Hack and Slash PSP Games: A Guide to the Best
Since its release in 2004, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) has been a popular handheld gaming console for gamers worldwide. It gave players the ability to play their favorite games on the go, but it’s the console’s hack and slash games that drew fans to it.
Coming from a genre popularized by games like Devil May Cry and God of War, hack and slash games have been delivering intense action-packed gameplay to players for years now. The PSP saw its own share of hack and slash games, and in this article, we’ll be taking a look at the best ones out there.
What are Hack and Slash Games?
Before delving into the list of best hack and slash PSP games, it’s essential to understand what defines a hack and slash game. Hack and slash games are action-adventure games that follow a simple formula – the player hack and slash their way through hordes of enemies with a weapon to reach a specific destination or objective.
The genre is all about fast-paced action, combo-based gameplay, and generally features a nonlinear storyline with RPG elements such as leveling and loot mechanics.
The Best PSP Hack and Slash Games
God of War: Chain of Olympus
You can’t mention the hack and slash genre without mentioning God of War. The God of War series is arguably one of the best hack and slash franchises in gaming history, and it all started from the first game, God of War in 2005.
The God of War: Chain of Olympus was released for the PSP in 2008 and served as a prequel to the first game. Players control Kratos as he tries to stop the gods from falling into peril and saves the city of Attica from implosion.
Chain of Olympus stayed true to the series’ formula, offering pulse-pounding combat and epic boss fights. It’s one of the best hack and slash games you’ll find on the PSP, and if you’re a fan of the series, it’s a must-play.
Daxter
Daxter is a spin-off from the popular Jak and Daxter series, offering hack and slash gameplay with a unique twist. It was released in 2006 and gave players the chance to play as Daxter, who’s on a quest to find his buddy, Jak.
The game features fast-paced combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving mechanics, incorporating Daxter’s agile and acrobatic movements throughout the game. The game has excellent reviews and is perfect for anyone looking for a classic hack and slash game with a unique spin.
Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops
While not a traditional hack and slash game, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops does feature elements that make it deserving of a spot on this list. Portable Ops follows a unique storyline and offers a mix of stealth and hack and slash gameplay.
Players take control of Solid Snake as he creates his team of soldiers and tries to take down FOXHOUND. The game has a lot of depth and features several RPG elements, which is a nice departure from the usual hack and slash gameplay.
Bloodborne: The Old Hunters Edition
Bloodborne: The Old Hunters Edition is a PlayStation exclusive that offers a blend of RPG and hack and slash gameplay. The game is set in a haunted city and features an array of horrific monsters that the main character must slash his way through.
The Old Hunters Edition offers additional content for the original game, bringing new areas to explore, weapons to use, and bosses to fight. It’s a must-play for fans of dark and punishing games that offer challenging gameplay.
Dissidia 012: Duodecim Final Fantasy
Dissidia 012: Duodecim Final Fantasy was released as a follow-up to the original Dissidia game and features fast-paced hack and slash gameplay with a unique twist. The game brings together heroes and villains from the Final Fantasy series and pits them against each other in a battle royale.
The game features an array of customization options, allowing players to tailor their characters to their liking, and offers an excellent mix of RPG elements with hack and slash gameplay. If you’re a Final Fantasy fan, you owe it to yourself to try this game out.
Conclusion
The PSP has plenty of excellent hack and slash games that offer exciting gameplay and an incredible level of replayability. From the classic God of War series to the unique Daxter, each of the games in this list is worthy of your time.
If you’re looking for something more challenging, Bloodborne is your answer, while Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops offers a healthy mix of stealth and hack and slash gameplay.
FAQ
What Is a Hack And Slash Game?
A hack and slash game is an action-adventure game where players control a character who wields a weapon (or weapons) to take down hordes of enemies as they progress through the game.
What Makes a Hack And Slash Game Fun?
Hack and slash games are fast-paced, offering nonstop action, an array of weapons to use, and an option to develop and upgrade characters’ skills, making the player feel a sense of progression.
What are the Best PSP Hack and Slash Games?
The best PSP hack and slash games include God of War: Chain of Olympus, Daxter, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, Bloodborne: The Old Hunters Edition, and Dissidia 012: Duodecim Final Fantasy.