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[Beowvlf]

In an effort to have a discussion on PSP games that doesn't involve a comparison to the DS' upcoming lineup, I'm going to list 20 PSP games that are to be released within the next while that I believe, whether you own the system or not, you'll end up loving/owning/playing-like-gangbusters.

Keep in mind due to the PSP's ability to play games from any region, some of the titles on this list may be European or Japanese releases. I'll list the probability of localization for those titles that aren't yet confirmed for US release. How do I come to my conclusions? Ummm...

OK, let's begin!

20. Mega Man: Maverick Hunter X and Mega Man: Powered Up
Publisher: Capcom / Developer: Capcom
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Probable

Official Site: http://www.capcom.co.jp/psp_rockman/ -- http://www.capcom.co.jp/psp_x/

The beginning of a trend I truly hope continues, in remaking classic titles from the 16 and 32 bit generations in a style perfectly suited to the PSP. Not only do these games look downright fantastic, but the differing styles between the two, while I know many here disapprove, I quite like. Mega Man is back, and I haven't been this excited about the series in years.

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19. Landstalker
Publisher: TBA / Developer: Climax Entertainment
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Hard to say

Official Site: http://www.climax.co.jp/landstalker

An oft-forgotten, but excellent RPG that is a great example of the type of game that screams to be remade. Not many have played this, and to them this is a brand new RPG, but with a twist: we know it'll be great, at the very least to the level it's original was. The only problem I can ascertain? It may not make it to our shores.

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18. Extreme Ghouls n' Ghosts
Publisher: Capcom / Developer: Capcom
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Probable

Official Site: --None as of yet--

For the hardcore here (which is many of you), I don't need to explain why we'll all love this one. It's frakkin' Gn'G!! A personal favorite of mine from way back on the Master, I didn't enjoy the Maximo series as much as some, and as such I'm really looking forward to the warm, fuzzy feeling of nostalgia that will overcome my body when I pop in this UMD.

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17. Gallery Fake
Publisher: Bandai / Developer: Bandai
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Unlikely

Official Site: http://www.galleryfake-game.com

Attention Trauma Center/Phoenix Wright fans, this is your kind of game. A criminally unique adventure title placing you in the shoes of a detective attempting to solve a slew of art forgeries. How good is it? Famitsu didn't think too highly of it (29/40), but I still hope this gets localized, if only to further diversify the PSP lineup.

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16. Devil May Cry (working title)
Publisher: Capcom / Developer: Capcom
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Definite

Official Site: --None as of yet--

--No screens as of yet--

Arguably the best new action franchise of this current generation, anyone who isn't pumped for the PSP iteration -- which is a wholly new title, not a port -- needs to get their gaming priorities in check. If Capcom puts the effort into this title that we all hope, this could end up being something very, very special.

 

[Beowvlf]

15. Talkman
Publisher: SCE / Developer: SCEI
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Unlikely

Official Site: --None as of yet--

The highest profile 'non-game' in Sony's lineup, and an intriguing one at that. Perfect for those of you who want to learn some Japanese, and an interesting crossover of sorts from all those PC language learning titles that utilize voice recognition as a means of teaching.

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14. Tales of Eternia
Publisher: Namco / Developer: Namco
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Hard to say

Official Site: http://namco-ch.net/talesofeternia_psp/index.php

Another gorgeous little RPG and another installment in everyone's favorite rollercoaster-of-quality RPG series. Thankfully, Famitsu quite enjoyed this one (33/40) even more so than they did Legendia, so it's not hard to see why this is one to look forward to.

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13. Katamari Damacy
Publisher: Namco / Developer: Namco
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Definite

Official Site: http://namco-ch.net/katamari_mi_psp/index.php

While there is concern over how well the controls will translate on the PSP, this is still an all new installment in one of the best new franchises of this generation, and it looks fantastic to boot. As a huge fan of quirky Japanese games and the previous 2 PS2 titles, I simply cannot wait for this.

