The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was indeed a unique handheld console. It excelled in power compared to its contemporaries but struggled to market itself solely on its gaming merits. This console offered a mixed-media experience, appealing to a specific audience that appreciated its additional features such as music and movie storage. As a result, the PSP became a nostalgic piece of gaming history, particularly for those whose tastes aligned with its library.
While the PSP may not garner as much attention as other consoles from its era, it certainly provided a rich catalog of noteworthy titles. Unlike other systems with dual screens, several PSP games have successfully transitioned to modern platforms through ports and remasters, ensuring they remain relevant in today’s gaming landscape.
No matter if you engage with these titles through remasters, explore the PSP collection via PlayStation Plus, or encounter a classic PSP with its distinct UMDs, here are essential games that deserve your attention before this handheld console slips further into obscurity.
8 Lumines: Puzzle Fusion
The PSP’s Patron Puzzle
Puzzle games have historically drawn players to handheld consoles, and the PSP found its iconic charm in Lumines: Puzzle Fusion. Much like the beloved Tetris on the original Game Boy, this game offered a portable time-wasting delight.
The mechanics involve blocks cascading from above, which you must arrange into squares of four matching colors to score points. As specific blocks touch others, they unleash additional effects that could trigger extensive combos, amplifying your score. Its standout feature is its captivating audiovisual experience, replete with diverse skins and a dynamic soundtrack that makes the gameplay addictive. For a modern experience, Lumines Remastered is available on various contemporary platforms.
7 Exile
Play That Funky Music
The rhythm-based gaming genre found a haven on PlayStation consoles, and the PSP was no exception. It introduced its own unique title, Patapon, which blends rhythm and strategy in an exciting way.
In Patapon, you command a tiny army of tribal warriors who react to rhythm sequences that sync with the music. Sending commands for movement or attacks requires both timing and rhythm, creating a challenging yet engaging gameplay dynamic. You’ll also be responsible for managing and enhancing your Patapons between missions, as you work to ensure their success on the battlefield. You can experience both the original game and its sequel in the Patapon 1+2 Replay remaster.
6 Mega Man Powered Up
There’s Still A Market For Mega Man Builder
For fans of the classic Mega Man series, Mega Man Powered Up offered a fresh perspective on the series, particularly appealing to those who might find traditional platformers challenging.
This remake of the original Mega Man features both classic and modern modes, allowing players to experience the original difficulty or engage with new characters and eased gameplay mechanics. A highlight is the ability to unlock and play as various Robot Masters, complete with their own storylines. Additionally, the game includes a robust stage builder. However, as of now, Powered Up has not transitioned to modern platforms, making it a hidden gem for dedicated fans.
5 Daxter
Let The Little Guy Have His Due
During the mid-2000s, gaming experimentation flourished. A notable example was Daxter, a PSP-exclusive title that expanded on the beloved Jak & Daxter universe.
This interquel follows Daxter during Jak’s imprisonment, presenting a perfect blend of combat and platforming elements while equipping Daxter with unconventional extermination devices. The game is largely linear with optional side quests, echoing the gameplay style of other platforming classics. Unfortunately, it lacks a remaster, but it is available on the PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog for both PS4 and PS5 users.
4 Persona 3 Portable
Keep The FeMC Alive
When discussing Persona 3 Portable, many may wonder why they should choose the PSP version over the visually stunning Persona 3 Reload. While the latter is indeed impressive, the original has its charm and unique features worth experiencing.
While Persona 3 Portable retains the core story of the PS2 version, it introduces critical quality-of-life improvements, including the ability to issue commands to your party members. Although exploration is limited to menus, the narrative depth and engaging combat remain intact. Furthermore, this version uniquely allows you to play as a female protagonist, exploring distinct social links and events. It’s a classic that can now be found on platforms like Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation.
3 Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
Who Was Zack, Really?
The storyline of Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII delves into the events that preceded the main narrative of Final Fantasy VII, focusing on Zack Fair, the heroic figure who influences Cloud’s journey.
This prequel sets the stage for critical backstory, exploring crucial relationships and events leading up to the original game. Its combat system provides a real-time experience with selectable commands, adding layers to the gameplay with an innovative slot machine mechanic tied to limit breaks and leveling. For those seeking to relive this iconic story, Crisis Core Reunion is now accessible on modern gaming platforms.
2 Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep
The Start Of The Timeline (Sort Of)
Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep acts as a timeline prequel to the revered series, providing insights into pivotal events preceding the original game. Featuring three distinct characters—Terra, Aqua, and Ventus—this installment explores their intertwined narratives and unique challenges.
Through innovative gameplay mechanics like the Command Deck system, players can customize their skills and magic, creating a personalized combat experience. While the PSP had limitations such as long loading times, modern players can enjoy this classic through the Kingdom Hearts -HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX- compilation.
1 Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Lotta Prequels On This Thing…
The story of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker bridges the narrative gaps between Metal Gear Solid 3 and Metal Gear Solid V, providing essential context about Big Boss and the establishment of his mercenary group, Militaires Sans Frontières.
Players will navigate military interventions in Costa Rica, encounter new characters that shape the plot of the later games, and engage in a blend of stealth mechanics reminiscent of previous titles in the series. Despite challenges with the PSP’s control scheme, an HD version is available for those who wish to experience this pivotal installment with enhanced graphics.
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