The PlayStation Vita may have underperformed on the market. Perhaps because of the price. Perhaps because of the limited game library. Or perhaps because it was just plain ahead of its time, featuring a beautiful OLED screen and online functionality.
But no matter how you judge the Vita, it did leave a lasting impact, and there were some gems to play. So let’s get going as we celebrate the best PS Vita games of all time!
10. Persona 4: Dancing All Night
Persona 4: Dancing All Night combines rhythm gameplay with the beloved characters and music from Persona 4. Players join the Investigation Team as they solve a supernatural mystery through the power of dance. The objective is to hit the right notes and follow the beat in various dance sequences.
Persona 4: Dancing All Night is a blast to play with its catchy music, stylish visuals, and fun rhythm-based gameplay. Its energetic dance routines, the inclusion of beloved characters, and the continuation of the Persona 4 storyline made it a must-have title for fans of the series and rhythm game enthusiasts alike.
9. Soul Sacrifice
Soul Sacrifice is a dark and atmospheric action RPG where players take on the role of a sorcerer who must make sacrifices to gain power. Players engage in intense battles against monstrous creatures known as the Archfiends, using a variety of spells and abilities. The objective is to defeat the Archfiends and unravel the mysteries of the cruel world.
This game drew in players with its immersive world, deep combat system, and haunting storyline. Its engaging multiplayer mode, the ability to sacrifice or save NPCs, and the choice-driven gameplay mechanics made it a standout title for fans of dark fantasy and action RPGs.
8. Spelunky
Spelunky is a roguelike platformer that challenges players to navigate treacherous caves filled with deadly traps, enemies, and valuable treasures. Players must explore procedurally generated levels, collect items, and survive the dangers lurking in the depths. The objective is to reach the end of each level, find shortcuts, and uncover secrets.
The addictive and challenging gameplay, unpredictable level design, and replayability satisfied many gamers. The tight controls and the excitement of uncovering hidden paths and hidden treasures made Spelunky one of the best Vita games.
7. Rayman Legends
Rayman Legends offers a vibrant, whimsical platforming experience filled with colorful worlds and lively characters. Players control Rayman and his friends as they traverse through imaginative levels, collect Lums, and rescue the captured Teensies. The objective is to navigate challenging obstacles, defeat enemies, and reach the end of each level.
What players loved most about Rayman Legends was its polished gameplay, stunning visuals, and infectious music. Its tight controls, creative level design, and the inclusion of cooperative multiplayer made it among the best Vita games for platform fans.
6. Muramasa Rebirth
Muramasa Rebirth is a visually stunning action RPG set in feudal Japan. Players assume the role of skilled warriors and embark on a quest to retrieve legendary swords. The objective is to engage in fast-paced battles, defeat challenging enemies, and uncover the truth behind the swords’ power.
Vita players loved the breathtaking hand-drawn visuals, addictive combat, and deep crafting system. Its engaging storyline, diverse characters, and the ability to switch between multiple playable characters made it a standout title for action RPG enthusiasts on the PS Vita.
5. Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Uncharted: Golden Abyss brings the action-packed adventure of the Uncharted series to the palm of your hands. Players join Nathan Drake in a quest for lost treasure, facing dangerous enemies and solving intricate puzzles. The objective is to navigate through lush environments, engage in thrilling gunfights, and uncover the secrets of ancient civilizations.
Uncharted: Golden Abyss is best known for its cinematic presentation, impressive visuals, and engaging gameplay. The intuitive touch controls, immersive exploration, and the familiar charm of the Uncharted series made it among the best Vita games while showcasing the console’s graphical capabilities.
4. Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc is a thrilling visual novel and mystery game that follows a group of high school students trapped in a twisted killing game. Players assume the role of Makoto Naegi, who must uncover the mastermind’s identity behind the game and survive deadly trials. The objective is investigating crime scenes, gathering evidence, and engaging in gripping courtroom debates.
Danganronpa’s gripping storyline, compelling characters, and engaging gameplay mechanics captured the heart of Vita gamers. Its blend of visual novel storytelling, intense courtroom battles, and a twisted narrative with unexpected twists and turns made it a standout title.
3. Tearaway
Tearaway is a whimsical and imaginative platforming adventure set in a paper-crafted world. Players control a messenger named Iota (or Atoi) and embark on a journey to deliver a message to the player themselves, breaking the fourth wall. The objective is to navigate charming levels, interact with the world using the PS Vita’s touch controls, and overcome obstacles.
Inventive use of the PS Vita’s features, including the rear touchpad and camera set Tearaway apart. Its delightful art style, clever level design, and sense of wonder and creativity throughout the game made it a must-play title that fully embraced the capabilities of the PS Vita.
2. Gravity Rush
Gravity Rush is a gravity-defying action-adventure game where players control Kat, a young woman with the power to manipulate gravity. Players navigate through a beautifully cel-shaded open world, utilizing gravity to explore, battle enemies, and solve puzzles. The objective is to uncover the mysteries of the floating city and save its inhabitants from an otherworldly threat.
Gravity Rush featured innovative gameplay mechanics, fluid controls, and a captivating storyline. Its breathtaking visuals, unique gravity-shifting mechanics, and charming protagonist made it a standout title that showcased the potential of the PS Vita.
1. Persona 4 Golden
Persona 4 Golden is an enthralling RPG that follows a group of high school students who uncover a supernatural mystery. Players assume the protagonist’s role, balancing daily life and social interactions with exploring otherworldly dungeons. The objective is to solve the mystery behind a series of murders and forge deep bonds with memorable characters.
Immersive storytelling, addictive turn-based battles, and a unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation drew in fans of RPGs and the Persona series. Its memorable characters, rich character development, and a wealth of content, including additional storylines and activities, made it a must-have title for RPG enthusiasts on the PS Vita.
