Best-Selling PS3 Games: All-Time Choices [2024]

Embarking on a journey through the dynamic evolution of the PlayStation 3, a console that initially faced challenges but eventually became synonymous with gaming excellence, we delve into the realm of the best-selling PS3 games. Over 17 years have passed since the PS3’s inception, and it’s time to explore the remarkable titles that not only defined the console but also played a pivotal role in establishing Sony’s brand as the go-to destination for blockbuster PlayStation exclusives.\

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Rank	Game	Genre	Developer	Publisher	Platform	Release Date	Sales
1	Grand Theft Auto V	Action-adventure	Rockstar North	Rockstar Games	PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S	September 17, 2013	29.52 Million copies
2	The Last of Us	Action-adventure	Naughty Dog	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4	June 14, 2013	17 Million copies
3	Gran Turismo 5	Racing simulation	Polyphony Digital	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3	November 24, 2010	11.95 Million copies
4	Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception	Action-adventure, third-person shooter	Naughty Dog	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3	November 1, 2011	6.6 Million copies
5	Uncharted 2: Among Thieves	Action-adventure, third-person shooter	Naughty Dog	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3	October 13, 2009	6.5 Million copies
6	Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots	Action-adventure, stealth	Kojima Productions	Konami	PlayStation 3	June 12, 2008	6 Million copies
7	Batman: Arkham City	Action-adventure	Rocksteady Studios	Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment	PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows, Wii U, OS X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch	October 18, 2011	5.5 Million copies
8	God of War III	Action-adventure, hack and slash	Santa Monica Studio	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4	March 16, 2010	5.2 Million copies
9	Gran Turismo 6	Racing simulation	Polyphony Digital	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3	December 6, 2013	5.06 million
10	Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune	Action-adventure, third-person shooter	Naughty Dog	Sony Computer Entertainment	PlayStation 3	November 19, 2007	4.8 million

Our quest to curate a list of the highest-selling PS3 games involved careful consideration of several factors. We assessed the greatness of each game at its launch and its lasting impact on the PS3’s legacy. While our focus remained on capturing the essence of the console’s life, we couldn’t overlook the significance of outstanding multiplatform games, as evident in our curated list.

The Top 10 Highest-Selling PS3 Games of All Time

Grand Theft Auto V

Release Date: September 17, 2013

Developer: Rockstar Games

Sales: 29.52 Million copies

Grand Theft Auto V stands tall as an iconic and beloved game, earning its place among the most played and top-grossing PS3 titles in the gaming world. Boasting a vast and visually stunning open world teeming with activities, GTA V’s narrative unfolds through the lens of three protagonists. This unique storytelling approach grants players the freedom to delve into every corner of the meticulously crafted environment, partake in exhilarating missions, all while retaining the liberty to roam, engage in vehicular chaos, and embark on quests to uncover the mythical Bigfoot lurking within the sprawling landscape of Los Santos.

The Last of Us

Release Date: June 14, 2013

Developer: Naughty Dog

Sales: 17 Million copies

The Last of Us has become a widely recognized and adored series, particularly with its recent and highly acclaimed remake. However, its brilliance was evident from its original release as a PlayStation game, further solidifying its status as a gaming masterpiece. The game’s success was a natural progression, given Naughty Dog’s stellar track record with three outstanding Uncharted releases. Fans were eager to witness the evolution of Naughty Dog’s cinematic storytelling and engaging gameplay in a fresh direction, delving into darker themes and embracing elements of the zombie survival-horror genre. Their anticipation was well-founded, as the game’s release garnered widespread praise from critics.

Gran Turismo 5

Release Date: November 24, 2010

Developer: Polyphony Digital

Sales: 11.95 Million copies

Gran Turismo 5 stands out as the top-selling racing game on the PlayStation 3, and it marked the series’ debut on the console. This installment introduced a host of exciting features that significantly enhanced the gaming experience. Among the standout features, Gran Turismo 5 embraced the online gaming trend by enabling races for up to 16 cars, creating a dynamic multiplayer setting. With an extensive lineup of over 1,000 cars, set across 29 diverse locations and 77 unique tracks, Gran Turismo 5 showcased its dedication to delivering a comprehensive and engaging racing simulation. Breaking new ground for the series, the game introduced dynamic time and weather effects, providing players with a truly evolving racing experience.

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

Release Date: November 1, 2011

Developer: Naughty Dog

Sales: 6.6 Million copies

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception, the third installment in the action-adventure series developed by Naughty Dog, stands as a testament to the franchise’s dominance in the gaming industry. The impressive sales figures of the game underscore the Uncharted series’ status as one of the highest-grossing PS3 games. The game’s success is not only attributed to its commercial triumph but also to its exceptional technical and visual achievements. Uncharted 3 received praise for pushing the boundaries of gaming graphics and delivering a cinematic experience that has become synonymous with the series.

