The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a groundbreaking console that brought console-quality gaming to the palm of your hand. While the system boasted several tupaiwin high-profile games, such as God of War: Chains of Olympus and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, there were many hidden gems that flew under the radar. These underrated titles may not have garnered as much attention but are every bit as deserving of a spot in the PSP hall of fame. In this article, we’ll explore some of the PSP’s best-kept secrets that you might have missed but should definitely add to your collection.
One of the standout hidden gems on the PSP is LocoRoco (2006), a quirky and colorful platformer that captured the hearts of players with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Players control a group of cheerful, bouncing creatures called LocoRoco, guiding them through various levels by tilting the environment. The game’s unique visual style, upbeat soundtrack, and innovative gameplay mechanics make it one of the most fun and charming titles on the PSP. LocoRoco’s minimalist design and whimsical charm make it a must-play for anyone seeking a lighthearted and enjoyable gaming experience on the go.
Another underrated gem is Persona 3 Portable (2010), a portable version of the iconic JRPG originally released on the PlayStation 2. While Persona 3 gained a dedicated following on the PS2, the PSP version made the game more accessible, offering a streamlined experience with additional features like the option to play as a female protagonist. The game’s combination of dungeon crawling, turn-based combat, and social simulation elements makes it one of the most compelling RPGs on the handheld. The addition of new content and the ability to experience the story from a different perspective adds a new layer of depth to the original.
Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition (2005) was another underrated racing game on the PSP that deserves more recognition. While Need for Speed and Gran Turismo dominated the racing genre on the platform, Midnight Club 3 offered a more arcade-style experience that focused on fast-paced, street racing action. With its open-world environments, customizable vehicles, and thrilling races, the game delivered an exciting racing experience that felt distinct from other titles in the genre. Its vibrant cities, diverse selection of cars, and exhilarating gameplay make it one of the best racing games on the PSP.
For fans of strategy games, Field Commander (2006) is a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed. This turn-based tactical game challenges players to command an army on a battlefield filled with strategic opportunities and obstacles. The game offers deep tactical gameplay, with a variety of units, environments, and objectives to keep players engaged. Its accessibility, with simple mechanics and easy-to-understand controls, makes it a great entry point for newcomers to the strategy genre. Field Commander‘s solid gameplay, combined with its military-themed story, makes it an underrated gem on the PSP.
Lastly, Valkyria Chronicles II (2010) was a tactical RPG that offered a unique blend of turn-based combat and real-time strategy, set in an alternate reality inspired by World War II. The game’s beautiful cel-shaded art style, engaging characters, and intricate tactical battles made it a standout title in the RPG genre. Despite being a sequel to the popular Valkyria Chronicles on the PS3, Valkyria Chronicles II flew under the radar for many PSP owners but is widely considered one of the system’s best RPGs.