Best of Rockstar games

So here’s the good news. The new GTA VI game is coming out. We know that and most of us saw the new trailer released last week over a dozen times. But we have to wait until May 2026 to finally get to play the game. And that’s the bad news. But hey, let’s not forget that Rockstar Games made a whole lot of great open world games, so if patience is your weakness or something you’re trying to improve on, especially when you’re waiting for the new GTA VI, then here are some of the best of Rockstar games you can play now.

Top-Rated Best of Rockstar games

6 – Grand Theft Auto III

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

 

Available: PSN, PS4, PS3, PS2, PC, Xbox
Released: 2002

“It’s just like what ‘Grand Theft Auto’ is all about. It’s a good way to see the origins of today’s popular open-world games.”

★ ★ ★ ★

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Starting with the very first game 3D open world game, which was recently remastered, Grand Theft Auto III. I like how the game preserves the unique elements of the original, while bringing it to a new audience with improved graphics.

You can still see how significant this game was for open-world games despite the upgraded graphics. Even with its more antiquated layout, Liberty City is nonetheless a great destination to explore because it has a genuine, gritty feel to it.

The plot, which centers on a guy attempting to succeed in the criminal underworld, is straightforward but captivating. Also, it’s still a lot of fun to drive around, cause mayhem whilst listening to the various radio stations.

It’s just like what ‘Grand Theft Auto’ is all about. It’s a good way to see the origins of today’s popular open-world games. If you wanna relive the original GTA game that started the whole open world gaming genre, then get the remastered GTA III, included on the GTA Trilogy.  

5 – Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

Another remastered game is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City which transports you back to the 1980s. The city itself is like entering a vintage film, complete with sunny beaches, tall palm trees, and the bright neon lights.

Another major factor in this game’s excellence is the music. The entire experience is made much more amazing when you’re driving around and listening to music from the 80s era.

In addition, it’s entertaining to read about Tommy Vercetti’s rise to prominence in this ostentatious city. While it still has the typical Grand Theft Auto distinct craziness, GTA Vice City has an authentic sound and style that sets it apart and gives the impression that it’s a completely new and enjoyable area to cause mischief.

So, if you relive the nostalgia of the 80s, and play one of the most the best of Rockstar games of its time, then get yourself the remastered GTA Trilogy, which includes Vice City.  

4 – Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

What I really like about recently remastered Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is how big and varied the open world is. It’s not just one city; you get three whole cities and the countryside in between to explore. Each place feels different and has its own vibe.

Plus, you get to do so many different things in the game, like riding motorbikes, driving lowriders, listening to 90s hip hop while cruising the highway, and even flying airplanes.

The main story about our protagonist, CJ, and his journey is also really engaging, and you meet all sorts of memorable characters along the way.

It felt like a huge adventure with a lot of freedom to do what you wanted, and that made it a really special and fun game to play. 

So, if you wanna relive the nostalgia of 90s, and play one of the most iconic Rockstar games of the PS2 era, then get yourself the remastered GTA Trilogy, which includes San Andreas.  

3 – Red Dead Redemption

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

 

Available: PSN, Xbox 360, PC
Released: 2011

“Red Dead Redemption just had this amazing feeling of adventure and a great story that made it a game I’ll still remember today”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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Even though it came out a while ago, Red Dead Redemption game is still one of the best I’ve ever played. Released in 2011, It was the very first open world Wild West game I’ve ever played.

What I liked most was the feeling of being a real cowboy. The world felt vast and open, and riding my horse across those dusty plains, shooting and using a lasso to catch criminals for bounties, and other missions, just felt awesome.

The story about our main protagonist, John Marston, trying to do right by his family, was also really well done and made you care about what happened to him. It was a bit sad at times, but it was an engaging story that stuck with you.

Even without all the fancy stuff in the second game, the first Red Dead Redemption just had this amazing feeling of adventure and a great story that made it a game I’ll still remember today.

