Netflix’s highly anticipated live-action Horizon Zero Dawn series is officially dead. What began as one of the most promising gaming-to-TV adaptations has now shifted gears entirely. Instead of a streaming series, Sony and PlayStation Productions are turning their attention to the big screen—with a feature film adaptation now in active development.
Why the Netflix Series Was Canceled
The Horizon Zero Dawn series was first announced in May 2022, with Steve Blackman, showrunner of Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy, attached to lead the project. Early buzz suggested the adaptation would follow Aloy’s journey across a lush post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic beasts, blending sci-fi spectacle with rich lore and character-driven storytelling.
But behind the scenes, trouble brewed. In mid-2024, multiple reports surfaced accusing Blackman of fostering a toxic workplace environment, including allegations of bullying and retaliation. While Blackman has denied these claims, Netflix responded by shelving both Horizon Zero Dawn and Blackman’s other planned series, Orbital.
Adding to the complications were creative disagreements. In April 2025, PlayStation Productions head Asad Qizilbash confirmed that the show “wasn’t creatively going how we wanted to,” prompting Sony to pull the plug. Qizilbash emphasized the studio’s commitment to quality and hinted that the tone, direction, or execution of the Netflix adaptation didn’t align with the studio’s vision for the franchise.
A Shift to the Big Screen: Horizon Zero Dawn Movie in Development
Sony used CES 2025 to announce a new direction: Horizon Zero Dawn is being developed as a feature film through Columbia Pictures and PlayStation Productions. This pivot aligns with Sony’s growing list of cinematic gaming adaptations, which includes Uncharted, Gran Turismo, and the upcoming Ghost of Tsushima and Helldivers movies.
While the film is still in early development and no cast or director has been confirmed, insiders suggest the movie will focus on Aloy’s origin story—likely following the narrative arc of the first game. Expect a cinematic portrayal of the game’s awe-inspiring robotic creatures, tribal politics, and dystopian secrets that once made the PlayStation title a global hit.
What Fans Can Expect
The move from a serialized format to a feature film will likely shift the tone and pacing of the story, condensing Aloy’s sprawling journey into a tighter narrative experience. The challenge will be capturing the game’s expansive world and complex mythology within a two-hour runtime—something that worked with Uncharted, but stumbled with others.
Still, given PlayStation Productions’ recent push to elevate its franchises through high-end adaptations (The Last of Us being the benchmark), hopes remain high. The Horizon movie may benefit from the added visual spectacle and production value that a theatrical release allows, especially with the breathtaking environments and mechanical monstrosities that define the franchise.
What This Means for PlayStation’s Entertainment Strategy
The cancellation of the Netflix series doesn’t mark a retreat—it reflects a refinement. Sony’s decision suggests a tightening of quality control over its gaming IPs in Hollywood. After the success of HBO’s The Last of Us, expectations are higher than ever. With game adaptations entering a new era of prestige and popularity, Sony is betting big on theatrical releases with wider creative oversight.
For Horizon Zero Dawn fans, the wait for Aloy’s live-action debut just got longer—but potentially more rewarding. A film, if done right, could deliver the grand scope and emotional depth the character deserves.
Best Games for PS4 in 2025
The PlayStation 4 remains a popular gaming console, even as newer systems have entered the market. With its vast library of titles spanning various genres, it can be challenging to decide which games deserve your time and money. Finding the best PS4 games can enhance your gaming experience and provide countless hours of entertainment value.
From award-winning exclusives to third-party masterpieces, the PS4 offers something for every type of player. Whether you enjoy story-driven adventures, action-packed shooters, or immersive role-playing experiences, the right game can transport you to new worlds and create memorable gaming moments. The following recommendations represent some of the finest gaming experiences available on the PlayStation 4 platform.
1: God of War (2018)
God of War (2018) stands as one of the most impressive games you can play on your PS4. This reimagining of the iconic series combines brutal combat with a powerful narrative that many consider the best game of its generation.
You’ll follow Kratos and his son Atreus as they journey through Norse mythology, creating an emotional story unlike anything in previous God of War titles. Their relationship forms the heart of the game, giving depth to a series once known primarily for its violence.
The combat system feels weighty and satisfying. Your Leviathan Axe becomes an extension of Kratos, with a recall feature that never gets old. You’ll face challenging enemies and epic boss fights that test your skills and strategy.
