25 Upcoming PS5 Games for 2022

Are you ready for an unforgettable year of gaming? As the accompanying video highlights, 2022 delivered an incredible lineup of PlayStation 5 games, offering something spectacular for every type of player. From highly anticipated sequels to groundbreaking new IPs and essential next-gen upgrades, the PS5 console truly became a powerhouse for immersive experiences. We saw fan-favorite characters return, ambitious new worlds emerge, and technical enhancements push the boundaries of what’s possible on console. Get ready to dive deep into the best PlayStation 5 games that shaped the gaming calendar of 2022.

This comprehensive look expands on the video’s exciting preview, giving you more detail on the must-play titles that filled our libraries. Whether you’re into sprawling open-world adventures, intense action RPGs, or strategic turn-based combat, the PS5’s diverse catalog offered countless hours of entertainment. We’re breaking down these incredible releases, exploring what made them special, and revisiting their impact on the gaming world. Let’s explore the dynamic landscape of PS5 gaming throughout the year.

The Early 2022 Rush: January to March of PlayStation 5 Games

The beginning of 2022 kicked off with a bang, immediately setting a high bar for the rest of the year’s PlayStation 5 game releases. Gamers were barely past the holiday season before a cascade of major titles demanded their attention. These early releases spanned various genres, from emotionally resonant remasters to epic open-world experiences, ensuring that the PS5 console was humming with activity from day one. Many of these titles quickly became contenders for the year’s best, establishing a vibrant start to the gaming calendar.

1. Life Is Strange Remastered Collection (February 1)

   This collection brought Dontnod’s poignant episodic story-driven game back to the forefront with enhanced visuals and animations. Players revisit Arcadia Bay, delving once more into the complex and compelling relationship between Max Caulfield and Chloe Price. The ability to rewind time and make tough, branching choices truly defines the experience, impacting the narrative significantly. This remastered edition also thoughtfully includes Deck Nine’s beloved four-episode prequel, “Before the Storm,” making it the definitive way to experience these critically acclaimed narratives on PlayStation 5.

2. Dying Light 2: Stay Human (February 4)

   Techland delivered the highly anticipated sequel to their popular zombie parkour hybrid, immersing players in a volatile undead-infested zone. This second chapter places a strong emphasis on role-playing, where player choices directly impact the world and narrative. Every decision, from who you align with to how you navigate the city, shapes your journey and can be either beneficial or disadvantageous to your crucial rooftop-climbing adventures. The game combines visceral combat with fluid traversal, creating a unique and engaging post-apocalyptic experience.

3. Horizon Forbidden West (February 18)

   Guerrilla Games transported players back to Aloy’s stunning post-apocalyptic world in this highly acclaimed sequel. Her adventure takes her to a new, desolate version of San Francisco, filled with even more dangerous mechanical beasts and treacherous landscapes. Aloy gains an array of new tools and abilities, allowing for more diverse combat and exploration strategies. This PlayStation 5 exclusive pushed graphical boundaries, offering breathtaking vistas and intricate machine designs that solidified its place as a must-have title.

4. Sifu (February 22)

   Inspired by the legendary martial arts films of Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee, Sifu burst onto the scene as a stylish brawler action-adventure. This unique title from the developers of Absolver focuses on a vengeful protagonist on a quest for retribution. What sets Sifu apart is its innovative aging mechanic: each time you die, your character ages, gaining new skills but also becoming more fragile. This forces players to master combat and environmental interactions, making every fight a strategic and intense affair.

5. Destiny 2: The Witch Queen (February 22)

   Bungie unleashed a massive expansion for its popular Destiny IP, introducing a formidable new threat to the Guardians and testing the very foundations of the Light. The Witch Queen brought an engrossing new story campaign, a challenging raid, and the introduction of the versatile glaive weapon type. Many hailed it as Destiny’s biggest and most impactful expansion since “Forsaken,” reinvigorating the game’s narrative and challenging long-time players with complex lore and engaging new mechanics. It significantly broadened the scope of Destiny 2’s universe.

