20. Gran Turismo (PS1)

Back in 1997, it was hard to imagine a more realistic-looking racing game than Gran Turismo. Up until that point, racing simulators never got much of a spotlight with how popular more arcade-style games were, yet with the first GT even those without a penchant for cars found a lot to like with its responsive controls and mind-blowing graphics. As a result, it became one of the highest-rated and commercially successful PS1 games. The Simulation Mode, where you had to earn driver’s licences to unlock events and championships, added dozens of hours of satisfying gameplay. Throw in 140 cars to unlock, and if Gran Turismo was the only game you had for PS1, you were set. The sequel is equally amazing, but the first game had the most impact, in our opinion.

19. WipEout 3 (PS1)

While WipEout 2097 nailed down much of how the series would continue, WipEout 3 made further refinements to the formula, making for one of PS1's slickest racing games. Featuring new analog control, varied tracks, and gorgeous presentation, it ticks all the boxes — even if it didn't innovate quite like the previous two titles. Fans go back and forth on whether this or its predecessor is best, though some give WipEout 3 the edge thanks to its enhanced gameplay and content. A true classic.

18. Tenchu: Stealth Assassins (PS1)

An early example of stealth in a fully 3D game, Tenchu: Stealth Assassins is a hilariously bloody and often brutally difficult romp through a series of shockingly atmospheric levels. Often stiff and awkward in its approach to combat, the title's always been something of an acquired taste, but it's easy to be drawn in by the its fantastic soundtrack and horror-tinged tone.

17. Spyro: Year of the Dragon (PS1)

The classic trilogy is rounded out by Spyro: Year of the Dragon, building yet further on the sturdy foundations of the series. Taking our favourite purple dragon to the Forgotten Realms, this new adventure adds even more fun characters, minigames, playable critters, and even more impressive visuals and music. It's arguably the best of Insomniac's trilogy, and secures Spyro's status as a PS1 legend.

16. Silent Hill (PS1)

While a more straightforward and gory take on the survival horror genre was established by Resident Evil, it was followed up by a slightly more physiological approach in Silent Hill a few years later. Konami made what you didn't see just as terrifying as what you did as Harry Mason searches for his daughter Cheryl in the town of Silent Hill. What follows is a haunting, gripping survival horror journey into a place that scares in many more ways than just its twisted inhabitants. To this day, Silent Hill is still regarded as one of the genre's best.

15. Parasite Eve (PS1)

Parasite Eve reflected the growing demand for more adult games on the PS1, as it was Square’s first Mature-related release. A sequel to a 1995 novel written by Hideaki Sena, it introduced the world to Aya Brea, who’d go on to become one of the iconic video game heroines of the 90s, alongside the likes of Lara Croft and Jill Valentine. Set in an eye-popping rendition of New York City, the title blended tactical real-time combat with survival horror-style elements. It was a truly unique experience, and one that’s not really been replicated, as subsequent sequels took the series in a slightly different direction.

14. Crash Team Racing (PS1)

After a trio of successful platformers, Naughty Dog tried its hand at something different with Crash Team Racing, and it remains a beloved title to this day. A challenging but rewarding boost system gave the racing some real competitive juice, and events were strung nicely together by an overarching adventure mode. Complete with battle modes and numerous playable characters, this is often highlighted as one of the few kart racers that could give Mario Kart a run for its money.

13. WipEout 3: Special Edition (PS1)

Released exclusively in Europe, WipEout 3: Special Edition does exactly what it says on the tin. It's the third mainline WipEout game that fans know and love, only with a bunch of additional tracks and content, making it arguably the definitive old school game in the series. It's the most polished and most feature rich WipEout on PS1, and a great way to cap off the franchise on the original PlayStation.

12. Street Fighter Alpha 3 (PS1)

While the PS1 is perhaps best remembered for its 3D fighters like Tekken and Soul Blade, Capcom proved there was still plenty of life left in 2D brawlers with Street Fighter Alpha 3. This home console port released in 1998 retained the chunky sprites from its arcade counterpart, but added in a single player campaign mode named World Tour, where you can level up your chosen fighter and even personalise their playing style. The Japanese version was even compatible with the PocketStation, so you could upgrade your chosen fighters on the go.

11. Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (PS1)

Following up on Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain with a fully 3D action-platformer was an ambitious choice, but Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver would go down as one of the PS1's finest adventures. Featuring some great vampire-based storytelling and satisfyingly tactile, often strategic gameplay, Soul Reaver helped set a standard for more mature action titles.