2 – Red Dead Redemption 2

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

 

Available: PC, PS4, Xbox One
Released: 2018

“Even though it’s a long game, it’s always fun to just ride around, explore, and get into little adventures. It’s a game that really pulls you in and makes you feel like you’re part of the open world.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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What I really like about Red Dead Redemption 2 is how real and alive the game world feels. Riding your horse through the big open world feels like you’re actually there.

The wild animals, the towns and cities, and even the weather just adds to the realism. Plus, the story about Arthur Morgan and his gang is super interesting.

You get to know the characters and care about what happens to them. It’s not just about shooting; it’s about friendship and tough times.

Red Dead 2 is amazing on its own, but Red Dead Online brings a whole lot more adventures. One good thing is that you get to explore that same huge, beautiful world with your friends. Riding together, hunting, and just messing around in the Wild West with other players online can be a lot of fun.

Another good thing is that there’s always something new to do. They keep adding new missions, roles you can take on (like being a Bounty Hunter or a Trader), and events to play.

This means the game doesn’t get boring as quickly, and there are always reasons to come back and play. Plus, you get to make your own character and build your own story in that world, which is pretty cool.

And even though it’s a long game, it’s always fun to just ride around, explore, and get into little adventures. It’s a game that really pulls you in and makes you feel like you’re part of its world. So if it’s you’re a fan of cowboys and Wild West games with a Rockstar tweak, then give Red Dead Redemption 2 a try. 

1 – Grand Theft Auto 5

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

(image credit: Rockstar Games)

 

Available: PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X

Released: 2013

“It’s a big, amazing game with a world you can really get lost in, a good story, and tons more to do online”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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If you haven’t played this game yet, GET IT NOW. You’ll really enjoy it. In fact, this one is my favorite and takes the number one spot. I really like Grand Theft Auto 5 because its world, Los Santos, feels alive, and vibrant with lots of cool stuff to do and explore.

The main story about our three protagonists Michael, Franklin, and Trevor is also great, and the different lives they live make playing GTA 5 a lot more fun and interesting to play. The missions, especially the big heists, are really exciting.

GTA Online part adds a whole lot of extra fun. One of the best things is that you get to mess around in the big city of Los Santos with your friends. You can do crazy missions together, race cars, or just cause chaos. It’s like having a giant playground where you can do almost anything you can imagine with others online.

Another cool thing about GTA Online is that there’s always new stuff being added. New cars, new missions, new businesses to run, even fun events to get into. The game never really gets old, and there’s always something fresh and exciting to try out.

You also get to create your own character, buy cool cars and houses, and build your own criminal empire.

Overall, it’s a big, amazing game with a world you can really get lost in, a good story, great cut scenes, and tons more to do online. For me, I recommend you get your hands on one of the greatest open world games of all time, Grand Theft Auto 5.   

Lastly

So there you have it – My choice of the top open-world, best of Rockstar games I can recommend you play whilst waiting for the next GTA VI. Each of the games featured, comes with a fun and enjoyable gameplay, great graphics, an interesting storyline, memorable characters, and side missions to keep you playing.

Now I wanna hear your thoughts on my choice of these Rockstar games. Are you also a fan of these open world games? What games are you playing currently? Have you played any of the above?

If you have a comment of wish to add your answers, please leave them here below. After you’ve done so, click on the red buttons and find out more about these awesome games, and if your tempted to, buy it.

That’s all from me for now. Stay safe and happy gaming 😀

most challenging PS5 games

Feeling like your trigger fingers have gotten a little too comfortable with those easy PS5 games you’re playing lately? Ready to put your real skills, and emotions, to the ultimate test and maybe, just maybe, end up tossing your gaming controller across the room in a fit of glorious rage? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving headfirst into the most challenging PS5 games you can get your hands on right now. Prepare to have your gaming mettle truly tested!

The Most Challenging PS5 Games To Play Right Now

Returnal’s reputation for being a challenging PS5 game comes from a unique blend of roguelike elements and intense, fast-paced gameplay. The Roguelike structure stems from its unique gaming loop mechanism. This means that when you die, you lose most of your progress and start again back at the very beginning of the cycle. This creates a high-stakes experience where every run counts.

