The PS Vita is a handheld gaming console that was released by Sony in February 2012. It was the successor to the popular PSP and was designed to offer a more immersive gaming experience with improved graphics, touch controls, and online connectivity.
Although the PS Vita did not achieve the same level of commercial success as its predecessor, it remains a beloved device among gamers and has a dedicated fan base.
Some of the first games that appeared on the PS Vita included titles like Rayman Legends, Gravity Rush, and Dragon’s Crown PS Vita, which showcased the device’s capabilities and helped to establish it as a serious gaming platform.
Release Date: Nov 20, 2012
Persona 4 Golden is a highly acclaimed RPG game developed by Atlus for the PlayStation Vita. It is an enhanced version of the original Persona 4 game, which was released for the PlayStation 2. The game follows the story of a high school student who moves to the rural town of Inaba and becomes involved in a series of supernatural murders. Along with a group of friends, the player must investigate the murders, explore the town, and navigate a parallel world filled with dangerous monsters.
The game features a unique blend of social simulation, dungeon crawling, and turn-based combat. Players must balance their time between building relationships with various characters, improving their own skills, and battling monsters in the game’s many dungeons. The game is known for its well-developed characters, gripping storyline, and excellent soundtrack. With multiple endings and a wealth of content to explore, Persona 4 Golden is a must-play for fans of RPGs and Japanese culture alike.
Release Date: Feb 11, 2014
Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc is a visual novel-style game developed by Spike Chunsoft for the PlayStation Vita. The game follows a group of high school students who find themselves trapped in a prestigious academy and forced to participate in a twisted game by a sadistic robotic bear named Monokuma. The game features a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and courtroom-style debates, as the students must investigate murders and determine the identity of the culprit in each case.
The game is known for its dark humor and unexpected plot twists, which keep players on the edge of their seats throughout the game. The unique gameplay mechanics, including the class trial system, add a layer of tension and challenge to the game. With multiple endings and an engaging cast of characters, Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc is a must-play for fans of visual novels and mystery games.
Release Date: Jun 12, 2012
Available Platforms: PS Vita
Gravity Rush is an action-adventure game developed by SCE Japan Studio for the PlayStation Vita. The game follows a young girl named Kat, who gains the ability to manipulate gravity and must use her powers to save the floating city of Hekseville from various threats. Players must navigate through a colorful, open-world environment by shifting gravity, which allows Kat to fly, walk on walls, and perform other gravity-defying moves.
The game is praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics and charming art style. The world of Gravity Rush is beautifully crafted, with vibrant colors and a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from other games in the genre. The story is engaging, with a cast of memorable characters and an intriguing mystery at its core. With its fast-paced action and inventive gameplay, Gravity Rush is a standout title for the PlayStation Vita.
Release Date: Sep 3, 2013
Rayman Legends is a side-scrolling platformer game developed by Ubisoft Montpellier and published by Ubisoft for the PlayStation Vita. The game follows the titular character, Rayman, as he navigates through various levels filled with obstacles and enemies. Players control Rayman as he jumps, punches, and dashes his way through each level, collecting Lums and freeing trapped creatures along the way. The game features colorful graphics, tight controls, and a wide variety of gameplay modes, including cooperative play and daily challenges.
Rayman Legends is known for its upbeat soundtrack and challenging gameplay. The levels are well-designed and require precise platforming skills to complete. The game’s cooperative play mode allows up to four players to join forces and tackle levels together, adding an extra layer of fun and replayability. Overall, Rayman Legends is a must-play for fans of classic platformer games and a great addition to any PlayStation Vita library.
Release Date: Nov 22, 2013
Tearaway is a platformer game developed by Media Molecule exclusively for the PlayStation Vita. The game takes place in a world made entirely of paper, where players control a messenger character named iota or atoi. The game’s unique gameplay mechanics take advantage of the PS Vita’s touchscreen and rear touchpad. Players can use their fingers to interact with the game world, create objects, and solve puzzles. The game’s art style is charming and whimsical, with vibrant colors and impressive attention to detail.
In Tearaway, players guide their messenger character through the world to deliver a message to the player in the real world. The game is filled with creative and imaginative moments, such as using Vita’s camera to take a picture and then seeing that picture appear in the game world as a papercraft object. Tearaway is a delightful game that showcases the potential of the PS Vita’s unique features and is sure to put a smile on players’ faces.
