When discussing the best handheld games of all time, it’s impossible to ignore the PlayStation Portable (PSP). Despite its relatively short lifespan, the PSP had a library of remarkable games, many of which offered experiences that rivaled those of home consoles. While certain titles like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City irit4d Stories and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII are widely recognized, there are a number of hidden gems within the PSP’s library that may not have received the attention they deserve. Let’s explore some of the best, lesser-known PSP games that you might not have heard of—but definitely should play.

Lunar: Silver Star Harmony is one of the best examples of an overlooked RPG for the PSP. A remake of the classic Sega CD game, Lunar: Silver Star Story, this title takes players on a fantastical journey with a young hero named Alex. With its beautiful anime-style cutscenes, memorable characters, and emotional story, Lunar offers everything fans of traditional JRPGs could ask for. The game’s world is rich with lore, and the battle system is both strategic and rewarding, making it a standout title for any RPG fan.

Another hidden gem is Daxter, a spin-off of the popular Jak and Daxter series. While the main series received plenty of attention, Daxter is often overlooked. This action-platformer follows the humorous sidekick Daxter as he embarks on his own adventure. The game features colorful environments, fun combat mechanics, and a variety of mini-games that keep the gameplay fresh. The humor and charm of Daxter shine through, and it’s a perfect example of how handheld games could capture the spirit of console games.

For fans of strategy games, Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days is an excellent choice. A tactical RPG with a deep battle system and quirky humor, Disgaea 2 offers hours of content and a rewarding experience for anyone who loves strategic combat. The game’s wacky characters and over-the-top storyline add a layer of charm, but it’s the complex mechanics and the sheer amount of customization options that really make Disgaea 2 stand out. It’s a perfect title for fans of deep tactical gameplay on the go.

Lastly, The Warriors is a lesser-known action game for the PSP that is a must-play for fans of open-world brawlers. Based on the cult-classic film, The Warriors lets players control members of a street gang in 1970s New York City. The game features intense, fast-paced combat, and a gripping story that captures the gritty atmosphere of the film. With its engaging missions and fun multiplayer modes, The Warriors remains one of the PSP’s best-kept secrets.

While the PSP may not have enjoyed the same mainstream popularity as other handheld devices, its library is filled with hidden gems that still hold up today. Games like Lunar: Silver Star Harmony, Daxter, Disgaea 2, and The Warriors showcase the platform’s potential and are proof that the PSP offered far more than just a portable version of console games. These underrated titles are definitely worth revisiting.