The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was ahead of its time when it launched in 2004. With its powerful hardware, stunning visuals, and portable design, the PSP offered console-quality gaming on the go. While many of its best-known titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty mage77 City Stories received widespread acclaim, the PSP was also home to several hidden gems that didn’t receive as much attention but are still well worth playing. Here’s a look at some of the best PSP games you might have missed.

One such hidden gem is LocoRoco (2006), a colorful and quirky platformer that takes a unique approach to gameplay. In LocoRoco, players control a blob-like creature by tilting the environment, guiding it through levels filled with obstacles, enemies, and puzzles. The game’s whimsical art style, charming music, and innovative mechanics made it one of the most original and fun titles on the PSP. Despite its lack of widespread recognition, LocoRoco remains one of the best examples of creative, non-traditional gameplay.

For fans of tactical RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (2011) is a must-play. This remake of the classic Tactics Ogre from the SNES era features updated visuals, voice acting, and an expanded story. The game’s deep, strategic combat and branching narrative make it one of the best tactical RPGs ever created. Tactics Ogre is often overshadowed by more popular series like Final Fantasy Tactics, but its intricate world-building and complex choices make it a standout for fans of the genre.

If you’re looking for a more fast-paced action game, Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror (2006) is a fantastic, underappreciated title. This third-person shooter follows Gabe Logan, a covert operative, as he embarks on a mission to uncover a global conspiracy. The game combines stealth and action, allowing players to sneak past enemies or engage in explosive firefights. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror boasts excellent controls, a gripping story, and impressive visuals for a handheld title. It’s a game that is often overlooked but is highly regarded by those who played it.

Patapon 2 (2009) is a sequel to the popular rhythm-based strategy game Patapon (2008). In Patapon 2, players control a tribe of cute, drum-beating creatures and guide them through various challenges and enemies by tapping rhythms. The game’s simple yet addictive mechanics, along with its unique art style, make it one of the most memorable PSP experiences. It’s a game that balances fun, creativity, and strategy in a way that few other titles on the system manage to do.

For those who love narrative-driven experiences, Half-Minute Hero (2009) is a charming and fast-paced RPG that puts a unique spin on the genre. The game challenges players to save the world in just 30 seconds—yes, 30 seconds. Each level is timed, and players must complete their quests within a tight window, making for a frantic yet enjoyable experience. Half-Minute Hero mixes humor, speed, and creativity in a way that makes it a standout game on the PSP, especially for those looking for something offbeat.

Finally, Valhalla Knights (2006) offers a deep and engaging dungeon-crawling RPG experience that was largely overlooked. Set in a medieval fantasy world, Valhalla Knights allows players to create a party of adventurers and explore dungeons filled with monsters, treasure, and secrets. The game’s focus on combat, exploration, and character customization makes it an underrated gem for fans of action RPGs.

The PSP’s library was filled with great titles, many of which didn’t get the attention they deserved. Games like LocoRoco, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror, and Patapon 2 are just a few examples of the hidden gems that make the PSP’s library truly special. These games may not have achieved the same level of fame as others, but they remain some of the best experiences available on Sony’s handheld console.