Before the award-winning RPGs or live-action show, there was The Witcher book series. Andrzej Sapkowski's original story of Geralt of Rivia was heavily inspired by Slavic mythology as well as classic fantasy series like Lord of the Rings. Whether you already enjoyed Netflix or CD Projekt's The Witcher adaptations or are just looking for a great book series, this wild world is worth diving into.
1. The Last Wish (Short Story Collection)
2. Sword of Destiny (Short Story Collection)
3. Blood of Elves (The Witcher Saga #1)
4. The Time of Contempt (The Witcher Saga #2)
5. Baptism of Fire (The Witcher Saga #3)
6. The Tower of Swallows (The Witcher Saga #4)
7. The Lady of the Lake (The Witcher Saga #5)
8. Season of Storms (Prequel)
9. Crossroads of Ravens (Prequel)
The first book in the saga, Blood of Elves, introduces Nilfgaardian Emperor Emhyr var Emreis’ pursuit of Ciri, Geralt’s adopted daughter, in order to marry her and attain power over Cintra, the land that is hers by birthright. In an effort to thwart Emhyr’s plans, the Northern monarchs meet and decide to assassinate Ciri, but Geralt of Rivia watches over her in Kaer Morhen, the remote keep inhabited by Wolf School witchers. Meanwhile, a mysterious sorcerer is also trying to locate Ciri.
The Time of Contempt picks up where the previous novel finishes. The Northern Kings are still conspiring with one another in an effort to lure Nilfgaard into war, while Ciri is due to be enrolled at Aretuza in order to study magic. Ciri comes into contact with some of the most powerful sorceresses on The Continent. As war becomes inevitable, she finds herself on the run with a bandit group known simply as The Rats.
Geralt spends time in Brokilon forest recovering from events in the previous book, which is where he and Dandelion encounter an elven archer named Milva, who decides to join their group. People who have played the games will be glad to know that the dwarf Zoltan Chivay temporarily joins Geralt’s ragtag group too, as well as the vampire Regis. A Nilfgaardian knight named Cahir also tags along because he feels indebted to Ciri. Geralt officially receives his "of Rivia" title after an epic battle while Ciri begins to feel at home with The Rats.
Ciri is gravely injured after an encounter with Nilfgaardian bounty hunter Leo Bonhart, who was hired by the coroner Stefan Skellen to kill her. A kind old man nurses her back to health while Geralt’s party continues their search for Ciri and Geralt renounces his status as a witcher. The Lodge of Sorceresses attempt to gain control of a country called Kovir while Triss Merigold seeks information on Yennefer of Vengerberg. (Known as The Tower of Swallows in the U.S.)
Ciri encounters Arthurian knight Sir Galahad who believes she is the eponymous lady of the lake. The story cuts to a dream in which Geralt overhears Skellen and sets out to rescue Yennefer from a faraway castle. Ciri, meanwhile, tells Galahad about her time in the elven world of Aen Elle, home of the Wild Hunt. She begins to jump between worlds in order to escape them, but Eredin Breacc Glas persistently chases her, as she heads towards a final meeting with her surrogate parents Geralt and Yennefer.
Now we’re up to seven out of eight books. The last text is also a novel, but it’s a bit difficult to place and depends on personal preference...Originally published in 2013 — 14 years after Sapkowski wrapped the saga — Season of Storms contains stories that take place between the stories in The Last Wish, which aren’t necessarily in strict proximity to one another. However, because it's written after the saga was completed, Season of Storms contains slight hints about what’s to come, if not outright spoilers.
The most recent addition to The Witcher book series was published in Poland in 2024 before getting an official English translation in 2025. Now up for preorder, Crossroads of Ravens is a prequel that follows Geralt's "first steps" as a Witcher. The novel takes place before any of the original Witcher stories, making it the earliest on a chronological timeline. Still, as the most recent release, Crossroads of Ravens assumes some familiarity with the rest of the series, and is likely best enjoyed with knowledge of what's to come in Geralt's Witcher career.
The Witcher book saga starts roughly 10 years before the games, with most of the books' plotlines wrapped up by the time the first Witcher game starts. So, for those curious, playing the games first does mean you get some of the book series spoiled. That said, both the books and the video games are fantastic (we specifically called The Witcher 3 "Amazing" in our review), so whichever one you start with shouldn't affect your overall enjoyment.
Between the books, video game franchise, and TV series, there's a lot going on in the world of The Witcher. And if you assumed that just because it's been 10 years since Season of Storms there would be no more Witcher books, you'd be wrong. In 2023, Sapkowski announced a new book in The Witcher series that released in Poland in late 2024. The new book, titled "Rozdroże kruków" in Polish, is releasing in English on September 30, 2025.
Meanwhile, Netflix's live-action The Witcher is chugging toward it's fourth season, which will be the first with Liam Hemsworth as Geralt of Rivia. The streaming giant also just released a new animated film called The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep.
Of course, the big question is when we'll get another Witcher game. While CD Projekt has spent the past couple of years focused on Cyberpunk 2077, in early 2024, they proclaimed that the "bulk of its effort" is now going toward The Witcher 4. The new game was officially announced with a cinematic trailer at the 2024 Game Awards. We don't have a release date yet, but The Witcher 3's active community is making the wait a little bit easier.
Over the past decade, video game remakes have become more and more prevalent. Most years see at least one major remake attempt to rekindle the nostalgia of old fans and show new players the achievements of days gone by. And while there’s an argument to be had about games being stuck in the past, we can’t deny what a thrill it is to see our favourites of yesteryear given a modern makeover. Remember when Final Fantasy 7’s Cloud was six purple polygons and a yellow spike? Well, he’s a supermodel these days. (The spikes are still there, thankfully.)
But what are the qualities of a good remake? That’s an increasingly difficult question. Once upon a time it was enough for a remake to simply update something with modern graphics. But as the games industry has evolved, so have tastes and gameplay systems, and thus remakes have changed, too. Now a remake can offer a truly new experience to both long-term and new fans, with fresh new takes on decades-old ideas. The very best remakes are carefully-observed balancing acts that find the sweet spot between faithful recreation and exciting new ideas. In some cases, that’s the game exactly as you thought you remembered it, now unshackled from old hardware limitations. In others, its radical recreations that provide an alternate vision of the original’s core idea.
With all that in mind, let’s explore the very best video game remakes. These are the 15 strongest examples of remakes, judged not by their overall quality as games, but by how each project achieved its new, upgraded ambitions and brought new perspectives to old classics.
Pokemon Gold and Silver, though only the second in the long-running Pokemon series, are the only entries that allowed you to travel across two different regions and collect 16 badges instead of the standard eight. That meant two "end-game" challenges to conquer, two sets of Legendary Pokemon to collect, 16 different gym leaders to defeat, and more. The enhanced Nintendo DS remakes bring that sprawling journey into full color and utilizes the superior hardware to seamlessly bring improved music, better UI, and WiFi capabilities. With the addition of new content like the National Dex, increasing the total Pokemon from 251 to 493, the grueling battle frontier, and everyone’s favorite, the Pokeathlon mini-games, there is so much more to explore.
More importantly, HeartGold and SoulSilver introduced to the Pokewalker, the original Pokemon Go, which allowed you to take your favorite Pokemon outdoors and gain levels by walking around... or cheat by shaking the Pokewalker. Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver added new life to the classic adventure, reimagining the original experience with fun and challenging additions to appeal to both new and returning fans.
Following the mammoth success of Breath of the Wild, Nintendo did a complete 180 for its next The Legend of Zelda project. Rather than the grand and ambitious open world of Hyrule, it looked back to the compact and twisty overworld of 1993’s Link’s Awakening. The 2019 version of this Game Boy classic is near enough a beat-for-beat remake, just reimagined with a delightfully cute toy town aesthetic. This faithful approach means that the distant memory of one of Link’s earliest adventures is fully restored, now elegantly elevated thanks to its seamless map and more easily-navigated dungeons. A number of quality-of-life improvements are the cherry on top, including the ability to mark important discoveries on the map, and doors that remain open after being unlocked (seriously, you wouldn't believe how frustrating that one was back in the ‘90s.) This Switch remaster does unsuccessfully try something new with the lacklustre build-your-own Chamber Dungeons system, but everything it recreates it does so with an enchanting touch.
Plenty of wonderful games are deserving of remakes, but none perhaps needed one as much as Live A Live, the 1994 Square Enix RPG that preceded Chrono Trigger and laid the groundwork for not only that game, but numerous beloved classics that followed. Live A Live’s unique structure, following seven characters from different eras through distinct vignettes, was groundbreaking both back in the day and once again in the 2022 remake, to say nothing of the ways in which it ultimately threads its themes and overarching narrative through its separate parts.
The 2022 remake gave Live A Live a desperately-needed makeover in gorgeous HD2D and reorchestrated its fantastic soundtrack, all while keeping its wonderful story intact with its first-ever localization outside of Japan. In a final flourish, Live A Live’s remake adds a small but massively impactful piece of new content in its final hours that throws its ending into a hopeful new light, and makes its emotional conclusion all the more powerful.
The philosophy behind many remakes is unlocking ambitions that were once hindered by technological limitations. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater makes the interesting decision to embrace those limitations – its sprawling Soviet jungle remains divided by load screens, the scope of its playspaces defined by the limits of the original PlayStation 2 hardware. You’ll see the term "faithful remake" used a lot through this list, but none are as faithful as MGS Delta – this is a PS2 game in PS5 clothing.
But what a PS2 game it is. Arguably the pinnacle of Hideo Kojima’s career, what was once a groundbreaking stealth game is now an enduring classic, thanks to its playful approach to Cold War espionage and its dramatic, cinematic story. Snake Eater has been iterated upon many times across the years, and MGS Delta collects together years of improvements and enhances them all with incredibly glossy modern graphics and an updated control system that finally turns Snake into the nimble operator he was always meant to be. This may not be a revolutionary remake, but it does a solid job of preserving perfection for a brand new generation.
