Introduction to the Gravity Rush Series
Created by director Keiichiro Toyama and Sony's celebrated Japan Studio (Project Siren), the Gravity Rush franchise stands as one of the most innovative and charming original IPs in PlayStation history. Centered around Kat, an amnesiac heroine accompanied by a cosmic cat named Dusty, the series gained a dedicated cult following thanks to its cel-shaded comic book aesthetic, breathtaking gravity-shifting traversal, and unforgettable orchestral soundtrack.
Although the series consists of a tight selection of titles, each entry offers a distinct experience across different hardware. Below is our definitive ranking of every Gravity Rush game release, ordered from lowest to highest based on gameplay, technical performance, and overall impact.
3. Gravity Rush (PlayStation Vita)
When Gravity Rush debuted on the PlayStation Vita in 2012, it was designed as a flagship title to showcase the handheld console's novel hardware features. Players used a combination of analog sticks, gyroscope tilting, and touch screen swipes to redirect Kat through the air, dodge enemy attacks, and slide across the streets of the floating metropolis Hekseville.
The original handheld release deserves immense credit for establishing the franchise's world, lore, and core mechanics. However, hardware constraints hindered its full potential. The PS Vita version suffered from frame rate stutters during chaotic battles, restricted draw distances, and occasionally awkward touch controls for dodging and sliding. While it remains an impressive technical showcase for handheld hardware, it sits at the bottom of the list simply because its console remaster resolved almost every technical drawback.
2. Gravity Rush Remastered (PlayStation 4)
Handled by the remaster specialists at Bluepoint Games, Gravity Rush Remastered brought Kat's debut adventure to the PlayStation 4 in 2015. Running at a smooth 60 frames per second in 1080p resolution, this remaster radically improved the original experience by resolving the performance hitches and drawn-out loading times that affected the handheld version.
In addition to sharp high-resolution textures and enhanced draw distances that allowed players to see Hekseville in all its glory, Gravity Rush Remastered incorporated all three original DLC expansion packs (the Maid Pack, Spy Pack, and Military Pack). The transition from PS Vita touch controls to the DualShock 4 controller made combat and precision gravity shifting feel infinitely more responsive. For anyone looking to start Kat's journey today, this remaster is unquestionably the definitive way to play the first game.
1. Gravity Rush 2 (PlayStation 4)
Taking the top spot on our ranking is Gravity Rush 2, a massive 2017 sequel that took full advantage of the PlayStation 4's power. Built from the ground up for console hardware, the game expanded the world to roughly two and a half times the size of the original, introducing the stunning, multi-tiered floating city of Jirga Para Lhao alongside a fully revamped Hekseville.
What truly elevates Gravity Rush 2 above its predecessor is the introduction of two new gravity styles: Lunar Style and Jupiter Style. Lunar Style makes Kat light and swift, granting long-distance jumps and high-speed maneuvers, while Jupiter Style drastically increases her weight for heavy, devastating area-of-effect attacks. Combined with deeper side quests, environmental destruction, photo mode features, and a grand story expansion focusing on Kat's rival Raven, Gravity Rush 2 represents the pinnacle of the franchise.
Gravity Rush Games Comparison
| Game Title | Platform | Release Year | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravity Rush | PlayStation Vita | 2012 | Original handheld release, gyro motion controls, touch-screen mechanics. |
| Gravity Rush Remastered | PlayStation 4 | 2015 | 60 FPS performance, enhanced visuals, all DLC packs included. |
| Gravity Rush 2 | PlayStation 4 | 2017 | Massive open world, Lunar and Jupiter styles, dynamic physics engine. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to play the Gravity Rush games in order?
Yes, playing the games in order is highly recommended. Gravity Rush 2 is a direct narrative sequel that builds upon character arcs, world mysteries, and lore introduced in Gravity Rush Remastered.
Is there an anime that connects the Gravity Rush games?
Yes, Sony released a short two-part anime special titled Gravity Rush: The Animation - Overture. Created by Studio Khara, it bridges the narrative gap between the events of Gravity Rush and Gravity Rush 2.
Can you play Gravity Rush games on PlayStation 5?
Both Gravity Rush Remastered and Gravity Rush 2 are fully playable on the PlayStation 5 via backward compatibility, benefiting from stable frame rates and fast storage loading speeds.
Final Thoughts
The Gravity Rush series remains one of gaming's most vibrant and creative action-adventure sagas. While the original PS Vita release introduced a brilliant concept, Gravity Rush Remastered perfected its foundation, and Gravity Rush 2 expanded it into a masterpiece. For fans of open-world exploration, stylized artwork, and unique movement mechanics, Kat's adventures are essential play on PlayStation platforms.
