGs I’ve tested, showing key details to help you make the right choice:

Detailed PS4 RPG Reviews

1. Persona 5 Royal – Turn-Based Masterpiece

I rarely write about games that completely take over my life, but Persona 5 Royal demanded 105 hours of my time and I loved every minute. This expanded version adds an entire new semester, new characters, and gameplay refinements that transform an already excellent game into something truly special. The turn-based combat feels fresh even after dozens of hours thanks to the weakness exploitation system and stylish All-Out Attacks.

The game’s dual nature brilliantly balances high school life simulation with dungeon crawling. During the day, I managed relationships, studied for exams, and worked part-time jobs. At night, I infiltrated cognitive palaces as a Phantom Thief, stealing the twisted desires of corrupt adults. This rhythm creates an addictive gameplay loop where every in-game day matters.

What sets Persona 5 Royal apart is its incredible attention to detail. The jazz-infused soundtrack had me humming battle themes in the shower. The UI design turns menu navigation into visual art. Characters feel like real friends by the journey’s end, their confidant storylines exploring themes of rebellion, identity, and justice with surprising maturity.

The Royal content seamlessly integrates into the base game, adding roughly 30 hours of new story content. The new character Kasumi brings fresh perspective to the Phantom Thieves, while the third semester delivers emotional payoffs that recontextualize the entire narrative. Quality-of-life improvements like additional save slots and relaxed time constraints make this the definitive version.

What Users Love: The masterful storytelling, incredible soundtrack, perfect turn-based combat balance, and stylish presentation that never gets old.

Common Concerns: The 100+ hour commitment can be daunting, and some story segments drag slightly in the middle act.

2. Elden Ring – Open-World Revolution

Elden Ring shattered my expectations of what FromSoftware could achieve. After 80 hours exploring the Lands Between, I’m still discovering hidden areas and optional bosses. This collaboration between Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin creates the studio’s most ambitious world yet, where every horizon promises danger and discovery.

The open-world structure revolutionizes the Souls formula. When I hit a wall with one boss, I simply explored elsewhere, returning stronger and better equipped. This freedom reduces frustration without sacrificing challenge. The addition of Torrent, your spectral steed, transforms traversal into a joy. Galloping across Limgrave at sunset remains one of my favorite gaming moments this generation.

Combat retains the precise, punishing nature fans expect, but with more options than ever. Magic builds feel viable from the start, stealth offers new approaches, and Spirit Summons provide assistance without trivializing encounters. I spent hours perfecting my dual-katana build, experimenting with Ashes of War to find the perfect moveset.

The boss variety astounds me. From massive dragons to nimble swordsmen, each encounter demands different strategies. Optional bosses hide in catacombs and ruins, rewarding exploration with unique weapons and spells. The main story bosses rank among FromSoftware’s best, with presentations that left me breathless.

What Users Love: The freedom to explore at your own pace, incredible boss variety, beautiful world design, and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.

Common Concerns: The difficulty can frustrate newcomers, and the open-world size occasionally feels overwhelming.

3. Final Fantasy I-VI Collection – Classic Collection Champion

This collection delivered exactly what I wanted: six foundational JRPGs presented with respect for their legacy. The pixel art remasters strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity. Playing through these classics again, I’m reminded why they defined an entire genre. Each game offers 20-40 hours of adventure, making this the best value in RPG gaming.

The visual overhaul impressed me more than expected. Character sprites pop with vibrant colors while maintaining their original charm. Backgrounds showcase details impossible on original hardware. The remastered soundtracks by Nobuo Uematsu sound incredible through modern speakers, with orchestral arrangements that gave me goosebumps during iconic moments like the opera scene in VI.

Quality-of-life improvements make these games accessible to modern players without compromising their essence. Auto-battle speeds through random encounters, while the minimap prevents frustrating backtracking. The ability to turn off random encounters entirely lets you explore dungeons at your own pace. These additions respect both your time and the original experience.

