The PSP may have been overshadowed by its successor, the PS Vita, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t feature some truly great games that are often overlooked. The best PSP games were not only innovative but also offered deep gameplay experiences that are worth revisiting. Here are some underrated titles that deserved more recognition and still hold up today.
Valkyria Chronicles II was a tactical RPG that had everything a fan of the genre could want—strategic turn-based combat, compelling characters, and an emotional story set in a fictionalized version of Europe during an alternate World War II. Airasiabet While the game was met with mixed reviews, largely due to its shift from the original’s more serious tone, it remains an unforgettable experience for players who enjoy story-driven games with deep strategy elements. Its beautiful watercolor art style and deep tactical systems were far ahead of many other handheld games.
Patapon is a rhythm-based action game that combined simple mechanics with a unique aesthetic. Players would command a tribe of quirky, stick-figure-like characters by tapping various rhythms on the PSP’s buttons. The game’s catchy soundtrack, combined with its distinct visual style, made it a standout title that captured the imagination of many players. Despite its success, it never reached the mainstream recognition it deserved.
Another hidden gem is LocoRoco 2. The original LocoRoco was a charming and fun game, but the sequel elevated the formula to new heights with improved mechanics, new environments, and delightful music. The game was a perfect example of the creativity and whimsy the PSP’s library had to offer. It’s a game that will likely bring a smile to anyone who remembers playing it, yet it’s one that has sadly slipped under the radar for many.
If you love the best PSP games that focus on originality and gameplay above all else, these hidden gems offer experiences that are just as rewarding as their more famous counterparts.