Listmania!
The PSP for the RPG addict.
By an Amazon.com customer
PSP 2000 Console - Piano BlackPSP 2000 Console - Piano Black
Buy used from: $135.00
First things first. A system to play your games on. Black for simplicity. Silver pack comes with a 1GB memory stick. White and red have character graphics on the back. Recommend 2000 ('slim') series for faster load times and longer battery life.
Sony 4 GB Memory Stick PRO DUO ( MSX-M4GS ) (Retail Package)Sony 4 GB Memory Stick PRO DUO ( MSX-M4GS ) (Retail Package)
Buy new: $15.03 / Used from: $13.28
If you didn't get the silver PSP pack, then a Pro Duo memory stick is a must-buy. Can't save your games without it. Recommend at least 2GB. My current one is a 4GB, because of a bunch of classic RPG releases on the PSN.
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII with Limited Edition UMD CaseCrisis Core: Final Fantasy VII with Limited Edition UMD Case
Buy used from: $29.99
Fans of the FF7 saga should give this a playthrough. Great graphics, good storyline. Mission system is iffy, and is a deterrent to some players. Battle system has potential, but also has a 'mash X repeatedly to win' feel. The Shin-Ra UMD case is free; get it while it's available.
Disgaea: Afternoon of DarknessDisgaea: Afternoon of Darkness
Buy used from: $23.75
For those who aren't Final Fantasy fans, or looking for a break from that franchise, this is your game. Gameplay is basic, and easy to pick up; but there are metagaming elements (Dark Assembly, Item World) that will add a ton of gameplay hours.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the LionsFinal Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
Buy new: $19.82 / Used from: $10.40
A well-done rehash of the original Playstation version. This one offers new scripting to give it a more medieval feel, and animated cutscenes. Everything from the original is still available, along with two new playable characters. Con: Unacceptable graphical slowdown during some animations and spells.
Valkyrie Profile: LennethValkyrie Profile: Lenneth
Buy new: $29.99 / Used from: $12.99
Almost a direct port of the PSX version, with a few minor changes. The battle system is turn-based, but there are sidescrolling areas for item gathering, and puzzle solving. Rich story, and a very nice departure from the "pick a team, and play them through the entire game" RPG mold.
Breath of Fire 3 PSPBreath of Fire 3 PSP
Buy new: $29.99
Why is this gem of a game import-only? I ended up cancelling my order, and writing a rather negative review of the seller. I adore the PSX version of this game, and will try to order its portable sibling in the future.
Star Ocean: First DepartureStar Ocean: First Departure
Buy new: $19.98 / Used from: $10.01
This game is fantastic, and honestly, I consider it and the sequel a must-have for any RPG-addict's collection.
Star Ocean: Second EvolutionStar Ocean: Second Evolution
Buy new: $28.59 / Used from: $23.50
Fans of the original PSX version will be thrilled to have this on a portable media. The original version was a gem, and this is no different.
Phantasy Star PortablePhantasy Star Portable
Buy new: $39.99 / Used from: $16.74
This game turned out to be way better than my expectations for it. Since I didn't like PSU at all. This has more of the feel of the old Dreamcast PSO game. Ad-hoc capability to play with your friends is a nice bonus, too.
Final FantasyFinal Fantasy
Buy new: $19.82 / Used from: $9.15
Classic FF gameplay. This is the best port of this game you'll find.
Final Fantasy IIFinal Fantasy II
Buy new: $18.99 / Used from: $9.42
See the review on FF1. I'm fond of this game, as well. Again, best port of this game that you'll find.
Brave Story: New TravelerBrave Story: New Traveler
Buy new: $74.43 / Used from: $14.25
Finally, something in the turn-based department, and the graphics are superb. Some of the characters grind on your nerves, but all in all it's a very solid title.
Riviera: The Promised LandRiviera: The Promised Land
Buy new: $29.98 / Used from: $13.86
A 'choose your own adventure' feel to this game that I enjoy a lot. The characters are endearing, too. Some gamers won't like the tone of this, and the battles can be difficult, especially when forced into one by the story arc.
Ys The Ark of NapishtimYs The Ark of Napishtim
Buy new: $14.73 / Used from: $8.25
A very graphically pleasing sprite-based, top-view action RPG. Think 'Zelda'. Run, jump, hack with sword. Gain levels, explore areas. Gameplay and storyline are enjoyable.
Dissidia Final FantasyDissidia Final Fantasy
Buy new: $25.77 / Used from: $19.94
I'm really interested in giving this game a shot. Not released here yet, though.