Best Selling Playstation Games Ever

Best selling playstation games, the PlayStation brand has dominated the gaming industry for nearly three decades. From the original PlayStation console launched in 1994 to the current PlayStation 5, Sony has created a massive library of unforgettable titles. Over the years, some games have risen above the rest, achieving record-breaking sales and earning their place in gaming history.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best-selling PlayStation games of all time, diving into what made them so successful, their cultural impact, and why they continue to be beloved by millions of players worldwide.

1. Gran Turismo (PlayStation) – Over 10.8 Million Copies Sold

When the original Gran Turismo launched in 1997 for the PlayStation 1, it revolutionized the racing genre. Developed by Polyphony Digital, this game wasn’t just about speed—it was about realism. The driving physics, licensed cars, and attention to detail made it a must-have for car enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.

• Why it sold so well: At the time, no other racing game had such a massive roster of vehicles and realistic driving mechanics.
• Legacy: Gran Turismo became the foundation for one of PlayStation’s most iconic franchises, still going strong today with Gran Turismo 7 on PS5.

2. Gran Turismo 2 (PlayStation) – Over 9.5 Million Copies Sold

Released in 1999, Gran Turismo 2 built on the success of the first installment, expanding its car list to over 600 vehicles and introducing more tracks. Fans praised it for being more ambitious, with better graphics and a greater variety of gameplay modes.

• Why it stood out: The sheer content—hundreds of cars, multiple racing disciplines, and deep customization options—kept players hooked.
• Impact: It cemented the Gran Turismo series as the ultimate racing simulator of its era.

3. The Last of Us (PlayStation 3) – Over 17 Million Copies Sold (Including Remasters)

Released in 2013, The Last of Us by Naughty Dog is widely considered one of the greatest video games ever made. This action-adventure survival game blended cinematic storytelling with emotionally charged gameplay, following Joel and Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world.

• Why it’s a best-seller: The combination of gripping narrative, memorable characters, and polished gameplay resonated with players worldwide.
• Legacy: The game won countless Game of the Year awards, spawned a successful sequel (The Last of Us Part II), and even inspired a hit HBO television series.

4. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End (PlayStation 4) – Over 16 Million Copies Sold

Nathan Drake’s final adventure became the best-selling title in the Uncharted franchise. Released in 2016, it offered cinematic storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and thrilling treasure-hunting gameplay.

• What made it special: The emotional depth of the story combined with blockbuster-style action sequences gave players an unforgettable experience.
• Significance: It pushed the PlayStation 4’s hardware to its limits and proved that single-player, story-driven games could still achieve massive commercial success.

5. Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec (PlayStation 2) – Over 14.8 Million Copies Sold

When the PlayStation 2 launched in 2000, fans eagerly awaited the next installment in the Gran Turismo series. In 2001, Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec arrived, taking advantage of the PS2’s improved hardware to deliver stunning graphics and refined gameplay.

• Why fans loved it: It became the ultimate showcase of what the PS2 could do, and it was bundled with many consoles, helping boost its sales.
• Legacy: It solidified Gran Turismo as Sony’s flagship racing franchise for the PS2 era.

6. Marvel’s Spider-Man (PlayStation 4) – Over 20 Million Copies Sold

Insomniac Games’ Spider-Man was a dream come true for Marvel fans. Released in 2018, the game allowed players to swing through a beautifully recreated New York City while battling villains like Doctor Octopus and Mister Negative.

• What drove sales: The fluid web-swinging mechanics, emotional storytelling, and faithful representation of Spider-Man captured both casual gamers and die-hard Marvel fans.
• Impact: It became one of the defining games of the PS4 era and paved the way for Spider-Man: Miles Morales and the 2023 sequel, Spider-Man 2.

7. God of War (PlayStation 4) – Over 23 Million Copies Sold

The 2018 reboot of God of War was a bold reinvention of the series. Shifting from Greek mythology to Norse mythology, the game focused on the bond between Kratos and his son Atreus.

• Why it sold so much: The deep narrative, brutal yet strategic combat, and breathtaking visuals made it a critical and commercial success.
• Awards and legacy: It won multiple Game of the Year awards and became one of Sony’s most important first-party titles, leading to the highly anticipated sequel God of War: Ragnarök.

8. The Last of Us Part II (PlayStation 4) – Over 10 Million Copies Sold

Released in 2020, The Last of Us Part II was one of the most ambitious games ever made for the PS4. It continued Ellie’s story in a darker, more complex narrative that divided opinions but still achieved massive sales.

• Why it was successful: The hype surrounding its predecessor, along with Naughty Dog’s reputation, made it one of the most pre-ordered PlayStation games ever.
• Impact: Despite its divisive story, it won Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2020 and pushed the boundaries of storytelling in games.

9. Gran Turismo 5 (PlayStation 3) – Over 11.9 Million Copies Sold

Launched in 2010, Gran Turismo 5 was one of the most ambitious entries in the franchise. It introduced online racing, realistic damage modeling, and even NASCAR events.

• Why it succeeded: Fans had been waiting years for its release, and the sheer content—over 1,000 cars—kept players engaged for countless hours.
• Significance: It showed how simulation racing could evolve in the online era.

10. Final Fantasy VII (PlayStation) – Over 10 Million Copies Sold

Few games are as legendary as Final Fantasy VII. Released in 1997, it brought the Japanese RPG genre into mainstream popularity in the West. The story of Cloud, Sephiroth, and Aerith is still remembered as one of the most emotional journeys in gaming history.

• Why it was groundbreaking: The combination of 3D graphics, cinematic cutscenes, and an unforgettable soundtrack made it revolutionary.
• Legacy: It’s considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time, leading to spin-offs, remasters, and the highly praised Final Fantasy VII Remake on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

Honorable Mentions

While the top 10 list features some of the most iconic PlayStation titles, several other games deserve recognition:

• Grand Theft Auto V (PS3 & PS4): While it’s primarily known as a cross-platform juggernaut, it sold tens of millions on PlayStation alone.
• Metal Gear Solid (PS1): A groundbreaking stealth game that inspired countless others.
• Crash Bandicoot Series (PS1): Helped establish PlayStation’s identity in the 1990s.
• Bloodborne (PS4): Not as commercially massive but deeply influential among hardcore gamers.

Conclusion

The PlayStation brand has built its legacy on groundbreaking games that not only sell millions of copies but also push the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and technology. From the realistic driving simulators of Gran Turismo to the emotional journeys in The Last of Us and God of War, these best-selling PlayStation games have left a permanent mark on gaming culture.

As the PlayStation 5 continues to grow its library, it’s only a matter of time before new titles join this list. What remains clear is that PlayStation’s commitment to quality, innovation, and unforgettable experiences will keep it at the forefront of gaming for years to come.