Grinding is not an option here. Players must rely on their skills to adapt to the ever-changing environments and enemy encounters. 

The combat is fast and intense, demanding players to have quick reflexes and precision in aiming. Enemies are continuously aggressive and often unleashes a barrage of projectiles in hopes to make your gaming session extremely difficult.

The game’s environments and enemy layouts are procedurally generated, meaning that each run is different. This adds an element of unpredictability and prevents players from memorizing enemy patterns or level layouts.  This also means that the items and upgrades you find are randomized, adding to the challenge of adapting to what you are given on each run. 

Returnal’s environment is generated after each run adding to the difficulty. (Image credit: Climax Studios)

There are no checkpoints in this game, which amplifies the tension. Losing a run can mean losing significant progress, which can be frustrating at times, but adds to the sense of accomplishment when you finally overcome a challenge.

Boss encounters are particularly challenging, requiring players to master the game’s combat mechanics and learn complex attack patterns. They are often long, and multi phased, meaning that players must maintain focus for extended periods of time.

Returnal contains systems that can cause disadvantages to the player, and parasites that can give both benefits and detriments. This adds another layer of risk-and-reward gameplay, that can greatly increase the difficulty.

Overall, Returnal’s challenge stems from its unforgiving roguelike structure, intense combat, and unpredictable environments. It’s a game that demands persistence and rewards players who are willing to learn from their mistakes.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a 2024 action-adventure game developed by Ubisoft Montpellier. Based on the Prince of Persia gaming franchise, it has indeed accumulated great attention because of its fast-paced and challenging gameplay. Let’s break it down.

The game emphasizes intricate and demanding platforming sections. Players need to execute precise jumps, dashes, and utilize time-based abilities to navigate treacherous environments. These sequences can be quite challenging, demanding precise timing and coordination.

Next is the combat system, which is fast, fluid and easy to execute. However, the parry system has a small window, making it a challenge for the players to master. Enemies are aggressive and have complex attack patterns, making combat encounters intense.  

The combat is fast and fluid, yet the enemies are a challenge thanks to the complex attack patterns. (Image credit: Ubisoft)

If you like games such as Metroid and Castlevania, you will feel right at home. With The Lost Crown, it features interconnected levels with intricate layouts. Exploration requires careful navigation, with problem-solving elements, and often presents challenging puzzles and traps. 

The game prioritizes player skill over grinding or overpowered character builds. Success relies on mastering the game’s mechanics and adapting to its challenges. 

Many reviews and player experiences point to the Boss fights being very difficult. With multiple phases, and needing precise timing to evade attacks, these fights are a true test of the players abilities. 

In essence, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown provides a challenging experience that rewards skill, precision, and patience. It blends demanding platforming with intense combat, creating a satisfying sense of accomplishment when overcoming its obstacles.

The Nioh Collection comes with two action RPG games, namely Nioh and Nioh 2. Both titles are remastered and includes all the DLCs from both titles. These action RPG games offer a fast-paced, yet challenging combat system, with a deep looting system, and a variety of Yokai enemies to battle. The high difficulty and the intricate mechanics keep players on their toes. 

Nioh’s combat system is incredibly complex. It features multiple weapon stances, Ki (or stamina) management, and a wide range of skills and abilities to learn. Mastering this system requires significant time and dedication. The Ki pulse mechanic, which allows players to recover Ki after attacks, adds another layer of complexity. Timing Ki pulses correctly is essential for maintaining offensive pressure and avoiding enemy attacks.

The world of Nioh is populated with Yokai, which are supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. They possess unique skills and often devastating attack patterns. The boss encounters are even more challenging, requiring the players to learn their attack patterns, find their weaknesses, and manage their Ki effectively. These fights often demand precision and patience.