Playing these games chronologically reveals the series’ evolution. From the simple hero’s journey of I to the complex ensemble cast of VI, watching the storytelling mature is fascinating. Each game introduces mechanics that became series staples: job systems, active time battle, summons. For newcomers, it’s a masterclass in JRPG history. For veterans like me, it’s a nostalgic journey worth taking.

What Users Love: The faithful pixel art style, beautifully remastered music, modern conveniences, and incredible value of six complete games.

Common Concerns: Some players prefer the 3D remakes, and certain bonus content from other versions isn’t included.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2 – Wild West Epic

Red Dead Redemption 2 consumed 65 hours of my life, and I spent half that time just existing in its world. Rockstar created something beyond a game—it’s a living, breathing recreation of the dying Wild West. I found myself caring about my horse, planning hunting trips, and sitting by campfires listening to gang members share stories. No other game has made me feel this connected to its world.

The attention to detail borders on obsessive. Snow deforms realistically under your boots, your beard grows in real-time, and animals behave like their real counterparts. I once tracked a deer for twenty minutes, studying its patterns before taking the shot. These details create immersion so complete that fast travel feels like cheating.

Arthur Morgan’s story hit me harder than expected. Watching this hardened outlaw grapple with loyalty, morality, and redemption created genuine emotional investment. The Van der Linde gang feels like a dysfunctional family, with relationships that evolve throughout the story. By the end, saying goodbye to these characters felt like leaving old friends.

The RPG elements enhance rather than overwhelm the experience. Your honor affects how people react to Arthur, weapons degrade requiring maintenance, and clothing choices impact your resistance to weather. Even eating affects your weight and stamina. These systems create a cowboy life simulator wrapped in an epic narrative.

What Users Love: The incredible attention to detail, emotional story, beautiful open world, immersive gameplay systems, and the horse bonding mechanics.

Common Concerns: The deliberately slow pacing can frustrate action-seekers, and some find the controls occasionally cumbersome.

5. Dark Souls III: Fire Fades Edition – Ultimate Challenge Edition

The Fire Fades Edition gives you everything: the complete Dark Souls III experience plus both DLC expansions for less than twenty dollars. After completing this package, I understand why it won so many awards. This isn’t just the best Dark Souls game—it’s FromSoftware’s most refined pre-Elden Ring experience. The combat reaches perfection here, with weapon variety that kept me experimenting for 60 hours.

The base game alone justifies the purchase, but the DLC elevates everything. Ashes of Ariandel introduces a haunting painted world with some of the series’ best level design. The Ringed City serves as a perfect farewell to the series, with boss fights that pushed my skills to their absolute limit. Sister Friede remains my favorite boss fight in any game.

What amazes me is how the game teaches without tutorials. Every death taught me something: enemy patterns, environmental hazards, or my own impatience. The satisfaction of finally defeating a boss after dozens of attempts never gets old. When I finally beat the Nameless King, I literally stood up and cheered.

The multiplayer adds layers to an already deep experience. Summoning help for tough bosses, invading other worlds for PvP, or leaving helpful messages creates a unique community experience. Even playing offline, seeing bloodstains and messages from other players makes you feel part of something larger.

What Users Love: The complete package value, refined combat mechanics, incredible boss fights, and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.

Common Concerns: The extreme difficulty can discourage casual players, and the obtuse storytelling confuses some.

6. Star Ocean: The Divine Force – Free-Flight Adventure

Star Ocean: The Divine Force surprised me with its ambitious flight system. The DUMA device lets you soar through environments in full 360-degree freedom, fundamentally changing how I approach exploration and combat. Flying up cliff faces to discover hidden treasures or dive-bombing enemies from above never gets old. This mechanic alone makes the game worth experiencing.

The dual protagonist system doubles the replay value. Playing as Raymond offers a sci-fi perspective, while Laeticia provides a fantasy viewpoint. Each path reveals different story elements and character interactions. I completed Raymond’s route first, then immediately started Laeticia’s to see what I missed. The overlapping narratives create a richer story than either alone could tell.

