If you missed out on some of the PlayStation 3’s best games, you’re about to get an interesting way of rectifying that mistake.
Your second chance comes via Sony’s PlayStation Now. It previously allowed users to rent and stream PlayStation 3 games, but it’s adding a subscription service on Jan. 13. For $20 a month (or $45 for three months), you get streaming access to over 100 PlayStation 3 games on your PlayStation 4.
Of course, not all of those games are equal. So, to help you on your journey of PlayStation 3 discovery, GamesBeat’s senior editor Dale North and community manager Mike Minotti have each picked five from the current subscription list that you need to play.
Dale’s picks
Ico
Originally released: Sept. 24, 2011
What is it? Ico was the game that started it all for the Sony Computer Entertainment Japan internal team headed up by Fumito Ueda, which is now named after this classic. This puzzle-platformer has the player considering his rescued companion’s every step, running hand-in-hand for the entire journey.
Above: Ico meets Yorda
Why it’s still worth playing: Now considered a classic, Ico’s hand -holding escort mission was one of the most emotionally moving moments of the PS2 era. Even some 15 years later, its puzzle design and visual approach continue to serve as inspiration for game makers. There’s still really nothing else like it out there.
Lumines Supernova
Originally released: Dec. 23, 2008
What is it? The popular PSP block-dropping puzzle game got a console port in 2008, bringing new levels and gameplay to the PS3.
Above: It’s like Tetris, but not really at all.
Why it’s still worth playing: You want longevity? This toe-tapper is timeless. Every game that designer Tetsuya Mizuguchi has his hand in has staying power, but this particular version feels more alive than its predecessors with its new modes and music. Try the Time Attack mode and you’ll find that it chomps away at your life, 60 seconds at a time. I feel like many missed Supernova’s outstanding Sequencer mode, which let players create their own stage soundtracks from scratch.
Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2
Originally released: Sept. 29, 2009
What is it? Team Ninja’s Xbox 360 release Ninja Gaiden II saw visual and gameplay upgrades in this PS3 exclusive.
Above: Don’t let Ryu’s flashy pose fool you — he’s going to die pretty soon.
Why it’s still worth play: Be honest: You didn’t finish Ninja Gaiden II. No one here is judging you, mind you. But now’s your chance. Jump back in and see just how difficult being a ninja can be. Bonus: You’ll appreciate that Sigma 2 is just a tad bit easier. It still stands as one of the most challenging and rewarding games in the genre, so hang in there. Or if you’re a wimp, try the auto-guarding Hero mode.
Tokyo Jungle
Originally released: June 7, 2012
What is it? Tokyo Jungle is a postapocalyptic animal survival game, released exclusively for the PS3.
Above: Wow, Shibuya has really gone downhill lately.
Why it’s still worth playing: If “postapocalyptic animal survival game” doesn’t hook you, I don’t know what will. Following a little Pomeranian pup as it roams a ruined downtown Tokyo may sound silly, but sticking with Tokyo Jungle and letting it get its claws into you really pays off. Survive long enough and you’ll uncover some challenging gameplay and an interesting storyline.
Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational
Originally released: Feb. 22, 2012
What is it? The best version of the long-running Hot Shots Golf franchise started out as a PS Vita release, but it became popular enough to warrant a PS3 port.
Above: Nice shot. Too bad it’s going into the water.
Why it’s still worth playing: Hot Shots Golf continues to be one of Sony’s most approachable and enjoyable franchises. It’s easy to take to the green to learn the game’s three-click swing system, but to really be competitive in online tournaments requires patience and training. And with PS Vita-to-PS3 cross-play support, online leaderboard bragging rights extend even further now.