6 Games That Showcase the Power of Current-Gen Consoles

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S have raised the bar for gaming, offering incredible graphics and smooth gameplay that feel like a leap forward. Developers are tapping into this power, creating titles that push these consoles to their absolute limits.

I’ve selected six games that highlight what these machines can do, from breathtaking visuals to massive, seamless worlds. Each one shows off the hardware’s potential in its own way, making them must-plays for anyone with a current-gen console.

Monster Hunter Wilds (2025)

Capcom’s latest action RPG throws you into the Forbidden Lands, a vibrant yet brutal world that shifts between harsh scarcity and lush abundance. Using the RE Engine, the game delivers stunning biomes filled with dynamic weather and wildlife that react to their environment. The PS5 and Xbox Series X/S handle the game’s expansive open world with minimal loading, even at a locked 60 fps on base PS5 models.

The game’s scale is massive, with monsters moving freely and interacting with each other, like predators chasing prey. Features like the Seikret mount and a new wound system for targeting monster weak points demand serious processing power. I was amazed by how alive the world felt, with no interruptions as I explored or hunted.

God of War Ragnarök (2022)

Santa Monica Studio’s Norse epic follows Kratos and Atreus through a visually stunning world of gods and monsters. The PS5’s power shines with detailed environments, from icy mountains to fiery realms, all running in crisp 4K with near-zero load times. Combat is fluid, with every axe throw feeling heavy and precise.

The game pushes the console with its complex enemy AI and dynamic effects like snowstorms or glowing runes. I found myself lost in the seamless transitions between exploration and intense battles, a testament to the PS5’s ability to handle massive set pieces without breaking a sweat.

Horizon Forbidden West (2022)

Aloy’s journey through a post-apocalyptic West is a visual masterpiece, packed with lush jungles, deserts, and underwater vistas. Guerrilla Games uses the PS5’s hardware to create near-photorealistic landscapes with intricate lighting and particle effects. The open world feels alive, with robotic creatures roaming dynamically.

The game’s massive scale, from detailed ecosystems to smooth climbing mechanics, tests the console’s rendering and memory limits. I couldn’t stop marveling at the shimmering details, like sunlight filtering through trees, that made every moment feel immersive.

Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023)

Capcom reimagines the survival horror classic with Leon Kennedy facing grotesque enemies in eerie villages. The RE Engine delivers 4K visuals with haunting lighting that ramps up the tension. Both PS5 and Xbox Series X/S keep the action smooth, even during chaotic firefights.

The game’s detailed character models and environmental destruction push the hardware, especially in boss battles with multiple enemies. I was gripped by how responsive the controls felt, paired with visuals that made every shadow feel threatening.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013, enhanced 2022)

Rockstar’s open-world giant got a current-gen glow-up, running at 4K and 60 fps on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Los Santos buzzes with life, packed with NPCs, vehicles, and intricate details. The enhanced version’s draw distance and textures make the city feel more real than ever.

The seamless world, with no loading screens during exploration, demands a lot from the consoles’ processing power. I was impressed by how fluidly I could drive through crowded streets or soar over mountains, all without a hitch.

The Last of Us Part II Remastered (2024)

Naughty Dog’s remastered survival tale brings Ellie’s emotional journey to the PS5 with upgraded visuals and 60 fps performance. The game’s bleak world pops with sharper textures and dynamic lighting, making every scene feel raw and intense. Combat is buttery smooth, even in crowded encounters.

The remaster’s detailed environments and real-time effects like rain or fire push the PS5’s limits. I was pulled into the story by how lifelike every moment looked, from crumbling buildings to subtle character expressions.

Which of these games has you most impressed with your console’s power, or is there another title you think deserves a spot? Share your picks in the comments!