Visually, the game is stunning even by today’s standards. The environments are rich with detail, from snowy mountains to ancient temples. There’s no camera cutting – the entire game unfolds in one continuous shot, immersing you deeper in the story.
God of War earned numerous Game of the Year awards and topped IGN’s list of best games ever made. Its success led to a PC release, bringing this PlayStation masterpiece to an even wider audience.
You’ll find plenty to explore beyond the main story. Side quests and collectibles add many hours of gameplay without feeling like filler content.
2: The Last of Us Part II
The Last of Us Part II stands as one of the most impressive games available on PlayStation 4. This emotional sequel to Naughty Dog’s acclaimed original delivers an intense story that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
The game’s visual presentation is remarkable for PS4 hardware. Even running on the older console, it looks better than many next-generation games. You’ll notice the detailed character models and environments that showcase what the PS4 can truly achieve.
Combat feels more dynamic and fluid than the original. You’ll experience high-intensity melee combat and improved stealth mechanics that make each encounter tense and memorable. The movement system gives you better control during both combat and exploration.
Enemy variety adds to the challenge. You’ll face both human adversaries and the returning infected enemies, requiring different strategies for survival. Each encounter feels dangerous and unpredictable.
If you own a PS5, you can upgrade to the remastered version with enhanced graphics and features. This option breathes new life into an already excellent game.
The emotional narrative divides players but delivers powerful performances throughout. You’ll experience a complex story that challenges your expectations and makes you think about its themes long after completion.
For PS4 owners looking for a technically impressive game with strong storytelling, The Last of Us Part II delivers an experience that showcases the console’s capabilities perfectly.
3: Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands as one of the highest rated games on PlayStation 4, and for good reason. The stunning open-world western delivers an experience that few games can match in terms of storytelling depth and visual beauty.
When you step into the boots of Arthur Morgan, you’re not just playing a game – you’re living in a meticulously crafted world. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the way mud clings to your horse after a rainstorm to how NPCs remember your past interactions.
The game offers you a massive world to explore at your own pace. You can hunt, fish, rob trains, or simply enjoy the breathtaking landscapes that change with the weather and time of day.
Combat feels weighty and impactful, with gunfights that require strategy rather than just quick reflexes. The dead-eye mechanic returns, allowing you to slow time and mark multiple targets for spectacular shooting sequences.
What truly sets RDR2 apart is its emotional storytelling. This gold standard for video game storytelling will have you invested in Arthur’s journey and the fate of the Van der Linde gang as they navigate the dying days of the Wild West.
If you enjoyed this game, you might also like similar titles such as Kingdom Come: Deliverance, Ghost of Tsushima, or LA Noire, which offer comparable immersive experiences in different historical settings.
4: Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal stands as one of the most acclaimed RPGs available on PS4. This enhanced version of the original Persona 5 brings numerous improvements that make it worthy of your attention.
The game features quality of life improvements that significantly enhance the gameplay experience compared to the original release. These changes make the game more accessible while maintaining its depth.
When you dive into Persona 5 Royal, you’ll encounter new characters like Kasumi who add fresh dimensions to the story. The game also introduces a new palace and areas of Tokyo to explore, expanding the already rich world.
Combat and stealth mechanics have been refined with additions like a new grappling hook for enhanced mobility during infiltrations. These tweaks make the already stellar gameplay even more engaging.
The critical acclaim for Persona 5 Royal speaks for itself. The game ranks #3 on Metacritic’s best PS4 games list, establishing it as one of the platform’s defining titles.
You’ll find the blend of daily life simulation and dungeon crawling creates a uniquely compelling gameplay loop. The stylish presentation, from the jazzy soundtrack to the striking visual design, makes every moment memorable.
If you’re looking for an RPG that offers both substance and style, Persona 5 Royal delivers an experience you won’t soon forget on your PS4.
5: Bloodborne
Bloodborne stands as one of the most impressive titles in the PlayStation 4 library. This action RPG from FromSoftware combines challenging gameplay with a hauntingly beautiful gothic aesthetic that pulls you into its world immediately.
The combat system rewards aggressive play, unlike many of its counterparts. Instead of hiding behind a shield, you’ll need to attack enemies head-on and use the regain system to recover health after taking damage.
