While the PlayStation Portable is remembered for major franchises like God of War and Gran Turismo, its library also includes a wealth of underrated gems that never got the recognition they deserved. SAJITOTO These lesser-known PSP games often flew under the radar during their original releases, but many have since earned cult status for their creativity, charm, and experimental gameplay. Exploring this side of the PSP reveals the true depth of the platform.

Titles like Jeanne d’Arc and Killzone: Liberation offered strategy and action gameplay that surprised even seasoned players. Jeanne d’Arc, in particular, combined tactical RPG elements with a mythical retelling of French history—a bold concept that worked remarkably well. Then there’s MediEvil Resurrection, a remake of a PS1 classic that delivered humor, atmosphere, and tight gameplay in a compact form. These games didn’t always have blockbuster marketing, but they offered high production value and great design.

One of the unique traits of PSP games was their willingness to take risks. Dead Head Fred, for example, blended detective storytelling with dark comedy and puzzle mechanics, creating a wholly original adventure. Similarly, Echochrome offered minimalist visual design paired with mind-bending logic puzzles. These games proved that PSP developers weren’t afraid to experiment, offering experiences that couldn’t be found anywhere else, even on home consoles.

Today, discovering these hidden PSP gems is easier than ever thanks to emulation and digital archives. Fans who missed out the first time now have the chance to explore the platform’s full library and appreciate just how much innovation was packed into such a small screen. The underrated PSP games deserve just as much recognition as their blockbuster counterparts and remain a reminder of the creative freedom that once thrived in handheld gaming.