There are a number of remakes on this list that were developed by studios that didn’t create the original game, but there is only one that was developed by fans of the original. Black Mesa is a complete remake of Valve’s Half-Life, created by enthusiasts and officially supported by the original developer. And you can easily see why it won that support: this is a truly phenomenal rebuild of one of the most important first-person shooters of all time. It captures the distinctly creepy atmosphere and excellent combat that made Half-Life such a pioneer, while also augmenting almost every level with something new, be that a reimagined combat encounter or a Half-Life 2-style physics puzzle.
But it's the final missions that really make Black Mesa a vital part of the Half-Life story. The original game’s final arc, set on the world of Xen, is infamously a bit of an under-developed slog. Black Mesa completely redesigns that final stretch, eliminating the tedium and injecting a sense of creative, alien wonder. And while it’s true that Black Mesa took so long to create that, by the time of its release, it already looked dated, that’s only true if you consider it from a purely technical standpoint. Take one look at Xen, or the eerie abandoned corridors of the titular facility itself, and there’s no denying that Black Mesa is an artistic triumph.
It may literally be in the title, but Final Fantasy 7 Remake is more than just a remake. It’s also a reimagining of the 1997 JRPG classic, a reinterpretation of its achievements, and – somehow – also a sequel to the game it recreates. Oh, and it also only covers around the first 30% of the original story, which has been transformed from a brief journey through the city of Midgar into a massive, 30+ hour adventure. This approach certainly isn’t for everyone, but you can't deny the ambition of this lavish project.
This first chapter of the three-part Final Fantasy 7 remake is a stunningly gorgeous RPG that gives new life to some of gaming’s most memorable characters and settings. With all that extra time, it successfully expands upon the story and weaves in new plot threads, such as robust backstories for members of the Avalanche team, more believable relationships between protagonist Cloud and his new buddies, and a better sense of life in the Sector 7 slums. On top of all that, it also completely revamps the combat system, creating a brand new, action-heavy, real-time system that feels both exhilaratingly new and highly evocative of the original game’s turn-based battles. FF7 Remake’s approach is exemplary, and makes many other games on this list feel more like remasters than remakes.
Shadow of the Colossus was a landmark achievement when it hit the PS2 in 2005. Developer Team ICO built a lonely, desolate, deeply affecting world using hardware that could barely render its vision. While the game itself undeniably stands the test of time, it's clear to see that technical performance and visual clarity held back the studio’s incredible ambition.
Fast-forward 13 years and Bluepoint Games crafted an incredibly faithful remake, focused on overcoming those technical limitations so that the soul of the project could achieve its true ambitions. With a much steadier framerate, gorgeous graphics, and a commitment to keeping the events, systems, and mechanics of the original intact, Bluepoint absolutely hit it out of the park. It was such an achievement, in fact, that it won the studio the chance to remake Demon’s Souls, as well as laid the groundwork for its acquisition by PlayStation.
After reaching the heights of Dark Souls 3 and Bloodborne, it was hard not to see 2009’s Demon’s Souls as the ageing, hollowed precursor to FromSoftware’s mighty success story. But it was undeniable that a fantastic, paradigm-shifting game remained, and Bluepoint Games’ 2020 remake of Demon’s Souls was a project dedicated to making those qualities shine again. It completely stripped away the technical shortcomings that held the PS3 version back, while adding several subtle quality of life upgrades that succeeded in modernizing the game to the point where if you’d never played the original, you could very likely be fooled into thinking that this was the latest entry in the Souls series as opposed to the very first one.
While Bluepoint managed to stay completely respectful to the original vision in many ways (it is, for the most part, the exact same game just with modern, photo-realistic graphics and refreshed animations,) the alterations made to the art style and design of some locations wasn’t fully embraced by some fans of the original. Nevertheless, Demon’s Souls helped elevate what was already one of the best games of the PS3 era and bring it to a whole new, post-Dark Souls audience.
The original Metroid was a groundbreaking NES game back in 1986, but when looked at through a modern lens, it’s hard to argue that it holds up. Fortunately, Metroid: Zero Mission exists. Developed 18 years later, rather than opting for a 100% faithful remake with a couple of modernization tweaks, Metroid: Zero Mission is instead a game rebuilt from the ground up using the original Metroid as a blueprint for its story and level design. By allowing itself to explore beyond the boundaries of the source material, Nintendo was able to draw new inspirations from the more modern 2D Metroids, like Super Metroid and Metroid Fusion.
Zero Mission is now over 20 years old, and so the idea that it’s a "modern" version of Metroid is something of a bygone era. However, it remains an expertly crafted reinterpretation of one of Nintendo’s best ever games, and is both young and strong enough that it still holds up to this day – not only as one of the best Metroid games, but also one of the best remakes.
Capcom has become somewhat synonymous with the idea of remakes, having now rebuilt no less than four of its Resident Evil games. Among them is the legendary Resident Evil 4 – Leon S. Kennedy’s action-packed descent into the Las Plagas-infected Spanish countryside. Of all the games Capcom has reinvented, Resi 4 was the one least in need of a refresh, but despite that, the RE4 remake is an astonishing feat that helps elevate an all-time classic.
Purist fans may have been annoyed by the erasure of the original’s more eccentric ideas, but they have been replaced by an altogether darker, more horrifying tone that syncs Resident Evil 4 with Capcom’s other recent remakes. It also benefits from snappier, more energetic combat, complete with an excellent knife parry that makes fighting both the Armadura enemies and the Krauser boss battle much more intense. Perhaps most importantly, it vastly improves Ashley, both in terms of her depiction and the mechanics around protecting her, eliminating any sense that Resident Evil 4 is an annoying, multi-hour escort quest. Combine all that with an incredibly handsome graphical makeover and you’ve made a masterpiece feel even more essential.
Fans of the Persona series are no strangers to new versions of the beloved Atlus RPGs arriving soon after their initial release – Persona 4 Golden and Persona 5 Royal both added significant social link, story, and dungeon additions, for example. But in terms of a full-on remake, Persona 3 Reload is the first to have undergone a complete overhaul. Reload took the game’s foundational bullets and rechambered them into a much more stylish weapon — one that borrowed the best-in-class UI and menu systems of Persona 5 and rebuilt its colorful high-school surroundings and spooky shadow realm from the ground up.
Perhaps its most exciting addition is the way Reload tweaks Persona 3’s battle system. Informed by the series entries that came after it, combat is a much more enticing prospect, thanks to the introduction of new skills, the ability to directly control each party member and shift between them baton pass-style, and the brand-new Theurgy system that allows for Personas to perform devastating Ultimate attacks. All of these changes, among others, breathed new, exciting life into an already treasured RPG, meaning Reload is now the definitive way to Persona 3.
Team Silent’s original Silent Hill 2 is rightfully considered one of the most affecting survival horror games of all time, and Bloober Team’s 2024 remake does nothing to diminish that. While the PS2 original has an incomparable, unsettling atmosphere thanks to its technological limitations, the remake uses modern graphical and sound techniques to generate a complimentary oppressive tone. As you explore the strange, abandoned town of Silent Hill, you can't help but let the dread creep in.
Bloober’s creation is incredibly faithful to the original game, following the same plot beats and exploring the same environments, but its new over-the-shoulder camera both pulls you deeper into its terrifying world and makes combatting the town’s grotesque inhabitants more intuitive. Those combat enhancements can really be felt in the boss battles, which are now reinvented as terrifying engagements rather than repeating the attritional slogs they once were. But really it’s the modern presentation of this bleak story that really makes Silent Hill 2 a vital remake: actor Luke Roberts breathes fresh new life into protagonist James Sunderland, providing a deeply troubled, nuanced performance that anchors this tale in inescapable grief and guilt.
When it comes to faithful remakes that largely stick to the core design established in the original and focus instead on bringing everything else up to modern standards, there aren’t many games better than the original Resident Evil remake. The "REmake" adheres to everything that was intrinsic to the original, from the pre-rendered backgrounds, to the tank controls, to the limited inventory that forces you to make tough decisions on what to keep and what to toss. All these may be incredibly familiar for those who were there back in 1996, but they’re polished up to beautiful new standards. It may have old ideas, but it plays fantastically... which is impressive, considering this remake is already much older than the original game was when it was made.
But Resident Evil isn’t just a shinier version of its source material. It also adds several entirely new features that change up the experience and give it its own identity. Whether it's the terrifying addition of dead enemies resurrecting as powerful Crimson Heads (unless you have the foresight and resources to burn the corpses) or the brand-new plot thread involving the horrifying Lisa Trevor, Resident Evil’s remake shines because not only is it a faithful remake that brings a PSOne classic into a modern light, but also because of the ways that it separates itself from that classic to become something even better.
After having successfully pulled off a radical re-imagining with the first game in the trilogy, Square Enix faced a more daunting challenge with the second chapter of its Final Fantasy 7 remake project. It needed to recreate the most expansive section of the original game, redesign a huge variety of locations (including a whole theme park), add a number of new characters, and re-stage one of the most important emotional beats in RPG history. As with its predecessor, not all of these ambitions are met equally, but Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is nonetheless an incredible, transformative achievement.
The most immediately impressive factor of Rebirth is its scope. While it doesn’t totally leave Remake’s linear structure behind, much of Rebirth takes place in sizable open hub worlds. While there is a touch of the Ubisoft box-ticking about them, they’re elevated by a smart approach to exploration that introduces a brand new gimmick with every zone, from buggies to planes to Chocobos that can climb walls and glide across chasms. It’s a smart reinvention of the original game’s freely-explored-but-ultimately-empty overworld. But it’s the continuation of Remake’s story and emotional core that makes Rebirth so strong – these modern interpretations of the core trio of Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith are among Square’s strongest-ever characters, and their journey here – which feels more authentic to the original than Remake’s more expansive efforts – is unforgettable. Oh, and that overhauled combat system? It’s even better here – perhaps the best Final Fantasy has ever had.