The game’s setting, Yharnam, is a Victorian-inspired city overrun by a mysterious plague that transforms citizens into monstrous beings. The atmosphere is thick with tension and dread as you explore its winding streets and disturbing landscapes.
Many consider Bloodborne to be not just one of the best PS4 games, but potentially the best game on the platform. Its unique combination of art direction, atmosphere, and challenging gameplay creates an unforgettable experience.
Your arsenal includes transforming weapons called “trick weapons” that give you versatility in combat. The saw cleaver, for example, can switch between quick slashes and powerful swings mid-combo.
The strategic action combat requires wits and quick reflexes. You’ll need to study enemy patterns and time your attacks carefully to survive.
For many players, defeating the first boss, the Cleric Beast, serves as a gateway to leveling up your character and truly beginning your journey through this masterpiece.
6: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most impressive RPGs you can experience on your PS4. This game offers a massive open world filled with meaningful quests and memorable characters that will keep you engaged for hundreds of hours.
Combat in The Witcher 3 is challenging yet satisfying. You’ll use a combination of swordplay, magic signs, and potions to defeat the various monsters that inhabit the world. Each encounter requires thoughtful preparation and strategy.
The game is super immersive with great gameplay that allows you to approach situations in different ways. Whether you prefer diplomacy, stealth, or direct combat, you have options for how to complete most quests.
The narrative stands out as particularly strong. You’ll follow Geralt of Rivia as he searches for his adopted daughter while navigating political intrigue and supernatural threats. Even small side quests contain compelling stories.
Visually, the game remains impressive despite its age. The vast plains of The Continent are beautifully rendered, with stunning sunsets and detailed environments that create a believable world.
The game also includes two substantial expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, which add even more high-quality content to an already massive game.
If you’re looking for a deep role-playing experience with meaningful choices and consequences, The Witcher 3 deserves a spot in your PS4 library. Many players consider it one of the best games available on PS4.
7: Marvel’s Spider-Man
Marvel’s Spider-Man is widely considered one of the best PlayStation 4 games ever made. When Insomniac Games released this title in 2018, it quickly became a fan favorite for its incredible web-swinging mechanics and engaging gameplay.
The game puts you in the role of both Peter Parker and his superhero alter ego. You’ll experience a unique story that doesn’t retell the origin tale most fans already know. Instead, you join an experienced Spider-Man who has been protecting New York for eight years.
Web-swinging through Manhattan is pure joy. The controls feel intuitive, allowing you to zip between skyscrapers with ease. You’ll quickly find yourself performing acrobatic stunts just for the fun of it.
Combat in the game strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and depth. You can pull off impressive moves with simple button combinations, making you feel like the superhero you’re controlling.
The story is compelling and emotional, featuring classic villains like Doc Ock, Scorpion, and Kingpin. Each character is well-developed, creating meaningful connections as you progress through the game.
Side missions and collectibles are actually fun to complete. Unlike many open-world games, Spider-Man makes these activities rewarding rather than tedious.
This game ranks among the best Spider-Man games of all time according to critics and fans alike. Many players consider it even better than the movie tie-in games from previous generations.
8: Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn offers you a breathtaking adventure in a post-apocalyptic world where mechanical beasts roam freely. As hunter Aloy, you’ll explore lush landscapes while uncovering the mysteries of a forgotten civilization.
The game combines action-RPG elements with an engaging storyline that keeps you invested throughout your journey. The mysterious mechanized creatures you encounter become both your greatest challenge and resource as you learn to hunt them.
What sets Horizon Zero Dawn apart is its gorgeous visual presentation. The environments are truly stunning, with vibrant colors and incredible attention to detail making the world feel alive and immersive.
Combat in Horizon Zero Dawn feels fresh and strategic. You’ll need to analyze each machine’s weaknesses and adapt your approach accordingly, using various weapons from bows to traps.
The game’s protagonist Aloy is compelling and well-written, giving you someone to root for as you progress. Her story of discovering her origins parallels the larger mystery of what happened to civilization.
Horizon Zero Dawn also offers you plenty of side quests and activities to complement the main storyline. These optional adventures help flesh out the world and provide additional challenges.
If you enjoy open-world exploration with a unique premise, Horizon Zero Dawn deserves a spot in your PS4 collection. The game’s popularity speaks to its quality, and you’ll quickly understand why it became one of the PS4’s most beloved titles.