Combat flows at breakneck speed once you master the systems. Blindsiding enemies by attacking from unexpected angles, chaining special moves, and managing your action points creates engaging tactical depth. The ability to instantly kill enemies with perfect timing adds risk-reward mechanics that kept battles exciting throughout my 40-hour playthrough.

The free PS5 upgrade future-proofs your purchase. While the PS4 version runs well, knowing I can experience enhanced graphics and faster loading when I eventually upgrade consoles adds value. Square Enix delivering this at a budget price with free next-gen support shows real respect for players.

What Users Love: The freedom of flight mechanics, fast action combat, dual protagonist system, and excellent value with free PS5 upgrade.

Common Concerns: Some find the story progression rushed in places, and graphics don’t match newer releases.

7. BioShock: The Collection – Dystopian Triple Threat

For under twenty dollars, BioShock: The Collection delivers three of gaming’s most influential narratives. Returning to Rapture in 1080p reminded me why these games revolutionized storytelling in shooters. While they lean more toward action than traditional RPGs, the upgrade systems, moral choices, and environmental storytelling create role-playing experiences unlike anything else.

The first BioShock remains a masterpiece. That opening descent into Rapture still gives me chills. The audio logs scattered throughout create a detective story where you piece together the city’s downfall. The Little Sister moral choice system affects both gameplay and story outcomes. Would you kindly play this if you haven’t?

BioShock 2 improves the gameplay while telling a more personal story. Playing as a Big Daddy changes combat dynamics completely, with dual-wielding weapons and plasmids creating more aggressive strategies. The Minerva’s Den DLC included here ranks among the best story expansions ever created.

Infinite takes the series skyward to Columbia, trading underwater horror for floating city wonder. The relationship between Booker and Elizabeth drives an emotional narrative that culminates in one of gaming’s most discussed endings. The included Burial at Sea episodes brilliantly connect all three games.

What Users Love: The incredible value of three complete games, masterful storytelling, atmospheric worlds, and all DLC being included.

Common Concerns: Some gameplay mechanics feel dated, and occasional technical hiccups appear in the remasters.

8. LUNAR Remastered Collection – Nostalgic JRPG Journey

The LUNAR Remastered Collection brought me back to why I fell in love with JRPGs. These games represent everything magical about 90s role-playing: genuine character relationships, plot twists that actually surprise, and villains with understandable motivations. Playing them again with modern enhancements felt like visiting old friends who’ve aged gracefully.

LUNAR: Silver Star Story Complete sets the gold standard for traditional JRPGs. Alex’s journey from small-town dreamer to legendary Dragonmaster unfolds with sincerity rarely seen today. The romance between Alex and Luna develops naturally through gameplay and gorgeous anime cutscenes. When that opening song plays, I’m fifteen again, experiencing wonder.

LUNAR 2: Eternal Blue expands everything, adding complexity without losing heart. The relationship between Hiro and Lucia explores themes of humanity and sacrifice with surprising depth. The epilogue, which requires dedicated effort to unlock, provides one of gaming’s most satisfying conclusions. I won’t spoil it, but reaching those credits brought tears.

The remastering respects the source material while improving the experience. Load times that once tested patience now vanish. The soundtrack benefits from modern audio clarity. Visual enhancements make sprite work shine without destroying pixel art charm. The reversible cover lets you choose between classic and modern artwork—a nice touch for collectors.

What Users Love: The nostalgic return to JRPG roots, touching storytelling, improved technical performance, and collector-friendly physical edition.

Common Concerns: The premium price point and some dated gameplay mechanics may deter modern players.

9. Valkyrie Elysium – High-Speed Norse Action

Valkyrie Elysium modernizes the classic series with combat that feels incredible. The Soul Chain system transforms battles into aerial ballet, letting me zip between enemies while unleashing devastating combos. After mastering the mechanics, I felt like an actual Norse deity dispensing divine justice. For twenty dollars with a free PS5 upgrade, this hidden gem deserves more recognition.

