Are you a fan of portable gaming consoles? If so, then you’re probably familiar with the iconic Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP). Released in 2004, the PSP revolutionized handheld gaming with its cutting-edge technology and impressive library of games. One genre that particularly thrived on the PSP was fighting games. Whether you’re a button-mashing beginner or a seasoned combo master, the PSP had a wide variety of fighting games to satisfy your craving for virtual combat.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of PSP fighting games. From classic titles to hidden gems, we’ll explore the top 15 PSP fighting games that made a mark on the PSP gaming landscape. So, grab your PSP, charge up the battery, and get ready to unleash your inner warrior.
Related: An Ultimate Guide of 19 Amazing Dreamcast Fighting Games
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best PSP fighting games that captivated players and left a lasting impact on the handheld gaming industry.
Table of Contents
1. BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II1: Best PSP Fighting Games
Kicking off our list is “BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II.” Developed by Arc System Works and released in 2011, this game is a revised version of the original “BlazBlue” title. With 15 playable characters and a plethora of gameplay modes, “BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II” offers a 2D fighting experience like no other. As a player, your objective is to defeat your opponent by inflicting enough damage. Fill up your heat gauge to unleash powerful special moves and dominate the battlefield.
2. WWE SmackDown vs RAW 2007
For all the wrestling fans out there, “WWE SmackDown vs RAW 2007” is a must-play on the PSP. Developed by Yuke’s and released in 2006, this game features an extensive character roster and exciting gameplay. Experience the thrill of WWE matches as you take control of your favorite superstars. With refined controls and improved gameplay mechanics, “WWE SmackDown vs RAW 2007” delivers an immersive wrestling experience right at your fingertips.
3. Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai- Another Road
Step into the world of Dragon Ball Z with “Shin Budokai- Another Road.” This fighting game, released for the PSP, revolves around the adventures of the legendary Saiyan, Majin Buu. With seven game modes and an impressive lineup of 24 characters, including fan favorites like Goku and Vegeta, “Shin Budokai- Another Road” offers a thrilling combat experience. Unleash over 50 unique fighting skills, and challenge your friends in adrenaline-pumping multiplayer battles via WiFi.
Dragon Ball Z: Shin Budokai captures the intense battles and iconic characters of the Dragon Ball Z series in a portable package. With its fast-paced gameplay and flashy special moves, the game provides an authentic Dragon Ball Z experience on the PSP. Players can engage in epic duels as their favorite characters, unleashing devastating energy blasts and transforming into powerful Super Saiyans. The game also features a compelling story mode, where players can relive iconic moments from the anime series.
Key Features:
- Extensive roster of characters, including fan favorites like Goku, Vegeta, and Frieza.
- Engaging story mode that follows the events of the Dragon Ball Z series.
- Ad-hoc multiplayer mode for intense battles with friends.
- Arcade mode for quick and challenging fights.
- Stunning cel-shaded graphics that capture the visual style of the anime.
4. Def Jam: Fight for NY – The Takeover
If you’re a fan of Hip-Hop music and street fighting, “Def Jam: Fight for NY – The Takeover” is the game for you. Developed by EA and released in 2006, this PSP title brings together iconic artists from the Hip-Hop industry in a brutal brawl. With their unique fighting styles, including martial arts and wrestling, these artists battle it out for supremacy. Dive into the captivating story mode, customize your character, and experience the raw intensity of underground street fighting.
5. Fight Night Round 3
For those who prefer the sweet science of boxing, “Fight Night Round 3” is a knockout choice on the PSP. Developed by Electronic Arts, this sports fighting game challenges you to become the best in the ring. With fast-paced gameplay and realistic boxing mechanics, you’ll need lightning-fast reflexes to dodge and counter your opponent’s punches. Play against your friends in local multiplayer mode and prove who’s the ultimate pugilist.
