Mastering Combat: The Most Satisfying Battle Systems in PlayStation Exclusives

20 December 2024

When it comes to gaming, PlayStation exclusives have set the bar high with their captivating stories, jaw-dropping visuals, and, of course, their intense combat systems. Let’s face it—whether you're fending off hordes of enemies or taking down an intimidating boss, there's something deeply satisfying about nailing a perfectly timed dodge or unleashing a devastating combo. Over the years, Sony has given us some of the most memorable battle systems in gaming history. So, grab your controller (or pretend to) as we dive into the most satisfying combat systems found in PlayStation exclusives.

What Makes a Combat System Truly Satisfying?

Before we jump into the games themselves, let’s take a quick pit stop. What exactly makes a battle system feel so rewarding? Is it the visceral feeling of landing a hit? Is it the strategy behind every movement or attack? Or maybe it’s how the game makes you feel like you’re improving with every encounter. Truth is, it’s all of the above. A great combat system is a well-oiled machine—it seamlessly blends mechanics, visuals, and player feedback to create an experience where every fight feels meaningful.

Think of it like a dance. A well-designed system lets you feel in sync with the game, chaining moves and counters as if you were leading the choreography. And when you finally land that perfect combo or take down a seemingly impossible foe? Chef’s kiss. Instant dopamine rush.

Now, let's get to the good stuff!

1. God of War (2018 & Ragnarok) – The Leviathan Axe and Beyond

Oh, Kratos. How do you always manage to outdo yourself? When Santa Monica Studio revamped God of War in 2018, they didn’t just reinvent the franchise's storytelling—they revolutionized its combat. The Leviathan Axe is the star of the show here. There’s nothing quite like chucking that bad boy at an enemy, only to recall it with a satisfying thunk that vibrates through your controller. It’s like wielding Thor’s hammer, but it’s cooler because, well, it’s Kratos.

But that’s not all. With the addition of Atreus’ bow and Kratos’ trusty Blades of Chaos, the combat offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re freezing foes, roasting them with fiery chains, or calling in Atreus to rain arrows from a distance, the system encourages experimentation. Throw Ragnarök into the mix, and everything just clicks on a whole new level. The added verticality, more fluid animations, and expanded skill trees make every fight feel like an epic spectacle.

2. Bloodborne – Elegance in the Chaos

If God of War feels like a well-rehearsed dance, Bloodborne feels like a chaotic mosh pit—but in the best way possible. FromSoftware’s gothic masterpiece is brutal, unforgiving, and oh-so-rewarding once you master its systems. There’s no shield to hide behind here; you’re forced to go on the offensive, using your Trick Weapon and gun to take down the nightmarish creatures roaming Yharnam.

What makes Bloodborne’s combat stand out is its aggressive nature. The rally system encourages you to regain lost health by striking back immediately after taking damage. It’s a high-risk, high-reward system that keeps you on the edge of your seat. And let’s talk about those Trick Weapons! Transforming them mid-fight feels like flipping a switch between two fighting styles. It’s like having a Swiss army knife of destruction in your hands.

Can’t forget the bosses, either. Each one is a puzzle wrapped in chaos, and beating them feels like you’ve just conquered a mountain. (Or maybe you just need a nap—those fights can get intense!)

3. The Last of Us Part II – Gritty, Grounded, and Brutal

While most games in this list lean towards the fantastical, The Last of Us Part II takes a more grounded approach to combat. And you know what? It works so well. Naughty Dog nailed the feeling of gritty, desperate survival. Every encounter feels personal and terrifying, whether you’re sneaking through tall grass to avoid a patrol or brawling in the rain with an enemy who’s just as determined to survive as you are.

What really sets this game apart is its use of the environment. Ellie’s ability to crawl under vehicles, climb through windows, and blend into her surroundings makes every encounter a game of cat-and-mouse. The human enemies are smart and relentless, while the infected throw chaos into the mix with their unpredictability.

Plus, let’s not forget about the dynamic animations and sound design. Every punch, stab, and gunshot has weight. You’re not just playing the game—you’re feeling it.

4. Ghost of Tsushima – Samurai Cinema Come to Life

Have you ever wanted to step into a Kurosawa movie? Ghost of Tsushima delivers that dream and then some. Sucker Punch put a lot of heart into crafting a combat system that feels both cinematic and incredibly satisfying. The game’s standoff mechanic is the cherry on top—walking up to a group of enemies, sizing them up, and taking them down with precise, one-hit kills feels so empowering.

The combat is built around swordplay and stance-switching, making it both strategic and stylish. Each stance counters a specific type of enemy, so you’re always thinking on your feet during battles. And when you finally unlock the Ghost abilities, things get even more interesting. Stealth kills, explosive distractions, and fear-based tactics make you feel like an unstoppable force.

Oh, and the duels? They’re pure poetry in motion. Every clash of swords feels deliberate, like you’re part of an epic showdown.

5. Horizon Zero Dawn & Forbidden West – Tactical Precision

The combat in Horizon Zero Dawn and its sequel, Forbidden West, is all about strategy. Unlike the other games on this list, you’re not just running in swinging a sword or firing off spells. Aloy’s arsenal is built around bows, traps, and gadgets, meaning every encounter requires some level of planning.

Taking down one of the massive machines is the highlight of the combat. You can’t just shoot arrows willy-nilly and hope for the best. Nope—you’ve got to study the machines, figure out their weak points, and use the right tool for the job. It’s like solving a living, breathing puzzle. And when you finally bring that hulking Thunderjaw to its knees? Absolute bliss.

Both games also offer a variety of skill trees, letting you tailor Aloy’s abilities to fit your playstyle. Want to go all-out with traps? Or maybe you prefer sniping from a distance? The choice is yours.

6. Demon’s Souls Remake – The Original Soulslike Masterpiece

We couldn’t talk about satisfying battle systems without mentioning the Demon’s Souls Remake. This was the game that started the Soulslike craze, and Bluepoint Games’ remake only made it better. The weighty, methodical combat is the name of the game here. Every swing of your weapon, every parry, and every roll feels deliberate. Mistakes are punished, but victories are oh-so sweet.

The remake elevates the original with its stunning visuals and smoother mechanics, making everything—from dodging a Black Phantom to slaying a towering boss—feel as good as it looks. It’s a masterclass in "easy to learn, hard to master" combat design.

Honorable Mentions

We couldn’t fit everything into the main list, but here are a few more PlayStation exclusives with killer combat systems:

- Infamous Second Son: Superpowers galore with fluid animations and explosive action.
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart: Chaotic yet controlled, with a buffet of wacky weapons.

Final Thoughts

PlayStation exclusives have always had a knack for delivering unforgettable combat experiences. Whether you’re slaying gods in God of War, mastering swordplay in Ghost of Tsushima, or surviving in the brutal world of The Last of Us Part II, these games make every fight feel meaningful and rewarding. The best part? Each game’s combat is unique, tailored perfectly to its story and world. No matter your playstyle, there’s a PlayStation exclusive out there to satisfy your inner warrior.

So, what’s your favorite combat system? Did we miss any games that deserve a shoutout? Let us know in the comments—or better yet, try them out yourself!