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12. Field Commander
Publisher: SOE / Developer: SOE
Region: USA

Official Site: http://fieldcommander.station.sony.com/

The best way to describe this strategy game from SOE is Total Annihilation fused within the Advance Wars formula. Sound good? Damn right it does. The game looks great, it's thankfully NOT an RTS (which just wouldn't work), and it looks like a great answer from Sony to AW, whilst not outright copying Nintendo's great series.

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11. Harvest Moon: Innocent Life
Publisher: Marvelous Inc./Natsume / Developer: Victor Interactive
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Definite

Official Site: http://www.mmv-i.net/game/psp/innocent_life

I love this series like no other, but this gen's installments haven't struck me in the same way BTN or the SNES iteration did. A change is in order, and Innocent Life is fit to take that challenge. The visuals are stunningly gorgeous, the changes are extremely intriguing, and I really hope Victor can deliver the next step in this enjoyable franchise.

 

[Beowvlf]

10. Metal Gear Acid 2
Publisher: Konami / Developer: Kojima Productions
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Already happening

Official Site: http://www.konami.jp/gs/game/mga2/english/index.html

The original that launched with the PSP was a solid strategy title that provided a surprisingly intriguing sideplot to the MG series, and this sequel looks even better. The visuals and, more importantly, game mechanics have been significantly improved, and for MG fanboys like myself, this is a must buy. Heck, even the Solid Eye looks cool!

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9. Pursuit Force
Publisher: SCE / Developer: SCEE
Region: Europe / Chance of localization: Definite

Official Site: http://www.yourpsp.com/psp/psp.html...le=true&section=disk_game_detail&locale=en_gb

Next to Wipeout, no other title from SCEE has interested me more than this unique shooting/racing/chasing hybrid that sports some of the best visuals we've seen on the PSP. Initially I was a bit nervous that the game might become a little repetitive, but one review has already hit in the UK, and it is quite good (8/10).

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8. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories
Publisher: Rockstar / Developer: Rockstar North
Region: USA

Official Site: http://www.rockstargames.com/libertycitystories/

No explanation necessary. This is the PSP title of this fall. Rockstar North continually defies my expectations, showing that they refuse to rest on their laurels, and GTA: LCS seems to continue that trend. This could very well be the title that cements the PSP as the number one handheld in the US and Europe.

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7. Tokobot
Publisher: Tecmo / Developer: Tecmo
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Already happening

Official Site: http://www.tecmo.co.jp/product/karakuri/index.htm

This game looks damn good. A mix of Lemmings and Pikmin, this game looks to be one of the most innovative the PSP has yet seen. If Tecmo can transpose Pikmin-esque gameplay into a more focused platformer/puzzle-solver, this could be a serious hit.

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6. Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner
Publisher: Atlus / Developer: Atlus
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Probable

Official Site: http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/psp/summoner/index.html

It's Atlus, it's Shin Megami Tensei, and it looks awesome. I've never played the Saturn original, and I doubt many have here either, so for most of us, this is a brand new SMT to play, and on the go no less!

 

[Beowvlf]

5. Exit
Publisher: Taito/Square Enix / Developer: Taito
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Unlikely

Official Site: http://www.taito.co.jp/d3/cp/exit/

The original Oddworld on the PSone was excellent, and it looks as if Taito is taking it upon themselves to expand on that winning puzzle-solving/platformer formula with Exit. It has a great, unique look and despite the strong possibility that it won't be localized, it looks as if it may be quite import friendly.

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4. Monster Kingdom: Jewel Summoner
Publisher: SCE / Developer: Gaia
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Hard to say

Official Site: http://www.playstation.jp/scej/title/js/

--Screens at official site--

As much as I'm excited about Devil Summoner, I'm doubly more enthused about the impending awesomeness of Monster Kingdom, fashioned from the father of SMT. It seems as if it might be Sony's answer to Pokemon, except skewed towards an older demographic, which sounds absolutely fantastic. This one will be a must own.