Resident Evil 2's remake took what the original did so well - its labyrinthian level design, its disgusting enemies, its omnipresent sense of dread - and molded it into a horror game designed for modern audiences. The Raccoon City police station is cleverly reworked and expanded upon, enemies are faster, deadlier, and more unpredictable, and gorgeous lighting casts shadows over nasties waiting to grab you unawares. And, of course, the static camera angles and tank controls are traded in for third-person, over-the-shoulder shooting, which truly transports the PS1 classic into the modern era.
Perhaps Resident Evil 2’s biggest achievement, though, is the way Capcom has played with the original’s most iconic encounters. When you think you’ve got a terrifying moment figured out, Capcom twists it ever so slightly, removing any certainty as you slowly make your way through its carefully curated collection of memories. This is a remake designed to both terrify you in today’s horror landscape and scratch that nostalgic itch, and miraculously achieves both right until its breathless end. And even though multiple other Resident Evil remakes have arrived since, this remains the ultimate gold standard for video game remakes.
And that’s our pick of the 15 best video game remakes. Did your favourite make our list? Did we rank your best pick a little too low? Let us know in the comments.
]]>We’re more than halfway through 2025, making it an excellent time to revisit our list of the best of what the PlayStation 5 has to offer. We've added several new games this time – which means a few old favorites got bumped. (We still love them, though!)
But what do we mean by "best?" To be very clear, this is not an attempt at an "objective" ranking that will indisputably line up with the tastes of gamers of all types. That, sadly, cannot exist; when one person’s epic RPG masterpiece is another’s boring and impenetrable slog, they’ll never see eye to eye on where that game should rank against others of different genres. Even the personal lists of two people who love the same types of games will rarely line up exactly.
Instead, this is a list of games that IGN’s crew of PlayStation gamers recommend as a group, ranked using our Face-Off tool so that everybody got to weigh in equally on which games they thought should be placed above others. It’s presented in the spirit of recognizing games we love, and encouraging others to try them if you haven’t.
With only 25 slots to fill, there are tons of amazing recent games that didn’t float to the top – but that doesn’t mean we don’t think they’re awesome, too! Everybody who participated in voting has tons of personal favorites that didn’t gain quite enough traction with the group to make the cut, which is inevitable when there are this many games and so many different perspectives.
Bear in mind that while the PS5 is a powerhouse that can play any PlayStation 4-compatible game, for the sake of clarity our criteria for this list narrowed the pool down to focus on games that have PlayStation 5-specific versions. So while we still love games like the 2016 Doom, God of War, Minecraft, Red Dead Redemption 2, and many, many more, until they get that update they're relegated to the PS4 list – and of course many will have a spot on our list of the Top 100 Games of All Time.
Most importantly, remember that this list is just our group’s perspective and is no more "right" or "wrong" than a list that you create yourself. Speaking of which: if you have your own ranking you’d like to put out into the world, we’d like to invite you to make your own top 25 (or top 100!) list of PlayStation games using our Playlist tool and share it in the comments.
Most recent game updates were made on July 15, 2025.
More on the best of PlayStation:
Even with all of its imitators, there’s still nothing quite like a Devil May Cry game, and Devil May Cry 5 stands tall not only as not only one of the best in its own series but one of the best character action games ever created – full stop. No other game offers the same level of creativity and expression through its combat, whether you’re playing as Nero and bouncing foes around in the air with your Gerbera Devil Breaker, slashing them while precisely timing revs of your sword to charge up your Exceed meter; or chilling out as V while your summoned familiars fight all around you; or hot-swapping between an entire arsenal of weapons and fighting styles as Dante. The depth of DMC5’s combat is near bottomless and endlessly fun to play around in, with finely tuned difficulty options to meet you wherever your skill level is at.
Returnal is a trailblazer of sorts. Roguelikes have long been one of the most popular genres on the indie scene, with games like Spelunky 2, Dead Cells, Enter the Gungeon, and The Binding of Isaac leading the charge, but we’ve never really seen anything quite like Returnal. Returnal combines Housemarque’s expertise in intense, arcadey bullet hell shoot-em-ups, with deep roguelite mechanics and a dense, chilling atmosphere, resulting in an unforgettable sci-fi experience. Returnal’s one issue on release was the inability to suspend its lengthy runs and save your progress, but since that’s been patched, it’s hard to find flaws in this incredibly bold and ambitious take on the action roguelite.
Final Fantasy 16 may have been a dramatic departure for one of the most well-known and beloved RPG series of all time, moving it closer to the realm of a pure-blooded action game – but that action does not take away away from its excellently told, brilliantly acted, dark, and captivating tale or its memorable characters. Its combat. meanwhile, is best-in-class among other action-RPGs, and is paired with an unbelievable soundtrack that enhances every emotion that it successfully attempts to pull from you. Taken all as a whole, Final Fantasy 16 is a very special game that proves that action games can also be 50-plus-hour-long epics, and that Final Fantasy games can also be action games.
Horizon Forbidden West builds on the already impressive foundations of Horizon Zero Dawn to tell a deeper, more thrilling story that amps up the series’ explosive fights against complex robotic foes and blockbuster action sequences, while also adding lively settlements and thoughtful, intriguing sidequests to the world. The Forbidden West itself is absolutely gorgeous on PS5 - ranging from the incredibly detailed faces of the people you meet and costumes they wear to sweeping and frequently stunning landscapes. There’s a genuine sense of exploration, and loads of completely involving worldbuilding to uncover as well for those wanting to learn more. A triumphant combination of enthralling combat, top-tier creature and character design, and a captivating open world, Horizon Forbidden West is an absolute blast and fantastic showcase for the power of the PS5.
Much like the second Star Wars movie, Respawn's second Star Wars Jedi game vaulted over the original. Survivor trusts us with control of a version of Cal Kestis who's now a full-fledged Jedi Knight rather than reverting to a Padawan, so it gets off to a running start and never slows down. Over the course of this adventure he grows into a master of superhuman mobility who can thrive in fantastic and challenging combat using multiple lightsaber styles.
With a new set of larger, more diverse, and densely packed worlds to explore and a memorable cast of new and returning characters, Survivor tells a story that may be predictable but is still fun and at times emotional to watch play out. Launch performance issues aside, it’s a sequel that does virtually everything better than the original – which was already an exceptional Star Wars game.
Describing Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth sounds a bit like a fever dream: it's a collection of minigames stuffed inside of larger activities inspired by classics like Crazy Taxi, Pokémon Snap, Pokémon, and Animal Crossing... and all of that is wrapped up inside of a life simulator, which is itself inside of a 50-hour turn-based RPG. Miraculously, this somehow all works together and balances honoring the roots of the Like a Dragon/Yakuza series while continuing to propel it forward. This can be seen in almost every aspect, most obviously that a huge portion of the story takes place outside Japan, and instead has you exploring Hawaii.
Meanwhile, turn-based combat makes a return from Yakuza 7, boasting even more jobs (tennis ace OP!) and a ton of small refinements that vastly increase the amount of control and customization in combat while remaining true to Yakuza's traditional beat em' up style. In a series known for heartfelt stories, Infinite Wealth’s is arguably the most emotional, paying homage to the franchise’s classic characters with a plot driven by the values and actions of the new cast. Mixing the old and new characters is something that often backfires in a long-running series, but RGG Studios expertly blends Kiryu's and Ichiban's stories, pulling off one of the best legacy stories anywhere.
Like Slay the Spire before it, Balatro is the kind of game you might not see coming, but when it gets its hooks in you and you start to wrap your head around how its many joker cards interact and synergize it might never let go. The fact that this deckbuilding roguelite uses what initially appears to be a standard deck of playing cards means that it’s a fairly easy game to get the basics of if you know anything about poker. However, from there it takes you down rabbit hole after rabbit hole as you figure out how to maximize your score multiplier and specialize your deck to aim for certain types of high-payout hands. Its pixelated 2D graphics set it apart from everything else on this list, but you could very well spend more hours playing it than even the biggest, most expansive RPGs.
When Ghost of Tsushima was released on the PlayStation 4, it already felt like a next-gen game thanks to its stunning graphics and impressive map; it was clear Sucker Punch had learned a lot about creating an engaging open world since its (admirable for the time) efforts on the Infamous franchise. But the Director's Cut is the definitive take on Ghost of Tsushima, and it's all the better on the PS5.
This robust package, even as a refined PS4 game, makes great use of the DualSense in both exploration and combat. Add in new lip sync for Japanese voice over, and, somehow, visual and performance improvements, and you’ve got what is the must-play version of a must-play PlayStation game.
Sucker Punch's next project is a sequel, Ghost of Yotei, and there's a Ghost of Tsushima movie in the works. Directed by Chad Stahleski (John Wick), it will be a retelling of the game's story.
Alan Wake II is a standout single-player adventure that seamlessly shifts from slow-burn psychological terror to frantic survival-horror action, from gorgeously rendered game worlds to masterfully directed full-motion video sequences, and from morbid murder investigations to show-stopping musical surprises. It features uniformly immaculate art direction and audio design, and reinvigorates the series’ signature light-based shooting as though it’s been locked and loaded with a fresh pack of Energizers. It’s bloody, it's bonkers, and for the most part it's utterly brilliant.
Alan Wake II is a superb survival-horror sequel that makes the cult-classic original seem like little more than a rough first draft by comparison, and it’s genuinely unlike any other adventure currently available on the PlayStation 5.
Simultaneously one of the newer games on this list and also the oldest, the 2023 remake of 2005’s Resident Evil 4 took everything that made the original a standout action-horror classic and modernized it to thrill present-day gamers just as much as it had those who always saw it through rose-tinted glasses. Rebuilt from the ground up, it builds tension with high-intensity combat against a ferocious cast of creatures and brings the Resident Evil world to life with rich detail as the story rapidly guides you through a series of unwaveringly impressive action sequences. There’ve been many games that have attempted to evoke RE4’s style over the years, but none that nailed it quite as well as this.
