PS1 Classics Surge on Nintendo Switch

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This concludes my retro game eShop series, friends! I'm running low on retro consoles with diverse enough game libraries. But I saved the best for last: the PlayStation. Sony's initial foray into consoles exceeded all expectations, resulting in a legendary game catalog that continues to see re-releases. These titles, once a challenge to Nintendo, are now enjoyed across various platforms. Here are ten personal favorites (in no particular order). Let the PlaySta-Show begin!

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

Klonoa deserves more recognition than it received, becoming a successful 2.5D platformer. You play a charming floppy-eared creature navigating a dream world to thwart a looming threat. Expect vibrant visuals, tight gameplay, memorable bosses, and a surprisingly impactful narrative. While the PlayStation 2 sequel is slightly less impressive, both games are a must-have.

Final Fantasy VII ($15.99)

A landmark title! This Japanese RPG catapulted the genre into the Western mainstream, becoming Square Enix's biggest hit and a key driver of the PlayStation's success. Yes, the Final Fantasy VII remake exists, but this is the original experience, complete with its charmingly dated polygons. It remains a fantastic game, and its enduring appeal is easy to understand.

Metal Gear Solid – Master Collection Version ($19.99)

Another PlayStation giant! Metal Gear Solid revitalized a dormant franchise. The series later embraced more outlandish elements, but this debut title delivers a thrilling, action-packed adventure reminiscent of GI Joe. It's incredibly fun to play, and its PlayStation 2 successors are also available on the Switch.

G-Darius HD ($29.99)

Let's delve into some niche titles. G-Darius successfully transitioned Taito's classic shooter series into 3D. While the polygons haven't aged perfectly, their charm remains undeniable. The vibrant colors, unique enemy capture mechanic, and inventive boss designs create a truly exceptional 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 give others a chance. Chrono Cross, tasked with following one of gaming's most beloved RPGs, faced an impossible challenge. It doesn't quite reach Chrono Trigger's heights, but viewed independently, it's a brilliantly conceived and visually stunning RPG with a large (though admittedly unevenly developed) cast of 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 adore most Mega Man games, but my opinion is colored by nostalgia. Recommending the series objectively, only a few titles stand out. In the Mega Man X series, it's Mega Man X and Mega Man X4. While I enjoyed the intervening games, X4 feels more polished. It's a brief moment of balance before the series veered again. But judge for yourself – get the Legacy Collections!

Tomba! Special Edition ($19.99)

Many PlayStation first-party titles weren't actually owned by Sony. I assumed Tomba! was like Crash Bandicoot, but it turns out it was first-party. Tomba! is a unique platformer blending adventure elements with solid action. Remember, its creator also made Ghosts ‘n Goblins. It starts easy but gets challenging. A hidden gem.

Grandia – Grandia HD Collection ($39.99)

Grandia originated on the SEGA Saturn, but the PlayStation port underpins this HD release, so it belongs here. Created by many Lunar developers, it captures its spirit. In a time of Evangelion-influenced RPGs, Grandia offered a bright, cheerful adventure with a satisfying combat system building on Game Arts' Lunar work. The collection's other title is also excellent.

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

Lara Croft, a PlayStation icon, starred in five adventures. Quality varied, but the original is arguably the best, focusing on tomb raiding rather than action. This collection lets you decide – all three games are included.

moon ($18.99)

Let's end with a hidden gem. Initially a Japan-only release, moon deconstructs the traditional RPG. Its creators call it an "anti-RPG," and it's more of an adventure game. It's… punk? It's not always fun, but it doesn't aim to be. The game delivers a compelling message.

That's the list! What are your favorite PlayStation 1 games on Switch? Share your thoughts below! I hope you enjoyed this series. Thanks for reading!