While many PSP games like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Monster Hunter Freedom Unite received the praise they deserved, the system also had a treasure trove of overlooked gems. These lesser-known titles might not have pianototo made headlines, but they offered creativity, polish, and depth that rivaled bigger releases. For those who dig deeper, some of the best games on the PSP are the ones that flew under the radar.
One such title is Killzone: Liberation, which took the first-person formula and reimagined it as an isometric tactical shooter. It wasn’t just a clever adaptation of its console counterpart—it stood on its own with a sharp art style, engaging missions, and surprisingly advanced AI for a handheld title. Despite its innovation, it often got overshadowed by flashier shooters of the era.
Another underrated gem is The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky. With its richly detailed world and intricate character development, it laid the foundation for a whole sub-series that would eventually gain cult status in the West. At the time of its release, it didn’t receive the mainstream attention it deserved, but today, it’s frequently cited as one of the best RPGs on the PSP by those who gave it a chance.
Then there’s LocoRoco, a physics-based puzzle platformer full of charm and whimsy. Its colorful art and inventive mechanics made it unlike anything else on the system. Yet its quirky nature perhaps kept it from wider popularity, even though it showcased how inventive and joyful PSP games could be.
In retrospect, these unsung heroes highlight the depth and variety that defined the PSP’s library. They may not have led sales charts, but they are shining examples of how the system supported risk-taking and originality, often resulting in some of the most memorable experiences for those willing to look beyond the obvious.