The PlayStation 4 boasts a massive library of exclusives and popular titles, but what hidden gems do you love that others might have missed? Beyond The Last of Us and God of War, the PS4 has a handful of amazing underrated games worth a second look. Many smaller titles get overshadowed by larger franchises, but that doesn't mean they're not just as good - or better. Games like Mad Max and Mafia III are great by any measure, despite being snubbed at release. Vote up your picks for the best underrated PS4 games, so other gamers can discover these hidden gems.
About this list
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Dive into Hong Kong's criminal underworld.Sleeping Dogs appears on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This game masterfully weaves a story of loyalty and betrayal. It focuses on martial arts combat and a deep Chinese culture experience. Iconic characters like Wei Shen, a troubled undercover cop, create emotional depth as players move through the gritty, lively city. Thrilling car chases, street races, and intense shootouts provide engaging gameplay.Sleeping Dogs is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This is a criminally underrated gem needing a second chance.
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Embodying post-apocalyptic chaos and desolation, Mad Max appears on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This offers a huge, brutal open world unlike any other. The action-adventure game surpasses genre standards. It includes an extensive vehicle customization system, letting players build war machines to conquer the wastelands. Vehicle fans will like this.Mad Max's entry is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.The compelling story follows the main character's quest for revenge against a treacherous band of marauders. Tense, visceral hand-to-hand combat and thrilling high-speed chases make this game compelling.Mad Max is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Play this if you want a wild ride.
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Though other first-person shooters often overshadow it,Titanfall 2 appears on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This stands tall with its new gameplay and gripping story. The game mixes fast, parkour pilot action with massive Titan battles. Players immediately connect with Jack Cooper and his AI partner BT-7274, an unexpected pairing that forms the game's emotional center.Titanfall 2 is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Multiplayer modes featuring teamwork and intense firefights make this a powerhouse experience.Titanfall 2 is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This offers a powerhouse experience that deserves more attention.
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Painting Seattle with a lively vision, Infamous: Second Son appears on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This game blends a rich story with exciting superpowered gameplay. Players control Delsin Rowe, a graffiti artist becoming a reluctant hero. He unlocks his powers and fights a tyrannical regime to free his city. The game's morality system lets players shape Delsin's character through choices, giving unique outcomes. Exploring the city with many powers is pure fun.Infamous: Second Son is on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This delivers a genuinely electrifying experience.
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Days GoneDays Gone is an open-world action-adventure game. It puts players in a post-apocalyptic Pacific Northwest. As drifter and bounty hunter Deacon St. John, players move through a harsh world filled with "Freakers." Players fight for survival and find out about the global pandemic's truth. The game mixes tough combat, stealth, and strategy with a strong story and character growth.
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Addressing mental health and emotional turmoil, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice appears on the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice delivers an intense psychological journey rarely seen in gaming. Players step into Senua, a traumatized Pict warrior. She moves through haunting environments, facing inner demons and supernatural enemies. The game's "perma-death" feature adds tension; every failure brings Senua closer to losing progress and sanity. Its striking visuals, storytelling, and combat deliver impact.Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice.This game earns praise for exploring the darker sides of human experience.
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Breaking traditional co-op formats,A Way Out.A Way Out tells the story of two prisoners, Leo and Vincent, fighting for freedom and redemption. The game's key feature is mandatory split-screen cooperation. Players must work together in real-time to clear obstacles and move the story forward.A Way Out.A Way Out explores trust, betrayal, and friendship. Players experience both characters' personal stories at once. Its unique multiplayer storytelling and gameplay mechanics create this effect.A Way Out.This offers a bold, new take on cooperative gaming.
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Players stealthily move through the dark, treacherous streets of Dunwall.Dishonored.Dishonored mixes supernatural powers and deadly combat in a rich steampunk world. Players control Corvo Attano, a falsely accused bodyguard trying to clear his name. Players choose stealth or slaughter. The "Chaos" system changes outcomes based on player choices. Brilliant level design and mission freedom let players approach tasks in many ways.Dishonored.This offers a captivating experience players should not skip.
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Inside immerses players in a haunting, dystopian world.Inside tells a dark, strange story using a minimalist art style and atmospheric sound. As a young boy moves through a dangerous, oppressive area, players use wits and timing to beat obstacles and avoid deadly enemies. The game's quiet story unfolds without dialogue, holding players tight as they solve the chilling mysteries in this bleak world.InsideInside.Inside leaves a lasting mark. It gives a deep impact, showing video game storytelling's true potential.
