Though the PSP’s library is filled with well-known titles that received critical and commercial acclaim, there exists a collection of overlooked gems that quietly contributed to the handheld’s success. These forgotten PSP games often experimented slot with new ideas, explored unique genres, or were simply victims of poor marketing. Despite their lack of widespread attention, they remain some of the best games that deserve renewed recognition.
One such title is Jeanne d’Arc, a tactical RPG from Level-5 that blends history with fantasy in a unique retelling of the life of Joan of Arc. The game features rich storytelling, gorgeous art direction, and engaging strategy combat. Despite its quality, it never reached the same status as other RPGs of the era, largely due to its release timing and niche appeal.
Another underrated gem is The Warriors, based on the cult film of the same name. The game acts as both a prequel and adaptation, offering gritty beat-‘em-up gameplay and faithful recreation of 1970s New York. Rockstar Games crafted a game with surprising depth and replayability, but it flew under the radar compared to their more famous franchises.
Killzone: Liberation offered a different take on the series by adopting an isometric perspective rather than the traditional first-person viewpoint. This strategic shift allowed for a more tactical style of gameplay, which was well-suited to handheld play. The game also supported multiplayer, adding to its longevity, though it remains largely forgotten today.
Crush, a puzzle-platformer that lets players switch between 2D and 3D perspectives, was ahead of its time. This mechanic, later seen in games like Fez, made for mind-bending puzzles and unique gameplay. However, its experimental nature may have limited its mainstream appeal, despite its innovation and solid execution.
The PSP’s lifespan was marked by competition and transition, and many titles didn’t get the exposure they deserved. Games that weren’t part of major franchises or lacked heavy marketing often went unnoticed, even if they matched or exceeded the quality of more prominent releases.
Revisiting these forgotten PSP games shows just how diverse and creative the platform’s library truly was. In many ways, these hidden gems represent the spirit of experimentation that made the PSP special. For players willing to look beyond the obvious, there are countless experiences waiting to be rediscovered.