Related: Capcom has announced Resident Evil Requiem, AKA Resident Evil 9, will be released on February 27, 2026.
Cyberpunk 2077 has earned a spot on our Best PS5 Games list, marking a spectacular recovery after its disastrous launch on PlayStation 4 in 2020. While it was arguably great on PS4 Pro, it wasn’t until CD Projekt Red launched the major 2.0 patch and the Phantom Liberty expansion in 2023 that you didn’t really have to argue anymore. Even more gorgeous than ever and with years of polish and refinement to its combat and skill systems, exploring the gleaming yet seedy open world of Night City stands apart from anything else out there.
Out of the box you’re in for more than 30 hours of the original story alongside Keanu Reeves as rockstar radical Johnny Silverhand, but when you include the spy-themed Phantom Liberty expansion you get another 20 starring Idris Elba as sleeper agent Solomon Reed. This chapter brings with it new and more interesting themes as it explores the intersection of capitalism, police states, and the mind-warping effects of near-future technology and human augmentation.
Check out our Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty review.
As a sequel in a spectacular series, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is a showcase for the PlayStation 5. Its story of two Spider-Men is a great time and a Spidey fan’s dream to play through as comic book tussles with Venom and Kraven the Hunter are brought to life, elegantly walking the tightrope between light humour and heavier themes. Meanwhile, Insomniac refines a successful formula of combat and web-swinging without revolutionising either in major ways, making them comfy and familiar with just enough new tweaks and abilities to elevate them to fun new heights.
It also makes use of the power of the PS5 like very few other games, providing blockbuster action moments that are a spectacle to behold, near-instant load times, and a best-in-class pinpoint fast travel system. It’s another thrilling Spider-Man adventure that delivers Insomniac's best tale yet, and a consistently fun superhero power trip.
Yes, The Last of Us Part 2 only launched on PlayStation 4 a few years ago, in 2020. Yes, that’s pretty quick; it certainly doesn’t feel like long enough to justify a standalone remaster. Heck, IGN’s users have tended to agree – particularly when the already incredible-looking existing PS4 version of The Last of Us Part 2 had already received a 60 frames-per-second performance update for the PS5.
However, if your next question is, "Is this the best way to experience The Last of Us Part 2?" then the answer is also undoubtedly yes. If you haven’t gotten around to it yet, this is absolutely the place to play it. An ambitious and sweeping sequel that significantly expands the world of the masterful original, The Last of Us Part II is an impeccably assembled stealth action game that hits like a haymaker and is hard to forget.
The heavy spotlight on revenge, hate, and self-destruction is emotionally sapping at times, but there remains room to breathe within a story that escalates, pivots, eases, and ultimately explodes again, playing out like two whole seasons of premium TV. (Which, incidentally, it is also doing on HBO.)
Recently, Naughty Dog released a new mode that allows you to play through The Last of Us Part II’s non-linear story in straight chronological order, in case you’re looking for a different way to experience it.
Grand Theft Auto V’s sprawling yet meticulously detailed map is still the high bar to which most open-world games aspire. Not only is it huge, it’s incredibly dense with excellent content – not just the driving and shooting and three-protagonist story that make up its campaign, and not limited to the numerous side activities, but all the sights, sounds, and bustling activity you'd expect to find in a city teeming with humans – seedy underbelly included. With so much to do, explore, and play with, both as a single-player PC game and Grand Theft Auto Online, plus great creative tools and mods, it’s truly amazing on multiple levels.
As for what’s next, Rockstar has confirmed GTA 6 will be released on May 26, 2026. It will feature a return to Vice City and star the series' first female playable character in a Bonnie & Clyde-inspired adventure.
Hades is the current gold standard of the roguelite genre, and it isn’t even close. From its exhilarating combat, to its incredible soundtrack, to its clever and well-written story with characters that seemingly never run out of meaningful things to say, all the way to its deep and innovative post game that keeps you wanting to come back for more even after beating the last boss.
It may be incredibly difficult, but it never feels punishing in defeat. Dying is part of the fun, and actually comes with its own rewards in the form of new conversations with its fascinating cast of characters, new opportunities to purchase game changing upgrades, and an opportunity for a brand new run with a completely new set of godly boons that dramatically alter how you approach combat. Hades is a masterclass of roguelite design, and just another example of how Supergiant Games just doesn’t miss.
Hades 2 Early Access is now available on Steam, and is expected to launch on consoles sometime in 2025.
Everyone has heard of The Witcher 3 by now. One of the best RPGs of the last generation and the game that firmly cemented CD Projekt Red as one of the world's premier game developers. While critics have heralded the game's visuals, storytelling, and gameplay, the same can hardly be said about The Witcher 3's technical performance. The new Complete Edition with a bevy of current-gen updates fixes most, if not all, the technical shortcomings that we had to caveat back when it first arrived on PlayStation 3 and Xbox One. With a smooth frame rate, 4K textures, and loads of other fixes, The Witcher 3 on PS5 is the definitive version of one of the best RPGs of all time.
The Last of Us Part I is arguably the best way to experience the story Naughty Dog was initially told back in 2013. While there is a point of contention on whether this remake was necessary overall, the improvements and changes introduced are enough to warrant this as a great first way to experience this decade-old classic that launched a game series and a breakout hit HBO drama. The improved character models and facial animation are the biggest praises for this remake, making the phenomenal acting done by the cast more meaningful and realistic.
The Last of Us has an incredible and emotional story, and the updated technology allows even the most touching scenes to hit the closest to home. The use of the PS5's DualSense controller also greatly improves the gameplay and is one of the best showcases of what the controller is capable of to date. The haptic feedback you can feel in every weapon used, from melee to firearms, and the fact that environmental effects such as the sensation of falling rain help immerse you into this ravaged and desolated world.
The one caveat is that the remake does not include the multiplayer mode found in the 2013 original – though that was never the main appeal of this very story-focused experience.
Final Fantasy VII Remake/Intergrade was the pipe dream that many fans hoped would happen but didn’t believe would see the light of day until the moment they played it for themselves. Seeing the first chapter of FFVII remake in crisp 4K and fully voice-acted not only made the day for those who tout it as the best in the franchise but also for those who may have missed out in the PS1 era. It's a shining example of how far gaming has come in the five generations of PlayStation.
This remake updated more than graphics, opting for a completely different combat system that swaps the turn-based battles of the original for faster real-time action that rewards skill and preparation (while still allowing anyone who wants the traditional turn-based combat a way to choose that option as well). Because you never leave Midgar in this portion of the story, Square Enix improved and added to the side stories with the other members of Avalanche, your time in Wall Market, and added a few more areas to expand upon the original.
The Intermission expansion puts Yuffie front and center and gives her a chance to shine before you jump into the next part of the story. It includes arguably the best and most engaging combat via her elemental ninjutsu, synergy attacks, and other ninja skills. Both the core game and the Intermission DLC add to the context of the world and lead into the events of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. It’s well worth a try for first-time and longtime fans of Final Fantasy games.
Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are available now.
Until the past few years brought on a series of impressive challengers, Persona 5 Royal had very little true competition in the contest for the best JRPG of all time. Its endlessly stylish art and unforgettable, jazzy soundtrack create a vibe it's hard not to fall in love with. And that's before we even get to the cast of iconic, endearing characters and an unexpectedly deep, thought-provoking story that only grows more relevant with every year since it was originally released in 2016. Nobody does this style of turn-based, small-party combat better than Atlus, and P5R is the ultimate refinement of everything great about the franchise's earlier adventures.
All of that could be said of the original 2016 version, too, but with Royal, just about everything – from the dialogue to the story to dungeon exploration – has been made bigger and better. It's far from just a remaster with some neat extras; it's almost like getting another entire game on top of an already fantastic one.
For decades, Mario reigned unchallenged as the king of the 3D platformer. Few if any games came close to Nintendo’s level of creativity and polish in this extremely popular genre. Astro Bot, however, changes things: this adorable robotic mascot can easily go toe-to-toe with games like Super Mario Odyssey as it takes us through a multitude of hyper-colorful and lively worlds, all overflowing with both imaginative level design ideas and countless loving references to PlayStation history. Each new world gives you a fantastic and surprising new ability to play with that sets its puzzles and challenges apart from everything that came before it, and few other games make such excellent use of the unique capabilities of the PS5’s DualSense controllers.
As a middle chapter of a trilogy that retells one of gaming’s most beloved stories, threading the needle of standing on its own while being a continuation of an ongoing story was a delicate task for Square Enix. Rising to the occasion, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth does this extremely well as an evolution of the principles established in 2020’s FFVII Remake; there's still a grand sense of adventure within a beautiful recreation of the original FFVII's world. Each character is given the chance to grow meaningfully over the course of a 70- to 80-hour journey and become greater versions of their beloved originals. It hits hard, even if you never touched the 1997 classic.
The way Rebirth adds tactical layers on top of the action-RPG formula that Remake began is nothing short of amazing. It retains traces of the feeling of the original’s turn-based RPG even in its real-time combat, but having characters like Yuffie, Cait Sith, and Red XIII added to mix open up new possibilities. Especially when you take advantage of the new Synergy abilities and unique partner attacks, pairing up your favorite party members offers satisfying ways to stagger enemies before hitting them with a nasty Limit Break. When you establish a flow, there’s just nothing like overcoming the toughest bosses with your favorite characters while the nostalgic boss themes inspire victory.
God of War Ragnarok is hands down one of the easiest games to recommend to anyone asking what game they should play first on their PS5. The gameplay is an immensely satisfying combination of combat, puzzle solving, and exploration that is bound together with a heartwarming story of family, adolescence, and letting go. The combat rewards players for experimentation and precision but also is versatile enough that even using a fraction of the moves at your disposal feels effective and rewarding. Each moment is bolstered by its fantastic soundtrack that elevates everything from the smallest interaction to the most impactful moments in the story. The world's jaw-dropping landscapes feel organic and filled with life (except for Helheim, of course), but it's hard not to stop and admire it every step.
