While the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was home to many well-known titles, there were also a number of underrated gems that deserve recognition. Resistance: Retribution is one such title. This third-person shooter offered a unique blend of tactical combat and intense action, set within the Resistance universe. The game’s story follows a soldier named James Grayson, who is tasked with taking down the alien Chimera. The game’s tight controls, engaging story, and multiplayer modes made it one of the best PSP exclusives that flew under the radar for many players.
Another overlooked gem on the PSP is Jeanne d’Arc. This tactical RPG is set in an alternate version of the Hundred Years’ War, with the famous historical figure Jeanne d’Arc as its protagonist. The bmw4d game combines turn-based combat with a rich, narrative-driven experience, offering players a chance to dive into a unique take on history. Its charming character designs and strategic gameplay mechanics made it a standout RPG that was unfortunately overshadowed by more mainstream titles.
For fans of rhythm games, Gitaroo Man Lives! is a PSP title that should not be missed. A remaster of the cult classic from the PS2, Gitaroo Man Lives! combines music, rhythm, and quirky storytelling to create a unique gaming experience. Players control a young man named U-1 as he battles through musical duels to save his world. The game’s engaging rhythm mechanics and vibrant visual style made it an instant hit for those looking for something different on the PSP.
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror is another hidden gem in the PSP library. A third-person action game that follows Gabe Logan, a secret agent on a mission to prevent a global crisis, Dark Mirror offers solid stealth mechanics, engaging combat, and a thrilling story. The game’s intense atmosphere and well-crafted gameplay made it one of the PSP’s best action titles that didn’t always get the attention it deserved.
Lastly, LittleBigPlanet for the PSP brought the beloved PlayStation franchise to the handheld platform in 2009. Though it didn’t have the same impact as its PS3 counterpart, the PSP version still captured the charm of the original. Players could create their own levels and share them with others, fostering a strong community of creators. The game’s fun platforming mechanics and creative freedom made it a standout title that many overlooked.
These hidden gems show that the PSP was home to a diverse library of games that spanned multiple genres. While mainstream titles often overshadowed them, these underrated games continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who discovered them.