While everyone remembers God of War: Chains of Olympus or Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII when discussing the PSP, there’s a rich collection of overlooked gems that quietly delivered some of the best gameplay experiences on the system. These PSP games may not have had pianototo blockbuster marketing, but they earned their place among the best through creative design, strong mechanics, and unique charm.
Pursuit Force is one such game that many people missed. It was an adrenaline-filled action title that blended high-speed vehicle chases with on-foot gunfights. It was a concept ahead of its time, providing intense set-piece moments reminiscent of blockbuster films. Its sequel, Extreme Justice, refined the gameplay even further, and together they stand as some of the most thrilling games ever released on the handheld platform.
Another forgotten gem is LocoRoco, a quirky, physics-based platformer with a vibrant art style and whimsical soundtrack. The game used the PSP’s shoulder buttons for movement, creating a playful, rhythmic experience that was unlike anything else on the market. It wasn’t just a cute diversion; it was one of the best PSP games for relaxing, intuitive play, and it later inspired mobile-style platforming design that became popular in subsequent years.
Also worth noting is Killzone: Liberation, a tactical top-down shooter that made brilliant use of the PSP’s limited controls. With a strong single-player campaign and challenging AI, it stood out from the more traditional shooters of the time. It was praised for its design, pacing, and level structure—qualities that make it a hidden classic today.
These forgotten PSP games might not have earned the same accolades as their more famous counterparts, but they exemplify the spirit of handheld innovation. For anyone diving back into the PSP library, these titles are not to be missed.