The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may not have had the long-lasting success of other handheld consoles, but its library of games remains one of the most impressive in the portable gaming market. While the PSP had its share of blockbuster titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, there were many underrated gems that didn’t get the recognition they deserved. These games offer unique experiences that are worth revisiting, especially for those who still have a soft spot for the handheld console. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most underrated PSP games that you need to play.
One of the most underrated gems on the PSP is Patapon (2007), a rhythm-based strategy game that defied traditional gaming genres. Players control a tribe of tiny creatures known as the Patapons, issuing commands in sync with a drumbeat to guide them through various missions. The gameplay is a unique blend of rhythm, strategy, and action, and the game’s art style and soundtrack create an immersive, almost hypnotic experience. Despite its originality, Patapon never reached the mainstream audience it deserved. Its distinctive gameplay mechanics and addictive rhythm-based combat make it one of the most creative and overlooked games on the PSP.
Another standout that flew under the radar was LocoRoco (2006). This quirky platformer combines simple controls with a colorful world full of joy and whimsy. Players control a round, gooey creature known as a LocoRoco, guiding it through side-scrolling levels while avoiding obstacles and collecting items. The game’s art style is charming, and the upbeat soundtrack only adds to the fun. What makes LocoRoco unique is its simplicity, yet its ability to provide a fulfilling and challenging experience without relying on traditional gameplay mechanics. It’s a game that appeals to all ages and is a delightful addition to any PSP library.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions demo spaceman (2007) is another excellent yet underrated PSP game. This tactical RPG is a remastered version of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics, and while it didn’t get the widespread recognition of other Final Fantasy titles, it remains one of the best tactical RPGs on the platform. With its deep strategy mechanics, intricate story, and beautiful art direction, The War of the Lions is a must-play for fans of the genre. The game allows players to customize characters, engage in turn-based battles, and make choices that affect the storyline, offering hours of immersive gameplay.
For those who enjoy fighting games, Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus (2007) is a highly technical, fast-paced fighter that has a dedicated fanbase but didn’t make waves in the broader PSP community. The game boasts a deep combat system with a wide variety of characters, each with their own unique abilities and moves. What sets Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus apart from other fighters on the platform is its fluid animation and fast gameplay. The visuals were top-notch for a handheld console, and the game’s soundtrack is also a standout, making it a memorable experience for fans of the genre.
For fans of survival horror, Silent Hill: Shattered Memories (2009) was a dark and atmospheric entry in the Silent Hill series that didn’t get the attention it deserved. Unlike previous entries in the series, Shattered Memories takes a more psychological approach to horror, with the game’s storyline and environment changing based on the player’s actions. The game offers a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and unsettling atmosphere, and its use of the PSP’s hardware for the environment’s shifting narrative was innovative at the time. Silent Hill: Shattered Memories proves that the PSP was capable of offering mature, complex, and chilling experiences.
Lastly, Valkyria Chronicles II (2010) is a tactical RPG that combined turn-based combat with real-time strategy elements, offering an engaging and challenging experience. Set in a fictional version of Europe during the early 20th century, the game follows a group of young soldiers as they navigate the ravages of war. The combat is strategic, requiring players to think critically about positioning, resources, and movement. While Valkyria Chronicles II didn’t receive as much attention as it should have, it stands as one of the best RPGs on the PSP and remains a hidden gem for fans of the genre.
While the PSP may not have received the same level of attention as other consoles, its library is full of underrated gems that deserve recognition. From the rhythm-based strategy of Patapon to the dark atmosphere of Silent Hill: Shattered Memories, the PSP proved that portable gaming could offer a rich variety of experiences. These games, though often overlooked, continue to stand the test of time and showcase the innovative potential of handheld gaming.