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What Remains of Edith Finch challenges video game storytelling boundaries.What Remains of Edith FinchWhat Remains of Edith Finch takes players through the tragic history of the Finch family. Its vignette style lets players experience different gameplay. Each family member's story gives unique mechanics and views. Edith's perspective lets players see the sad, linked stories of the Finch family past. The game's artful story and new gameplay make it unforgettable.What Remains of Edith FinchThis offers an unforgettable, moving experience you must play.
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No Man's Sky proves the power of exploration and discovery.No Man's SkyNo Man's Sky offers an open world. It sets in a procedurally generated universe full of planets, lifeforms, and mysteries. The game's "Infinite Worlds" concept lets players cross a near-limitless galaxy. Players gather resources, upgrade ships, and meet alien races. Critics criticized it at launch.No Man's SkyNo Man's Sky has changed with updates and expansions. New features include base-building, multiplayer, and virtual reality support. Players wanting a huge, immersive sci-fi adventure should check this out.No Man's Sky.
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Sniper Elite 4 is set during World War II.Sniper Elite 4Sniper Elite 4 gives players the largest, most advanced sniping experience in gaming history. It offers a thrilling mix of strategy and marksmanship. Players control elite marksman Karl Fairburne. They move through varied wartime Italy environments, performing strategic assassinations and sabotage missions. The game's "X-Ray Kill Cam" shows successful shots visually. This makes every kill more satisfying. Expansive maps, custom weapons, and intense multiplayer modes complete the package.Sniper Elite 4Sniper Elite 4 provides an immersive, thrilling sniping experience unlike any other.
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This blends a thought-provoking story with strategic action RPG gameplay.Transistor is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This puts players in a stylish, cyberpunk world full of secrets. Players play Red, a singer who lost her voice. She uses the mysteriousTransistor is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This weapon fights the sinister robotic force called The Process. The unique real-time combat lets players mix power and use strategy. Every fight stays engaging and tough. Bright visuals, an atmospheric soundtrack, and a deep story make it great.Transistor offers an exhilarating co-op experience. Earth faces a devastating alien invasion. Players select classes and join forces to fight the aliens. Weapon types, abilities, and loot let players customize their attacks. Frantic combat, diverse mechanics, and intense multiplayer action define the game.Transistor offers an unforgettable journey. You need more than one playthrough.
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Putting players in the world's most famous detective's shoes.most famous detectiveSherlock Holmes: Crimes & PunishmentsThis offers a riveting adventure. It fills players with perplexing mysteries and moral dilemmas. Six cases await investigation. Each case has its unique suspects and choices that change the outcome. The game's deduction system lets players gather clues, question suspects, and decide guilt or innocence. The Devil hides in the details. Immaculate storytelling, great environment design, and easy gameplay make this great.Sherlock Holmes: Crimes & Punishments is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.Fans of detective fiction and puzzle-solving will find this an unmissable experience.
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This is a whirlwind of creativity and artistic wonder.Tearaway is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This transports players into a world made of paper and imagination. As a messenger, players quest to deliver a message to "You," the all-powerful presence watching the world.Tearaway's is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.Its standout feature is how it mixes PlayStation touch controls. Players interact with and change the papercraft world directly. Full of charm and cleverness.Tearaway is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This offers a delightful adventure. It warms the heart and sparks imagination.
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Set during Japan's Edo period, Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun exists.Set in Japan's Edo period.This game mixes tactical stealth with a deep, historical setting. Players command skilled ninjas and samurai, each with unique skills. They conduct deadly secret missions against enemies. Challenging level design and tense combat demand careful planning. Every mission gives a good feeling of success. The game blends history, tactics, and espionage.Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This title is essential for fans of strategy and stealth games.
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Alienation mixes chaotic top-down shooting with loot progression.Alienation delivers an exciting co-op experience. Earth faces an alien invasion. Players pick classes and join forces against the aliens. Weapon types, abilities, and loot give players many ways to fight. The frantic combat, varied mechanics, and intense multiplayer action create excitement.Alienation delivers an exhilarating cooperative experience. Players fight an alien invasion on Earth. Players choose classes and join forces against extraterrestrial foes. Weapon types, abilities, and loot let players customize how they fight.AlienationAlienation stands out as an explosive and highly entertaining addition to shoot 'em up games.
