When most people think of the PSP, a few standout titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Crisis Core, and Monster Hunter come to mind. But the console’s deep and diverse library also includes numerous underrated gems that never got the recognition they deserved. These hidden treasures helped shape the PSP’s legacy and continue to offer unforgettable experiences for those who discover them.

One such title is Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, a remake of a classic tactical RPG. It boasts deep political storytelling, moral decision-making, and a complex combat system that rivals — and arguably surpasses — its more famous cousin, Final Fantasy Tactics. Its Popotogel branching storylines and meaningful consequences give it immense replay value, yet it flew under the radar for many players at the time.

Killzone: Liberation is another example of a surprisingly polished experience. Unlike its console counterparts, which are first-person shooters, this PSP entry adopts an isometric viewpoint and tactical gameplay. It’s sharp, satisfying, and unique, offering a different side of the Killzone universe. With a tight campaign and impressive visuals for its time, it remains one of the most underappreciated entries in the franchise.

Then there’s Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero?, a brutally difficult platformer starring a penguin soldier from the Disgaea universe. It’s comically hard, with a limited number of lives and unforgiving levels. Yet its charm, humor, and challenge make it stand out from the usual PSP lineup. While it wasn’t for everyone, players who embraced its difficulty often became die-hard fans.

Another hidden gem is Field Commander, a turn-based strategy game that drew comparisons to Advance Wars. It featured intelligent AI, a solid single-player campaign, and surprisingly robust online multiplayer. Though it didn’t receive much marketing push, it showcased what the PSP could do for fans of tactical warfare.

These underrated PSP games reveal a side of the system that casual fans might have missed. They weren’t just filler — they were bold, experimental, and full of character. For those willing to dig a little deeper, the PSP remains one of the most rewarding handheld consoles to explore.