Feature: Best of PSN (PS3)

Super Stardust HD

One of the first games on the PSN and still one of the best. The PS3's very own Geometry Wars is a twin stick shooter with your craft navigating planets while blasting away all asteroids and ships that threaten you. Already featuring a lengthy and challenging single player component, it's also seen a steady stream of downloadable content since release, making it one of the PS3 games we return to time and time again.

If you're new to the console then this would be a perfect starting point, considering its appealing cheap price.

WipEout HD

Some would say this is the best game on the PSN, but whatever your thoughts on WipEout are, few could argue that it isn't at least a fantastic bargain. Proof if it was needed that downloadable games have come far from their Flash-inspired roots, WipEout HD has a challenging and lengthy single player career full of races, time trials and the ever delightful 'Zone'  mode, as well as full online support that'll keep you hooked for ages.

It's a damned good-looking game too, and the ability to take pictures of your races makes for an infinite supply of PS3 wallpaper. Wipeout fans, and even fans of racers in general, should snap this one up.

Siren: Blood Curse

We were unsure about adding this, seeing as it's also a full retail game and not just downloadable; but wanting to show all sides of the PSN, it's been added. It's a good game, too. Sure, it falls apart a bit in the second half, but the tension and fear never depletes and you'll be on the edge of your seat throughout. The TV style "Previously..." and "Next Time..." are just the icing on the cake of this decent episodic horror treat.

fl0w

The most unique game in our list may not even be called a game. Upon release, the joke was that fl0w is a game best played while on drugs, and looking at it you can't exactly disagree with that. You just control an organism who goes around eating other organisms, causing you to grow in size in the most tranquil of environments.

It's the most peaceful game we've ever played, perfect Sunday afternoon gaming and definitely a showcase for the unique nature of the PSN. Keep an eye out for the game's followup, fl0wer, soon.


Riff: Everyday Shooter

Following on from the unique experience that was fl0w, Riff: Everyday Shooter injects more recognisable gameplay elements into its arsenal. Developed by Jonathan Mak, it combines vibrant visuals with guitar riffs and the staple addictive qualities that we've come to expect from shooters.

Rather than just focusing on simply a high score, the player is able to create their own soundtrack (or at least influence its journey) by destroying enemies onscreen. Each opponent represents a chord, enabling the player to experience more than just simply engulfing environments in firepower. Yes, there are similarities to Rez, including the atmosphere and sense of calm. Gamestyle still returns to this title on a regular basis (as we do with Rez) because it remains an extremely enjoyable and relaxing option.

Words by Adam Gulliver