Released in 2006, the PlayStation 3 held some of the best games of its generation. Many of the system’s most popular titles were published by Square Enix, a Japanese video game developer that has created some of the most beloved franchises in gaming history. FromFinal FantasytoTomb Raider,and many more, the best Square Enix games continue to captivate players around the world.
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From engaging RPGs to impressive action games, titles released on thePlayStation 3showcase the best of whatSquare Enixhad to offer more than a decade ago. The PlayStation 3 releases offer immersive storylines, appealing gameplay, and incredible graphics that are able to provide hours of entertainment even today.
10Drakengard 3 (2013)
Drakengard 3is an action RPG for PlayStation 3 released in 2013, serving as a prequel to the first twoDrakengardgames. The story takes place in a medieval fantasy world in which the player controls the protagonist, Zero, a woman whose mission is to kill her five sisters that rule different regions.
The combat in the game involves both ground-based and aerial battles, as Zero fights alongside her dragon, Mikhail.Drakengard 3received mixed reviews, with praise forits unique storyand characters, but criticism for its repetitive gameplay and technical issues.
9Final Fantasy XIII (2010)
Final Fantasy XIIIis an RPG that follows the story ofa former soldier named Lightningas she embarks on a journey alongside five other chosen companions. The narrative focuses on character development, as the lore surrounding the game evolves with the progression of the story.
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Final Fantasy XIIIreceived mixed reviews upon its release, with fans praising its visuals and soundtrack, but criticizing its linear gameplay and lack of exploration. Nonetheless, the game remains a beloved entry in theFinal Fantasyseries, with its memorable characters and epic storyline.
8Just Cause (2010)
Just Cause 2was released in 2010 and is an open-world action-adventure game for the PlayStation 3. The game takes place on the fictional island of Panau and follows the story ofan undercover agent named Rico Rodriguez,who is tasked with overthrowing the island’s ruthless dictator.
The gameplay is characterized by diverse missions and challenges whilefocusing on creative destructionthrough the use of various weapons.Just Cause 2remains a beloved title among fans of open-world and action-adventure games, despite the fact that some players felt that the story feels a little rushed.
7Hitman: Absolution (2012)
Released in 2012,Hitman: Absolutionis the fifth game in theHitmanfranchise, and it follows the story of Agent 47 as he embarks on a personal quest for redemption. The game features a variety of new gameplay mechanics, including the ability to use “Instinct” to see through walls and predict enemy movements, as well as an improved cover system.
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The game was applauded for its good graphics and story, but some fans were disappointed by the fact that this fifth game adoptssimple stealth game mechanicsand doesn’t rise up to the level ofHitman: Blood Money. Even so, it remains one of the best PS3 games from Square Enix and is still a lot of fun to this day.
6Sleeping Dogs (2012)
Sleeping Dogsis an action-packed game released in 2012 for the PlayStation 3. The game is set in Hong Kong and follows the story of Wei Shen, an undercover police officer who infiltrated thenotorious gang Sun On Yee. It was originally planned to be part of theTrue Crimeseries but ended up being its own thing.
The physical combat system has many similarities tothe one found inBatman: Arkham Asylum, as Wei Shen can attack enemies that surround him from any direction. The overwhelming majority of those who played it seemed to enjoy the game’s fighting system. Overall,Sleeping Dog’s storyline and complex missions make it one of the standout titles on the PlayStation 3.
5NieR (2010)
Released in 2010,NieRis an action role-playing video game that some consider to be a hidden gem of the PlayStation 3 era. It received generally positive reviews at the time of its release, as the game offerstwo different versionsspecifically created to satisfy everyone.NieR Replicantis the original Japanese version of the game, in which the protagonist is a young boy who’s trying to save his sister, Yonah.
NieR Gestaltis the western version of the game that follows the protagonist, a middle-aged man, as he tries to save his daughter, Yonah. The game is known for its unique gameplay mechanics and for its emotional storytelling that explores multiple themes, such as love, loss, and sacrifice.
4Tomb Raider (2013)
The 2013Tomb Raideraction-adventure game is a reboot of theLara Croftfranchise with a more modern look. The game follows the story of a younger Lara as she fights to survive and uncover the truth about the curse that surrounds her expedition.
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WhenLara and her crewbecome stranded on an island after a violent shipwreck, the protagonist must explore, fight, endure, and survive to save her friends.Tomb Raiderputs the biggest accent on Lara’s character development, as she learns how to become the explorer fans love. The game has a well-written plot that keeps gamers hooked from start to finish.
3Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix (2014)
Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remixis a collection of three games, includingKingdom Hearts II,Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep, andKingdom Hearts Re:coded.Players control various charactersand navigate through the game’s different worlds, all while fighting enemies and completing quests.
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The game received positive reviews for its updated visuals, improved music, and gameplay mechanics. Even if there are fans who believe that some of the changes were not really necessary, thisKingdom Heartsremains one of the highest-ranking games in the franchise.
2Deus Ex: Human Revolution (2011)
Released in 2011,Deus Ex: Human Revolutionis a critically acclaimed action RPG set in a dystopian future. The game takes place ina mysterious worldin which humans are heavily augmented with mechanical parts. Players take on the role of Adam Jensen, a security specialist forced to become a cyborg after being injured during an attack.
Developed by Eidos Montreal, the game allows players to make choices that affect the outcome of the game, such as sparing or killing enemies.Deus Ex: Human Revolutionis praised for its complex narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, and atmospheric visuals.
1Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster (2014)
Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remasteris a compilation of two of the most beloved games in theFinal Fantasyfranchise, re-released in high definition for the PlayStation 3 in 2014. The game follows the journey of the athleteTidus, and respectively Yuna, a powerful summoner, as they travel across a place called Spira, and defeat evil creatures such as the monster called Sin.
The remaster offers impressive graphics, reworked character models, and improved music, making it a great choice for both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike. Most will likely focus onFinal Fantasy Xrather than the game’s sequel, but both are well worth checking out.