Its story, gameplay, soundtrack, and nearly every other part of the game culminate masterfully to live up to expectations for a flagship PlayStation game. Some may take issue with the pacing in certain parts of the game, but the next chapter in Kratos and Atreus's saga is filled with heart, charm, and humor. With the combination of the improvements from God of War (2018) and the path it's carved out for itself among other action-adventure games, God of War: Ragnarok is one of the benchmarks for what PlayStation exclusives can do on the PS5.
To call Metaphor: ReFantazio "fantasy Persona" is to sell it short. It's a culmination of developer Atlus' RPGs, refining a tried-and-true framework that blends social sim elements and dungeon-crawling RPG combat. But here, Atlus wields that foundation for a brand-new fantasy world to tell a mature story with deep parallels to the political realities we face. It's whimsical and harrowing in equal measure, and just as it shows the ugliness of humanity, it also inspires us to work towards a brighter future. That story and context is what makes the gameplay experience all the more meaningful, and it's a joy to play as you connect with its cast of characters across its imaginative painterly world, building up a strong party with the new Job-like Archetype system that offers a level of depth we haven't seen in a previous Atlus RPG. There are some tough battles in this turn-based combat system, and the tactical considerations required showed that this genre can keep growing.
On top of all of that, Metaphor has the Atlus team's distinct sense of style and emphasis on amazing music to drive its story, but in stepping out of its comfort zone and still doing what it does best, Atlus created an all-timer RPG. Sometimes we play games for escapism, but Metaphor reminds us that while it’s important to get away sometimes, you still have to live in your real world. And if you're going to spend 80-something hours in this fantasy universe, why not take a few lessons along the way to hopefully make your world a better place?
This 2023 Game of the Year nominee may have narrowly lost that award to Tears of the Kingdom, but it triumphantly takes the one of the top spots in 2025’s Best PS5 Games list. Baldur’s Gate 3’s massive roleplaying adventure is both enormously ambitious in its scope and yet endearingly old-school in its style. Its storytelling is epic, stocked with memorable characters rendered in impressive detail, and a multitude of meaningful choices to make along with them. Its tactical combat is a throwback to the turn-based BioWare RPGs of old and loyal to its Dungeons & Dragons roots to the point where it can be quite intimidating to get into, but when you do you’re in for over 100 hours of all-thriller, no-filler questing.
Whether you're a longtime fan of FromSoftware's notoriously challenging games or intrigued by the constant buzz, Elden Ring is a fantastic starting point for seeing what the soulsborne genre is all about. Its streamlined introduction, versatility in accommodating your choice of playstyle, and open-world design all work to alleviate the "brick wall" dilemma of getting stuck on a difficult boss in Dark Souls games. It's that elasticity that makes this FromSoftware adventure a (slightly) friendlier one, while still being full of godlike bosses looking to snuff out your life, threateningly large maps, and intriguing NPCs rife with charm, mystery, and tragedy.
It’s since been kicked up a notch thanks to the outstanding Shadow of the Erdtree DLC expansion, which serves as a condensed version of the main game that’s absolutely jam-packed with secrets, valuable treasures, ultra-challenging boss battles, and horrific monstrosities to face of against at every turn. When you stack that on top of the main game, it’s an incredible quantity of high-quality tests of your soulslike mettle.
Elden Ring is one of the best-reviewed games in modern history. It was crowned Game of the Year by IGN and The Game Awards in 2022. The co-op roguelite spinoff, Elden Ring: Nightreign, is now available.
Mafia: The Old Country comes out August 8, 2025, followed by Madden NFL 26 on August 11, Dying Light: The Beast on August 22, Gears of War Reloaded on August 26, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater on August 28, Borderlands 4 on September 12, Silent Hill f on September 25, Ghost of Yotei on October 2, Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 and Jurassic World Evolution 3 on October 31. There will be more this year, too – we’re still waiting on dates for this year’s Call of Duty, Battlefield 6, Hades 2, and probably a bunch of other surprises.
It can really depend on what types of games you like to play, but if you are looking for recommendations on the for what to play on the PS5, we recommend picking up a copy of Elden Ring. If you're looking specifically for a PlayStation Exclusive game, God of War: Ragnarock is also a very good option you can't play anywhere else.
If you happen to have PlayStation Plus Extra or PlayStation Premium than you have access to some of the best games on the console. A few of the best PS Plus games include Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Bloodborne, Ghost of Tsushima, God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, Marvel's Spider-Man, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
Updates: On July 15, 2025 our best PS5 games list was updated. Rankings were also updated to reflect the opinions of IGN staff.
With contributions from Cristina Alexander
]]>Gaming on the go has plenty of perks, but there are still a few drawbacks and risks involved, so your Nintendo Switch Lite may benefit from some quality accessories. Whether you’re looking for the extra protection a case can bring, the better ergonomics of a great controller, or a backup battery to ensure you’re never without juice, we’ve got you covered with great gear for your Switch Lite. Check out a detailed look at the best Nintendo Switch Lite accessories, or check the shopping list below:
The Switch Lite is more compact with a smaller screen compared to the original Switch or OLED model, which means some of the best Nintendo Switch accessories aren’t compatible with this ultra-portable model. That’s why we’ve created a guide just for the Lite, so you can kit it out to be a real road warrior, and you might be able to score some awesome Nintendo Switch deals in the process.
Your Nintendo Switch Lite's portability is one of its chief assets, and you shouldn't have to sacrifice that to protect it when you're on the go. The Nintendo Switch Lite Carry Case + Screen protector should have you covered. It adds minimal bulk by sticking close to the dimensions of the Switch Lite itself while providing 360-degree protection. There are also some fun designs to match different Switch games, like the Animal Crossing design we’ve linked, but unfortunately, Bells aren’t an accepted currency.
This is one of the best Nintendo Switch cases you can buy, adding simple convenience and peace of mind. It zips and unzips easily to slide your Switch Lite in nice and snug or out when you’re ready to get your game on. Though compact, the case still offers additional storage for you to carry a collection of game cartridges. Finally, with this combo, you get a screen protector, so even when you throw it in your backpack without the case, you don’t need to worry about scratching the screen. Coming in around 25,ドル this is an excellent investment in protection.
If you don't mind a little extra bulk while toting your Nintendo Switch Lite around, the ButterFox Switch Lite Carrying Case is an excellent option. It offers a sturdy shell with a nifty handle to protect your Switch Lite from drops and scratches and room to house all your favorite accessories. You even get a bunch of different color options to choose from. And best of all, this case is incredibly affordable, so you can snag it for under 20ドル and have money left over to score some great game deals.
Unlike the Nintendo Switch Lite Carry Case, ButterFox provides plenty of space for storage and uses it cleverly. Two organizer layers offer slots for 19 game cartridges and two microSD cards, so you should rarely be without your favorite games. These layers double as a protective microfiber lining over the screen and a buffer to keep other accessories from pressing the Switch Lite's controls. A mesh pocket provides room to hold charging cables, earbuds, and even a modest portable charger, while quality zippers ensure everything remains safely tucked away in the case.
While the Nintendo Switch is designed to be used with your TV and sometimes on the go, the Switch Lite is a true traveler. That makes it much more susceptible to damage out in the wild. The power of just a bit of plastic wrapped around the device could be the difference between making it or breaking it, literally. The Hori DuraFlexi Protector should hopefully prevent the latter from happening. It covers the Switch Lite around the sides and back in a flexible TPU that can absorb shock and protect the portable console, similar to a phone case. So, if you have butter fingers or just want to slide your Switch into a bag without hassling with a carrying case, this cover is for you.
The Hori DuraFlexi Protector is classy, simple with Pokemon and Animal Crossing designs available. The cover also features perfectly placed cutouts to ensure you can easily access all of the Switch Lite's ports while the sleeve is on, so when you’re juicing up, you won’t have to remove the cover. The material used even gives you a bit of extra grip. And while the impressively low price tag may raise some red flags, it's worth noting that the DuraFlexi protector is officially licensed by Nintendo.
Are you one of those people prone to dropping all of your electronics? You’ll be covered, literally, with the Orzly Grip Case. This cover is rubberized and ready to put your Nintendo Switch Lite in a protective embrace, covering all around to shield it from your flimsy grip. It’ll prevent bumps and scrapes while also giving your hands more grip. And though this is an excellent rugged case, it adds just 25 grams of weight to your Switch Lite, so you won't have to stop calling it Lite just because you've tucked it into this case.
What you get from the Orzly Grip Case is far more than just protection for the console. Orzly added thicker handles to the sides, making up for the lack of ergonomics around the Switch Lite's controls. This kit also provides covers for the thumbsticks for more tactile control and less wear. There’s even some storage, so you won’t have to leave your favorite games behind, while a kickstand on the case allows you to enjoy content hands-free. Orzly makes this case in a variety of colors, and it’s super affordable, making it easy to keep your device safe and your vibe intact.
The Nintendo Switch Lite features a plastic screen just like its console brethren, which means it'll be very prone to scratching. You're going to want a screen protector to prevent any damage. There are a ton of Switch Lite screen protectors popping up on the market, but amFilm's Tempered Glass Screen Protector is the tried and true most trusted. It’s also a super affordable way to keep your Switch safe, costing just under 10ドル.
This particular Switch Lite screen protector is made of tempered glass, which won't scratch nearly as easily as the plastic screen, giving your handheld the glossy, premium glass screen it should have had from the get-go. You get more than just the screen protector, as the kit offers wet wipes, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and a squeeze card to ensure the smoothest installation possible without any dust bubbles or smudges. amFilm’s Tempered Glass Screen Protector also happens to be a three-pack, so you'll have enough screen protectors to use as replacements for years to come—or if you screw up installation on the first attempt.
Don't let your hands suffer from the small controls and tight grip that come along with the Nintendo Switch Lite. You can upgrade your hold with the grip from Satisfye. This attachment slides right onto your Switch Lite, adding two palm fins to give your hands something to really grab onto, while the included thumb pads add extra protection and a tactile feel. The grip also helps give your thumbs a bit more room to move, especially when reaching for the D-Pad or right thumbstick, making your entire gaming experience much more enjoyable.