Release Date: Jun 25, 2013
Hotline Miami is a top-down shooter video game developed by Dennaton Games and published by Devolver Digital for the PlayStation Vita, among other platforms. The game was released in 2012 and quickly gained popularity for its fast-paced gameplay, retro graphics, and intense violence. The story is set in an alternate version of 1980s Miami and follows the protagonist, Jacket, as he receives mysterious phone calls instructing him to carry out a series of brutal assassinations. The game features a variety of weapons and masks that provide unique abilities, and the player must strategize their approach to each level in order to successfully complete the mission.
The game has received critical acclaim for its unique style, challenging gameplay, and immersive story. The soundtrack, composed by musician Jasper Byrne, has also been praised for its electronic and atmospheric qualities, perfectly complementing the game’s neon-soaked visuals. Hotline Miami has since become a cult classic and spawned a sequel, as well as numerous imitators in the indie gaming scene. The game is known for its high difficulty level, and players must use trial and error to perfect their strategies in order to progress through each level.
Release Date: Feb 11, 2014
TxK is a psychedelic, arcade-style shooter game developed by Llamasoft and released for the PlayStation Vita in 2014. The game is a spiritual successor to the classic Atari Jaguar game, Tempest 2000, which was also developed by Llamasoft. TxK features a similar gameplay style, with players controlling a spacecraft on a 3D tube-like playing field, shooting down enemies and avoiding obstacles as they progress through increasingly difficult levels. The game has received critical acclaim for its addictive gameplay, trippy visuals, and thumping electronic soundtrack.
TxK is known for its colorful, abstract visuals and frenetic gameplay, which requires quick reflexes and precise aim. The game features over 100 levels, each with its own unique design and challenges. Players can earn power-ups and upgrades by defeating enemies, which can help them progress through the game’s increasingly difficult levels. The game also features a leaderboard system, allowing players to compete with others for high scores and bragging rights. TxK is a must-play for fans of classic arcade games, with its addictive gameplay and psychedelic visuals providing a uniquely engaging experience on the PS Vita.
Release Date: Apr 26, 2016
Severed is an action-adventure game developed and published by DrinkBox Studios for the PlayStation Vita in 2016. The game follows the story of a young warrior named Sasha, who wakes up in a mysterious world after her family is taken by a supernatural force. The player controls Sasha as she explores the strange world, battling monsters and solving puzzles to find her family and uncover the truth about the realm she finds herself. The game is known for its unique art style, intuitive touch-based controls, and immersive story.
Severed uses the PS Vita’s touch screen and rear touchpad extensively, allowing players to swipe and tap to attack enemies and interact with the environment. The game’s combat system is based on timing and strategy, with players needing to dodge enemy attacks and wait for the right moment to strike back. The game’s story is revealed through cutscenes and interactions with other characters, and the player’s choices throughout the game can affect the outcome of the story. Overall, Severed is a visually stunning and engaging game that takes full advantage of the PS Vita’s unique features to create a truly immersive experience.
Release Date: Aug 6, 2013
Dragon’s Crown is a 2D side-scrolling action role-playing game developed by Vanillaware and published by Atlus for the PlayStation Vita in 2013. The game takes place in a medieval fantasy world filled with magic and mythical creatures, and follows the story of a group of adventurers who are seeking the legendary treasure known as the Dragon’s Crown. Players choose from six different character classes, each with their own unique abilities and play styles, and embark on a quest to explore dungeons, defeat monsters, and collect treasure. The game features hand-drawn graphics, a memorable soundtrack, and an engaging multiplayer mode that allows up to four players to team up and play together.
Dragon’s Crown is known for its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay and stunning visuals, which bring the world of the game to life in vivid detail. The game’s combat system is based on timing and strategy, with players needing to dodge enemy attacks and use a variety of different attacks and abilities to defeat their foes. The game also features a robust character customization system, allowing players to choose their character’s appearance, abilities, and equipment. Dragon’s Crown is a must-play for fans of action RPGs, with its engaging gameplay, memorable characters, and stunning visuals providing a truly immersive experience on the PS Vita.
