The PlayStation Vita does really lack games in its lifetime. Hence, what the developers did not provide, the hobbyist makes sure they are available. Here are seven of the best homebrew games on the PlayStation Vita.
Best PS vita homebrew games
7. Ancient Villa
This third-person adventure game is short and sweet. Ancient villa stars a renowned archaeologist and her penguin companion ventured to a medieval castle-villa for a detailed inspection, but after three months, no updates have been received. The game invites players to uncover whether she will return with new discoveries.
Originally created for the TWG25 game jam, this short game is available in Russian and English. The default pixel size is 2x and remains unchanged in the main menu. There are no save options, so players must complete the game in one sitting.
6. Psee (Demo)
A puzzle adventure game demo developed for the PS Vita by aDeCon Production, Psee challenges players to solve physics puzzles and help a mystical creature escape. Set in the mystical world of Psee, where gravity rules everything, the game introduces Psets creatures that can control objects and move using levitation.
In the game, players control a Pset who works in a mine extracting water. This Pset must navigate through various puzzles and obstacles using its levitation abilities to progress through the levels and solve challenges.
This homebrew game looks like Limbo but it is just the looks that are similar between them. This has more gamey parts than what Limbo ever had.
5. Breath of the Thunder (Teaser)
Breath of Thunder is a turn-based JRPG designed for fans of classic RPG experiences, aiming to strip away modern complications. The game avoids convoluted storylines, button-mashing battle systems, and filler content, focusing instead on core elements that define the genre.
The game emphasizes engaging characters, compelling storylines, and vibrant worlds filled with fascinating lore. Players can expect an immersive experience reminiscent of what initially drew them to RPGs, prioritizing quality storytelling and character development.
With beautiful music enhancing the atmosphere, Breath of Thunder is crafted to rekindle the joy and nostalgia of classic RPGs, providing a straightforward yet captivating adventure that honors the genre's roots. This is just a teaser though, as the game is currently in development, yet the teaser is perfectly playable and should satiate your RPG clamoring.
4. Gnomopolis
Here is another great homebrew game that is made in a contest. Gnomopolis is an original PS Vita homebrew game released for the FuHEN Homebrew Contest, where it secured 3rd place, offers a modern twist on the classic arcade game Pacman with elements of epic fantasy. Players can install the VPK file on their homebrew-enabled PS Vita or PS TV to enjoy this updated version.
The game's objective is straightforward: navigate through a labyrinth, collect all the treasures, and unlock the exit before time runs out. This gameplay merges the classic Pacman mechanics with new challenges, providing a fresh experience while retaining the nostalgic appeal.
Designed for casual play, the game offers a quick yet engaging challenge, perfect for short breaks. Each level is intended to be completed in 10-15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a brief gaming session during a lunch break or other spare moments.
3. Clasherball
Clasherball, developed by Sungrand Studios, is a 3D action puzzle game that offers players two exciting modes: Arcade and Infinite. In Arcade mode, players navigate unique puzzles, while Infinite mode tests their endurance to see how long they can survive.
The core gameplay mechanic involves matching four balls of the same color to trigger a "CLASH." However, players must be cautious as the balls will rebound after the clash, potentially causing damage. Dodging these rebounding balls is crucial to staying in the game.
To solve the brain-bending puzzles, players can use tricks like curve shots and ricochets. Infinite mode provides unlimited gameplay, allowing players to continuously challenge themselves and improve their skills.
2. ViTetris
We cannot have a best-of list without Tetris. Tetris being the perfect video game should have more releases in every single platform there is. ViTetris is a great version of the GOAT video game.
ViTetris is a custom version of Tetris featuring 3D graphics. The project was primarily a passion endeavor aimed at learning OpenGL and exploring the feasibility of storing tetrominos as 16-bit integer representations of the 4x4 grids containing their block shapes. And here is the product of the developer's passion, a more than decent Tetris rendition.
The game engine adheres closely to traditional Tetris specifications while incorporating unique creative elements, such as utilizing the analog sticks during gameplay for added functionality. These enhancements provide a fresh twist to the classic Tetris experience.
1. Rukavychka
Rukavychka is a puzzle game created for the United with Ukraine Game Jam 2022, inspired by the Ukrainian legend of a lost glove that becomes a sanctuary for forest animals. Unlike the original tale where the glove is reclaimed by its owner, the game envisions a world where animals can safely inhabit this magical refuge. Players guide lost animals—such as a little mouse in the first level—towards the Rukavychka with the help of characters like the fox from Ukrainian folklore and the Wawel Dragon from Polish legends.
The game's art direction draws from traditional Ukrainian floral patterns, which are meticulously crafted using watercolors and ink. These designs incorporate colors reminiscent of the Ukrainian flag—shades of yellow and blue with hints of green for foliage—and feature significant Ukrainian flowers like sunflowers and Vinca species. This visual approach not only pays homage to Ukrainian cultural elements but also enhances the game's thematic connection to nature and folklore.
Through its gameplay and artistic presentation, Rukavychka seeks to foster unity and peace, inviting players into a world where cooperation and the preservation of natural habitats are paramount. It intertwines cultural symbolism with environmental themes, aiming to deliver an enriching and meaningful experience that celebrates both Ukrainian heritage and the importance of ecological harmony. This is truly a unique game, homebrew or not.