Best PS4 Games of 2021

2021 was a year of variety and new boundaries for PS4 games. With an incredible amount of new titles, Indie games, and exclusives, there was a lot the console had to offer. With most AAA titles waiting for the release of the PS5 for its next big title, the doors were left wide open for other games to make a name for themselves.

If you fall under the majority of console gamers who couldn't get their hands on a PS5, it's okay. The PS4 isn't aging out and there are still lots of compatible games that you can explore. So don't look at trading in your PS4 just yet, as we have the best PS4 games of 2021 for you.

9. Hitman 3

Coming in first, we have Hitman III. The Hitman franchise has constantly delivered quality games to its franchise, and Hitman III might be the best of all. The game doesn't stray far from its last two versions and delivers the same style of gameplay that keeps gamers circling back to the game. What Hitman III does offer is a ton of variety in levels, and new ways to eliminate targets under the radar. Hitman III offers a ton of replayability and is sure to keep you entertained for hours.

8. Tales of Arise

Not many JRPGS or RPGs for that matter are tailored to gamers on console. So If you are a fan of JRPGs, then you don't want to miss out on Tales of Arise. The game delivers itself with a stimulating art style and story, making it one of the best JRPGs in a long time. The series has captivated gamers for decades with its compelling stories, and Tales of Arise might hold the best story in the franchise yet. I also have to mention how fine-tuned the combat plays out in this game. Even if you're not into JRPGs, I would recommend this game to any gamer.

7. Kena: Bridge of Spirits

Ember Lab is a new video game developer that made a huge splash with Kena: Bridge of Spirits. You play as Kena, a spiritual guide with magical abilities. Your whole goal is to help deceased people transition from the physical world to the spirit world. The game has a visually beautiful art style combined with a wonderfully orchestrated soundtrack. It doesn't skip on action gameplay either, there are tons of fights, and boss battles will keep you engaged throughout the story. There is a lot to explore in this game, so don't knock it down until you give it a try.

6. Psychonauts 2

The first Psychonauts game was released back in 2005, making the hype for Psychonauts 2 understandable. Players fell in love with this action-platformer for many reasons and a big one is the characters. They may seem a little quirky and odd at first, however, you can't help but fall in love and relate to them. Another reason is the story arc for Psychonauts 2. There are even bigger stakes, a more thorough backstory, and even funnier easter eggs. You don't have to be a knowledgeable fan of the series to tag along and enjoy Raz's new journey.

5. Knockout City

Knockout City is a new multiple-player game with a creative take on dodgeball. I'm not talking about your average middle school dodgeball showdown either. Knockout City has a ton of different ways to combine attacks and throw special power-up balls. The levels are diverse and the gameplay increasingly gets more advanced as you play around. There is even a solid amount of strategy incorporated into the game as you dive deeper. Overall, Knockout City is way more complex than you'd imagine and is one of the most fun multiplayer games that has come out in a while.

4. Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy

Despite Square Enix's disappointment in sales, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy was a great game. The company produced a riveting single-player story game that was a lot of fun to play. The game stuck to what was great about Guardians of the Galaxy, which is its entertaining characters. All witty in their own way, you immediately feel a part of the Marvel Universe playing as Peter Quill. Of course, this game wouldn't be complete without a Guardians of the Galaxy-style soundtrack that consists of a bunch of old-time classics.

3. Resident Evil Village

Resident Evil has been a very successful video game franchise, and Resident Evil Village is no exception to that. The game plays a lot more fast-paced than Resident Evil 7: Biohazard but still with the same mechanics. It's good that the game picked up the haste as the enemies are by far the most disturbing out of all the games. Except for the monster baby. That thing still haunts me in my sleep. Overall, you are getting a very well-rounded game that will definitely get your heart rushing.

2. It Takes Two

It Takes Two is arguably one of the best overall games in 2021 and is unlike any other co-op game I have played. The game has given me the most from a co-op game since Portal 2. Now that's saying a lot, but it's the truth. There is an absurd amount of variety in each level, and they all play out differently.  The game really holds up to the title as both players have a unique role to play in each level. The game really teaches players about teamwork and personal development in a creative way.

1. Death's Door

I have talked about Death's Door in past articles because it really is a diamond in the rough. This top-down action-adventure is one of the best I have played in a very long time. Once you have caught a feel for the mechanics, the game is tough to put down. Each level is widely explorable and intrigues you into unlocking the hidden secrets it holds within. The combat is diverse, challenging, and meant to be mastered. The more you put into this game, the more you get out of it, and if you haven't tried it out, I highly suggest it.

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