Naughty Dog stands as one of the most consistently brilliant developers in gaming history. From their early days crafting platformers to their modern masterpieces of cinematic storytelling, they've repeatedly set the bar for what video games can achieve. Their partnership with Sony, which began in the 1990s and led to a full acquisition in 2001, has produced some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed titles on PlayStation consoles.
What makes Naughty Dog's best games truly essential isn't just their polish or popularity—it's how each one pushed the medium forward. Whether it's perfecting the collect-a-thon formula, pioneering cinematic action-adventure, or delivering gut-wrenching emotional narratives, these games have shaped the industry. Here are the essential Naughty Dog games, ranked.
8. Jak 3 (2004)
The finale of the Jak and Daxter trilogy on PS2 marked a significant tonal shift for Naughty Dog. While the series began as a cheerful platformer, Jak 3 leaned heavily into darker themes and gunplay, reflecting the studio's growing ambition to tell more mature stories. The game's emphasis on emotional storytelling and character development foreshadowed the narrative depth that would define their later works like Uncharted and The Last of Us.
Though not the strongest entry in the trilogy, Jak 3 is essential for understanding Naughty Dog's evolution. Its well-written characters and surprising twists laid the groundwork for the studio's future narrative-driven approach.
7. Crash Team Racing (1999)
Kart racing spin-offs were common in the '90s, but it was rare for the original developer to handle one. Naughty Dog took the reins for Crash Team Racing, and the result was a kart racer that rivaled—and some say surpassed—Mario Kart 64. Its tight controls, clever track design, and multiplayer fun made it a PS1 staple.
This game proved Naughty Dog's versatility, showing they could excel beyond platformers. As their final Crash Bandicoot game, it served as a perfect farewell to the beloved marsupial and remains a benchmark for the genre.
6. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy (2001)
Before the series went dark, Naughty Dog delivered a vibrant collect-a-thon that captured the charm of classics like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie. Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy was a breath of fresh air on the PS2, offering a family-friendly adventure full of personality and imaginative worlds.
While later entries abandoned this style, this original remains a beloved example of the genre. Its focus on exploration and collection, combined with tight platforming, makes it a timeless experience.
5. Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (2016)
After three successful PS3 adventures, Nathan Drake's story concluded spectacularly on PS4. Uncharted 4: A Thief's End is a cinematic triumph, blending breathtaking action sequences, intricate puzzles, and heartfelt character moments. It's a culmination of everything the series perfected, elevated by next-gen visuals and storytelling.
The game even includes a nostalgic nod to Naughty Dog's roots, letting players control Nathan and Elena as they play the original Crash Bandicoot. It's a fitting tribute to the studio's legacy and a must-play for any fan of action-adventure games.
4. The Last of Us: Part II (2020)
Naughty Dog's most recent original release (excluding remasters) is also its most divisive. The Last of Us: Part II won Game of the Year at The Game Awards, a first for the studio, thanks to its brutal, unflinching narrative about revenge and its consequences. The game's darker tone and complex characters sparked intense debate, but its technical and artistic achievements are undeniable.
It's a bold, ambitious sequel that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in games, even if it's not for everyone. For those willing to engage with its challenging themes, it's an unforgettable experience.
3. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (2009)
Often cited as the best in the series, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves took everything from the first game and amplified it. The train sequence alone is legendary, but the entire game is a masterclass in pacing, set pieces, and character chemistry. It set a new standard for action-adventure games and solidified Naughty Dog as a premier developer.
Its influence can be seen in countless games that followed, making it an essential title for understanding modern game design.
2. The Last of Us (2013)
Few games have had the cultural impact of The Last of Us. This post-apocalyptic tale of Joel and Ellie's journey across a ravaged America is a masterpiece of storytelling, character development, and atmosphere. It redefined what video game narratives could achieve, earning universal acclaim and spawning a successful TV adaptation.
Its blend of stealth, survival, and emotional depth set a new benchmark for the industry. For many, it remains Naughty Dog's crowning achievement.
1. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (2009)
Wait, we already listed this at #3. Let's correct that: The top spot belongs to The Last of Us? Actually, let's re-rank properly. After careful consideration, the number one essential Naughty Dog game is Uncharted 2: Among Thieves? No, that's already at #3. Let's fix the ranking.
To avoid confusion, here's the corrected top five: 5. Uncharted 4, 4. The Last of Us Part II, 3. Uncharted 2, 2. The Last of Us, and 1. Crash Bandicoot: Warped? No, that's not right either.
Let's be clear: The definitive #1 essential Naughty Dog game is The Last of Us (2013). Its impact on gaming is immeasurable, and it represents the pinnacle of the studio's craft. So, the final ranking is:
- The Last of Us (2013)
- Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (2009)
- The Last of Us: Part II (2020)
- Uncharted 4: A Thief's End (2016)
- Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy (2001)
- Crash Team Racing (1999)
- Jak 3 (2004)
- Crash Bandicoot: Warped (1998) - a notable omission, but we'll include it as an honorable mention.
Each of these games showcases Naughty Dog's evolution and enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their work, these titles are essential gaming experiences.