9: Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima stands as one of the PS4’s most impressive titles, blending gorgeous visuals with engaging combat. When you explore the island of Tsushima, you’ll discover a world that feels both vibrant and meticulously crafted.
The game offers you a masterclass in story pacing and delivery, with plot twists that keep you engaged throughout. Its slow-burn approach pays off with powerful emotional moments that connect you to Jin Sakai‘s journey.
Combat gives you options to play as an honorable samurai or embrace the stealthier “Ghost” tactics. This dual approach to gameplay keeps combat fresh as you progress through the main story and side quests.
Visually, the game is stunning. Wind guides you instead of traditional map markers, creating a more immersive experience as you travel across diverse landscapes. The game’s photo mode lets you capture these beautiful moments easily.
The open-world design successfully avoids common pitfalls by making exploration rewarding. You’ll find meaningful side activities rather than repetitive collectibles throughout Tsushima.
Many consider it the best samurai game in years, appreciating its respectful approach to Japanese history and culture. While knowledge of Japan enhances your experience, it’s not required to enjoy the game.
Available for both PS4 and PS5, you can experience this adventure with enhanced performance on newer hardware.
10: The Last of Us Remastered
The Last of Us Remastered stands as one of the most compelling narrative experiences you can play on your PS4. This enhanced version of Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic masterpiece delivers the emotional story of Joel and Ellie with stunning visual improvements.
When you pick up this game, you’re getting the complete package. It includes the main campaign plus The Last of Us: Left Behind Single Player campaign that explores themes of survival, loyalty, and love alongside intense gameplay moments.
The remaster offers significant technical enhancements over the PS3 original. You’ll experience the journey in full 1080p resolution with improved shadows and better lighting. Character models also received a quality boost, making the already impressive world even more immersive.
For multiplayer fans, you’re covered with both the Abandoned Territories and Reclaimed Territories Map Packs included in the package. The multiplayer remains active and offers a unique tactical experience unlike other online shooters.
Many critics consider this version the definitive way to experience the game. IGN even declared it “PlayStation 4’s best game” in their review.
If you’ve never played The Last of Us before, the remastered version gives you excellent graphics with slightly refined mechanics. The emotional storytelling and tense survival gameplay make this a must-have for your PS4 collection.
Features That Define the Best PS4 Games
The PlayStation 4 offers games with exceptional quality across several key dimensions. These elements combine to create truly memorable gaming experiences that stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Graphics and Visual Appeal
PS4 games with standout visuals make the most of the console’s hardware capabilities. God of War Ragnarok represents the pinnacle of PS4 graphical achievement, delivering a technically uncompromised experience even though it’s also available on PS5.
When evaluating a game’s visual quality, look for:
- Artistic direction – Distinctive art styles like those in Tetris Effect can be more memorable than photorealism
- Environmental detail – Rich worlds with atmospheric lighting and texture work
- Character models – Expressive faces and fluid animations
- Frame rate stability – Consistent performance during intense gameplay moments
Games like Monster Hunter World showcase spectacular environments and creatures, while titles such as Dreams demonstrate the console’s ability to render diverse visual styles. The best PS4 games use visuals to enhance immersion and emotional impact.
Engaging Storylines
The finest PS4 games deliver compelling narratives that keep you invested from beginning to end. Single-player adventures on PS4 offer some of gaming’s most celebrated stories.
What makes a PS4 story exceptional:
- Character development – Protagonists who grow and change throughout their journey
- Meaningful choices – Decisions that impact the narrative and provide replay value
- Emotional resonance – Moments that create lasting impressions
- Pacing – Well-balanced storytelling that maintains interest
Games like Nier: Automata explore philosophical concepts while maintaining engaging gameplay. The Yakuza series blends serious drama with quirky side stories for a unique narrative experience.
Many top PS4 titles feature branching narratives that respond to your decisions, creating personalized story experiences you can discuss with friends.
Multiplayer Capabilities
The best PS4 multiplayer games foster community and competitive play while remaining accessible. Apex Legends has become a standout multiplayer experience, offering both casual and competitive options.
Key multiplayer features to look for:
- Matchmaking quality – Fair matching against similarly skilled players
- Connectivity – Stable servers and minimal lag
- Social features – Easy party formation and communication tools
- Post-launch support – Regular updates and seasonal content
Cooperative games allow you to team up with friends against AI opponents, while competitive titles test your skills against human players. The most successful PS4 multiplayer games maintain active player bases years after release.
