The PSP era birthed a number of incredible franchises that, despite their quality, have faded into cendanabet obscurity. Many of these games were innovative, stylish, and rich with potential. While some PSP games evolved into bigger franchises, others were left behind—even though they rank among the best games of Sony’s handheld lineup. These hidden gems deserve not only a second look but a full revival on modern platforms.
“Resistance: Retribution” is a great example. As a third-person shooter set in the popular “Resistance” universe, it delivered polished action and an engaging storyline that rivaled its console counterparts. Despite strong reviews and a solid fan base, the game never received a sequel. Similarly, “Killzone: Liberation” offered tight tactical gameplay and showed how well the Killzone universe could adapt to handheld mechanics. Its absence from current consoles leaves a noticeable void.
Then there’s “Sid Meier’s Pirates!” on PSP—a near-perfect port of the PC classic that introduced strategy and high-seas adventure to a new audience. The blend of naval battles, trading, and swashbuckling made it one of the best games in the PSP library. Another title worth revisiting is “Brave Story: New Traveler,” a turn-based RPG with heartwarming narrative elements and solid mechanics. It flew under the radar but delivered a complete and satisfying experience.
With the popularity of remakes and remasters, there’s a strong case to be made for reviving these forgotten franchises. PSP games like these prove that good design and storytelling are timeless. Giving them new life on PS5 or through PlayStation Plus could reintroduce them to a new generation—and perhaps even spawn entirely new entries.