Hey, gamers, buckle up and get ready to take a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of gaming—the PlayStation 1 era! The PS1, released in 1994, revolutionized the gaming industry, introducing us to a world of 3D graphics and immersive gameplay. Over the years, countless iconic titles have graced this console, captivating hearts and minds worldwide.
In this article, we dive deep into the realm of gaming greatness, counting down the 25 best-selling PS1 games of all time! These timeless classics have left an unforgettable impression on generations of players. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the retro scene, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So, grab your trusty memory card, hit the power button, and let’s embark on this thrilling journey through the 25 best selling PS1 games of all time!
25 Best Selling PS1 Games of All Time
1. Final Fantasy VII
Year Released: 1997
Kickstarting our adventure is the legendary RPG, Final Fantasy VII, an absolute masterpiece! With its captivating storyline, unforgettable characters like Cloud, Sephiroth, and Aerith, and groundbreaking 3D graphics (for its time), this game set a new standard for RPGs. It’s no surprise that it’s still hailed as one of the greatest games ever made!
With over 9.8 million copies sold, it became a cultural phenomenon and solidified the Final Fantasy series as a staple in gaming.
2. Gran Turismo
Year Released: 1998
Rev up those engines, folks, as we hit the asphalt with Gran Turismo! This realistic racing simulator took the gaming world by storm, offering an unparalleled driving experience. With an extensive car roster, stunning graphics, and precise handling, this game won the hearts of racing enthusiasts worldwide.
With over 10 million copies sold, “Gran Turismo” remains a definitive racing game even today.
3. Tekken 3
Year Released: 1997
Get ready to throw down in the King of Iron Fist Tournament with Tekken 3! This iconic fighting game delivered an adrenaline-fueled combat experience, complete with a diverse cast of fighters, each with their unique fighting style. It’s still cherished for its fast-paced action and fluid combo system!
Selling over 8.3 million copies, it remains one of the most beloved and competitive fighting games in gaming history.
4. Crash Bandicoot
Year Released: 1996
Who can forget the energetic marsupial, Crash Bandicoot? This platformer captured the hearts of players with its charismatic protagonist and challenging levels. Crash’s quest to thwart the evil Dr. Neo Cortex became a gaming legend, making it one of the best-selling titles in PS1 history.
With over 7.6 million copies sold, the game became synonymous with the PlayStation brand, leading to a successful franchise.
5. Metal Gear Solid
Year Released: 1998
Infiltrate enemy territory with Solid Snake in Metal Gear Solid! This stealth-action game redefined the genre, offering a cinematic experience like never before. With its gripping plot, memorable boss battles, and stealth mechanics, it remains an influential classic.
With over 6 million copies sold, the game became a classic in its own right.
6. Resident Evil 2
Year Released: 1998
Enter the zombie-infested Raccoon City in Resident Evil 2! This survival horror game left players on the edge of their seats with its tense atmosphere and heart-pounding gameplay. Its success spawned a long-running franchise, making it an essential title for horror fans.
With over 4.96 million copies sold, it became a hallmark of the genre.
7. Final Fantasy VIII
Year Released: 1999
Continuing the epic saga, Final Fantasy VIII delivered another RPG masterpiece! With its emotionally charged narrative, deep character development, and innovative Junction system, this game holds a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
With over 8.5 million copies sold, the game enchanted players with its emotional depth and stunning visuals.
8. Spyro the Dragon
Year Released: 1998
Embark on a vibrant adventure with Spyro the Dragon! This charming platformer introduced us to the lovable purple dragon, Spyro, and his quest to save his dragon brethren. Its colorful worlds and fun gameplay made it a huge hit.
Selling over 4.8 million copies, the game became a beloved platformer and inspired a successful franchise.
9. Tomb Raider
Year Released: 1996
Meet the iconic adventurer, Lara Croft, in the original Tomb Raider! This action-adventure game combined puzzle-solving, exploration, and intense combat, creating an unforgettable gaming experience. Lara became an enduring symbol of strong female protagonists in gaming.
With over 7.5 million copies sold, it laid the foundation for a beloved gaming franchise.
10. Gran Turismo 2
Year Released: 1999
Buckle up for a sequel that outshines the original—Gran Turismo 2! With an even bigger car roster, improved graphics, and more tracks, this racing simulator took the thrill of driving to new heights!