We loved the version of the grip from Satisfye for the full-size Nintendo Switch, so it's nice to see a model for the smaller Switch Lite. The technology loaded into this grip ensures your device is held tightly in place without any damage to the chassis, and the Switch won’t overheat, as there’s ample airflow. You’re not going to find a better way to improve the overall ergonomics of the compact device, as the grip offers more of a controller-like feel that your hands will thank you for.
If you're building up a healthy collection of games on your Nintendo Switch Lite, you want to ensure you've got enough storage for all of them. The 32GB of internal storage probably isn’t going to cut it, and that’s where a memory card like the PNY XLR8 128GB Gaming can come in handy. The 128GB of extra space should provide plenty of room for your game library. Best of all, it costs just 15ドル. And if you think you'll need more storage, you can snag a larger version of the microSD or grab a second one to split up your library onto multiple drives.
The PNY XLR8 128GB Gaming memory card comes toting not only the space but also all the speed needed to get cruising through your games. You get fast read speeds of 100MB/s to ensure you're not wasting precious battery life while waiting for games to load up. Plus, the 90MB/s write speeds make it easy to save your progress in a game quickly. All this makes it the best SD card for the Switch Lite.
The Nintendo Switch Lite has plenty of battery to get you through a long commute. But if you know you're going to have a long day away from a power outlet, it doesn't hurt to have a bit of extra power available. Anker makes some of the best portable chargers you can get, and Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 is the perfect partner for your device. It’s nice and compact, just like the console, so you can easily tuck it into your bag, ensuring you’re good to game on the go.
The Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 packs in a beefy 20,000mAh battery, giving you hours of extra playtime. You get over two full charges from this backup battery, and it can bring your console back to life quickly thanks to 20W PD out of the power bank’s USB-C port. There’s also an additional USB-A port with PowerIQ 2.0, perfect for topping off other electronics, like the best smartphones or tablets. Even your low-power electronics are safe to plug in and charge up.
The lack of Bluetooth audio support on the Nintendo Switch Lite was a shortcoming, though a software update did remedy it. However, the Switch is still plagued with some connection issues, but you can get around that problem with the SteelSeries Arctis 1. This wireless gaming headset offers a USB-C dongle that can plug directly into the bottom of the Switch to deliver a lag-free, lossless audio connection. You can also use a wired connection. It doesn't get much better than that level of versatility.
The headset itself totes a durable, comfortable build with a decent clamping force to ensure a snug fit, while the plush earcups house 40mm neodymium drivers that deliver crisp, clear audio. Being wireless, battery life is important, and the 20 hours offered by the SteelSeries Arctis 1 should be plenty to last through your longest gaming marathons. Best of all is the sub-100ドル price tag, making these cans a steal.
Nintendo games are known for their quality soundtracks, but the little speakers on your Nintendo Switch Lite aren’t going to be the best way to experience them. You don’t even get the option to plug into an entertainment center like the standard Switch. Enter the best Nintendo Switch headset, the Razer Barracuda X. You can connect them to your Switch via Bluetooth for the basics or slide in the USB-C dongle and enjoy high-quality, low-latency audio piped wirelessly to the headset. If you forget the dongle at home and don’t like the latency of Bluetooth, the headset can connect over the classic 3.5mm headset jack.
The Razer Barracuda X totes all that capability while rocking a comfortable, lightweight build. You get a classy, subtle design with a detachable boom mic to fly under the radar when wearing them out and about. The earcups have a breathable material and house 40mm TriForce drivers to deliver crisp, detailed audio. You’d think there might be a few cut corners or missing features at this price point, but Razer didn’t even settle for lackluster battery life, as these headphones can run for up to 60 hours.
The Nintendo Switch Lite might have a pair of integrated controllers, but they require a tight grip to hold on to and lack all the special functionality of the Nintendo Joy-Cons. By pairing these wireless controllers to your handheld, you’ll get back HD rumble as well as the infrared and motion-sensing sensors that some games like 1-2-Switch and Arms need for proper playing. They’re also way more comfortable to grasp for gaming marathons.
The Nintendo Joy-Cons really shine during multi-player games, as both the left and right controllers feature a full set of buttons, an accelerometer, and a gyro sensor, so they can be used independently of each other. There are even handy straps for a bit more to hold onto while playing this way. All of the added control is worth the 80ドル price tag, even when considering the Joy-Con drift issue.
As portable as the Nintendo Switch Lite is, we can’t imagine it’s too comfortable to hold for hours on end, and the same goes for even a pair of Joy-Cons slotted into a Charging Grip. That’s why a Switch Pro Controller is the best Switch controller for extended play at home or on the go. Not only is this traditional, ergonomic controller easier to hold, but it also sports better triggers and bumpers while giving you back HD rumble and motion controls.
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller works wireless and can charge using a USB-C cable. If you're worried about keeping charge, it boasts a 40-hour battery life, so you’re set for an all-day gaming marathon. The larger, more tactile triggers and buttons, along with Nintendo's signature D-pad should improve your gameplay while giving a retro feel. It even supports Amiibo with its NFC chip. Best of all, the controller should last the duration of your Switch Lite's life cycle, making it a very sound investment.
Similar to most smartphones and tablets, the Nintendo Switch Lite offers a display with touch input. And sometimes, a finger isn’t always the ideal tool for the job, as they can leave oils and grease on the screen, making it harder to see over time and requiring more cleaning. Plus, your hands can get in the way of what you’re playing, especially where precision is concerned. So, if you plan to play games centered around the touch input on the Nintendo Switch Lite, like Scribblenauts Showdown, a stylus comes in handy.
The Adonit Mark is an affordable stylus, coming in under 10,ドル that will register just like a finger on a touchscreen but won’t leave the same residue. This stylus features a mesh tip to hold up better over time than some of the soft, silicone-tipped styluses you might find. Its triangular shape ensures the stylus doesn’t roll away from you, while the durable aluminum body means you’ll be good to toss it in your bag or wherever. Since the Nintendo Switch Lite’s display is in charge of registering the touches, the Adonit Mark also doesn’t require any power, making it a portable partner for your Switch Lite.
The most important thing you should keep in mind while shopping for Switch Lite accessories is that all accessories designed for the original Switch won’t necessarily work with Nintendo’s smaller handheld system. The Switch Lite is simply a different system that has smaller dimensions, integrated controllers, a lack of motion, and IR sensors.
Some cases and battery cases for instance are just going to be too large. While the Switch Lite will fit, it’ll probably jumble around with all the extra space inside. The same thing goes for screen protectors unless you’re ready to cut them down with a box cutter or some kind of knife, they’re going to be too big for the Switch Lite’s smaller display.
Unfortunately, most if not all of the Labo Nintendo has released isn’t going to work with the Nintendo Switch Lite. This is especially true of any pieces of Labo designed to hold the screen by itself like the Labo VR Kit or Labo Piano, due to the system’s slightly different proportions and its inability to detach the controllers. While you may be able to use other Labo kits like the Vehicle Kit, it wouldn’t quite be the same because you can’t connect the Switch Lite to a TV.
The Switch consoles have always supported Bluetooth pairing with controllers, but until recently, there was no support for Bluetooth audio. Luckily, if your Switch’s system version is updated to 13.0.0 or higher, Bluetooth audio should work without the need for an adapter. That means you can use the best wireless earbuds, headphones, and speakers with your Switch. However, Bluetooth microphones still aren’t supported. Take a look here for more information about how to connect via Bluetooth to your Switch.
The Switch Lite is also on the lighter side when it comes to included accessories. This Switch model doesn't connect to gaming TVs, so a dock and HDMI cord aren’t in the box. The Joy-Cons don’t detach either, meaning you won't find straps or a grip for them. Instead, you’ll only find a USB-C charger. That’s why you’ll want to grab some of the accessories we’ve listed to make the most of your console.
Generally, the overall best times to buy a Nintendo Switch Lite console are also the very best times to buy Switch Lite accessories. Some of the more popular events where you're guaranteed to find discounts on controllers, headphones, cases, and more, are Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday in November.
Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.
]]>The Nintendo Switch was a game-changer in handheld gaming space, acting as both a portable device and a console, when it came out seven years ago. Even though the Switch 2 is officially out, there's still plenty of life left in the Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lites. One of their biggest virtues is also a drawback: Its versatility means it’s susceptible to damage, especially to the screen and Joy-Con when you're on the go. To prevent any major or minor scratches and blemishes, a case is the absolute best Nintendo Switch accessory you can grab. If you're upgrading, we have a separate guide for our recommended Switch 2 accessories.
There are a range of Nintendo Switch cases to choose from. Some offer a hard shell and space to hold extras like game cartridges or chargers, while others go all out, offering plenty of room to house extra Switch controllers, power banks, and more. For those with butter fingers, some options wrap the console in 360° protection and have grips to prevent and keep the Switch safe during drops. No matter what type of case you’re after, our team of experts has selected the top options to suit your needs.
If you’re looking to grab a future-proof case that will fit the Nintendo Switch 2, you’ll want to grab one of the larger cases in this guide, like one from GeekShare or Controller Gear. Nintendo’s newest console has larger dimensions than its predecessor, so not all of our picks will fit the Switch 2.
Additional contributions by Georgie Peru
The Orzly Carry Case is our number one choice for the best Nintendo Switch case, regardless of which version of the Switch you have. Its hard outer shell provides plenty of protection, ensuring your console, Joy-Con, games, and accessories avoid accidental damage. Inside, the microfiber screen cover and lining offer soft cushioning, preventing scratches to the Switch’s screen.
Thanks to the water-resistant EVA outer shell, no spillages will leak into the case. If you don’t want to stuff your Switch in a bag, then the Orzly Carry Case's rubberized handle makes it easy to carry. There’s also storage for up to eight cartridges, so you won’t be without your favorite games away from home base.