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3. Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core
Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: Square Enix
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Definite

Official Site: --None as of yet--

--No screens as of yet--

I know, I know, number 3 on the list with no site and no screens is pretty lame, but let's face it, we all want this game, and we're all dying to see what it will become. Square has said that this is going to be a full blown title, and I think with the muted enthusiasm towards Dirge of Cerberus, SE is trying twice as hard to make this one a winner. No bones about it, this will likely become the biggest and most important PSP game so far. If it's ever released of course.

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2. Loco Roco
Publisher: SCE / Developer: SCEI
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Hard to say

Official Site: http://www.playstation.jp/scej/title/locoroco/

Far and away the most impressive and most enjoyed title at this year's TGS, this game is a perfect example of what gamer's are dying for from Sony; original content that plays to the strengths of this great platform. If you're not excited for this game, and if the sight of it doesn't put an immediate smile on your face, then I fear you may dead inside. Let's hope this gets a US release, but even if it doesn't, IMPORT AWAY!!

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1. Every Extend Extra
Publisher: Bandai / Developer: Q? Entertainment
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Extremely likely

Official Site: http://www.e3-game.com/

I am a Mizuguchi fanboy, and fully believe he has created some of the greatest gaming experiences the industry has ever seen. E3 is a fusion of his two masterworks in Rez and Lumines, and to be more excited about this title I could not be. Will it be as great as the aforementioned works of perfection? Who knows. But it'll be one hell of an awesome experience at the very least.

 

[Beowvlf]

5 hidden gems that I myself am interested in, and you might be as well:

- Twelve
Publisher: Konami / Developer: KCE
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Unlikely

Gorgeous 2D visuals make this SRPG stand out among the crowd. It didn't fair that well in Famitsu, and unfortunately a localization seems unlikely at this point. A solid import however.

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- Princess Crown
Publisher: Atlus / Developer: Atlus
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Hard to say

A weak ass port (no widescreen) is the biggest knock against this old school revival. Definitely still worth checking out however.

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- Bounty Hounds
Publisher: Namco / Developer: Namco
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Probable

It may not look the greatest, but the framerate is silky smooth, and it easily has the potential to be an intense actioner if Namco delivers.

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- Generation of Chaos
Publisher: Nippon Ichi / Developer: Hyper-Devbox
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Already happening

Not the greatest SRPG series, but still a worthy entry, and one I urge fans (especially NIS fans) to check out early next year.

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- Yarudora series
Publisher: SCE / Developer: SCEI/Production I.G
Region: Japan / Chance of localization: Never gonna happen

Strictly for import/anime fans, this overlooked series originally hit the PSone way back when. The gameplay isn't all that great, but the animation and narratives are superb; no surprise seeing they're the product of Production I.G, one of Japan's greatest anime houses. There are actually 4 different Yarudora titles, one a romance, one a murder mystery, one a thriller and another one a, uhh... I forget. Anyways, these will never see release on our shores, so importing is a must if you're interested.

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My 2006 Wish List for the PSP:

- More support from Square Enix
- More support from various SCEA studios
- A remake/port of Policenauts and/or Snatcher
- Full compatibility with Sony Connect for music/video downloads and streaming
- Greatest Hits lineup established
- Dragon Quest PSP announced (side game or VI remake)
- Colony Wars PSP announced
- Level 5 PSP title revealed
- More Mizuguchi goodness!



That's it for my massive list. Feel free to rip it up or discuss it's wonders.

 

[Widfara]

Harvest Moon looks beautiful.

 

[bitwise]

i love this thread alot. thanks!!

 

[rod]

GTA LCS is developed by rockstar leeds iirc?

 

[Laguna X]

I used to be interested in Talkman, back when it supported nine different languages. The number of languages is now down to four... fuck that. issed

 

[MoxManiac]

+1 Street Fighter Alpha 3 Double Upper

 

[Red Blaster]

I support this thread.