The combat is brutal and unforgiving, thanks to the enemy’s complex attack patterns. (Image credit: Team Ninja)

Nioh features a deep loot system, that includes numerous weapons, armor pieces, and accessories that offer various stats and effects. It does require a series of grinding to get the best build, however creating an effective character build is crucial for survival. As players must carefully consider which weapon to choose, the armor sets to equip, and which skills to utilize in order to beat the game. 

The Nioh games are known for their unforgiving nature. Even basic enemies can pose a significant threat, and mistakes made are often punished severely. The games demand that players learn from their mistakes and adapt to the challenges they face.

In essence, the Nioh series is known as one of the most challenging PS5 games today, even though it was released back in 2021. The combat is challenging. The enemies are punishing because of their complex attack patterns. And the deep looting system challenges players to work on building the most effective build. It’s a series that rewards skill, patience, and a willingness to learn from repeated failures.

If you are more into souls-like games with puppets and robots them, make Lies of P you next game to get. It takes inspiration from the story of Pinocchio, and delivers a challenging experience with a focus on precise combat system, and parrying. This title has gained a reputation to offer the most challenging gameplay to the player. Let’s break it down and see why it’s the case.

Lies of P heavily emphasizes parrying as a core combat mechanic. Successful parries are crucial for dealing significant damage and breaking enemy posture. This demands exceptional timing and reflexes. The game’s combat system is designed to punish players who rely on dodging alone, forcing them to master the parry. This adds to the complexity of the game, creating a high ceiling, and requires dedication to learn enemy attack patterns.

The puppets, which are your enemies in Lies of P, are aggressive and possess complex attack patterns. They often have long attack strings and delayed attacks, making them difficult to predict. Boss encounters are particularly challenging, requiring players to memorize attack patterns, adapt to phase changes, and execute precise parries. These fights often feel like intense duels that demand near-perfect execution.

Hoping to find an abundance of healing potions? In Lies of P they are called ‘Pulses’ and there’s not a lot of it. Yep, resources especially healing items are limited in the game. Players need to be strategic in resource management and avoid unnecessary damage, which adds another layer of difficulty.

The intricate level design adds to the difficulty of the game, so players need to be on their toes. (Image credit: Round 8 Studio)

Another reason why this game is difficult is the level design. Lies of P features intricate level design with winding paths, hidden shortcuts, and treacherous environments. It also incorporates environmental hazards and traps, so players need to be on their toes, literally.

One of the best features is the weapon assembly system, where you can customize your weapons to match your playstyle. However, it’s a  complex effort, which adds another layer of difficulty. Understanding how different blades and handle combinations affect your weapon’s performance is key to survival. Failure to do so will make the game that much more difficult.

Since this is a start of new gaming franchise, players don’t have the luxury to refer to previous titles. That in itself also brings a new experience and more challenges to the game.

In essence, Lies of P’s difficulty stems from its complex combat system, challenging enemies, and intricate level design. However, the game rewards you because of your skills, patience, and the willingness to learn and push on when things get tough. 

Bloodborne is a PlayStation exclusive, a 2015 action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware. Released back in 2015 for the PlayStation 4, Bloodborne has made a name for itself for being the most challenging video game to complete. Wanna know why? Let’s take a look.

First of all, the game diverges from the most defensive playstyle of Dark Souls and Demon Souls, to an aggressive, fast-paced combat. You’re encouraged to stay on the offensive, dodging attacks, and using visceral attacks to finish off foes. Though the offensive style is a good switch, it demands precise timing and quick reflexes, making it a challenge for those accustomed to more cautious gameplay.

Next is the parrying system. The game encourages you to use a firearm to parry attacks. That requires precise timing and can be risky. However, successful parries reward players with powerful visceral attacks, encouraging a high-risk, high-reward approach.

Thirdly, its the game’s formidable bosses and enemies. Bloodborne’s enemies and bosses are known for their relentless aggression and unpredictable attack patterns. They often possess devastating attacks that can quickly deplete the your character’s health. Boss encounters, in particular, are intense. To beat them you need to master their attack patterns and adapt to their evolving patterns and strategies.