The inner mesh pocket can store a range of accessories, including cables, SD cards, and so on. If you’re looking for a secure case to store your Nintendo Switch in, this is an absolute steal at under 20ドル. Plus, it comes in nine different colors like midnight blue, red, and pink.
With smaller dimensions than the original, the Switch Lite needs its own set of accessories. The Game Traveler Zelda Nintendo Switch Lite Case will keep the compact console safe with a hard outer shell made with ballistic nylon, a soft interior lining, and a durable handle. Cutouts and a large tongue protect the screen and hold the Nintendo Switch Lite tightly in place, preventing any major wiggling.
You won’t find much extra space for accessories, but you get a plastic game holder that can hold up to four games and will remain secure in a recessed area underneath the console. There’s an adjustable viewing stand, but that’s it for extras, though the case's nods to Zelda with a Hylian shield on the front and zipper are nice touches.
A Switch might be a bit of an investment, but a case for it doesn’t have to be. For just 15,ドル Game Traveler has designed a reliable option licensed by Nintendo to keep the console safe.
The Game Traveler Nintendo Switch Deluxe Case keeps compact dimensions that can house the original Switch, OLED, or Lite. Its hard shell is wrapped in ballistic nylon for added durability, while the inside features a soft felt to prevent scratches to the display. For added protection, a tongue keeps the Switch securely in place, and everything gets zipped up to keep the device safe from short drops, debris in your backpack, and even a bit of water – just don’t dunk it.
Beyond protecting the Switch, Game Traveler’s case has a bit of extra space to hold some accessories. It’s pretty limited storage, but it comes with two plastic game cases that live in a recessed cutout that can hold up to eight cartridges or SD cards for a healthy on-the-go game library. When playing on a tabletop, a stand is included on the case to prop up the Switch at various angles for added convenience.
To take your Nintendo Switch or Switch OLED safely on the move without sacrificing portability, grab the Tomtoc case. Rather than a brick of a carrying case that’ll fit your console and all its accessories, this one wraps up the Switch for a snug, skin-like fit. There’s almost no extra bulk, and it weighs less than half a pound.
You might be concerned that your Switch’s joystick and buttons will have unnecessary pressure placed on them or be accidentally activated, but Tomtoc includes raised sections to accommodate those controls. The case has a soft exterior layer and interior that helps cushion the blow if dropped, and sandwiched in between is a hard, water-resistant EVA shell. Though it's especially slim, the Tomtoc case still has space to squeeze in a 10-slot organizer for game cartridges.
For the toughest Switch case, you'll want the Zadii Hard Carrying Case. This rugged case is surprisingly affordable and offers plenty of protection with its ample padding, even having precut foam slots to snuggly tuck away your whole setup: the console, controllers (Joy-Con, Pro Controller, or third-party), dock, and battery adapter.
The lid of this carrying case also provides a pocket for an HDMI cable and a set of sleeves to hold 21 game cartridges, and a detachable shoulder strap makes carrying the whole thing easier. It's basically a briefcase purpose-built for the Switch.
Sure, the Switch can fit in plenty of sling bags. But for those serious about the Switch and its accessories, it’s best to grab one specifically designed for the console, and GeekShare did just that. This bag made for Switch goes on quickly, offers plenty of storage space, keeps things organized, and provides solid protection for your gear while on the move.
GeekShare’s bag offers one sizable main pocket ready to house the Switch, a smartphone, and even one of the best handheld PCs. Inside that pocket, a soft nylon material helps prevent scratches to the display on those pricey devices, and there’s even a small zipper pocket to tuck away cash, credit cards, or other items for safekeeping. While the large main compartment is ideal for the console, a few outside pockets – including a clear one ready to show off some fun-colored Joy-Con and a larger pocket for USB-C chargers, power banks, and stray cords – are great for other for accessories.
The durable and waterproof Oxford cloth fabric used in the bag’s design and sturdy zipper should keep your console and accessories safe. However, it doesn’t feature a hard shell like many other cases in this guide for that added layer of protection. Still, this versatile bag is perfect for those looking to take the Switch and a slew of accessories on the go.
If you want the simplicity of a bag you can sling over your shoulder, then tomtoc Sling Shoulder Travel Bag should do the trick. This bag comes with an adjustable shoulder strap to fit the bag exactly to your liking. It’s also built to withstand the outside world with a splash-resistant polyester material and high-quality zippers.
Inside the tomtoc Sling Shoulder Travel Bag, you’ll find a soft lining to prevent scratches alongside a removable W-shaped padding structure and a 20-game cartridge holder. The W-shaped design hugs your Switch in place, preventing accidental joystick presses and separating the console from other accessories in the bag. You can even slip a portable charger in and run a charging cable between compartments to charge on the go. An additional pocket on the front of the bag is perfect for smaller items you might need, like earbuds or charging cables.
Mumba’s Dockable Case offers full-time protection for your Switch, and there’s little reason to ever take it off. If you want to use your Joy-Con separately from the console, you can slip them out effortlessly without this case getting in the way. Specially placed cutouts give access to all the essential ports, and it’s even possible to leave it on when docking your Switch, hence the name.
If you’ve got butterfingers, Mumba’s 24/7 protection is ideal. This case wraps your Switch in a shock-absorbing, rubberized material that’s easy to grip and will keep your console safe from bumps, scratches, and drops. And it’s available in multiple colors, so you can choose one that best fits your aesthetic.
If you take your Switch everywhere, battery life might be your top concern. The Newdery External Battery Station has an integrated 10,000mAh battery, which can extend gameplay considerably, up to an extra 1.6 charges or around 8 hours of gameplay. You’re not limited to just juicing up your Switch, as it also works as a portable charger to top up your phone or tablet.
This Nintendo Switch battery case is rocking some handy extras, like a kickstand in the back to use your Switch in tabletop mode, and a slot behind that kickstand can stow two game cartridges. It also offers an 18W PD, ensuring your Switch’s fully drained battery is back to full in less than two hours. There’s even a smart chipset to help protect your device against overvoltage and short-circuiting, while cutouts and air vents on the case prevent overheating.
Bionik’s Power Commuter Travel Bag has a beefy 10,000mAh battery. But rather than charging directly in the case like the Newdery External Battery Station, this option includes an integrated USB-C charging cable to plug in when you stop and play. Of course, that means it’s easy to use this battery to juice up your other devices, and the bag even includes a USB-A connector.
Beyond the battery, the Power Commuter Travel Bag features a durable canvas exterior, and you can wear it across your shoulder or strap it to other luggage. Inside, this bag is padded and plush to keep your Switch safe. It’s also spacious and ready to house a slew of Switch accessories, including slots for game cartridges and Joy-Con.
Who said you had to keep your Nintendo Switch in a little case? The Animal Crossing backpack from Controller Gear offers plenty of room for your Nintendo Switch and won’t set you back too many bells. You can even throw in a few of the Switch controllers and other accessories, like the best Switch headsets, since you won’t be limited to stuffing everything into tiny compartments.
Your console can slide into a dedicated sleeve, and there's even a holder to toss in your dock with its associated cables. Maybe you're going to get the Nitro Deck for your Switch so you can take advantage of the deck’s comfortable-to-hold form factor with reliable sticks and remappable buttons. The backpack offers plenty of room for it, all of your daily essentials, and more.
Keep the Nintendo Switch safe while remaining easy to access by gearing up with a sleeve-style case. Waterfield Designs crafts some great bags for a range of devices, and it has created a sleeve specifically for the Switch or Switch Lite. Unlike most cases that require fussing with a zipper or velcro to access the console, this one features a case-length rare earth magnetic strip secures the opening when needed but lets you slip out the console for gaming in seconds.
The lightweight and compact carrying sleeve is basically a Switch dopp kit with a subtle design to suit just about anyone's style preferences. Each bag is made in the USA with high-quality fabrics, including canvas, nylon, and leather, which are all stain and water-resistant. Inside the pouch is a fuzzy lining to stay gentle on the screen, and two slim interior pockets hold a few accessories like cords and games.
If you need something to carry your console around, look for a carrying or travel case; basically, something with straps and is big enough to hold a charger. If you're throwing it in bag, something with a hard shell is a smarter bet. It should have a way to protect the screen from scratches (usually with a flip-down tongue or sleeve). Consider what you need to carry. Perhaps all you need is the console itself, maybe a few game cartridges. But if you're traveling away from home for a while, you might need a case large enough to hold the dock and an HDMI cable.
Some cases come with an integrated battery. It’s probably not worth considering a charging case with less than about 10,000mAh of power, as that’ll power your Switch through just short of two complete charges. Bonus points if the battery charges quickly, and can also charge other devices in your inventory.
Remember that these are cases you’ll need to cart around in the real world. What, exactly, do you want to be seen wearing or carrying? Some cases look a little goofy or childish, which is fine if you’re a child, and less so if you’re a grownup who takes a Switch to work to game on a lunch break.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of Switch and Switch OLED cases will not fit the Switch 2, especially if they were made to be slim and discreet. Measuring 10.5 inches, the Switch 2 is a full inch wider than the Switch OLED, which is just a hair bigger than the original. Unless your case or bag is already fairly roomy, you'll have to size up with a new one. We'll be testing Switch 2 accessories to find the best of them as they're available.
Unless you’re playing your Switch exclusively at home, you will absolutely want a case to ensure the longevity of the device. Although the portable console is relatively durable, if you toss it in a bag or accidentally drop it without protection, you always run the risk of cracking the screen, damaging the Joy-Con, or breaking other key components, essentially bricking the device or needing to fix it for far more than the cost of a case.
Cases also add convenience, as many come with extra storage for game cartridges and accessories and straps for easy carrying. You’ll even find options that serve as grips to make gameplay more enjoyable or cases offering integrated batteries, ensuring you’re never without juice during crucial moments in the action.
None of the Nintendo Switch models come with a case. In some instances, there may be a bundle deal that includes a case, but for the most part, you’ll have to seek out a case on your own.
