Best of 2009: Top 10 Games for PSP

Let’s not let the launch of the PSP Go, the digital-only handheld, overshadow the great year the PSP has had.  Some may love the PSP Go, and some may hate it, but what makes the PSP isn’t its different hardware formats, it’s its library of games.  The PSP has seen many successful titles this year.  With a long list of sequels, ports, and original games, 2009 was definitely a great year to be a PSP owner.

LocoRoco 2

LocoRoco 2 takes everything that was great from the first game and expands on it, introducing new gameplay elements but still providing the same fun and unique platforming action that players of the first game loved.  LocoRoco 2 is just one of those games worthy of being in any PSP owner’s collection.

SoulCalibur: Broken Destiny

While the game’s story mode has been the subject of much ridicule, there’s one thing that cannot be denied when talking about Soul Calibur on the PSP: it’s SoulCalibur, so it’s awesome.  The weapons-based fighter on the PSP is as strong as they come thanks to great fighting mechanics and fun (local) multiplayer support.

PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe

Breathing new life into the tower defense genre, PixelJunk Monsters Deluxe is everything the PS3 version was and more, and it makes a nice portable game too.  With new content and a tougher difficulty level, PixelJunk Monsters is a perfect fit for the PSP.

Rock Band Unplugged

What do you get when you make Rock Band without any instruments?  A pretty awesome rhythm game, actually.  Unplugged provides a way to play well-known tracks on the road, and despite not making use of any instruments, it’s still a great rhythm gaming experience.

Patapon 2

Patapon 2 doesn’t stray too far from the formula set by its predecessor, but that’s not a bad thing considering just how much fun the first game was.  There are a few minor changes to the overall package, however, and when you add a multiplayer mode to a fun strategy/rhythm hybrid game, you get one engaging little gem.

Resistance: Retribution

Resistance on the PSP manages to put a third-person shooter into a franchise known for its strong first-person shooters.  Oddly enough, the game works exceptionally well and feels right at home alongside its FPS brethren.  A strong multiplayer mode and connectivity features with the second PS3 game only make the overall package that much more special.

Half-Minute Hero

Half-Minute Hero oozes with 8-bit charm, frantic gameplay, and a nice story.  Forcing you to complete tasks in 30 seconds, the game is unique and provides a fast-paced challenge different from most others.  PSP owners who love RPGs need this game in their library.

LittleBigPlanet PSP

If you loved LittleBigPlanet on the PS3, you’ll love LittleBigPlanet on the PSP.  While there may not be any multiplayer component on this portable version of the game, it still manages to provide a ton of fun due to its gameplay and create tools.

Dissidia: Final Fantasy

Dissidia manages to combine a fighting game and an RPG all into one.  The result: a game where you duke it out against other characters in beautiful locales, earn experience, and upgrade your weapons and moves.  It’s something that fans of RPGs, fighting games, and Final Fantasy can all enjoy.

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

One of the least played games on the PSP is also one of the best.  Chinatown Wars is essentially what you would expect from Grand Theft Auto on the PSP.  There’s mugging, car-jacking, shooting, and more car-jacking.  Not to mention all the awesome missions.  Chinatown Wars is easily one of the best games on the PSP.