The PlayStation Portable (PSP) might not have had the same level of commercial success as some of its competitors, but its library remains one of the most diverse and exciting collections of portable games ever released. Many of its titles—often overshadowed by the success of the Igamble247 PlayStation 2 and later PlayStation 3—are still worth revisiting. The PSP provided gamers with experiences that went beyond the typical handheld offerings, delivering console-quality games in the palm of your hand.
One of the most underrated gems of the PSP is Valkyria Chronicles II. The first Valkyria Chronicles was a hit on the PlayStation 3, but its PSP sequel deserves just as much praise. Combining tactical turn-based combat with a compelling story set in an alternate-history world, Valkyria Chronicles II takes everything that made the original great and adapts it for portable play. It also features an engaging, heartfelt narrative about the trials of war, as players guide a young squad of soldiers through the brutal conflict.
Another hidden gem is The Third Birthday, the third entry in the Parasite Eve series. This action RPG blends survival horror with an intriguing narrative, following Aya Brea as she investigates strange, otherworldly phenomena in New York City. While the game deviated from its predecessors in terms of gameplay mechanics, its gripping story and deep lore made it one of the most memorable PSP titles. Its unique real-time combat and time-bending mechanics set it apart from other RPGs of its time.
For fans of puzzle-platformers, LocoRoco 2 is a delightful experience that deserves more recognition. The LocoRoco games, known for their whimsical art style and addictive mechanics, were an unexpected but charming success on the PSP. The second game in the series expands upon the original’s formula, introducing new characters and environments while maintaining the fun, colorful world that players fell in love with. It’s a perfect example of how the PSP was able to provide light-hearted, accessible gaming experiences in between the more intense, narrative-driven titles.
Lastly, Gitaroo Man Lives! is a rhythm game that often flies under the radar, but it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. This quirky and energetic game is filled with fantastic music, an outlandish story, and fun rhythm-based gameplay. It’s the kind of game that’s hard to categorize but undeniably captivating, and it makes the most of the PSP’s portable nature, offering a unique experience that’s both fun and challenging.
Though the PSP is no longer in production, its library remains a goldmine of underrated games that are well worth revisiting. With the rise of emulation and digital re-releases, these forgotten classics continue to find new audiences and remind us why the PSP, while short-lived, had such a lasting impact on the portable gaming world.