Release Date: Aug 27, 2013
Spelunky is a 2D platformer game developed by Mossmouth and BlitWorks and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation Vita in 2013. The game features randomly generated levels, challenging gameplay, and permadeath, making each playthrough unique and intense. The player controls a spelunker who is on a quest to explore underground caves filled with traps, enemies, and treasure. The game features tight controls, retro graphics, and a memorable soundtrack, making it a cult classic among fans of indie games.
Spelunky is known for its high difficulty level and unforgiving gameplay, with players needing to master the game’s mechanics in order to progress through each level. The game features a variety of different enemies and hazards, including snakes, bats, spikes, and more, each with its own unique behaviors and patterns. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing up to four players to team up and explore the caves together. Spelunky is a challenging and engaging game that rewards skill and perseverance, providing a truly unique experience on the PS Vita.
Release Date: Apr 9, 2013
Guacamelee! is a 2D action-platformer video game developed and published by DrinkBox Studios for the PlayStation Vita in 2013. The game features a unique art style inspired by Mexican culture and folklore, as well as a catchy soundtrack that blends traditional Mexican music with electronic beats. Players take on the role of Juan, a farmer turned luchador (wrestler) who must save his love interest and the world from an evil skeleton named Carlos Calaca. Throughout the game, players must traverse through various levels, battle a variety of enemies, and solve puzzles to progress. The game also features a co-op mode, allowing players to team up with a friend to take on the challenges together.
Guacamelee! received critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, charming art style, and clever writing. The game’s combat system allows for a variety of moves and combos, and players can switch between the living and dead worlds to access new areas and solve puzzles. The game also features various Easter eggs and references to other video games and pop culture, adding to the game’s charm. Guacamelee! is a fun and entertaining game that showcases the developer’s attention to detail and love for Mexican culture.
Release Date: Jun 7, 2016
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is an action role-playing game developed by Vanillaware and published by Atlus for the PlayStation Vita in 2016. The game is a remastered version of the original Odin Sphere released for the PlayStation 2 in 2007, with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics. Players take on the role of five different characters who are caught up in a war between kingdoms and must fight their way through various enemies and bosses to uncover the truth behind the conflict. The game features a unique combat system that emphasizes combos and allows players to switch between characters on the fly.
The game’s hand-drawn art style is one of its standout features, with stunningly detailed character designs and backgrounds. The story is also a highlight, with complex characters and multiple perspectives that add depth to the narrative. The game also features multiple difficulty levels and a New Game+ mode, allowing players to replay the game with their current character levels and equipment. Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a must-play for fans of action RPGs and is a great showcase of Vanillaware’s artistic talent.
Release Date: Sep 2, 2014
Velocity 2X is a hybrid shoot ’em up and platforming game developed by FuturLab and published by Sierra Entertainment for the PlayStation Vita in 2014. Players take on the role of Lt. Kai Tana, a pilot who must use her spacecraft and her agility to navigate through various levels and defeat enemies. The game features a unique teleportation mechanic, allowing players to quickly move through obstacles and enemies to complete each level. In addition to the main campaign, the game also includes a number of challenge levels and a leaderboard system for players to compete against each other.
The game received critical acclaim for its tight controls, challenging gameplay, and stylish graphics. The game features a vibrant color palette and a retro-futuristic aesthetic that adds to the game’s overall charm. The soundtrack, composed by Joris de Man, is also a standout feature, with a mix of electronic and orchestral music that complements the game’s fast-paced action. Overall, Velocity 2X is a great example of a modern take on classic arcade-style games and is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Release Date: Nov 26, 2013
Ys: Memories of Celceta is an action role-playing game developed by Nihon Falcom and published by XSEED Games for the PlayStation Vita in 2013. The game is a remake of Ys IV: Mask of the Sun, and features updated graphics and gameplay mechanics. Players take on the role of Adol Christin, an adventurer suffering from amnesia, who must explore the mysterious forest of Celceta to regain his memories. The game features fast-paced action combat, a variety of dungeons and enemies, and a deep crafting system that allows players to upgrade their equipment.
