Epic Fails And Undying Favorites
Some PSP games were absolute nightmares—let’s just say we spent more time regretting our purchase than actually playing. But, of course, there were also quite a few that managed to sneak past the “What were they thinking?” filter and stay with us long after the console became a distant memory. So, first, let’s take a look at the ten worst PSP games ever made before celebrating the ones that turned Sony's first handheld into a must-have.
1. Napoleon Dynamite: The Game
Released in 2007 for the PSP, this game is essentially a collection of uninspired mini-games. These are loosely tied to scenes and characters from the 2004 film. Visually, it’s underwhelming, even by PSP standards, with crude animations and flat character models.
"Napoleon Dynamite: The Game" Longplay [PSP] by Val
2. Vampire Chronicle: The Chaos Tower
Vampire Chronicle: The Chaos Tower attempts to combine the darkness of vampires with 2D fighting, but it simply doesn’t work. Released in 2005, the game featured awkward combat mechanics that failed to deliver a smooth experience. Instead of entertaining players, it left them frustrated and disappointed.
Darkstalkers Chronicle: The Chaos Tower (PSP) Longplay 4K 60FPS by Maka O Brabo
3. Shrek The Third
If you thought that movie-based games could be enjoyable, Shrek the Third (2007) would prove you wrong. This title felt more like an afterthought than a fun tie-in to the beloved film. Poor graphics and uninspired level design further made this one a chore.
Shrek The Third 4K 100 % Walkthrough (NC) (X360, Wii, PS2, PC, PSP) by Toad in the Hole
4. World Snooker Championship 2007
World Snooker Championship 2007 could’ve been a great sports simulation, but it was bogged down by sluggish gameplay and lackluster visuals. The game failed to capture the excitement of snooker, leaving fans wanting a more thrilling virtual experience. Ultimately, it didn’t live up to expectations.
World Snooker Championship 2007 PS2 Gameplay HD (PCSX2) by xTimelessGaming
5. Street Supremacy
Street Supremacy had all the ingredients for a thrilling underground racing experience—turf wars, rival crews, and slick Japanese imports. But instead of NOS-fueled excitement, we got loading screens. The gameplay felt like driving through molasses, and the AI drivers had the personality of a parking cone.
Street Supremacy - PSP Gameplay (PPSSPP) 1080p by Asteria
6. Coded Arms
In 2005, Coded Arms promised exciting first-person shooter action on the PSP but failed to deliver. Its procedural level design led to repetitive gameplay, and the clunky controls hindered the experience. What could’ve been a standout shooter felt more like a confusing maze with outdated mechanics.
Coded Arms FULL WALKTHROUGH Gameplay HD (PSP) | NO COMMENTARY | PART 1 by FullThrough
7. Pocket Racers
Pocket Racers tried to mix the high-octane fun of racing with the edgy vibe of a secret agent storyline. The result? A miniature disaster. You drive tiny cars through oversized environments but with none of the charm.
Pocket Racers GT Gameplay Android by Android, iOS, PC Gameplay - PROAPK
8. Lego Battles
Despite being part of the popular Lego franchise, Lego Battles (2009) missed the mark when it came to handheld strategy. It failed to create a memorable experience and couldn’t capture the charm that other Lego titles brought to the table. As a result, it left players wanting more.
Lego Battles DS HD Gameplay (MelonDS) by Tritonex
9. Bionicle Heroes
Fans of Lego’s Bionicle series were hoping Bionicle Heroes (2006) would bring their favorite characters to life in an exciting action game. Unfortunately, the combat felt shallow, the levels became repetitive, and the graphics failed to make an impact. The game ultimately didn’t live up to expectations.
Bionicle Heroes (2006) - PC Gameplay 4k 2160p / Win 10 by FirstPlays HD
10. Dead Or Alive Paradise
This “gameplay” consists mostly of ogling, gift-giving, and playing mini-games that somehow manage to be boring. The volleyball mechanics are clunky, and the casino feels rigged, adding to the frustration. Overall, the vibe is less “vacation fun” and more “someone should call HR.”
Dead Or Alive Paradise - PSP Gameplay Sample 【Longplays Land】by HIDEFACES
Now, let’s take a look at the ten perfect games that we still can’t seem to shake off.
1. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories
When Rockstar brought Liberty City Stories to the PSP in 2005, they managed to recreate the open-world chaos the series was known for in a portable format. This one felt like GTA on the go. Moreover, the city felt alive, which made it an unforgettable experience.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories - PSP Gameplay 1080p (PPSSPP) by John GodGames
2. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Peace Walker (2010) is hailed as one of the best tactical action games on the PSP. It perfectly translated the Metal Gear experience into handheld form, with complex gameplay, a compelling story, and outstanding boss battles. Fans still regard it as a highlight of the series.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker - Gameplay Walkthrough Part 1 - Intro by Dasuberpoop
3. God Of War: Ghost Of Sparta
This game brought the brutal, mythological action of the franchise to the PSP with stunning visuals and intense combat. It further pushed the system to its limits, offering visceral, cinematic experiences. Hence, Kratos’s rage was felt even in the palm of your hand.
4. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War Of The Lions
Fans never thought that they would get one of the most beloved tactical RPGs to the PSP in this game. Over time, the game's intricate story, deep combat system, and improved visuals made it a must-play for strategy fans. It remains one of the best RPGs on the platform.
5. The Legend Of Heroes: Trails In The Sky
This one on the list is an exceptional JRPG with a deep narrative and well-developed characters. Its engaging turn-based combat and vast world-building made it a standout in the genre. Despite its niche appeal, it’s still regarded as one of the PSP’s best RPG experiences.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky PC Gameplay FullHD 1080p by Jimmy Dali 2
6. Persona 3 Portable
Persona 3 Portable (2010) took everything fans loved about the original and made it perfect for handheld play. With a new protagonist to choose from and the same hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, it brought the story right to your palms. It’s a game that feels like magic in your hands.
Persona 3 Portable | New Gameplay Today by Game Informer
7. Lumines
Lumines (2004) is a game that makes you forget the world around you. It's like Tetris but with a funky rhythm and slick visuals. A game that's deceptively simple yet addictively complex. One round, and you'll be hooked, your fingers tapping to the beat while blocks fall in sync.
Lumines Gameplay PlayStation Portable (PSP) (1080p HD) by TSM Channel
8. Killzone: Liberation
Who says you can’t enjoy intense military action from a top-down view? Killzone: Liberation (2006) proved that with strategy, even a handheld shooter could deliver excitement. Lastly, its gritty atmosphere and tactical combat was a handheld shooter that truly made a statement.
Killzone Liberation PS5 Gameplay [Playstation Plus] by Skycaptin5
9. Wipeout Pure
Wipeout Pure (2005) didn’t just give you a racing game; it gave you an entire futuristic speed experience. Intense racing and a soundtrack made it a standout. Plus, strapping into a ship and flying through neon-lit tracks was nothing short of exhilarating.
Wipeout Pure - PSP Gameplay 1080p (PPSSPP) by John GodGames
10. Daxter
In 2006, Daxter brought the beloved Jak and Daxter characters to the PSP. The game delivered a fun, action-packed platforming experience filled with humor and charm. Daxter’s personality shone through, and the game remains one of the most memorable platformers on the handheld.
Daxter Full Gameplay Walkthrough / No Commentary【FULL GAME】4K UHD by Gamer's Little Playground
