20 years of PlayStation Store – devs share the great games that surprised them most
PlayStation celebrates 20 years of its digital storefront with developer reflections on unexpected favorites, alongside a new showcase and discounts.
PlayStation Studios and third-party developers shared personal picks of games that surprised them most over the past two decades, highlighting titles that defied initial expectations. The reflections span genres, from narrative-driven adventures to experimental indie experiences, showcasing the diversity of the PlayStation Store catalog. A live showcase launched today at 11:00 a.m. local time, offering deals and a curated selection of standout titles to mark the milestone.
Hamaguchi Naoki of Square Enix cited Balatro for its addictive progression and satisfying poker mechanics, noting how the game’s scoring system hooked him despite its simple rules. The developer emphasized the game’s ability to evoke pure joy through incremental achievements and strategic combinations.
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age was praised by an unnamed contributor for its unexpected twists, charming world design, and narrative surprises that subverted player expectations. The game’s blend of traditional JRPG elements with fresh storytelling techniques stood out as a standout surprise.
Santa Monica Studio’s God of War (2018) was highlighted for its emotional depth and thematic complexity, with Kratos’ transformation from rage to fatherhood resonating deeply with the developer. The game’s balance of gameplay and storytelling was noted as a rare achievement in the medium.