You want to use a shield instead to block attacks? Forget it, they’re useless in this game. Compared to previous titles, Bloodborne offers fewer defensive such as shields. They are literally absent, forcing you to rely on dodging. This emphasis on evasion and offense makes the game more challenging, so as you play the game, you must constantly be on the move while anticipating enemy attacks.

You’re encouraged to stay on the offensive, dodging attacks, and using visceral attacks to finish off foes. (Image credit: FromSoftware)

The game’s tension is increased by its eerie music and terrifying atmosphere, which makes playing Bloodborne more difficult. You may end up being confused by the game’s gloomy and ominous settings, which makes fighting and exploring much more challenging.

In the end, Bloodborne’s difficulty stems from the aggressive combat, challenging yet terrifying bosses including enemies, and the dark gloomy atmosphere that feels like you’re in a nightmare you don’t want to wake up from. Overcoming the game comes with its unique game rewards, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction and the yearn for more. 

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is another action adventure game which quickly became one of the most challenging games of 2019. Developed by FromSoftware (along with other popular titles such as Dark Souls, and Bloodborne), this game takes a completely different turn, but it’s yet another challenge to play through. Here’s why.

Sekiro’s main combat strategy is to deflect enemy attacks, unlike Dark Souls or Elden Ring, which mostly rely on dodging and rolling. Precise timing and a comprehensive understanding of enemy patterns of attack are necessary for this.

Another level of complexity is introduced by the “posture” mechanism. Successful deflections are the way to go in this game, giving you a chance to execute a deadly “deathblow,” from breaking an enemy’s posture. This results in rhythmic, fierce confrontations where quick thinking is essential.

The combat system is aggressive and incredibly fast-paced. The enemies you face are relentless in their attacks, forcing you to stay on the offensive side, and to parry their attacks often in hopes to get an instant deathblow.       

The combat system is aggressive and incredibly fast-paced. The enemies you face are relentless in their attacks. (Image credit: FromSoftware)

Compared to other FromSoftware titles, Sekiro has fewer RPG elements. There’s less emphasis on character builds, stat optimization, and no character leveling system. The focus is on learning the combat techniques and mastering the core combat mechanics. This means players can’t rely on grinding levels or finding powerful gear to overcome challenges.

Bosses are difficult. They demand a near-perfect execution and a thorough understanding of their attack patterns. These encounters often feel like intense duels, where one mistake can lead to a swift death.

While combat is central, Sekiro also incorporates stealth, too. You must utilize these mechanics to navigate levels and gain an advantage over enemies. This adds another layer of complexity to the gameplay.

Speaking of the combat system, it’s very unique, and very different from other FromSoftware titles. This means that those who are used to “souls” type games, have to relearn how to play a FromSoftware game without it, adding to the challenge . This relearning process can be extremely difficult.

In essence, Sekiro is another challenging game that demands your precision, quick reflexes, and the willingness to adapt to the unique combat system. If you can master it, there’s a level of satisfaction you get when you finally overcome the immense challenges. 

FromSoftware’s open-world epic title, Elden Ring, is notorious for its demanding combat, challenging bosses, and unforgiving exploration. It’s a game that rewards patience, skill, and a willingness to learn from your many, many, many deaths.

It’s reputation for being a challenging game on the PlayStation 5 (and other platforms) stems from a combination of factors, deeply rooted in FromSoftware’s design philosophy.

Elden Ring is populated with incredibly powerful enemies and bosses, many of whom possess devastating attacks and complex move sets. The enemy encounters demand you to learn their attack patterns, timing and strategic thinking, and the willingness to learn from repeated failures. Equally bosses, however, are designed to be more challenging, often requiring you to master their attack patterns and most importantly, exploit their weaknesses.

The game’s combat system emphasizes skillful blocking, dodging, rolling, and parrying. Mistakes are often punished severely, and even minor enemies can pose a significant threat. The lack of changing difficulty options means that you all must face the same level of challenges.