 

[Wario64]

i would add Guilty Gear and Street Fighter Alpha 3. i heard Guilty Gear is very, very awesome

 

[Doom_Bringer]

When will the price drop? I want PSP but $299 Canadian is too much and on top of that you have to buy memory sticks and protection gear >_<

 

[Cloudy]

Right now, one would be good. Can't wait for Legend of Heroes! [/desperate]

 

[HomerSimpson-Man]

Nice, very well done Heian-kyo.

 

[Red Blaster]

I really wish Sumo Digital would do more Dreamcast ports.

 

[mCACGj]

I want a PSP for Loco Roco, Harvest Moon, and Katamari Damacy(assuming it's good)...but some of these games look fantastic!

But on a side note, I think the Megaman remake looks awful. I've never been a fan of X, so I won't comment on those, but the original Megaman remake looks terrible. I don't like the art style one bit and I really can't contemplate paying $50 for a game that I got with 9 other games for $30. I'd much rather play Megaman with its original graphics.

 

[bjork]

I care about LCS and the FFVII, and nothing else on this list.

 

[Beowvlf]

Considering three titles not on the list have already been mentioned, I'm sure you guys can understand how difficult it was for me to compile a list of just 20. There's so many great titles on the horizon.

I must apologize though Wario, I never even thought of SFA3: DU...

Heian-kyo -1

=(

 

[atomsk]

when SMT and Katamari are both localized and in stores, that will be the day i re-buy a PSP.

 

[jiggle]

No Suikoden Love?

 

[rod]

No Suikoden Love?

not unless it is localised >= (

 

[Beowvlf]

No Suikoden Love?

Figured most people would have already played 'em, and wanted to avoid any 'LOLLERCRAFT PORTSTATION!11..1'. Definitely looking forward to it though, I never got around to buying either.

 

[GitarooMan]

Great list, looking forward to a bunch of this stuff (especially extreme G'n'G)

 

[Orin GA]

You claim we will love them, but few of them have been reviewed...and some of them have no released information...

 

[Frank the Great]

wtf no nintendo games? phail

ds ftw

 

[Wario64]

I want a PSP for Loco Roco, Harvest Moon, and Katamari Damacy(assuming it's good)...but some of these games look fantastic!

But on a side note, I think the Megaman remake looks awful. I've never been a fan of X, so I won't comment on those, but the original Megaman remake looks terrible. I don't like the art style one bit and I really can't contemplate paying $50 for a game that I got with 9 other games for $30. I'd much rather play Megaman with its original graphics.

the screens look kinda eh, but the trailers/videos out there make it look friggin awesome. and the music is all remixed (in a good way). animation is very good too

 

[MarkMacD]

Good list, and a nice reminder....

I'd swap in SOCOM for Tales tho....at least, I hope so....

 

[vatstep]

wtf no nintendo games? phail

ds ftw

Shut up, bitch.

 

[aku:jiki]

I think it sounds like you need to know that Mizuguchi had nada to do with Every Extend. It's a (very surprising) port of a freeware PC game by japanese devs O_MEGA. You can go play it right now, if you want. It's probably on any freeware site you can find. (Though this version seems to be heavily visually upgraded.)

Good post, though. You reminded me of Exit, which I had forgotten... It looks rad and the main characters name is Mr.ESC. Can it get better than that?

 

[Beowvlf]

I'm thinking I should have made a '30 PSP games you're going to love' list, as I've missed a few many of you are excited about (and rightfully so).

 

[sly]

wtf no nintendo games? phail

ds ftw

I smell a ban.

 

[Red Scarlet]

I don't see Suikoden 1+2 in that list.

FOR SHAME

 

[mckmas8808]

I support this thread.

