20. Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time (PS3)

Ratchet & Clank put in a solid shift on PS3 with multiple games garnering high praise, but Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time is considered by many to be the generational highpoint. Introducing a host of new gameplay mechanics — including the ability to fly Ratchet's ship between planets — and putting a strong emphasis on a wisecracking story, for many this is still the series' benchmark.

19. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (PS3)

The game that catapulted Call of Duty into utter mainstream dominance, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare had it all. A brilliant single-player campaign was bolstered by a suite of staggeringly popular multiplayer modes, but the whole package was held together by tight, super snappy gunplay — the kind of gunplay that would be copied and iterated upon for years to come. Many still consider Modern Warfare to be the definitive Call of Duty experience.

18. Dark Souls (PS3)

What even needs to be said about Dark Souls at this point? Off the back of the successful but underplayed Demon's Souls, this game quickly became one of the most influential releases in gaming's short history. FromSoftware's action RPG presented players with an interconnected world filled with seemingly impossible threats, delivering a difficult challenge that was incredibly satisfying to overcome. Throw on top online co-op (and invasions), deeply customisable playstyles, and an iconic, dark fantasy look, and you have yourself a modern classic.

17. God of War Collection (PS3)

God of War Collection remasters the original PS2 games God of War and God of War II, placing them together in one essential 720p package. Released shortly before God of War III, this collection presented a perfect opportunity for fans to refresh their memories of Kratos' original adventures. These are fantastic action games, even today.

16. Rayman Legends (PS3)

Rayman's most modern outing is also one of the most beloved entries in Ubisoft's long running series. A tricky but brilliantly well made platformer, Rayman Legends has become something of a classic over the years. Tight gameplay combines with a cracking art style and a lot of neatly crafted level design.

15. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3)

If you could get beyond its infamous PS3 install times, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns Of The Patriots almost immediately felt like Hideo Kojima's most ambitious project. Some would argue that Old Snake's dramatic and often completely ridiculous mission is more movie than game, but there's simply no denying how memorable it all was. The optical camo, the absurd boss fights, the even more absurd cutscenes featuring Raiden, Vamp, and just about everyone else. Stuffed with fan service and countless references to what had come before, Metal Gear Solid 4 was a defining PS3 title.

14. Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception (PS3)

After the colossal success of Uncharted 2, the pressure was on Naughty Dog to deliver another absolutely stunning adventure — and for the most part, the studio delivered. It may not be quite as fondly remembered as its predecessor, but Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception is still stuffed with incredible set pieces and brilliant character moments. While its story does feel a little slapdash at times, there's a barnstorming momentum to Uncharted 3 that's hard to top — and it all starts with that superb barfight.

13. The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series (PS3)

The Walking Dead wasn't Telltale's first narrative adventure game, but it was the one that really put the studio on the map. Adapting the comic book series to an episodic, story-driven experience, Season One charts the journey of Lee and Clementine as they struggle to survive in a zombie-infested post-apocalypse. With limited interaction, the focus is put squarely on the story and characters, giving you choices that'll have unknown implications in later episodes. It was incredibly successful, spawning many additional seasons, though none were as influential as this first adventure.

12. Journey (PS3)

When it launched on PS3 back in 2012, there was nothing like Journey. Developed by thatgamecompany, the platforming adventure tasks you with reaching a distant mountain, and masterfully spins a wordless tale as you make your pilgrimage. With silky smooth gameplay and breathtaking presentation, the game would've been well regarded if it stopped there. However, its innovative online play added a brilliant layer on top; at any point during the game, you may encounter another player. Communicating solely through chirps and movements, you can choose to see it through with this anonymous ally, forming a bond you'll likely not forget.

11. The Orange Box (PS3)

A collection of Valve's greatest hits, The Orange Box arrived on PS3 a couple of months after its Xbox and PC release. In terms of pure value for money, this package could do no wrong, bundling Half-Life 2 with Portal and Team Fortress 2 — three of the era's most critically acclaimed games. Whether you enjoyed the timeless design of Half-Life, the cleverness of Portal, or the charm of Team Fortress, The Orange Box was an instant hit.