6. Marvel Nemesis: Rise of the Imperfects
Enter the Marvel Universe and engage in epic battles with “Marvel Nemesis: Rise of the Imperfects.” This PSP fighting game features both heroes and villains from the Marvel comic book series. Play as iconic characters like Spider-Man, Captain America, and Magneto, or take control of the Imperfects, a team of super-powered beings. With its diverse roster of characters and thrilling gameplay, “Marvel Nemesis: Rise of the Imperfects” offers non-stop action for Marvel fans.
7. Dissidia: Final Fantasy
RPG and fighting game enthusiasts will find delight in “Dissidia: Final Fantasy.” Developed by SquareEnix and released in 2009, this game combines the best of both worlds. Step into the arena as your favorite Final Fantasy characters and engage in fast-paced battles. With its expansive world, colorful visuals, and engaging story mode, “Dissidia: Final Fantasy” offers an immersive fighting experience that will keep you hooked for hours.
8. Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny
SoulCalibur: Broken Destiny brings the beloved SoulCalibur franchise to the PSP, offering a rich fighting experience on the go. The game features a diverse roster of fighters, each wielding a unique weapon and possessing distinct combat styles. With its immersive story mode, players can delve into the lore of the SoulCalibur universe and uncover the secrets behind each character’s journey. The game also introduces a variety of new gameplay mechanics, including the critical finish system, which allows players to unleash devastating finishing moves.
Prepare for weapon-based combat in “Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny.” This PSP fighting game, developed by Project Soul, features a diverse cast of characters from the “Soul Calibur” series. Engage in battles using swords, axes, and other deadly weapons, and unleash devastating combos on your enemies. With its engaging story mode and ad-hoc multiplayer, “Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny” delivers a thrilling fighting experience on the PSP.
Key Features:
- Diverse roster of characters, including iconic fighters like Mitsurugi, Ivy, and Nightmare.
- Engaging story mode that explores the individual tales of each character.
- Ad-hoc multiplayer mode for thrilling battles with friends.
- Character creation mode for designing and customizing your own unique fighter.
- Spectacular graphics and fluid animations that showcase the PSP’s capabilities.
9. Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max
For fans of classic 2D fighting games, “Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max” is a must-play on the PSP. Developed by Capcom and released in 1998, this game offers a roster of characters borrowed from various Capcom titles. With its pick-and-play mechanics, you can jump right into the action and unleash powerful attacks. The classic mode lets you experience the pure essence of Street Fighter, with no frills or added complexities.
Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX brings the classic Street Fighter franchise to the PSP with a plethora of new features and enhancements. With a roster of over 30 characters, players can engage in fast-paced battles and pull off impressive combos. The game introduces the “ISMs” system, allowing players to choose different fighting styles for each character, adding depth and variety to the gameplay. Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX also includes an extensive single-player mode, complete with multiple storylines and endings for each character.
Key Features:
- Over 30 playable characters, including iconic fighters like Ryu, Chun-Li, and Akuma.
- Multiple game modes, such as arcade, versus, and dramatic battle.
- Robust single-player mode with unique storylines and endings for each character.
- Wireless multiplayer support for intense battles with friends.
- Gorgeous 2D graphics and smooth animations that capture the essence of the Street Fighter series.
10. Fate/Unlimited Codes
Immerse yourself in the world of the “Fate” series with “Fate/Unlimited Codes.” Developed by Capcom, this fighting game allows you to play through the perspectives of different characters. Expand your meter to unleash special moves and engage in a variety of game modes, including Survival Mode and Extra Missions. With its captivating storylines and diverse character roster, “Fate/Unlimited Codes” offers a unique fighting experience on the PSP.
11. Guilty Gear Judgement
“Guilty Gear Judgement” brings the fast-paced action of the “Guilty Gear” series to the PSP. This game is a port of “Guilty Gear X2 Reloaded” and incorporates elements from other “Guilty Gear” titles. Choose from a variety of characters and embark on quests to unlock even more fighters. With its ad-hoc multiplayer mode, you can team up with a friend and take on the challenges together. Prepare for intense battles and addictive gameplay in “Guilty Gear Judgement.”