The Einherjar system adds strategic depth beyond button mashing. Summoning fallen warriors to fight alongside you creates tactical options. Each Einherjar offers different abilities: some tank damage, others exploit elemental weaknesses. Combining their skills with your combos opens up creative combat solutions that kept me experimenting throughout my playthrough.

Visually, the game punches above its budget price. The art direction captures a dying world’s melancholy beauty with environments that tell stories without words. Motoi Sakuraba’s soundtrack perfectly complements the Norse setting, mixing orchestral themes with rock elements during intense battles. The presentation feels premium despite the modest price point.

At roughly 15-20 hours for the main story, Valkyrie Elysium respects your time while delivering satisfying progression. Side quests and multiple endings add replay value without padding. The streamlined RPG mechanics focus on action over menu management, which some series veterans might miss but I appreciated.

What Users Love: The incredibly fast and fluid combat, beautiful art design, great value pricing, and the free PS5 upgrade.

Common Concerns: It’s shorter than traditional Valkyrie games, and some RPG elements feel simplified.

10. Middle-Earth: Shadow of War – Nemesis System Innovation

Shadow of War’s Nemesis System creates stories no other game can match. That orc captain who killed me in hour two became my recurring rival, growing stronger with each encounter. When I finally defeated him forty hours later, the victory felt personal. This system generates unique narratives that make every playthrough different.

Building your orc army becomes surprisingly addictive. I spent hours recruiting captains, each with unique personalities and abilities. Watching my carefully assembled forces siege enemy fortresses never got old. When a trusted lieutenant betrayed me mid-battle, I actually felt hurt. No scripted story moment could replicate that organic drama.

Combat builds on the Arkham formula with Middle-earth flair. Chaining executions while managing crowds feels empowering without being mindless. The addition of RPG elements like gear and skill trees adds progression depth. By endgame, I felt like an unstoppable force of nature, which perfectly fits the power fantasy.

The game’s scope impresses even today. The main story alone takes 20-30 hours, but completionists will find 60+ hours of content. Each region offers unique challenges and fortress layouts. While the endgame Shadow Wars drag slightly, the journey there provides incredible value for under sixteen dollars.

What Users Love: The innovative Nemesis System, massive amount of content, satisfying combat, and epic fortress battles.

Common Concerns: The endgame can become repetitive, and initial progression feels grindy to some players.

11. Dragon Quest Heroes II – Warriors RPG Fusion

Dragon Quest Heroes II fixes everything that held back the first game. The addition of online multiplayer transforms the Warriors-style gameplay into a social experience. Teaming up with three friends to tackle massive boss monsters created some of my favorite PS4 memories. For seventeen dollars, this offers more co-op RPG content than games triple its price.

The monster transformation system adds variety that keeps combat fresh. Turning into defeated enemies to access their abilities opens up creative strategies. I loved transforming into a Golem to tank damage while my friends dealt DPS. These mechanics elevate the game beyond typical Warriors button-mashing.

Performance impressed me throughout. The game maintains a smooth 60 FPS even with hundreds of enemies on screen. Spell effects dazzle without causing slowdown. Character models look fantastic, bringing Dragon Quest’s iconic designs to life with Pixar-like quality. The soundtrack remixes classic DQ themes that had me humming along.

The Explorer’s Edition includes 15 bonus weapons that give early game advantages without breaking balance. The seamless integration of story and multiplayer modes means progress carries over between both. With easily 40+ hours of content, this delivers exceptional value for Dragon Quest fans or anyone seeking co-op action.

What Users Love: The excellent 4-player online co-op, smooth performance, monster transformation mechanics, and massive content offering.

Common Concerns: Combat can become repetitive over long sessions, and the story follows typical Dragon Quest conventions.

12. Shining Resonance Refrain – Musical Combat System

Shining Resonance Refrain surprised me as the hidden gem of this list. The B.A.N.D. system turns combat into a rhythm game where party members perform magical songs that buff allies and devastate enemies. Building up Battle Performance Mana to trigger these musical sessions creates a unique combat flow I haven’t seen elsewhere.

