The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is a hefty piece of kit, hardware-wise, that it can run FPS games. Unfortunately, the controls are somewhat gimped due to having one analog nub instead of two. Yet, here seven of the best first-person shooters for the PSP.
Best psp fps games
7. Carnivores: Dinosaur Hunter
The PlayStation Minis program was a failure for Sony but some games came out of it as a surprise. No one thought that the super niche PC game Carnivores 2 would slither its way to the PSP, actually not a surprise, since then Carnivores. This game is a hunting simulation that lets players explore huge non-linear locations and hunt a variety of dinosaurs with different weapons and equipment.
For a handheld game, it features full 3D graphics, realistic sounds, and advanced AI for the dinosaurs. It might not have the level of advancement or even polish at the time of its release. Yet, it is a miracle to be playable on a handheld to begin with.
It is true though that the iOS version has a bigger selection of weapons, more dinosaurs, and a lusher environment. However, due to tactile control, Carnivores: Dinosaur Hunter is better played on the PSP.
6. Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Vegas
Back in the mid-2000s, Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Vegas brought a much-needed revival to the Rainbow Six series, rescuing it from the slump caused by Lockdown and Critical Hour. The PSP port, although a stripped-down version, maintains some redeeming qualities. Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, the story follows field operative Brian and sniper Shawn as they combat a terrorist threat.
The environments may resemble typical FPS settings, but they carry a degree of realism. Character animations are somewhat stiff, leading to unintentionally humorous cutscenes. However, the inclusion of near full-body awareness, with actions like turning on night vision or picking locks is a nice touch.
Gunshots and voice acting are well-done, adding to the immersive audio as there is no traditional music blaring all over the place. As to the gameplay, Rainbow Six: Vegas introduces a few interesting elements, such as tactical gear selection before missions and an innovative cover system.
5. Coded Arms
Coded Arms, the first FPS for the PlayStation Portable, marks a significant achievement for the platform. Set in a virtual world where hacking and combat intersect, players assume the role of a risk-taking hacker exploring the unstable A.I.D.A. network. Gameplay revolves around first-person shooting, with a distinct cyberpunk vibe reminiscent of classics like Doom. Players encounter a variety of weapons and equipment to clear battlefields and upgrade their arsenal, offering a satisfying but straightforward run-and-gun experience.
As the PSP's design for FPS gameplay lacks a second analog stick, some may find Coded Arms hard to play. However, Coded Arms provides customizable control schemes to adapt to players' preferences, making aiming and sensitivity adjustments crucial for a smoother experience. Load times are impressively short. Replayability is enhanced through the infinity mode, offering randomly generated rooms for infinite replay value since the main campaign is fairly short.
4. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex delivers a commendable FPS experience with gorgeous graphics, amazing character designs and smooth character animations. There are also cut scenes that deliver the atmosphere set by the anime series.
Playing FPS on the PSP always highlights its single analog nub as some form of handicap. Yet, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex offers several options, with most utilizing the analog nub for movement and a combination of buttons and triggers for aiming and shooting. The addition of a lock-on button proves effective, allowing players to aim at enemies while retaining control over their aiming.
With these graphics, it is shocking to have this game run at near-constant 30 fps. Enemy AI demonstrates effort in maneuvering and rarely exhibits issues like getting stuck or being too passive. The tachikoma partner adds depth to the experience, offering players a choice of four robots, each with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The variety of mission types and well-designed levels further enhance the gameplay.
As to replayability, while there are numerous weapons to unlock, tachikoma parts to collect, and a fun mini-game to discover, the main story is somewhat short. Replay value lies in playing missions with different characters. Nevertheless, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is an FPS with an engaging storyline and manageable controls.
3. Brothers in Arms: D-Day
This World War II first-person shooter experience successfully merges elements from its predecessors. Players assume the role of the 101st Airborne assault team, the "Screaming Eagles," led by Sergeant Matt Baker, and embark on a series of missions to secure key objectives, fend off German forces, and collaborate with allies. The game's storytelling excels, offering a gripping narrative filled with both humor and poignant moments.
Movement is smooth using the analog stick, and aiming down weapon sights for precise shots feels intuitive. The addition of a lock-on feature streamlines targeting, enhancing overall gameplay. Tactical team commands, grenade tossing, and crouching are easily accessible.
The AI, both for your squad and enemies, impresses with smart behavior, making battles satisfyingly dynamic. Teamwork plays a pivotal role, with the Situational Awareness View enabling strategic coordination. The game's robust weaponry and Skirmish mode, featuring six maps for solo or co-op play, further extend its replay value. Brothers In Arms: D-Day is a standout title on the PSP, combining an enthralling narrative, exceptional audio, impressive graphics, and well-designed controls to provide a must-have FPS experience.
2. Call of Duty: Roads to Victory
Call of Duty: Roads to Victory is a great PSP FPS with a diverse selection of weapons and vehicles. The game's levels are challenging as does mastering the controls as there can be a bit of a learning curve, with unconventional button mappings. Fortunately, players have the option to customize the controls to their liking, making adjustments in the settings.
Players are tasked with various missions, including engaging German forces, destroying tanks, and even participating in aerial combat. An interesting addition to Call of Duty is the ability to play as different nations, such as Canada and Great Britain.
With impressive graphics with lifelike character models, detailed weapons, and vehicles are unseen at least during the time of the game’s release. The attention to detail is evident in the realistic gun mechanics, including recoil and enemy reactions upon being shot. The sound design is equally commendable, with gunfire, aircraft noises, and teammate communication contributing to the immersive atmosphere. The game's replayability can be enhanced by increasing the difficulty level for an added challenge.
1. Medal of Honor Heroes
Players move with the analog stick, and the face buttons act as a "secondary analog stick," which may seem unconventional but works brilliantly in practice. The R Button serves as the primary firing trigger, and the directional buttons handle tasks like switching weapons, changing positions, and zooming. It's a configuration that's easy to master, making up for the lack of a second analog stick. The R Button serves as the primary firing trigger, and the directional buttons handle tasks like switching weapons, changing positions, and zooming. It's a configuration that's easy to master, making up for the lack of a second analog stick.
The game shines with stunning graphics that, while not the absolute best, rival those of Medal of Honor games on the PlayStation 2. Explosions are immersive, and the environments evoke a sense of war and destruction. The audio design complements the visuals, with explosions and agonized screams.
The game's story is a classic World War II narrative: defeat evil Axis. However, Medal of Honor: Heroes spices things up with secondary objectives like acquiring German research plans. While these don't significantly affect the game's progression, completing them can lead to achieving the highest gold ranking. Moreover, the game offers numerous unlockables, including badges and costumes for multiplayer mode.