PlayStation 3 is a complicated console for game development, but it still has a rich game library and fantastic features. While the Xbox 360 mostly received better multiplatform ports, PS3 has tons of exclusives! All these games on our list are still unavailable on other platforms, including PS5, as it's compatible only with PS4 titles. That should be the main reason to keep this system in your collection or buy one. Even though we're sure you know about most of PS3 exclusives on our top ten list, there are a few surprises! Also, we didn't include remasters, even though some are really good.

10. Formula One Championship Edition

We always loved Sony's perspective on Formula One, and Formula One Championship Edition was their final entry. This game is a forgotten racing classic based on the exhilarating 2006 season. Moreover, if you compare it with the Codemasters' F1 series, you'll realize how different it is.

Although only partially realistic, the title also benefits from excellent controls. Yet, driving with all assists turned off is very challenging. Another reason why this game needs your attention is its unique career mode. Here you'll have to fight hard to earn a place in the lowest teams as a test driver before making the grid. Oh, and you'll be under pressure as your results will be continually reviewed!

9. Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time

There are five exclusive Ratchet & Clank games for PlayStation 3, but A Crack in Time is the best! Like its predecessors, this is an action platformer with familiar gameplay. Nonetheless, many elements make it fresh, including new gadgets. Our hero can use these to fight off enemies or solve puzzles.

There's much to do here, with many optional missions and new weapons offering modifications. This means the gameplay will change regularly, and you'll be motivated to continue the adventure. Visually, the game stays attractive thanks to its excellent animation. Grab all Ratchet & Clank titles if you can (including Rift Apart), but play this one first!

8. Motorstorm: Pacific Rift

Motorstorm is the iconic arcade racer series for PS3, developed by the mighty Evolution Studios (Driveclub). While the first game was a fantastic showcase for the console, later titles have significantly evolved the formula. Motorstorm: Pacific Rift takes us to a tropical paradise and has some of the most beautiful tracks seen in the series. Still, you will have little time to look around, as you'll have to fight hard to stay in the race.

However, the environments also play an essential role, as going through the water cools down the engine. With over 50 vehicles and 20 tracks, there's plenty to do here! While the multiplayer is long dead, you can still enjoy split-screen for up to four players. Finally, although the soundtrack doesn't contain original material, the playlist includes David Bowie, Fatboy Slim, Pendulum, Slipknot, and many more.

7. God of War: Ascension

God of War: Ascension is the black sheep of the God of War series, but it's also the only part of the saga not available on other platforms. However, this doesn't mean it's a bad game. On the contrary, it still has all the best gameplay elements of its predecessors and excellent graphics. Moreover, this is the only game in the franchise that includes online multiplayer.

The worst thing about Ascension is that it only brings a few new additions to the formula. Luckily, the developers understood the message and gave us a terrific reboot for PlayStation 4. Nevertheless, you'll love this one if you haven't played older God of War games for a long time.

6. Gran Turismo 6

Many Gran Turismo games became obsolete, but you can't say that about Gran Turismo 6. This title appeared in stores after the launch of PlayStation 4 but was still insanely popular. GT 6 has the most extensive roster of cars in history, with over 1200 models, though many come from GT 4. Luckily, it also has tons of other stuff not present in Gran Turismo Sport or even Gran Turismo 7.

Moreover, Polyphony Digital released free content, including new and unique modes, such as driving on the Moon! Finally, the game is one of the best graphical showcases for the console and has excellent 3D support. Even though the online portion and level editor functions have been shut down, Gran Turismo 6 is still one of the best singleplayer racing experiences. 

5. LittleBigPlanet 2

The LittleBigPlanet series was not only about playing games but also creating them! Thanks to the included tools, anyone could become a designer, and in LBP2, you can make racing games, puzzlers, or even RPGs! You can even create music and sound effects or define the enemy AI's behavior. If you're not feeling imaginative, download millions of other people's work!

Finally, the included story mode is enjoyable thanks to its beautifully designed, physics-based levels. Combine that with the official content packs, and you'll get an endlessly playable title… at least until the server shutdown.

4. Infamous 2

Developed by Sucker Punch, Infamous was one of the beloved PS3 games that produced a sequel and a stand-alone expansion. We enjoyed this action adventure because it allowed us to explore the environment. However, we were free to shape the story based on our actions. Like in the Fable series, you could use your powers to help others or embrace your dark side.

Infamous 2 gave us more of everything, and it helps that it looks and runs much better than the original. Looking at it today, the biggest problem could be the camera, which appears sluggish. Still, that shouldn't cause you too much trouble. While this is the best game in the series, you should also play the rest of it.

3. Resistance 2

Resistance: Fall of Man was the introduction to PS3 for many, as it was a launch title. Surprisingly, it was also an excellent product, although its sequel easily tops it. Resistance 2 is the traditional first-person shooter set in the alternate past where you fight technologically advanced aliens. However, you can use their weapons against them to free the world.

Like many games on this list, Resistance 2 was visually stunning and still has a certain appeal. Of course, the online component is long-dead, but the campaign will engage you for at least ten hours. Even though this is the best title in the franchise, check out the rest.

2. Killzone 2

Killzone 2 will forever be haunted by that E3 trailer showcasing the unbelievable graphics. As we later found out, they were prerendered since PS3 couldn't deliver something like that. Yet, Killzone 2 pushed the system, and it's still one of the greatest PS3 games of all time. Luckily, it also had other elements going for it.

What's quite unusual is that this cover shooter also allows you to pilot vehicles. The title will remind you that the PS3 controller has a motion sensor, which you'll use for various actions. The worst part of Killzone 2 is the story and characters, as they can't compete against the Halo series. Still, that shouldn't stop you from playing it. You'll also enjoy Killzone 3 on the same platform if you like it.

1. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

Metal Gear Solid 4 became a myth even before it got released! This was the most talked-about title for years and was supposed to be the last game in the franchise. Moreover, it's also a critical PlayStation 3 exclusive that helped it finally catch up with the Xbox 360. Furthermore, many will say it's the best game for the platform.

While the messy online mode is long gone, you'll still spend tens of hours completing the campaign. As you can predict, this is a complex game with extraordinary attention to detail. It also helps that it's visually stunning and runs smoothly, unlike many PS3 games. Still, if you don't follow the franchise religiously, it may take time to understand what's happening!

Many other PlayStation 3 exclusives make this console still relevant, but none of them belong to expensive PS3 games. These include Folklore, Wipeout HD, Tales of Xillia, Warhawk, Starhawk, Katamari Forever, 3D Dot Game Heroes, and others. As the games and the console are incredibly cheap, now is the perfect time to experience the best of the PS3!

Did you ever own a PS3, and do you have it now? What are your best PS3 exclusives in our top ten or outside of it?

Cover photo: Nikita Kostrykin/Unsplash