 

[Beowvlf]

I think it sounds like you need to know that Mizuguchi had nada to do with Every Extend. It's a (very surprising) port of a freeware PC game by japanese devs O_MEGA. You can go play it right now, if you want. It's probably on any freeware site you can find. (Though this version seems to be heavily visually upgraded.)

Good post, though. You reminded me of Exit, which I had forgotten... It looks rad and the main characters name is Mr.ESC. Can it get better than that?

According to Mizuguchi's blog Q is tweaking almost the entire game, and adding that extra layer of musical love that only he can achieve. I've a feeling the game wouldn't be even close to the same if it came from another publisher who was simply 'porting' the PC freeware title.

 

[mckmas8808]

I don't see Suikoden 1+2 in that list.

FOR SHAME

It does look like she is saying that.

 

[rareside]

Nice list! I almost forgot I had a PSP!

 

[aku:jiki]

According to Mizuguchi's blog Q is tweaking almost the entire game, and adding that extra layer of musical love that only he can achieve. I've a feeling the game wouldn't be even close to the same if it came from another publisher who was simply 'porting' the PC freeware title.

I see your point. But giving him full credit would be more than a little unfair, wouldn't you agree?

 

[Wario64]

there's also Untold Legends 2, which should be good i guess. first one was ok but the sequel is suppose to add online play, which should add some value to it. now they just need to release that damn mic addon...

 

[Date of Lies]

Thanks, this thread is what I needed to put a little bit of faith back in my psp although almost half of those are not certain to come over here

 

[bitwise]

there's also Untold Legends 2, which should be good i guess. first one was ok but the sequel is suppose to add online play, which should add some value to it. now they just need to release that damn mic addon...

arent they going with non-randomly created dungeons this time too? I thought I remember reading about that but not so sure now..

 

[Die Squirrel Die]

Did I imagine it or did Ubisoft recently confirm they are publishing Tales of Eternia in Europe? At the very least that would mean an English translation.

Just did a check and yes they are, suprisingly on the 11th of Novemeber as well, which is a hell of a lot sooner than I thought.

 

[Beowvlf]

I see your point. But giving him full credit would be more than a little unfair, wouldn't you agree?

You've got a point. Bascially, this is how I view it:

Every Extend + super-happy-funtime-Mizuguchi-ized-megaton-awesomeness = Every Extend EXTRA!!

That equation makes me feel all warm and fuzzy like on the insides.

 

[Jasoco]

I'm excited about Loco Roco. And FFVII "looks" like it could be cool. If it does come out. And of course I'm going after Katamari.

One game I would kill for is a remake of the original NES Dragon Warrior. But would probably settle for any Dragon Quest game as long as the formula and feel is kept intact.

Edit: Am I reading that right? The Japanese version of Katamari is coming out on December 22?

 

[Amir0x]

Although I already knew about all these games, it's nice to see them all in one place as a reminder. It makes my PSP feel a little less like the bastard child it currently is. With this all out, it'll definitely be a worthy handheld finally.

 

[olimario]

AWESOME!
-Every Extend Extra
-Katamari Damacy
-Tokobot
-Loco Roco


The PSP software is really picking up with those titles.

 

[Tain]

Every Extend Extra will rock.

Miziguchi should just stick to letting others come up with how a game should play, heh.

 

[Twix]

wow nice job Heian-kyo

the PSP game list is far better than what I thought

 

[Tabris]

WHERE THE HELL IS SUIKODEN I+II?!

I mean um.. Where's Suikoden I+II?

 

[Jasoco]

Okay, for all those wanting to know how the PSP Katamari will be controlled... if you can read this:

The fundamental maneuver which rolls the lump very simple!
The cursor key the left hand, with role of the right hand, can enjoy 0 X buttons in the feeling which really rolls the lump!

For example when advancing to before, when upper part direction and the button of the cursor key, advancing to the left, it is the condition that the left of the cursor key and you push the button.

So.. um.. I don't understand it, but apparently it's well done.. I guess? I dunno. We'll see.