12. UFC Undisputed 2010
Sports fighting game enthusiasts will find excitement in “UFC Undisputed 2010.” Developed by Yuke’s and released in 2010, this game offers a vast roster of characters and playstyles. Create your own character and embark on a career mode, where you can improve and upgrade your fighter. While the PSP version lacks online multiplayer, you can still challenge your friends in ad-hoc mode for intense one-on-one battles.
13. Mortal Kombat: Unchained
No list of fighting games is complete without a mention of “Mortal Kombat.” “Mortal Kombat: Unchained” is the sixth installment in the series and delivers the signature brutal combat the franchise is known for. Choose from a wide array of characters and unleash devastating fatalities and special moves on your opponents. With updated features and new combo breakers, “Mortal Kombat: Unchained” offers an unforgettable fighting experience on the PSP.
Mortal Kombat: Unchained brings the brutal and visceral combat of the Mortal Kombat series to the PSP. With its signature fatalities, gore, and over-the-top special moves, Mortal Kombat: Unchained delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience for fans of the franchise. The game features a large roster of fighters, including classic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden. Players can engage in intense battles in various game modes, including arcade, versus, and puzzle combat.
Key Features:
- Vast roster of characters, each with their unique fatalities and special moves.
- Engaging story mode that delves into the dark and twisted world of Mortal Kombat.
- Ad-hoc multiplayer mode for fierce battles with friends.
- Puzzle combat mode for a unique twist on the traditional fighting game formula.
- Stunning visuals and gruesome animations that stay true to the Mortal Kombat legacy.
14. Tekken: Dark Resurrection
“Tekken: Dark Resurrection” is a beloved PSP fighting game that captures the essence of the renowned “Tekken” series. Developed by Namco, this game features a diverse cast of characters and improved controls for seamless gameplay. Engage in intense battles, string together powerful combos, and deliver knockout blows to your opponents. With its updated graphics and addictive gameplay, “Tekken: Dark Resurrection” is a must-have for PSP fighting game enthusiasts.
Tekken: Dark Resurrection is a must-play fighting game on the PSP. It is an enhanced version of the critically acclaimed arcade game Tekken 5. The game features an extensive roster of characters, each with their unique fighting styles and storylines. Players can engage in intense battles using a variety of martial arts moves and powerful combos. With stunning visuals and smooth gameplay, Tekken: Dark Resurrection offers an authentic fighting experience on the PSP.
Key Features:
- Large roster of characters, including fan favorites like Jin Kazama and Kazuya Mishima.
- Engaging story mode that delves into the characters’ backstories and motivations.
- Ad-hoc multiplayer mode for local battles with friends.
- Customization options to personalize your favorite fighters.
- Additional game modes, including arcade, survival, and practice.
15. God of War: Chains of Olympus
Last but certainly not least, we have “God of War: Chains of Olympus.” This action-packed hack-and-slash game takes players on an epic adventure as Kratos, the Spartan warrior. Engage in breathtaking battles against mythical creatures from Greek mythology and make use of powerful weapons and magical attacks. Choose between saving the world or succumbing to the darkness in this visually stunning and emotionally gripping PSP masterpiece.
Conclusion
There you have it – the ultimate guide to PSP fighting games. Whether you’re a fan of classic 2D fighters, wrestling games, or epic battles in the Marvel Universe, the PSP had something for everyone. These games provided hours of entertainment and allowed players to unleash their inner warriors on the go.
The PSP was a haven for fighting game enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of titles that pushed the boundaries of handheld gaming. From Tekken: Dark Resurrection to Mortal Kombat: Unchained, these games provided immersive experiences, captivating players with their unique characters, intense battles, and stunning visuals. Whether you’re a fan of classic franchises or seeking a new fighting game adventure, the PSP had something for everyone. So grab your PSP, choose your fighter, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of portable PSP fighting games.
To enjoy these games today, you can use PSP emulators and download ROMs from trusted sources. Relive the nostalgia and experience the adrenaline-pumping action of these PSP fighting games.
Let us know your favorite PSP fighting game from the list, and if we missed any games that should be included. Share your thoughts in the comment section below.