The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s attempt to bring console-level gaming to the handheld market, and although it didn’t achieve the widespread success of its competitors, it boasted a library of underrated gems that continue to resonate with gamers to this day. One such title is Persona 3 Portable, an enhanced version of the original Persona 3 RPG. Released in 2009, Persona 3 Portable was a perfect fit for the PSP, offering players the chance to dive into an emotionally charged, turn-based RPG that blended dungeon crawling with social simulation. Players could build relationships with classmates, explore a mysterious tower, and face off against shadowy enemies, all while dealing with the pressures of school life. The game’s balance of strategic combat, character development, and life simulation elements made it an unforgettable experience for RPG fans, and it remains one of the most beloved titles on the PSP.
Another hidden gem on the PSP was Daxter, a spin-off of the popular Jak and Daxter series. Released in 2006, Daxter let players control the comedic sidekick as he embarked on his own tangan dewa platforming adventure while searching for his friend, Jak. The game featured tight, responsive controls, colorful environments, and a playful sense of humor that made it a standout title for younger audiences and fans of platformers. Despite being a side story, Daxter captured the essence of the Jak and Daxter series and offered a fun, lighthearted experience that was perfect for on-the-go gaming.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is yet another standout title for the PSP. Released in 2010, it was a continuation of the Metal Gear series and featured Big Boss as the protagonist. Unlike other Metal Gear games, Peace Walker incorporated a unique blend of tactical espionage action with base-building mechanics, allowing players to recruit soldiers and manage resources while tackling stealth-based missions. The game’s compelling narrative, set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions, combined with its strategic gameplay, made it a must-play for Metal Gear fans. Peace Walker proved that the PSP was capable of delivering complex, story-driven experiences, setting it apart from other handheld systems of its time.
The PSP’s library may have been overshadowed by the rise of smartphones and other gaming devices, but its collection of games remains a testament to the system’s potential. Titles like Persona 3 Portable, Daxter, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker proved that the PSP was capable of delivering compelling, deep, and immersive experiences. These games, though often overlooked, continue to be fondly remembered by fans of the handheld and remain classics in their own right.