The game received positive reviews for its engaging story, fast-paced combat, and exploration. The game’s world is vast and full of secrets, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny to uncover its secrets. The game also features a number of side quests and a relationship system that allows players to build relationships with NPCs, adding depth to the game’s characters. In conclusion,Ys: Memories of Celceta is a great example of a classic action RPG and is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Metacritic Score: –
Available Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS Vita
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is a role-playing game developed by Media.Vision and published by Bandai Namco for the PlayStation Vita in 2016. Set in a world where digital creatures known as Digimon coexist with humans, the game puts players in the shoes of a hacker tasked with solving the mystery of disappearing digital entities. Featuring turn-based combat, a comprehensive Digimon evolution system, and several side quests that enhance the game’s narrative, Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth offers a captivating experience.
Critics praised the game for its compelling storyline, polished gameplay, and nostalgia factor for fans of the Digimon franchise. The game includes over 200 Digimon to collect and evolve, each with its distinct set of skills and abilities. Its graphics and sound design are also commendable, with intricate character designs and a catchy soundtrack. Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is an excellent game for fans of the franchise and a solid choice for anyone seeking a fun and immersive RPG on the PlayStation Vita.
Release Date: Oct 25, 2016
World of Final Fantasy is a role-playing game developed by Square Enix for the PlayStation Vita in 2016. The game takes place in a world called Grymoire, where players take on the roles of siblings Lann and Reynn as they explore various dungeons and collect and battle with creatures called Mirages. The game features a unique chibi-style art style and a playful tone, with a number of nods and references to previous Final Fantasy games.
The game received positive reviews for its charming characters, engaging battle system, and nostalgic appeal to fans of the Final Fantasy franchise. The game’s combat system combines turn-based battles with a capture and evolution system for Mirages, allowing players to customize their team and tactics. The game also features a number of familiar Final Fantasy characters that can be summoned to aid players in battle. Overall, World of Final Fantasy is a great game for both new and longtime fans of the Final Fantasy franchise, with a lighthearted story and fun gameplay mechanics.
Metacritic Score: 61/100
Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a 2.5D action-adventure game that was developed specifically for the PlayStation Vita. Set three months after the events of Batman: Arkham Origins, the game follows the Dark Knight as he investigates a riot at Blackgate Prison. The game features a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the world of Batman.
Players take on the role of Batman as he explores the prison, solves puzzles, and fights off a range of enemies, including some of the most iconic villains from the Batman universe. The game features a unique map system that allows players to seamlessly transition between different areas of the prison, while also providing clues and hints to help them navigate the environment. With its engaging story, challenging gameplay, and stunning visuals, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a must-play for any fan of the Caped Crusader.
Release Date: Sep 27, 2016
Developed by Red Hook Studios and published by Merge Games for the PlayStation Vita in 2016, Darkest Dungeon is an intense roguelike dungeon crawler set in a dark and ominous world filled with Lovecraftian horrors. Players are tasked with leading a team of adventurers through perilous dungeons and battles against eldritch abominations. The game’s most notable feature is its stress system, which monitors the mental health of the characters and can cause several adverse effects if left unattended.
The game has garnered praise for its challenging gameplay, immersive presentation, and innovative stress system. The hand-drawn art style and haunting soundtrack contribute to the game’s overall atmosphere of fear and anxiety. Darkest Dungeon offers a wide variety of character classes and upgrades paths, enabling players to personalize their party to suit their preferred playstyle. For fans of challenging roguelike games and those seeking a distinct and engrossing experience on the PlayStation Vita, Darkest Dungeon is an essential game to play.
Release Date: Oct 14, 2014
Minecraft is a sandbox video game developed and published by Mojang Studios for the PlayStation Vita in 2014. The game allows players to explore a procedurally generated world made up of blocks, which can be mined and crafted into various tools and items. The game features both a survival mode, where players must fend off monsters and collect resources to stay alive, and a creative mode, where players have unlimited resources and can build to their heart’s content.
The game has been praised for its open-ended gameplay, charming graphics, and endless possibilities for creativity. The PlayStation Vita version of the game includes all the features of the full game, including multiplayer and online play. The game has a strong fan base and continues to be updated with new content and features. Overall, Minecraft is a great choice for those looking for a fun and engaging game that encourages creativity and exploration.