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Release Date: October 13, 2009

Developer: Naughty Dog

Sales: 6.5 Million copies

Uncharted 2 capitalized on the fervor generated by its predecessor, leveraging the established reputation of the series to captivate audiences once again. The commitment to delivering a greater cinematic feel, coupled with technological advancements in visuals and motion capture, contributed to the game’s immense success. Uncharted 2’s ability to live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor solidified its place as a standout title in the PS3’s exclusive lineup and added another chapter to Nathan Drake’s iconic adventures.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

Release Date: June 12, 2008

Developer: Kojima Productions

Sales: 6 Million copies

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, the sixth installment in the acclaimed Metal Gear series, stands as an exclusive gem for PlayStation enthusiasts. As a stealth game, it unfolds in a war-torn setting and has rightfully earned its place as one of the best-selling PS3 games of all time. This title garnered not just commercial success but also critical acclaim, securing the prestigious Game of the Year award. Its brilliance is evident in the seamless integration of mechanics, meticulous game design, and standout features. The narrative brilliance, coupled with a gripping plot, further cements Metal Gear Solid 4’s status as one of the best PS3 video games ever.

Batman: Arkham City

Release Date: October 18, 2011

Developer: Rocksteady Studios

Sales: 5.5 Million copies

In one of the top-selling PS3 games, a substantial portion of Gotham City transforms into a fortified prison, cordoning off a burgeoning population of criminals, miscreants, and societal outcasts. The city itself emerges as a marvel of design, seamlessly blending Gothic and Art Deco styles, creating a uniquely brilliant atmosphere. Arkham City stands out for its grandiosity and expansiveness compared to its predecessor. The meticulously crafted writing, coupled with genuinely superb voice acting, contributes to a captivating storyline. The game’s phenomenal audiovisual design further elevates the immersive experience, solidifying Arkham City as a notable achievement in the gaming landscape.

God of War III

Release Date: March 16, 2010

Developer: Santa Monica Studio

Sales: 5.2 Million copies

In God of War 3, players witness Kratos engaging in a brutal hack-and-slash adventure as he confronts Zeus in the vivid backdrop of Ancient Greece. The game, released to universal acclaim, continues the franchise’s tradition of delivering gory, hard-hitting third-person action that resonates well with players, maintaining the high standards set by its predecessors. The success of God of War 3 is attributed in no small part to its incredibly enjoyable and fluid combat system. Fan-favorite elements include the incorporation of gory finishing moves and the introduction of new weapon options, which added depth and excitement to the gameplay. Additionally, the game’s levels drew players in with their sheer impressiveness, featuring massive enemy bosses set against breathtaking landscapes.

Gran Turismo 6

Release Date: December 6, 2013

Developer: Polyphony Digital

Sales: 5.06 million

Amidst considerable anticipation surrounding the release of GT6, some fans expressed that this particular title may not have entirely met their expectations. Nevertheless, it stands as a robust addition to the enduring, intricately detailed, and immersive driving game series. GT6 offers a diverse array of 30 tracks to race on, accompanied by an absolutely astonishing selection of 1200 cars available for collection and driving pleasure. Despite varying opinions, Gran Turismo 6 continues the franchise’s legacy of delivering a rich and expansive driving experience, maintaining its status as a staple in the world of racing games on the PlayStation 3.

Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune

Release Date: November 19, 2007

Developer: Naughty Dog

Sales: 4.8 million

Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune, the inaugural installment in the Uncharted series and a PlayStation exclusive, garnered an overwhelmingly positive critical response, setting the stage for numerous sequels and even a cinematic adaptation. Its release in 2007 strategically positioned it as one of the first major exclusives on the PlayStation 3, contributing significantly to its success. The Naughty Dog team capitalized on the opportunity, incorporating various features of the PS3 to enhance the gaming experience. This included leveraging the controller’s motion-sensing capabilities and force feedback vibration, providing gamers with a compelling incentive to not only purchase the game but also explore the unique capabilities of the new console.

Best-Selling and Top-Grossing PS3 Games That Defined an Era

In retrospect, games like Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune not only kickstarted a beloved series but also demonstrated the potential of the PS3’s unique features. Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, released in celebration of the series’ 10th anniversary, served as a tantalizing glimpse into the racing masterpiece that followed, becoming one of the best-selling PS3 games. The cinematic brilliance of God of War 3, coupled with its intense combat and stunning visuals, solidified its place as a top-grossing PS3 game, showcasing the platform’s capabilities.

As we reflect on the legacy of these games, it becomes evident that the best-selling and top-grossing PS3 games not only shaped the success of the console but also left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. With their immersive narratives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and technical achievements, these titles continue to be celebrated, reminding us of the golden era of gaming on the PlayStation 3.

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