The open world is breathtaking and beautiful. The game offers you freedom to explore to your heart’s content. (Image: FromSoftware)

The open world is breathtaking and beautiful. The game offers you freedom to explore to your heart’s content, yet also introduces you to uncertainty. You may easily stumble upon high-level enemies or encounter areas that are far beyond your current capabilities. No hand-holding or any assistance here, which leaves you with no choice but to discover its secrets and overcome its challenges on their own.

Elden Ring comes with a steep learning curve especially for those who have never come across ‘Souls-like’ titles. Mastering the game’s mechanics, understanding its systems, and adapting to its challenges requires patience and perseverance.

The game lets you collect ‘runes’ upon enemy defeat. You can use them to get stronger or purchase powerful weapons and gear. However, to add to the difficulty, Elden Ring penalizes you upon death, making you lose all the runes. This forces you to retrieve you lost ‘runes’ after respawning from the location of death. This adds a layer of tension and risk to exploration.

In the end, Elden Ring is a great title for those who like to explore in dangerous terrain, and are ready on whatever they encounter. The challenge is there, but you must face it head-on. While it may be a frustrating game at times, overcoming its obstacles provides a profound sense of accomplishment.   

Remember the 2D platforming hack-and-slash Ninja Gaiden series from the Nintendo era up until the modern Xbox? Well, Team Ninja has released one of the most violent, most intense, most challenging titles called Ninja Gaiden 2 Black.

Based on the Ninja Gaiden 2 released in 2008 on Xbox 360, the remastered version, called Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, which is release earlier on this year, continues on the well-earned reputation for its high difficulty.

The game is known for its incredibly fast and brutal combat. Enemies are aggressive. They attack relentlessly. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black needs you to be quick in attacks, with quick reflexes and execute in precise timing. You need to master complex combos and use a variety of weapons and techniques to survive to combat.

The enemies are also smart too. They often gang up on you and use coordinated attacks, forcing you to use crowd control combat techniques essential. The enemy AI is designed to literally punish you for making mistakes. Even basic enemies can pose a significant threat to your survival.

Boss encounters are challenging, requiring you to learn their complex attack patterns, find openings to attack, and execute precise dodges and counters. These battles often demand a high level of skill and patience.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black needs you to be quick in attacks, with quick reflexes and execute in precise timing. (Image credit: Team Ninja)

This action game needs you to have skills. Yep. Ninja Gaiden 2 Black prioritizes player skills over level-grinding or overpowered character builds. It all comes down to success in mastering the game’s mechanics and adapting to its challenges. Another reason why its so hard. 

The learning curve is so steep that even experienced action gaming fans find it hard. There’s a lot to master in this game, and players must be prepared to be punished for awful blunders.

Let’s not forget the camera angles. One of the most critiqued aspects of the game is the camera, especially in tight areas of the game. It gets even more frustrating when you’re cornered by enemies and the camera is literally your worse enemy. This adds another level of difficulty to the game.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is a lot of things. It’s fast and brutal. The enemy AI is aggressive. Boss encounters are challenging. The game is one of the hardest to play today, requiring you to be patience, quick, and skillful. You need skills to play this game but it’s not impossible to learn, but once you get your head around, you will feel like a super human ninja.  

Last Word

So there you have – a list of the most challenging PS5 games you can try right now. From the sprawling, unforgiving landscapes of Elden Ring to the parry-perfect precision of Sekiro, these difficult PlayStation 5 games are not just about playing; they’re about learning from mistakes, overcoming them, and conquering the game.

And yes, these games are not for the faint of heart. They are for those who relish the thrill of overcoming seemingly impossible odds, who find satisfaction in mastering complex combat systems, and who are not afraid to die… a lot.

Each of these AAA titles demands your focus, your skill, and your unwavering determination. And when you finally triumph, the feeling of accomplishment is truly satisfying and unparalleled.

So, are you ready to test your mettle? Are you prepared to face the ultimate challenge? Don’t just read about these epic PS5 titles; experience them for yourself! Click the links above to purchase these demanding and the most challenging PS5 games, so you can prove your worth. Don’t forget to add your comments or anything gaming below. The glory of victory awaits! 😀