The original PlayStation revolutionized gaming when it was released in the mid-90s, quickly becoming a household name and setting the stage for modern gaming as we know it. The PS1's success was driven not just by the hardware, but by an unforgettable library of games that defined the era. In this list, we rank the top 10 best-selling PlayStation 1 games of all time, highlighting the titles that shaped gaming history. From genre-defining RPGs to adrenaline-pumping racers, these classics have stood the test of time, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming industry.
Let’s dive in and count down the best-selling PlayStation 1 games ever released.
10. Metal Gear Solid
Release date: September 3, 1998
Developer: Konami
Units Sold: 7,000,000
Hideo Kojima's Metal Gear Solid took the stealth-action genre to new heights, immersing players in an intricately woven story full of espionage, tactical combat, and cinematic flair. The game follows Solid Snake, a legendary soldier tasked with stopping a nuclear threat from the rogue FOXHOUND unit. Metal Gear Solid captivated players with its gripping narrative, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics such as stealth camouflage and hiding in cardboard boxes. The voice acting and cinematic cutscenes were ahead of their time, making it feel like an interactive action movie.
9. Tomb Raider
Release date: October 25, 1996
Developer: Eidos Interactive
Units Sold: 7,100,000
Tomb Raider introduced the world to one of gaming's most iconic characters, Lara Croft. As a daring archaeologist and adventurer, Lara Croft explored ancient tombs, solved complex puzzles, and faced off against dangerous foes. Tomb Raider brought a new level of depth to action-adventure games, thanks to its engaging platforming, environmental puzzles, and 3D world exploration. Its challenging gameplay and atmospheric settings helped establish the formula for future action-adventure games.
With over 7.1 million copies sold, Tomb Raider not only established a long-running franchise but also turned Lara Croft into a cultural icon. The game’s success spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and even movies, securing its place as a cornerstone of PlayStation history. It paved the way for more female protagonists in gaming, setting a standard for adventure games to come.
8. Crash Bandicoot: Warped
Release date: October 31, 1998
Developer: Naughty Dog
Units Sold: 7,130,000
Crash Bandicoot: Warped, the third installment in the Crash Bandicoot series, took the platforming genre to a new level with its time-traveling antics. This game saw the lovable marsupial hopping across various historical eras to stop the evil Dr. Neo Cortex and Uka Uka. It featured a mix of traditional platforming, vehicle-based gameplay, and even underwater levels, offering a variety of gameplay styles that kept things fresh.
Selling 7.13 million units, Warped was a standout title on the PlayStation, cementing Crash as the unofficial mascot of the platform. The game was praised for its polished graphics, humor, and tight controls, making it one of the best platformers of its time. It represented Naughty Dog’s final Crash game before moving on to other franchises, leaving an enduring legacy for future players to revisit.
7. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Release date: November 5, 1997
Developer: Naughty Dog
Units Sold: 7,580,000
Naughty Dog's Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back expanded on the formula of the original Crash Bandicoot, introducing more complex levels, new gameplay mechanics, and additional collectibles. In this sequel, Crash teams up with his arch-nemesis, Dr. Neo Cortex, to save the world, but not without questioning Cortex's true intentions. The game retained the challenging platforming of the first title but refined the controls and level design for a more enjoyable experience.
With 7.58 million copies sold, Cortex Strikes Back solidified Crash’s status as a PlayStation icon and became a favorite for many fans of the series. The game's blend of humor, colorful graphics, and challenging gameplay made it a defining platformer on the PlayStation and established Naughty Dog as one of the top developers for the console.
6. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
Release date: November 15, 2001
Developer: Electronic Arts
Units Sold: 8,000,000
Based on J.K. Rowling's beloved novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone allowed players to step into the shoes of young Harry as he navigated the magical halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The game combined elements of action, puzzle-solving, and exploration, offering fans of the series an interactive way to experience the world of Harry Potter. Players could learn spells, battle magical creatures, and even participate in a Quidditch match.
Selling 8 million copies, the game was a massive hit for Electronic Arts and tapped into the growing Pottermania of the early 2000s. Despite some dated graphics and controls, the game's charm and faithfulness to the source material resonated with fans, making it a cherished title for both Potterheads and gamers alike.
5. Tekken 3
Release date: March 26, 1998
Developer: Namco
Units Sold: 8,300,000
Tekken 3 is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighting games of all time. It offered a roster of diverse characters, each with unique fighting styles and special moves, allowing players to master different techniques. With fluid animations, responsive controls, and an engaging story mode, Tekken 3 set a new standard for fighting games in the late '90s. The addition of mini-games like Tekken Force and Tekken Ball also provided extra replay value beyond the traditional fighting modes.
With 8.3 million units sold, Tekken 3 became a landmark title in the fighting game genre. It played a significant role in popularizing fighting games on consoles and solidified Namco’s reputation for creating high-quality fighters that could compete with the best in arcades.
4. Final Fantasy VIII
Release date: February 11, 1999
Developer: Square
Units Sold: 8,600,000
Final Fantasy VIII marked a shift in the series with a more realistic art style and a deeper focus on character-driven storytelling. Players followed the journey of Squall Leonhart and his comrades as they fought against a sorceress bent on world domination. With a new "Junction" system that replaced traditional leveling mechanics, the game introduced a fresh approach to character customization and combat.
Selling 8.6 million copies, Final Fantasy VIII continued Square's tradition of delivering captivating RPG experiences. While some mechanics divided players, its graphics, storytelling, and cinematic sequences were groundbreaking at the time. It showed that the Final Fantasy series could evolve and continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay.
3. Gran Turismo 2
Release date: December 11, 1999
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Units Sold: 9,370,000
Gran Turismo 2 built upon the success of its predecessor, offering an even larger roster of cars and tracks. It featured improved physics and graphics, along with an expanded career mode that allowed players to compete in a variety of racing events. The game was known for its realism and attention to detail, making it a must-play for racing enthusiasts.
With 9.37 million units sold, Gran Turismo 2 further established the franchise as the gold standard in racing simulations. The game’s depth and authentic driving experience resonated with players, and it continues to influence modern racing games to this day.
2. Final Fantasy VII
Release date: January 31, 1997
Developer: Square
Units Sold: 10,022,228
Final Fantasy VII is not just one of the best-selling PS1 games; it's also one of the most iconic RPGs of all time. The game follows Cloud Strife and his allies as they battle the evil Shinra Corporation and the enigmatic Sephiroth. Its blend of traditional turn-based combat, memorable characters, and a gripping storyline made it an instant classic.
Selling over 10 million copies, Final Fantasy VII was instrumental in popularizing JRPGs in the West and remains a touchstone in gaming culture. The recent remake and numerous spin-offs speak to the enduring legacy of this groundbreaking title.
1. Gran Turismo
Release date: December 23, 1997
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Units Sold: 10,850,000
Topping the list is Gran Turismo, the original racing simulation that redefined what a racing game could be. Featuring over 140 cars and 11 tracks, it emphasized realistic driving physics, car customization, and a comprehensive career mode. It quickly became a favorite for car enthusiasts and gamers alike, delivering a level of realism previously unseen in the genre.
With nearly 11 million units sold, Gran Turismo solidified its place as one of the greatest racing games of all time and paved the way for the future of the franchise. Its impact on the racing genre is still felt today, as subsequent games continue to push the boundaries of realism and immersion.
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