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This is an intricate, mind-bending trip through a mysterious island.The Witness is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.The Witness challenges players with over 500 puzzles. These puzzles weave into the environment. Players explore at their own pace. They find small story clues and solve harder puzzles to open new areas. The stunning art, the deep atmosphere, and the smart puzzle design make this an intellectual game that goes past normal gaming.The Witness is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This is a fine achievement in story and game design. It makes players think long after they finish.
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Rime takes you through a mysterious, sun-soaked island.Rime weaves a tale of loss and redemption without words. A young boy, guided by a helpful fox, solves puzzles and unlocks the island's ancient secrets. Lush visuals, an enchanting soundtrack, and emotional storytelling create a dreamlike feeling that stays with players.Those who like deep stories and amazing art must try this captivating experience.Rime has to offer.Rime has to offer.
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Night in the Woods captures nostalgia, friendship, and small-town life.Night in the WoodsNight in the Woods gives a charming but sad story. Players follow college dropout Mae Borowski back to Possum Springs. Things have changed for her town and friends. The game explores mental health and growing up through its characters.Night in the Woods' storytelling and hand-drawn visuals make this coming-of-age story a must-play for fans of heartfelt indie games.A captivating story and beautiful art make Night in the Woods a must-play for fans of heartfelt indie games.
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Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 takes backyard battles to a new level.Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This injects a fresh, lively twist into the multiplayer shooter. It builds on its predecessor. The game adds new classes, big maps, and engaging modes. Quirky plant and zombie teams fight in colorful showdowns. The cooperative hub world lets players explore and interact with other fans. It suits players wanting a light, competitive shooter alternative.Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is on the list of underrated PS4 games worth a second look.This delivers an action-packed experience. It is fun for all ages.
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Gone Home explores family, identity, and personal discovery.Gone HomeGone Home asks players to uncover hidden stories inside an empty house. After traveling abroad, players explore their abandoned family home. They piece together clues from objects and journals. The game's environmental story shows joy and sadness, giving a moving story.Gone HomeGone Home is an interactive story that stays with you after the credits finish.
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Dragon Quest Builders merges the classic charm of theDragon QuestDragon Quest Builders is a series featuring sandbox gameplay with limitless creativity.Dragon Quest Builders appears in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.This game offers an adventure. Players explore, craft, and build. They restore the world of Alefgard after an evil force ruins it. Players use their wits and resources to build unique towns and structures. The game's charming look, endearing characters, and easy crafting make it an accessible, enchanting experience for newcomers and Dragon Quest fans.Dragon Quest Builders is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Dragon Quest Builders masterfully mixes RPG elements with creation and design. This results in a captivating game experience players keep playing.
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The game is set against the turmoil of 1968 New Bordeaux.Mafia III.Mafia III tells a gripping story about crime, revenge, and the American Dream failing. Players play Lincoln Clay, a Vietnam War veteran seeking revenge on the Italian mafia that betrayed him and his family. Its open-world design, story, and historical detail are immersive.Mafia III.Mafia III provides a gritty, engaging experience unlike other crime dramas. If you want a period piece with a strong story and brutal action, this works.Mafia III.This game should be at the top of your list.
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Nex MachinaThis pays homage to the classic arcade shoot 'em up genre.Nex Machina offers a fast, visual show that tests player reflexes and skill. In a future where humanity faces extinction, players pilot a mech to destroy robotic enemies. Tight controls, bright voxel graphics, and intense co-op multiplayer make this an adrenaline rush. Players who want a hard but rewarding arcade shooter must play this.Nex Machina is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Nex Machina is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.
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From the creators of Bastion and Transistor, Pyre comes.Pyre is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Pyre offers a mix of strong story, strategy, and art. Players guide exiles through the Downside, a mystical purgatory. They compete in high-stakes rituals to cleanse their souls and gain freedom. The quick gameplay mixes RPG strategy with sportslike competition, creating an addictive, rewarding experience. A rich visual style and sound track support this.Pyre is in the list 'Underrated PS4 Games Worth A Second Look'.Pyre gives a spellbinding journey. Fans of imaginative stories and new gameplay concepts must see this.
Also ranks #64 on Most Popular RPG Video Games 2021
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