Release Date: Jul 1, 2014
Child of Light is a 2014 RPG developed by Ubisoft. It follows the story of Aurora, a young girl who must save the kingdom of Lemuria from the Queen of the Night. The game features a unique art style and gameplay that combines platforming and turn-based combat. With its hand-drawn graphics and haunting soundtrack, Child of Light immerses players in a magical world filled with puzzles to solve and enemies to defeat. Players must use strategy and quick reflexes to navigate the game’s various environments and defeat bosses, all while uncovering the game’s rich story and lore. Child of Light is a must-play for fans of RPGs and platformers alike.
Release Date: Aug 18, 2015
Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is a survival horror game developed by Capcom in 2015. The game follows the story of Claire Redfield and Moira Burton, who are kidnapped and taken to a mysterious island. The game features both single-player and co-op modes, as well as a Raid Mode where players can team up to fight waves of enemies. With its tense atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and deep story, Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is a must-play for fans of survival horror games.
The game features a variety of weapons and items for players to find and use, as well as puzzles to solve and secrets to uncover. The game’s co-op mode allows players to work together to overcome challenges and survive the horrors that await them on the island. Resident Evil: Revelations 2 is a worthy addition to the Resident Evil franchise and a must-play for fans of the genre.
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is a fighting game developed by Capcom in 2011. It features characters from both the Marvel and Capcom universes, with fast-paced gameplay and a variety of game modes. The game was praised for its depth and accessibility, making it a favorite among both casual and competitive players. With its roster of iconic characters, including Wolverine, Iron Man, Ryu, and Chun-Li, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 offers players a chance to battle it out with some of their favorite heroes and villains.
The game’s mechanics allow for a wide variety of playstyles, from rushdown to zoning, and its combo system rewards players for mastering the game’s many intricacies. The game’s online mode allows players to test their skills against others from around the world, while its local multiplayer mode lets friends duke it out in the same room. Overall, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is a must-play for fans of fighting games and fans of the Marvel and Capcom universes alike.
Metacritic Score: 88/100
Rayman Origins, developed by Ubisoft in 2011, is a captivating platformer that follows the titular character, Rayman, and his companions Globox and the Teensies on a quest to rescue their world from evil creatures. The game’s hand-drawn graphics and diverse gameplay mechanics, such as cooperative play, make it an enchanting experience for players of all ages. With its vibrant, colorful environments and charming character designs, Rayman Origins is a visual delight that immerses players in a whimsical world.
The platforming mechanics in Rayman Origins are precise and responsive, giving players excellent control over their characters. The cooperative mode allows up to four players to join in on the action, making it an excellent choice for families and groups of friends. With its infectious soundtrack and lighthearted humor, Rayman Origins is a joy to play from beginning to end. Fans of platformers and those who appreciate exceptional game design will find Rayman Origins to be a must-play game.
Metacritic Score: 85/100
Mortal Kombat is a fighting game developed by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The game features a cast of iconic characters from the Mortal Kombat franchise, including Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, and many others. Players can choose their favorite fighter and engage in fast-paced, brutal combat, using a range of special moves, combos, and finishing moves known as fatalities.
The PS Vita version of Mortal Kombat includes all of the content from the console version of the game, as well as several exclusive features. These include touchscreen controls for special moves and fatalities, as well as a new Challenge Tower mode that includes 150 brand new challenges for players to complete. With its intense combat, stunning graphics, and wealth of content, Mortal Kombat is a must-play game for fans of the fighting genre, and the PS Vita version is no exception.
Release Date: Jun 12, 2012
The Metal Gear Solid HD Collection is a compilation of some of the most popular games from the Metal Gear Solid franchise, all optimized for the PS Vita. The collection includes Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, giving players the chance to experience some of the most iconic moments from the series on the go.
Each of the games has been remastered in high definition, with improved graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. The PS Vita’s touchscreen and rear touchpad are also utilized to enhance the gameplay experience, allowing players to interact with the game in new and innovative ways. With their deep storytelling, complex characters, and engaging gameplay, the Metal Gear Solid games are widely regarded as some of the best games of all time, and the HD Collection is the perfect way for PS Vita owners to experience them.
Meet Inna, a passionate gamer and writer who is always on the hunt for the latest and greatest video games. With a keen eye for detail and a thirst for knowledge, Inna is dedicated to bringing you the most up-to-date news, insightful reviews, and expert guides to help you get the most out of your gaming experience.