With over 9.4 million copies sold, it further cemented the franchise’s position as a driving force in the racing game genre.
11. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Year Released: 1997
Crash is back for more adventures in Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back! This sequel improved upon its predecessor, offering more diverse levels and new gameplay mechanics, making it a must-play for platformer fans.
Selling over 7.4 million copies, the game built upon its predecessor’s strengths and further solidified Crash’s position as a beloved gaming mascot.
12. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Year Released: 1997
Prepare to face the night with Castlevania: Symphony of the Night! This action-adventure game blended RPG elements with side-scrolling action, resulting in an engrossing gaming experience. Its gothic atmosphere and challenging gameplay made it an instant classic.
13. Driver
Year Released: 1999
Channel your inner wheelman in Driver! This action-packed game allowed players to step into the shoes of an undercover cop, engaging in thrilling car chases and high-speed pursuits. With its realistic driving physics, it became a favorite among fans of the genre.
14. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis
Year Released: 1999
Get ready to flee from Nemesis in Resident Evil 3! This survival horror game upped the stakes with a relentless antagonist and a more action-oriented approach. It remains a fan-favorite in the Resident Evil series.
15. Crash Bandicoot: Warped
Year Released: 1998
Time travel awaits in Crash Bandicoot: Warped! This third installment in the series took Crash on a thrilling adventure through different time periods, introducing new gameplay mechanics and even more challenges!
The “Crash Bandicoot” trilogy concluded with “Crash Bandicoot: Warped,” selling over 5.7 million copies.
16. Medal of Honor
Year Released: 1999
March into battle with a Medal of Honor! This World War II-themed first-person shooter offered a gripping and immersive experience, honoring the brave soldiers who fought for freedom.
17. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater
Year Released: 1999
Grab your skateboard and hit the ramps in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater! This skateboarding game became an instant classic, introducing players to a new level of extreme sports gaming.
18. Final Fantasy IX
Year Released: 2000
The final installment in the PlayStation’s trilogy of Final Fantasy games, Final Fantasy IX, delivered a grand RPG adventure! With its return to a more traditional fantasy setting and lovable characters, it garnered a devoted fan base.
With over 5.3 million copies sold, the game offered a return to the series’ roots, featuring a classic fantasy setting and endearing characters.
19. Tomb Raider II
Year Released: 1997
Lara Croft returns for more tomb raiding in Tomb Raider II! This sequel expanded on the original’s formula, taking players on even more treacherous and thrilling expeditions.
Selling over 5 million copies, it showcased improved graphics and challenging puzzles.
More action-packed driving awaits in Driver 2! This sequel upped the ante, offering larger cities to explore and even more intense car chases.
21. Ape Escape
Year Released: 1999
Get ready for monkey business in Ape Escape! This delightful platformer featured innovative gameplay, using the PlayStation’s dual-analog controller for unique monkey-catching mechanics.
22. Tekken 2
Year Released: 1996
Step back into the ring with Tekken 2! This fighting game refined the formula of its predecessor, delivering an exhilarating combat experience.
“Tekken 2” built upon the success of its predecessor and sold over 5.3 million copies.
23. WWF SmackDown!
Year Released: 2000
Time to rumble in the squared circle with WWF SmackDown! This wrestling game brought the excitement of WWE to the PlayStation, making it a hit among wrestling enthusiasts.
24. Crash Team Racing
Year Released: 1999
Join Crash and his friends in a high-speed kart racing showdown in Crash Team Racing! This title proved that Crash could conquer any gaming genre with style.
25. Resident Evil
Year Released: 1996
The game that started it all—the original Resident Evil! This survival horror masterpiece paved the way for a beloved franchise and left players trembling in fear.
With over 4.96 million copies sold, it became a hallmark of the genre.
Conclusion
And there you have it, the 25 best-selling PS1 games of all time, each one a timeless gem in the history of gaming! These classics have provided countless hours of joy, excitement, and awe-inspiring moments to gamers around the world. From epic RPGs to heart-pounding action and unforgettable adventures, the PlayStation 1 era truly shaped the landscape of gaming as we know it today.
As technology advances and gaming evolves, let’s cherish these nostalgic titles that have withstood the test of time. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast or a modern gamer looking to explore gaming history, these games are a must-play! So, dust off that old PlayStation, insert your favorite game, and let the memories come flooding back. Happy gaming!
