The 10 Best PlayStation 1 Games on Nintendo Switch

Well, folks, this is it—the final installment of my retro game eShop lists! I'm running low on retro consoles with diverse enough game libraries to justify another list, but I saved the best for last: the PlayStation. Sony's first console exceeded all expectations, building a legendary library with titles still re-released today. These games may have given Nintendo a run for its money a quarter-century ago, but now everyone can enjoy them on their preferred platforms. Here are ten of our favorites (in no particular order). Let the PlaySta-Show begin!

Klonoa: The Door to Phantomile – Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series ($39.99)

Klonoa is a fantastic game that deserved more recognition than it received, though it certainly wasn't ignored. It's arguably one of the most successful 2.5D platformers on the console. You play as a charming floppy-eared creature navigating a dream world to thwart a dangerous threat. Expect vibrant visuals, tight gameplay, engaging bosses, and a surprisingly impactful story. The sequel (originally on PlayStation 2) isn't quite as good, but you really should get both as a set.

Final Fantasy VII ($15.99)

This is a monumental title—the Japanese RPG that introduced the genre to a wider Western audience. It's Square Enix's biggest success and a key driver of the PlayStation's dominance. Yes, the Final Fantasy VII Remake exists, but hopefully, people understand its nature. If you want the original Final Fantasy VII story, be prepared for some polygonal nostalgia. It's still a fantastic game, and its enduring appeal is easy to understand.

Metal Gear Solid – Master Collection Version ($19.99)

Another PlayStation heavyweight, Metal Gear Solid revived a dormant franchise on a much larger stage. The series became increasingly quirky over time, perhaps delving too deeply into its own meta-narrative. However, the first game remains exceptional, feeling less like a Kojima philosophical exercise and more like a thrilling G.I. Joe episode. It's also incredibly fun to play. And if you enjoy it, both PlayStation 2 sequels are available on Switch!

G-Darius HD ($29.99)

Let's explore a slightly more niche title. G-Darius successfully transitioned Taito's classic shoot 'em up series to 3D. While the polygonal graphics haven't aged as well as the sprites in the 2D games, they possess a unique charm. The vibrant colors, satisfying enemy-capture mechanic, and inventive bosses make for a fantastic shooter.

Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition ($19.99)

I could easily fill this list with Square Enix games, but I'll limit it to this and Final Fantasy VII to give others a chance. Chrono Cross faced an impossible task: following one of the most beloved JRPGs ever. It didn't quite succeed, and Chrono Cross doesn't hold the same legendary status as Chrono Trigger. However, viewed independently, it's a clever and visually stunning RPG with a large cast of (admittedly underdeveloped) characters. Plus, it boasts one of the best video game soundtracks ever. Don't @ me.

Mega Man X4 – Mega Man X Legacy Collection ($19.99)

I love most Mega Man games, but my fondness is undoubtedly tinted by nostalgia. When recommending the series to newcomers, I only confidently suggest a few from each sub-series. In Mega Man X, it's Mega Man X and Mega Man X4. While I enjoyed the intervening games, X4 feels more polished. This was a brief period of balance before the series veered off course again. But don't take my word for it—get the Legacy Collection and decide for yourself!

Tomba! Special Edition ($19.99)

Sony published many first-party titles it didn't actually own. I always assumed Tomba! was a first-party title like Crash Bandicoot, but… oh, wait, it was! Anyway, Tomba! is a unique platformer blending adventure game elements with solid action. Remember, the creator of Tomba! also made Ghosts ‘n Goblins. It might seem easy at first, but it gets challenging. A truly neat game, and I'm glad it's readily available again.

Grandia – Grandia HD Collection ($39.99)

Grandia was originally a SEGA Saturn game, but the PlayStation port formed the basis of this HD release, so it belongs here. Created by many of the Lunar team, Grandia shares its spirit. In an era of Evangelion-influenced RPGs, Grandia dared to be bright and cheerful. It also features a satisfying combat system building upon Game Arts' work on Lunar. The other game in the collection is also quite good.

Tomb Raider – Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft ($29.99)

Another PlayStation icon, Lara Croft starred in five PlayStation adventures. Quality varied, with some excelling in certain areas and faltering in others. If I had to choose the best, it would be the original, focusing more on tomb raiding than action. This collection lets you decide, including the first three games.

moon ($18.99)

Let's end with a hidden gem. Originally Japan-only, moon deconstructs the contemporary RPG, even described by its creators as an "anti-RPG." It's more of an adventure game, with a distinctly "punk" feel. Some parts aren't very fun, but it doesn't aim for constant fun. It delivers a compelling message, and I'm thrilled it's finally available in English.

That's the list! Do you enjoy any PlayStation 1 games on Switch? Let us know in the comments! I hope you enjoyed this series as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thanks for reading!