Cross-platform play has become increasingly important, letting you enjoy games with friends regardless of their chosen gaming system. Look for titles that support this feature if you play with a diverse group of gamers.
The Impact of PS4 Games on Gaming Culture
The PlayStation 4 has transformed modern gaming beyond just entertainment. Its exclusive and innovative titles have redefined player expectations and competitive gaming landscapes.
Influence on Gaming Trends
The PS4 has been instrumental in bringing gaming into the mainstream cultural conversation. Games like God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn popularized narrative-driven experiences with emotional depth that appealed to broader audiences. These titles proved games could be both commercially successful and critically acclaimed art forms.
You might have noticed how PS4 exclusives established new standards for visual fidelity and technical achievement. The groundbreaking technology of the PS4 pushed developers to create more immersive worlds.
The console also played a crucial role in supporting indie game development. Titles like Journey and Rocket League found massive success on the platform, showing that smaller games could thrive alongside AAA productions.
Role in Esports
PS4 has significantly impacted competitive gaming by providing a stable platform for esports growth. Games like Call of Duty and FIFA developed robust competitive scenes centered around PlayStation tournaments with substantial prize pools.
The console’s accessibility made competitive gaming more approachable for casual players. You could simply plug in your PS4 and start your journey toward professional competition without needing expensive PC setups.
Sony’s support for cross-platform play eventually helped unite gaming communities, allowing you to compete regardless of your hardware choice. This continued dominance of the PS4 in the gaming industry has maintained a large player base accessing PSN even years after the PS5 launch.
The PS4’s straightforward streaming capabilities also helped popularize gaming content creation, turning competitive players into celebrities with significant cultural influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
PS4 owners have many questions about game options on the platform. Here are answers to some common questions to help you find your next favorite title.
What are the top critically acclaimed titles available on PS4?
The PS4 library contains several masterpieces that critics have awarded near-perfect scores. God of War (2018) revolutionized the series with its emotional father-son story and refined combat system.
The Last of Us Part II received universal praise for its storytelling and technical achievements. Its narrative depth and character development set new standards for video game storytelling.
Red Dead Redemption 2 offers an immersive Wild West experience with its detailed open world and compelling character-driven story. Critics praised its attention to detail and immersive gameplay systems.
Which family-friendly games are recommended for children on PS4?
Ratchet & Clank provides colorful platforming adventures suitable for younger players while still offering engaging gameplay for adults.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy brings the beloved dragon’s adventures to modern hardware with beautiful updated graphics while keeping the kid-friendly gameplay intact.
LEGO games, including LEGO Star Wars and LEGO Marvel Superheroes, offer cooperative play that’s perfect for parents and children to enjoy together.
What are the standout PS4 exclusive titles?
Bloodborne is a challenging action RPG from the creators of Dark Souls that features gothic horror themes and intense combat.
Ghost of Tsushima transports you to feudal Japan as one of the last samurai defending your home against Mongol invaders.
Horizon Zero Dawn combines post-apocalyptic themes with robotic dinosaurs in a unique action RPG with a compelling female protagonist.
How do open world games for the PS4 compare in terms of quality and gameplay?
Red Dead Redemption 2 sets the bar with its realistic, living world that reacts to your choices and features unmatched environmental detail.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a fantasy world filled with meaningful quests and morally complex decisions that have real consequences in the game world.
Spider-Man allows you to swing freely through a detailed recreation of New York City with fluid movement mechanics that make traversal itself a joy.
What are the most popular PS4 games based on download statistics?
Fortnite remains one of the most downloaded free-to-play games on PS4, with its battle royale format attracting millions of players.
Call of Duty: Warzone has captured a massive audience with its polished gunplay and regular content updates.
Grand Theft Auto V continues to rank among the most downloaded games years after release, thanks to its popular online mode and frequent updates.
Which PS4 games offer the best multiplayer experiences?
Genshin Impact provides a cooperative action RPG experience where you can join friends to take on challenging bosses and explore a vast open world.
Overwatch remains popular for its team-based competitive gameplay with diverse heroes and roles that encourage strategic coordination.
Monster Hunter World allows you to team up with friends to track and hunt massive creatures, with satisfying progression and deep combat systems.
