The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s first true foray into the handheld gaming market, and it quickly became a favorite among gamers looking for console-quality experiences on the go. While it may not have reached the same level of popularity as the Nintendo DS, the PSP boasted an impressive library of games that were both unique and innovative. Despite this, many of the best PSP games remain underappreciated, overshadowed by the handheld’s more famous titles. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the underrated gems of the PSP era that are still worth playing today.
One such hidden gem is Patapon. This rhythm-based strategy game stands out for its unique gameplay, where players control a tribe of creatures by pressing login tangandewa buttons to the beat of the music. The gameplay combines rhythm mechanics with real-time strategy, offering a refreshing change from typical PSP titles. The game’s charming art style, catchy soundtrack, and addictive mechanics make it one of the most memorable PSP games that most players have overlooked. Patapon remains a standout example of how the PSP pushed the boundaries of what handheld gaming could achieve.
Another underrated title on the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. As a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, this action RPG gives players the chance to experience the events leading up to the main game from the perspective of Zack Fair, a character beloved by fans of the franchise. The fast-paced real-time combat, engaging storyline, and emotional depth make Crisis Core one of the best RPGs on the PSP. Despite being overshadowed by its more famous predecessors, Crisis Core is a must-play for any Final Fantasy fan and one of the most underappreciated gems of the PSP library.
Lastly, God of War: Chains of Olympus is another title that deserves more recognition. Released in 2008, this action-adventure game brings Kratos’ brutal combat and epic story to the handheld platform. The game is a prequel to the main God of War series and follows Kratos as he battles gods and monsters in the ancient world. Despite being on a handheld, Chains of Olympus manages to capture the feel of the console versions, with fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and a compelling storyline. It’s one of the best action games on the PSP, yet it often gets overlooked in favor of its more famous console counterparts.
These underrated PSP games—Patapon, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, and God of War: Chains of Olympus—show that the handheld had more to offer than just the big-name titles. Each of these games provides a unique and unforgettable experience, whether it’s through rhythm-based gameplay, deep storytelling, or fast-paced combat. For those who still have a PSP or want to revisit its library, these hidden gems are worth exploring.
