Gamertell

Even though the list of original games for Sony this year was rather on the short side, there are some good games out there and especially for the little brother in the PlayStation family. There is a good mix of genres for the PSP here, including a couple of bargains at the end, so everyone will be able to find one they enjoy.

These will come very handy for people who are planning on travelling for the holidays, so be sure to grab some of these before that trip to grandma’s house.

Jeanne D’Arc: (Strategy RPG, Level-5, $29.99) This game comes as an answer to the former lack of RPGs on the system. It features an entertaining story loosely based on the historical events involving Joan of Arc but with a fantasy twist. The game offers a deep customization system, fast paced action and a solid battle and class system. This one is a must have for any Strategy RPG fan.

*Runner up: Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (Strategy RPG, Square Enix, $39.99)

Silent Hill: 0rigins (Action/Horror, Konami, $29.99) Any fan of this genre will recognize all the aspects that made the original Silent Hill such a great and scary game. Fortunately, all of those elements are present on the franchise’s first installment on the PSP. You return to the town of Silent Hill to uncover its mysteries as well as your own as you encounter abominations through the fog infested streets. With improved visuals and a new battle system, this is a great addition to the franchise and to any fan’s game collection

*Runner up: Manhunt 2 (Action, Rockstar, $29.99) 

Syphon Filter: Logan’s Shadow (Action, Sony, $39.99) Following on the footsteps of Dark Mirror, this title again offers an interesting and immersive story, great visuals and gameplay mechanics seldom found on PSP titles. You take the role of Gabe Logan as he fights his way to save the day once more against a plot against his country. This title features new and improved weapons, a deeper online match system and a refined control system. This is without doubt one of the best action titles on the PSP.

*Runner up: SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Tactical Strike (Action, Rockstar, $39.99)

Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters (Action/Platformer, Sony, $39.99) Another must have for the PSP, this game features all that made the original such a fun game. You take on the role of Ratchet and his robot friend Clank as they battle their way through the galaxy using all kind of wacky weapons. With a great visual presentation, one that rivals previous incarnations on the PS2, entertaining mini-games and solid gameplay mechanics, this game sure has something to attract everybody.

*Runner up: Sid Meier’s Pirates (Action/Adventure, Take Two Interactive, $19.99)

Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops + (Action, Konami, $19.99) This game utilizes the engine of last year’s hit Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops so if you missed on that one, this is your chance to experience it for only 20 bucks. While you don’t get the whole story, you get the chance to face off against the bosses and experience the intensity along with new characters and new multiplayer features. The original was a great addition to the Metal Gear franchise and although this version does not expand on the story, it does offer new challenges and options

*Runner up: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords (Puzzle/RPG, D3, $19.99)

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