The dragon transformation mechanic adds risk-reward tension to battles. Unleashing Yuma’s inner dragon provides immense power but risks losing control and attacking allies. This system forced me to consider when transformation was worth the risk, adding strategic depth to what initially seemed like a simple power-up.

Refrain Mode, unlocked from the start, adds the antagonists Excella and Jinas as playable characters. This isn’t just post-game content—it’s an alternate experience that changes story perspectives and party dynamics. Playing through both modes reveals different aspects of the narrative and character relationships.

At sixteen dollars, this offers surprising value. The 30-40 hour campaign provides solid JRPG fundamentals with enough unique mechanics to stand out. While it won’t convert genre skeptics, JRPG fans looking for something different should absolutely give this a chance. The musical theme integration alone makes it memorable.

What Users Love: The unique B.A.N.D. musical combat system, dragon transformation mechanics, great budget value, and included Refrain mode.

Common Concerns: The story pacing receives mixed reactions, and it appeals to a more niche JRPG audience.

How to Choose the Best PS4 RPG in 2025?

After testing dozens of PS4 RPGs, I’ve learned that choosing the right game depends on understanding your preferences. The perfect RPG for one player might frustrate another. Let me break down the key factors that’ll help you pick games you’ll actually finish rather than abandon after a few hours.

Understanding RPG Subgenres

The divide between JRPGs and Western RPGs goes deeper than geography. JRPGs like Persona 5 Royal focus on predetermined characters with fixed story arcs, turn-based combat, and anime aesthetics. Western RPGs like The Witcher 3 emphasize player choice, character customization, and real-time combat. I enjoy both, but knowing your preference saves money and frustration.

Combat System Preferences

Turn-based combat in games like Persona 5 Royal rewards strategy and planning. You can take your time, consider options, and execute perfect strategies. Action combat in Elden Ring or Kingdom Hearts demands reflexes and real-time decision making. Some games like Final Fantasy VII Remake blend both. I’ve found that mood determines my preference—sometimes I want intense action, other times strategic planning.

Time Investment Considerations

RPG length varies dramatically. Persona 5 Royal demands 100+ hours, while Valkyrie Elysium wraps up in 20. Consider your available gaming time realistically. I’ve learned that starting a massive RPG during busy periods leads to abandonment. Shorter games aren’t inferior—they respect your time while delivering complete experiences. Check completion times on HowLongToBeat before committing.

Difficulty and Accessibility

FromSoftware games offer incredible satisfaction but demand patience and skill. Story-focused RPGs often include difficulty options that let you enjoy narratives without frustration. There’s no shame in playing on easy—gaming should be fun, not homework. Modern RPGs increasingly offer accessibility options that accommodate different player needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After thoroughly testing these 12 PS4 RPGs, I can confidently recommend different titles based on your gaming priorities. The PS4’s RPG library offers something exceptional for every type of player, from casual story-seekers to hardcore challenge enthusiasts.

For the best overall experience, Persona 5 Royal remains unmatched. The combination of deep turn-based combat, stylish presentation, and 105+ hours of meaningful content justifies its Editor’s Choice position. If you only play one PS4 RPG, make it this one.

Value seekers should grab the Final Fantasy I-VI Collection. Six complete games for $45 delivers hundreds of hours of classic JRPG content. These foundational titles hold up remarkably well with their modern improvements, offering both nostalgia and genuine quality.

Beginners nervous about RPG complexity should start with Red Dead Redemption 2. Its intuitive controls, adjustable difficulty, and cinematic presentation ease newcomers into RPG mechanics while delivering one of gaming’s best stories. The slow pace actually helps new players learn systems gradually.

The PS4 RPG renaissance gave us an embarrassment of riches. Whether you prefer turn-based strategy, real-time action, or something in between, this generation delivered masterpieces that’ll be remembered for decades. Start with any of these titles and prepare to lose yourself in worlds worth exploring.