6. Elden Ring (February 25)

   FromSoftware’s most anticipated action-adventure RPG quickly became one of the year’s biggest and most critically acclaimed titles. Visionary creator Hidetaka Miyazaki collaborated with George R.R. Martin to craft an epic, expansive open world. Drawing inspiration from games like “Breath of the Wild,” Elden Ring offered players a massive exploration adventure through the Lands Between. You embarked on a grand quest atop your Spirit Steed, Torrent, seeking the elusive Elden Ring, all while battling formidable foes and uncovering deep lore.

7. Gran Turismo 7 (March 4)

   Sony’s premier racing game made its triumphant return, fully optimized for the PlayStation 5 console. Developed by Polyphony Digital, this eighth major installment took the series to new heights with stunning visuals and an unparalleled level of customization for hardcore car enthusiasts. Gran Turismo 7 delivered a comprehensive racing simulator experience, boasting hundreds of meticulously detailed cars and tracks, all rendered with breathtaking fidelity that showcased the PS5’s graphical capabilities.

8. Grand Theft Auto V (PS5 Upgrade – March 15)

   Rockstar’s iconic open-world action game returned once again for new-gen consoles, including a significant upgrade for the PlayStation 5. Despite its original release eight years prior, GTA 5 received a substantial performance boost and a visual overhaul, proving its enduring appeal. Players experienced faster loading times, increased fidelity, and new quality-of-life improvements, making Los Santos feel fresh and vibrant even for returning veterans. This upgrade ensured the game’s continued relevance.

9. Marvel’s Midnight Suns (March 25)

   This tactical RPG brought an unlikely but refreshing genre to the superhero formula, exploring a darker and more brooding side of Marvel Comics. Developed by Firaxis Games, known for XCOM, the game allowed players to step into the shoes of edgier Marvel characters like Blade, Wolverine, and Ghost Rider. Gameplay involved engaging deck-building systems combined with turn-based combat, requiring strategic thinking to overcome supernatural threats. It offered a unique twist on the traditional superhero narrative.

10. Cyberpunk 2077 (PS5 Upgrade – February 15)

    CD Projekt Red’s ambitious open-world first-person RPG received its much-anticipated new-gen upgrade early in 2022. While its initial launch faced significant technical challenges, this PlayStation 5 version aimed to fix most of its notorious hiccups. The upgrade also added new and meaningful content to the immersive Night City, improving performance, stability, and visual fidelity. It provided a much-improved experience, finally allowing players to truly appreciate the game’s ambitious scope and intricate world-building.

Mid-Year Anticipation & Next-Gen Upgrades on PlayStation 5

As the spring warmed up, the flow of new PlayStation 5 games continued, interspersed with crucial next-gen upgrades that breathed new life into beloved titles. These mid-year releases and enhancements offered players a chance to revisit classics with improved performance or dive into new experiences. The strategic release of these updated versions also kept the PS5 relevant for players who might have missed them initially or wished for a more polished experience. This period demonstrated Sony’s commitment to supporting both new and existing IPs.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition (PS5 Upgrade – Q2 2022)

   CD Projekt Red also brought Geralt of Rivia’s final and massive adventure to the new generation with a comprehensive performance boost and visual update. This complete edition for PlayStation 5 packed both of its massive and critically acclaimed DLCs, “Blood and Wine” and “Hearts of Stone,” offering hundreds of hours of content. The new-gen upgrade made “The Witcher 3” feel both fresh and familiar, allowing players to experience its rich narrative and expansive world with stunning fidelity and smoother gameplay, reaffirming its status as an RPG masterpiece.

A Unique Gaming Diversion: Gold Inc.

Amidst the flurry of traditional console releases, a unique offering like Gold Inc. carved out its own niche in the gaming market, as featured in the video. This free-to-play, play-to-earn gold mining simulator provides an entirely different kind of engagement, accessible right on your mobile phone. Players start with a generous $10 million in-game cash capital, which they use to build their gold mining empire. You can invest in essential equipment like excavators, wash plants, and security to thrive in the competitive gold mining industry.

