The PlayStation Vita (PS Vita), despite being underappreciated in the broader gaming market, holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Released by Sony in 2011, the PS Vita had powerful hardware for its time, offering console-like graphics, touchscreen capabilities, and a rich library of games. Even after its production ended, the PS Vita has maintained a loyal fanbase, largely thanks to its stellar catalog of games. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the best PS Vita games that every fan should experience.
Persona 4 Golden
A JRPG Masterpiece
When it comes to defining the PS Vita’s legacy, Persona 4 Golden is an essential title. This enhanced version of Persona 4, originally released on PlayStation 2, brought one of the best JRPGs of all time to a handheld format. The game combines dungeon crawling with high school life simulation, where you balance your relationships, daily tasks, and fighting shadowy creatures in an alternate dimension.
Why It’s the Best
Persona 4 Golden is the perfect blend of narrative, character development, and gameplay. The social aspect of the game allows players to connect deeply with each character, making each decision impactful. With hours of content, multiple endings, and a gripping murder mystery, it’s no wonder this game tops the list for many PS Vita owners.
Uncharted: Golden Abyss
An Action-Adventure Essential
No list of PS Vita games is complete without mentioning Uncharted: Golden Abyss. Developed by Bend Studio under the supervision of Naughty Dog, Golden Abyss delivers the familiar thrills and cinematic flair of the Uncharted series in a portable format. Players once again step into the shoes of Nathan Drake as he embarks on a treasure-hunting adventure filled with puzzles, gunfights, and platforming.
What Makes It Stand Out
Despite being a handheld game, Golden Abyss boasts impressive visuals that push the Vita’s hardware to its limits. The touchscreen and motion controls are cleverly integrated into gameplay, making for a more immersive experience. Although the game doesn’t quite reach the heights of its console counterparts, it remains a must-play for action-adventure fans.
Gravity Rush
A Unique Physics-Based Adventure
Gravity Rush is one of the most original titles on the PS Vita. In this game, players control Kat, a young girl who discovers the ability to manipulate gravity. The game’s unique mechanics allow you to shift gravity’s direction, which completely changes how you explore the vibrant, floating city of Hekseville.
Why It’s a Must-Play
The physics-based gameplay is unlike anything else on the Vita. Flying through the air and battling enemies from any angle never gets old. The game’s striking art style, which blends anime with comic book aesthetics, adds to its charm. While Gravity Rush was eventually ported to the PS4, the Vita version remains a standout experience, especially with its use of the handheld’s tilt controls.
Killzone: Mercenary
A Console-Quality FPS on a Handheld
Killzone: Mercenary brings the gritty, futuristic warfare of the Killzone franchise to the PS Vita. Unlike most handheld shooters, Mercenary doesn’t feel like a downgraded version of its console counterparts. It offers stunning visuals, robust multiplayer, and tight controls, all wrapped up in a portable package.
The Appeal
For FPS fans, Killzone: Mercenary is one of the best options on the PS Vita. The game features a compelling single-player campaign, but it’s the online multiplayer that truly shines. With a variety of maps, modes, and loadout customization, it’s easy to sink countless hours into this game. Plus, the touch-based melee kills add an extra layer of satisfaction.
Tearaway
A Whimsical Platforming Adventure
*From the creators of LittleBigPlanet, Tearaway is a delightful platformer that fully utilizes the PS Vita’s unique hardware features. The game takes place in a world made entirely of paper, and players control a messenger named Iota (or Atoi, depending on your choice). Your goal? To deliver a message to the real world while interacting with the environment in creative ways.
Why It’s Special
Tearaway shines because of its imaginative use of the Vita’s rear touchpad, camera, and microphone. Players can poke their fingers through the world, create objects, and even take pictures that appear in the game. It’s a charming and lighthearted experience that stands out in the Vita’s library as one of the most creative uses of the handheld’s capabilities.Hotline Miami
Fast-Paced, Top-Down Carnage
Hotline Miami is a brutal, fast-paced action game that became an indie hit across multiple platforms, including the PS Vita. The game’s top-down perspective and neon-soaked 80s aesthetic give it a unique look, but it’s the gameplay that keeps players coming back for more.