A Nintendo Switch is 4 x 9.4 x 0.55 inches with the Joy-Con attached; a Switch OLED is 4 x 9.5 x 0.55 inches; and the Switch Lite is . You’ll need to account for the material required in the case’s design, about 0.1-0.2 inches or so, but by no means does the case need to be massive. Sleeve-type cases, like Waterfield Designs Magnetic Case, are especially good for keeping a low handling footprint.
If you’re looking for a hard-shelle case to boost protection or want additional storage for accessories, the case size will increase more drastically. You can expect to add an inch or more to the Switch’s size to accommodate these additions. When putting accessories into a case, it’s also important they don’t press up against your device, causing accidental misspresses or damage to the screen. Pockets and separate storage areas can help prevent this.
Danielle is a Tech freelance writer based in Los Angeles who spends her free time creating videos and geeking out over music history.
]]>It's beginning to feel like the late '90s all over again, what with how Mortal Kombat is all the rage. 2024 saw the release of Mortal Kombat 1, the latest entry in the uber-popular fighting game series. And now MK is returning to the big screen, as Warner Bros. gears up for the release of Mortal Kombat 2, a sequel to 2021's surprisingly solid reboot.
In light of all these big developments in the MK world, we thought now would be the perfect time to look back at the franchise's long, colorful and occasionally baffling history in film and TV. Check out our slideshow below or scroll down for a closer look at all the Mortal Kombat adaptations and how closely (or not) they followed the source material.
The original Mortal Kombat movie is widely regarded as one of the best video game adaptations to date. Which, granted, is a very dubious honor. Even so, the movie still stands as a solid example of how to bring the series to life in live-action. It presents a reasonably faithful retelling of the original game's extremely barebones storyline, while drawing in elements of Mortal Kombat II and some of the backstory from the tie-in comics. Like many adaptations, it positions Liu Kang (Robin Chou) as the central hero destined to defeat the soul-stealing Shang Tsung (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa). For purists, the movie's biggest sin is simply that it doesn't replicate the violence of the games, opting instead for a more pedestrian PG-13 approach.
What the movie does capture, however, is that essential undercurrent of camp and zaniness that goes hand-in-hand with the gratuitous violence. Mortal Kombat the movie definitely isn't guilty of taking itself too seriously. It's also the movie that introduced the world to The Immortals' "Techno Syndrome," the most iconic video game music this side of the Super Mario Bros. theme.
There's some pretty stiff competition when it comes to deciding the worst Mortal Kombat adaptation ever made, but this direct-to-video release may just take the top honor. Released ahead of the live-action film and ostensibly a prequel to said film, The Journey Begins sets about fleshing out the origin stories of various MK icons. But the connective tissue is dubious at best. And as dated as the CGI in the live-action movie may be, it's state-of-the-art compared to the archaic, sub-Playstation quality 3D fight scenes in The Journey Begins. Hardcore fans may want to watch this one out of sheer, morbid curiosity (especially since it's included as a bonus feature on the Mortal Kombat Blu-ray), but don't expect it to actually enhance your enjoyment of the games or the movies.
The '80s and '90s TV landscape was littered with attempts to translate adults-only pop culture properties into kid-friendly cartoons. Case in point - RoboCop: The Animated Series, Rambo: The Force of Freedom and Toxic Crusaders. We honestly have to respect Kenner's moxie for deciding to cut out the middleman and directly market Terminator 2 and Aliens toys to kids without even waiting for cartoons.
With Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm, USA Network threw its razor-edged hat into the ring. This short-lived series aired on the network's Action Extreme Team block in 1996. Somewhat bafflingly, it attempts to serve as a continuation of both the 1995 movie and the Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 video game, though the all-ages approach basically renders that moot. Defenders of the Realm simplifies the complex series of alliances and rivalries that define the MK mythos, instead featuring a team of heroes led by Raiden and Nighthawk tasked with defending Earthrealm from Shao Kahn's interdimensional invaders.
Defenders of the Realm does make one notable addition to the franchise, however. The series was actually the first to introduce Quan Chi before his roles in Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero and Mortal Kombat 4.
If the first Mortal Kombat movie is among the best attempts at adapting a video game to film, its sequel is easily among the worst. It's not necessarily that Annihilation plays fast and loose with the source material. It introduces a number of popular characters like Shao Kahn (Brian Thompson), Jax (Lynn Williams) and Sindel (Musetta Vandel), along with familiar MK elements like Animalities, the death of Johnny Cage and Kuai Liang taking up his brother's mantle as Sub-Zero. The problem is that the movie fails to string any of that together into a coherent and interesting story. There's not much internal logic to what happens or which characters appear.
But even if the plot lived up to the first movie, Annihilation is plagued with lousy effects, underwhelming fight scenes, and actors who would seemingly rather be anywhere else. It's telling that, apart from Chou's Liu Kang, nearly all the returning characters were recast for the sequel. But if nothing else, at least the soundtrack is pretty good.
While Annihilation basically destroyed Mortal Kombat's big-screen prospects for the next two decades, that didn't stop TNT from airing a live-action TV series in 1998. Mortal Kombat: Conquest serves as a prequel to the movies, taking place 500 years before the era of Liu Kang. Instead, Conquest revolves around Liu's ancestor Kung Lao (Paolo Montalbán), a warrior monk tasked with training a new generation of fighters to defend Earthrealm. While many of the series' supporting characters are new creations, many MK fan-favorites show up over the course of Conquest's one and only season.
The best that can be said for Conquest is that it was ahead of its time. The prequel premise is strong, and it's certainly a better offshoot of the 1995 film than Annihilation. But even at the time, it was difficult to ignore the lousy wire-fu fight scenes and generally bad special effects. It's hard not to wonder what might have been if Conquest had come along a decade or two later.
Outside of the games themselves, the MK franchise largely went dormant in the '00s. It wasn't until filmmaker Kevin Tancharoen took the initiative and put together a short, unauthorized Mortal Kombat movie that the ball started rolling again.
Though produced on a very low budget and not sanctioned by Warner Bros. or Mortal Kombat's creators, Tancharoen's short film Mortal Kombat: Rebirth is a surprisingly professional adaptation. Rebirth is unique in that it downplays the franchise's supernatural trappings, instead casting Scorpion (Ian Anthony Dale) as an assassin working with Captain Jackson Briggs (Michael Jai White) and Sonya Blade (Jeri Ryan) to bring down Shang Tsung's criminal empire and get revenge on his nemesis, Sub-Zero.
Tancharoen intended for Rebirth to serve as a proof-of-concept for a possible movie reboot. He sort of got his wish as he was given the reins of the live-action web series Mortal Kombat: Legacy.
Tancharoen returned to the MK franchise the following year, this time with the actual approval of Warner Bros. and a greenlight for a full season of live-action webisodes exclusive to Machinima. Legacy doesn't follow the new continuity established in Rebirth, though Dale, White and Ryan all returned to reprise their roles for Season 1. Instead, Legacy acts as a prequel to the original game, with each Season 1 episode fleshing out the backstory for a different Kombatant.
Season 2 proved to be a fairly steep departure, with Legacy shifting to a more narrative-driven approach while bringing in a number of new characters and recasting many existing roles. One bonus of that revamp is that Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa was able to reprise the role of Shang Tsung (paving the way for him to make the jump over to the games in the form of Mortal Kombat 11 DLC).
As inconsistent as it is in terms of tone and plot, Legacy shows the potential in a more earnest take on the MK mythology. It also looks surprisingly robust for a free-to-watch web series.
Mortal Kombat returned to the animated realm in 2020, in what proved to be a vastly better adaptation than either The Journey Begins or Defenders of the Realm. It helps that Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge is aimed squarely at adults. In fact, this direct-to-video release is actually the first R-rated Mortal Kombat movie.
Scorpion's Revenge is an adaptation of the original game's storyline, but with a twist. Rather than framing the movie around the heroic Liu Kang, we'll see the fateful tournament from Scorpion's point of view. The movie explores the character's tragic origin story and the beginnings of his feud with Sub-Zero. You can learn more in IGN's Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge review.
The first film has proven popular enough to spawn three more direct-to-video sequels, 2021's Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms, 2022's Mortal Kombat Legends: Snow Blind, and 2023's Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match.
After years of rumors about another live-action Mortal Kombat movie, the franchise finally returned to the big screen in 2021. The new movie isn't connected to previous projects, but instead serves as a complete reboot. Star Mehcad Brooks (who plays Jax) describes it as having "grounded realism" despite retaining the Fatalities and other violent trappings of the games. Here's a full breakdown of the Mortal Kombat reboot's cast.
The reboot hit theaters and HBO Max simultaneously in April 2021. You can check out IGN's Mortal Kombat review for more. Though the pandemic obviously affected the film's box office haul, it proved critically and commercially successful enough that Warners greenlit a sequel.
The rebooted Mortal Kombat series will return to theaters in 2025 in the form of a sequel currently titled simply Mortal Kombat 2. In addition to returning favorites like Hiroyuki Sanada as Scorpion, Ludi Lin as Liu Kang, Mehcad Brooks as Jax, and Jessica McNamee as Sonya Blade, the film will also introduce Karl Urban’s Johnny Cage, Martyn Ford’s Shao Kahn, Damoin Herriman's Quan Chi, and Adeline Rudolph’s Kitana. We recently got a closer look at several of the cast members.
At this point, there seems little doubt that Mortal Kombat 2 will be a better sequel than Mortal Kombat: Annihilation was, but that's not exactly a high bar to cross. The question is whether the sequel can continue the momentum generated by the original and pave the way for even more of the proposed sequels. There's plenty of fight left in this franchise yet.
Note: this article was originally published on 04/09/2020 and updated on 03/17/2025 with the latest news about the Mortal Kombat franchise.
Jesse is a mild-mannered staff writer for IGN. Allow him to lend a machete to your intellectual thicket byfollowing @jschedeen on BlueSky .
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