Just like in real-life gold mining, success isn’t always guaranteed; you won’t always hit gold immediately. However, you can use other mined ores to purchase fuel and equipment, steadily progressing towards those valuable gold veins. The true excitement of Gold Inc. lies in its play-to-earn model, where players can earn real-life money. Claims within the game can be worth as much as $10 million USD, tied to the game’s GXB currency available on the Apollo wallet. This currency is designed to grow in value daily, offering early adopters significant potential returns. The more players join, the more competitive and potentially rewarding the experience becomes, highlighting the value of getting in early. Gold Inc. offered a compelling new take on digital asset ownership and entrepreneurial simulation.

Second Half Blockbusters & Exciting New IPs on PlayStation 5

The latter half of 2022 continued the momentum with some of the most anticipated titles of the year, further solidifying the PlayStation 5’s impressive library. This period saw the release of long-awaited sequels to beloved franchises and the introduction of brand-new intellectual properties that promised fresh experiences. The diversity of these games ensured that every gamer found something captivating, from grand mythological epics to charming indie gems. These PlayStation 5 games truly pushed the console’s capabilities and delivered memorable adventures.

1. God of War: Ragnarök (November 9)

   Santa Monica Studio delivered the highly anticipated next chapter in Kratos and Atreus’s journey, bringing the realm of the Norse Gods to its prophesied end. Ragnarök expanded upon the critically acclaimed 2018 reboot, taking the series in new yet familiar directions. New realms within the Bifröst became accessible, and the father-son duo faced even more dangerous threats from the Norse pantheon. Gameplay enhancements included fleshed-out movements for both Atreus and Kratos, offering more dynamic combat and exploration, including the ability to ride Sköll and Hati on a sled.

2. Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection (January 28)

   Naughty Dog brought the full Uncharted experience to the PlayStation 5, remastering two of its most iconic adventures. This collection included Nathan Drake’s thrilling final escapade in “Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End” and Chloe Frazer’s standalone spin-off, “Uncharted: The Lost Legacy.” Like all new-gen upgrades, players enjoyed better performance, upscaled visuals, and several bonus content additions. It was remastered for both PS5 and PC, offering a definitive way to experience these cinematic action-adventure masterpieces with stunning fidelity.

3. Hogwarts Legacy (February 10, 2023 – Originally Late 2022)

   The magic and mystery of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World finally received its long-awaited RPG adaptation. While ultimately delayed to early 2023, it was originally slated for 2022, building immense anticipation. This immersive game allowed players to explore the hallowed halls of Hogwarts in third-person, customize their own character, and embrace the magic of its multiple classrooms. It offered the perfect open-world experience for anyone who needed to scratch that “Pottermore itch,” inviting players to forge their own destiny as a student at the famed school of witchcraft and wizardry.

4. Tom Clancy’s The Division: Heartland (Late 2022 – Delayed)

   This free-to-play third-person shooter set in the expansive world of The Division was unfortunately delayed but promised a fresh take on the franchise. While many details remained under wraps, it was confirmed to play similarly to its predecessors, focusing on tactical combat and survival in a ravaged America. Heartland aimed to expand the narrative and offer new gameplay modes, broadening access to the Division universe for a wider audience. The anticipation for this free-to-play entry was considerable.

5. Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League (2023 – Originally 2022)

   Rocksteady, famed for their Arkham Trilogy, ventured into a new DC Comics narrative, moving on from the Caped Crusader to focus on four notorious villains. This co-op action-adventure, also initially planned for 2022, put players in control of major Suicide Squad members: Harley Quinn, Deadshot, King Shark, and Captain Boomerang. Their biggest responsibility yet? Stopping an evil, brainwashed version of the Justice League. The game promised Rocksteady’s signature polished combat and a unique narrative perspective.

6. Ghostwire: Tokyo (March 25)

   From the makers of “The Evil Within,” Tango Gameworks delivered a supernatural action game set in a futuristic Tokyo where an unexplained phenomenon has caused everyone to vanish. The deserted streets were populated by paranormal entities straight from Japanese legend, creating a uniquely eerie atmosphere. Players assumed the role of a Ghost Hunter, using elemental powers and spiritual abilities to fend off these anomalous creatures and uncover the truth behind the city’s disappearance. It provided a truly distinct survival horror experience.