Why It’s Addictive
Each level is a violent puzzle where you need to plan your moves carefully, as one hit can kill you. The game encourages fast, frenetic gameplay, and its punishing difficulty makes victory all the more satisfying. Add to that a killer soundtrack and tight controls, and Hotline Miami quickly becomes one of the best action games on the Vita.
Spelunky
A Roguelike Platformer with Endless Replayability
Spelunky is a roguelike platformer where each playthrough is a completely unique experience. The levels are procedurally generated, meaning that no two runs are the same. Players control a spelunker navigating treacherous caves, facing traps, monsters, and obstacles while collecting treasures.
Why It Stands Out
What makes Spelunky such a great game is its sheer unpredictability and challenge. Every mistake can lead to a quick death, but every success feels earned. The Vita version runs smoothly and is perfect for short, pick-up-and-play sessions, which is what makes it such a fantastic fit for handheld gaming.
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir
A Beautiful Action RPG
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a remaster of the classic PS2 action RPG Odin Sphere. The game features stunning 2D artwork, a complex narrative told from multiple perspectives, and fluid, combo-based combat. The PS Vita version is identical to its console counterpart, making it one of the best ways to experience this gorgeous game on the go.
Why It’s a Visual Treat
The hand-drawn art in Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is breathtaking, with vibrant colors and intricate character designs. The gameplay is just as good, combining fast-paced action with RPG elements like crafting and leveling up. Fans of action RPGs and anyone who appreciates beautiful art should not miss this one.
Final Fantasy X / X-2 HD Remaster
A Timeless Classic in Your Hands
The Final Fantasy series needs no introduction, and Final Fantasy X is one of the franchise’s most beloved entries. The HD remaster for the PS Vita includes both Final Fantasy X and its direct sequel, X-2, allowing fans to experience these two classics on a portable system.
Why It’s Perfect for the Vita
Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster brings all the charm of the original games, with updated visuals and improved audio. The portability of the Vita makes it easier than ever to sink hours into these lengthy RPGs, whether grinding levels, fighting epic bosses, or immersing yourself in the game’s rich story.
Dragon’s Crown
A Side-Scrolling Beat ‘Em Up with RPG Elements
Dragon’s Crown is a side-scrolling beat ’em up with a touch of RPG. Developed by Vanillaware, the game features stunning 2D visuals, detailed environments, and fast-paced combat. Players can choose from six different character classes, each with unique skills and abilities.
What Sets It Apart
While the beat ‘em up genre is often simple, Dragon’s Crown adds depth with its RPG mechanics. Players can upgrade their characters, find rare loot, and tackle increasingly difficult dungeons. The multiplayer mode allows you to team up with friends, adding another layer of fun to the experience. The Vita’s OLED screen really brings the game’s art to life, making it a visual feast.
Muramasa Rebirth
A 2D Action-Platformer with Stunning Visuals
Another gem from Vanillaware, Muramasa Rebirth is a remastered version of the Wii game Muramasa: The Demon Blade. This 2D action-platformer takes place in feudal Japan and follows two protagonists, each with their own storyline. The game features fast-paced sword combat and beautiful hand-drawn art.
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The fluid combat system is incredibly satisfying, with a wide variety of sword techniques and special moves to master. The game’s visual design, influenced by traditional Japanese art, is simply gorgeous. Muramasa Rebirth is one of the best-looking games on the Vita, and its gameplay is just as compelling.
Rayman Origins is a critically acclaimed platformer that made its way to the PS Vita with all its charm intact. The game features colorful, hand-drawn graphics, tight platforming controls, and creative level design. Players guide Rayman through a series of whimsical worlds