Top 10 Naughty Dog Games

Top 10 Naughty Dog Games This studio has certainly come a long way in thirty years. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today, we’re counting down our picks for the Top 10 Naughty Dog Games. For this list, we’re looking at the best work to come out of Naughty Dog since its inception in 1984.

#10: “Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy” (2001)

After the massive success of their “Crash Bandicoot” games, many players were left asking, “What now? What is Naughty Dog’s next big thing?” The answer: “Jak & Daxter”. Regarded today as one of the PlayStation 2’s classic titles, the game kept players engaged with its astounding animation, witty dialogue and humor, and absence of loading screens, which is a true accomplishment considering the time it was released. Of course, you can’t forget its unique art style, using vibrant colors and detailed textures that really brought the world to life. Naughty Dog really hit it out of the park with this gem, and it wouldn’t be the last time we’d see this dynamic duo in action.

#9: “Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception” (2011)

As the last “Uncharted” game to grace the PS3, fans of the franchise had high expectations for “Drake’s Deception.” It ended up blowing them out of the water, to say the least. It set the bar for what adventure games (cinematic, linear, or otherwise) should be; one long, thrill ride of action and mystery. Additionally, the story is shocking, the scenery is awe-inspiring, and it’s filled to the brim with truly unforgettable moments and cinematic set-pieces.

#8: “Jak II” (2003)

It’s not often you see a sequel derail from its predecessor’s gameplay and succeed, and “Jak II” is one of those few games that manages to do just that. With less focus on platforming and more on action, “Jak II” leaned into some third-person shooter elements, and not everyone was happy about the change at the time. Those who stuck around were treated to a game with a darker tone in its story, improved graphics, really fun and fluid gunplay. Yeah, we understand if the game is just a tad too difficult for some players, but trust us, your persistence will pay off.

#7: “Crash Team Racing” (1999)

To think that Naughty Dog had zero experience in making a kart racer and managed to pull it off on the first try really speaks to their quality. “Crash Team Racing” had everything going for itself to give a certain plumber a run for his money. Each track provided players with boosting opportunities and shortcuts to keep races intense and risky. The game challenges you to improve your drifting skills and experiment with jumping off ramps at the right time to zip ahead. And that semi-open world Adventure mode? Pure bliss.

#6: “Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back” (1997)

In comparison to the first “Crash Bandicoot” game, “Cortex Strikes Back” made things much more enjoyable for players. While the individual stages were much easier to get through, the real challenge was reaching that 100% completion rating for the true ending. “Crash 2” also introduced some cool concepts for levels, which added more opportunities for some memorable moments. Yes, “Crash 2” hit all the marks, but whether it’s the best in the series remains a debate among fans.

#5: “Uncharted 4: A Thief's End” (2016)

The last chapter in the Nathan Drake saga ends the story with a bang! The visuals are as stunning as the “Uncharted” games have ever been. Combat is more diverse and intense, and the game encourages more exploration than past titles. As for the narrative, every character feels fully fleshed out and the story keeps us engaged with its twists and turns. “Uncharted 4” garnered a number of accolades, with many naming it 2016’s Game of the Year, and while the story might be over for Nathan Drake, it is far from over for the franchise.

#4: “Jak 3” (2004)

Okay, can we all agree that Naughty Dog really knows how to wrap up their overarching stories really, really well? “Jak 3” was not just a great ending to the “Jak & Daxter” trilogy, but it was the best we had seen of the series. The story was immense, the humor was the funniest of the series, and there were even more guns to unleash hell upon those who stood in our way! Naughty Dog deserves our praise for its technical achievements, as well for how smooth the animation is and how the game manages to run with almost no hiccups. But most importantly, it’s a ton of fun!

#3: “Crash Bandicoot 3: WARPED” (1998)

Ooh! That intro gives us chills every time! “Warped” was everything Naughty Dog had learned during development and significantly improved while adding more variety to the gameplay. You were rewarded with extra moves after every boss fight, Time Relics made the 100% completion even more challenging, and Crash’s sister, Coco, made her debut as a playable character...more or less. When it comes to the bandicoot's legacy, we just can't help but praise this one out of the original trilogy. And you better believe we played “Warped” like crazy when it was remastered for PS4!

#2: “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” (2009)

Don't get us wrong. We've loved every minute we've spent with Nathan Drake and company on their adventures. In the end, “Uncharted 2” comes out on top for a handful of reasons. Every scene is visually stunning, from the breathtaking landscapes to the explosive action sequences. Speaking of sequences, the entire game is like watching one of the best action-adventure movies ever conceived. You'd think a single player campaign such as this would be enough, but Naughty Dog took it a step further and added a kickass multiplayer mode! Naughty Dog, you're so good to us!

#1: “The Last of Us” (2013)

It’s emotional, it’s intense, and it’s responsible for spilling the tears of millions. “The Last of Us” may not have the best levels, best combat or even the best puzzles in any Naughty Dog game, but what brings everything together is its compelling story, brilliant writing, exceptional voice acting, and original characters. It's almost hard for us to talk about the game without spoiling anything. As you journey through the zombie infested America, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beautiful environments and observing the relationship building between Joel and Ellie. A long-awaited “Part II” was announced at PSX 2016, and there’s still no release date. So, if you haven’t yet, what are you waiting for? Pick up this game. Trust us, you won’t regret it.