The PSP, once a dominant force in handheld gaming, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many players.
Newer consoles may have captured the spotlight, but the PSP library boasts a wealth of hidden gems that deserve discovery. You’ll find everything from action-packed adventures to immersive RPGs at the PSP store these days, many of which have not been given the acclaim they deserve.
Let’s look at some of the most impressive and underrated titles that are entertaining players in 2024.
Warhammer 40,000: Squad Command
This is a game with a promising concept.
You get to command a squad of space marines through a series of challenging missions. Its 3D environments and destructible elements create a dynamic battlefield that rewards strategic thinking.
Squad Command has the hallmarks of a truly great strategy game. With improved controls, a more engaging story, and refined AI, it truly doesn’t give the credit it deserves among gaming critics.
Lumines Remastered
Games with shiny gems and jewels are a big thing these days – just think of the uber-successful Candy Crush, and even casino games like Joker’s Jewels. Yet Lumines offers something different to this pretty aesthetic with a thoughtful game that will have get players thinking.
Lumines is a dazzling puzzle experience that’s aged like a fine wine. It’s Tetris meets MTV, a hypnotic mix of falling blocks and pulsating music.
Lumines Remastered, the updated version, is a polished gem, especially shining on the Switch with its HD rumble. This remaster wisely doesn’t mess with the original’s core gameplay. You’re still frantically arranging blocks to the rhythm of the music, chasing that ever-elusive high score. It’s simple yet deeply satisfying, a gameplay loop that can suck you in for hours.
There are a few minor flaws. The game can get a little slowdown on the Switch in handheld mode, and the time-sink nature of Challenge mode might not be for everyone. But Lumines Remastered is a game that forgives you for losing track of time, rewarding you with a smile, a catchy tune stuck in your head, and a mesmerizing dance of falling blocks.
Jeanne D’Arc
Level-5’s Jeanne d’Arc is a hidden gem that blends historical fiction with tactical RPG gameplay. This PSP title offers a unique take on the Joan of Arc legend, mixing it with fantasy elements for a unique narrative.
The game’s turn-based combat system is strategic and engaging, and you’ll need careful planning and execution for it to be a success. The story line may have its ups and downs, the core gameplay mechanics are definitely strong.
Jeanne d’Arc keeps players engaged with fresh challenges, from armor transformations to a rock-paper-scissors combat system. It’s a title that deserves a second look, especially for those seeking a tactical RPG with a unique twist.
Valkyria Chronicles II
Valkyria Chronicles II builds upon the solid foundation laid by its predecessor and gives players a great tactical RPG experience. While it may not reach the same emotional heights as the original, it offers a wonderful story, addictive gameplay, and impressive technical prowess.
The game’s blend of turn-based strategy and third-person shooter elements help keep it as engaging as ever, while new class options and the expanded customization system provide players with greater strategic depth.
While it doesn’t quite surpass the original, Valkyria Chronicles II is a fantastic game in its own right. It’s a must-play for fans of the series and a solid choice for anyone looking for an underrated game to play on.
Ys Seven
Ys Seven is a great action RPG that successfully transitions the beloved franchise into the third dimension. The adventures of Adol Christin get a makeover with this fresh adventure.
The game’s real-time combat system is a standout feature, combining the speed and excitement of an action game with the depth of an RPG.
Perhaps the reason this game has flown under the radar is because its storyline doesn’t reach the same heights as some similar titles around at the time of its release, but it’s still an entertaining joyride for gaming fans.
Rengoku II: The Stairway to Heaven
The Stairway to H.E.A.V.E.N followed hot on the heels of the original, with a focus on customization, allowing players to experiment with different loadouts and playstyles.
The fast-paced combat, though repetitive, is still fun, and the promise of powerful new weapons keeps players coming back for more.
The story remains a secondary factor, but the game’s emphasis on action and progression makes up for its flaws. Rengoku II is a solid entry in the action-RPG genre, and while it doesn’t break any new ground in this genre, it’s still a fun and friendly gaming session for anyone interested.