While the PlayStation Portable was home to well-known hits like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, it also had a treasure trove of underrated titles that flew under the radar. These lesser-known PSP games, though not blockbusters, often delivered some of the best handheld experiences of their time.

One such game is Jean d’Arc, a tactical RPG that blends fantasy with historical fiction. Developed by TUNAS4D Level-5, the game features stunning artwork, a deep combat system, and an emotionally compelling story. Despite its quality, it remains underappreciated in the shadow of bigger JRPG franchises.

Killzone: Liberation is another underrated gem. Unlike its first-person console counterparts, this PSP entry took a top-down, isometric approach to the shooter genre. Its fast-paced, tactical gameplay combined with sharp graphics made it one of the best handheld action games, though it often gets overlooked in the broader Killzone series.

Then there’s Patapon, a rhythm-based strategy game that’s entirely unique in style and gameplay. Players command a tribe of eyeball warriors through musical cues. The gameplay is surprisingly deep, and the charming art style makes it one of the most memorable PSP experiences — especially for those who enjoy quirky, experimental design.

Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror brought stealth-action thrills to the PSP in a refined way, maintaining tight controls and a strong narrative. It was lauded for its smooth gameplay and even included a strong multiplayer component — yet it never gained the same popularity as console stealth titles like Metal Gear Solid.

LocoRoco 2 built on the physics-based platforming of the first game and doubled down on vibrant visuals, catchy music, and relaxing gameplay. It was a perfect showcase of the PSP’s potential to support charming, offbeat indie-style titles — long before that became the norm on handheld devices.

These hidden PSP gems may not have topped sales charts, but they remain some of the best games in the system’s library. For gamers who take the time to dig deeper, the PSP offers a treasure chest of overlooked masterpieces that are still worth playing today.