7. A Plague Tale: Requiem (October 18)

   Asobo Studio presented the much-anticipated follow-up to their emotional stealth-adventure game, continuing the harrowing journey of Amicia and Hugo. As a sequel, players expected bigger budget set pieces and even more intense moments as the two siblings navigated Europe’s Dark Age. They faced terrible situations and escaped from unimaginable dangers, pushing their bond to its limits. While initial gameplay details were scarce, the promise of a deeper, more cinematic narrative built significant excitement for this title.

8. Path of Exile 2 (No Release Date, Continued Development in 2022)

   Grinding Gear Games’ major sequel to their isometric action RPG continued its development throughout 2022, promising an ambitious expansion. This title aimed to go crazy with two massive campaigns existing under one game, coexisting with the original “Path of Exile.” Players wouldn’t have to worry about starting over, as their progress would carry forward. The sequel also included a vast variety of extra content like new equipment, gems, ascendancy classes, and much more, significantly expanding the depth of the beloved ARPG.

9. Forspoken (January 24, 2023 – Originally October 11, 2022)

   Square Enix introduced an ambitious new IP that ventured beyond Final Fantasy, dubbed a “triple-A Isekai” experience. Originally slated for 2022, it followed the story of Frey Holland, a young New Yorker transported to the magical dimension of Athia. Gameplay showcased seamless real-time combat where Frey manipulated nature like a druid, using powerful spells and parkour-like movement to traverse the open world. It promised a fresh fantasy narrative with high-octane action.

10. Stray (July 19)

    Annapurna Interactive published this uniquely charming game about a cat exploring a bleak, cyberpunk society. The simple premise belied a deeply thought-provoking experience, as players controlled a stray cat navigating an abandoned futuristic city populated by robots. Even as a puzzle platformer, Stray impressed with its new-gen visuals, atmospheric storytelling, and impressive scale. It quickly became a breakout hit, resonating with players through its unique perspective and heartfelt narrative. This title proved that simple concepts could lead to profound PlayStation 5 experiences.

11. Little Devil Inside (Development Continued in 2022)

    This action-adventure title continued to garner attention for its unique aesthetic and gameplay, borrowing mechanics from “Dark Souls” and “Zelda” presented in a striking diorama-like perspective. Visually, it felt like watching an interactive Studio Ghibli movie, blending whimsical charm with perilous adventure. Its distinct English sensibilities added a rich atmosphere to its ludicrous world, packed with hungry creatures, deadly skeletons, and mysterious phenomena. It promised a truly quirky and engaging journey.

12. The Dark Pictures Anthology: The Devil in Me (November 18)

    Supermassive Games unveiled the next and final chapter for the first season of The Dark Pictures Anthology, following the success of “House of Ashes.” “The Devil in Me” presented a dark and twisted tale centered around a serial killer, framed within a documentary format. This interactive horror game continued the series’ tradition of choice-driven narratives and jump scares, challenging players to keep their characters alive through perilous situations. It delivered another intense, cinematic horror experience for PlayStation 5 fans.

13. Rocksmith+ (Later in 2022 – PC, Consoles in 2023)

    Ubisoft introduced Rocksmith+, an innovative musical learning tool designed for budding guitar and bass enthusiasts. This subscription-based model, similar to popular streaming services, offered a vast library of music for anyone looking to learn how to play an actual instrument. It featured adaptive difficulty and real-time feedback, making it an engaging and effective way to pick up a new skill. Integration with their mobile app further enhanced accessibility, bringing a unique blend of gaming and education to the PlayStation 5.

The year 2022 truly showcased the breadth and depth of the PlayStation 5 gaming ecosystem. From massive blockbuster sequels to innovative new IPs and essential next-gen upgrades, the console offered an unparalleled variety of experiences. These upcoming PS5 games cemented the console’s position as a leader in gaming innovation, promising an even more exciting future for players. Get ready to keep exploring new worlds and embarking on unforgettable adventures with these incredible PlayStation 5 games.