1. Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions
Re-releasing one of PSP’s first big hits as an original PS2 game, this PSP version stands out with its much more focused experience and thoughtful additions that enhance a great original title.
The main change lies in how the story progresses: in this version, localization was removed and dialogue has an almost Shakespearean quality (although some grammar errors remain). Also included are beautiful fully-acted cutscenes which add drama and romance.
While the core gameplay remains unchanged, this version of Final Fantasy Tactics introduces both cooperative and competitive ad-hoc multiplayer through taverns spread throughout the world. This mode can provide both cooperative and competitive ad-hoc play; provided both players are at roughly equivalent levels or above. Otherwise, lower level parties might find themselves being overwhelmed by more powerful monsters in the game.
Lumines was an instant classic when it first released, mixing Tetris-esque block matching with beautiful graphics and an irresistibly catchy soundtrack for something truly innovative and groundbreaking. No other game has come close since! Now this re-release combines its remarkable story with menu-based combat to offer more ways to experience one of the greatest grid RPGs ever conceived.
2. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite
Monster Hunter games have gained immense popularity due to their impressive collection of monster species to hunt, classes of weapons to master and special items to craft. If you have played previous Monster Hunter titles, Freedom Unite provides an upgrade with tons of exciting missions and content additions that you won’t want to miss!
The game boasts stunning detail, from breathtaking open world vistas to playable frame rates even during combat. Additionally, its soundtrack offers incredible orchestral compositions to complement its amazing visuals.
This update also brings with it an array of fixes designed to please both series veterans who have long demanded improvements, as well as those newer to the franchise who might feel intimidated by its vast scale. For instance, long load times can now be reduced through using its optional data installation option, allowing players to upload all required files over existing save files for faster loading times.
Finally, this version of the game offers several exciting quests, from HR 9 elder quests in the Gathering Hall to new Felyne helpers that can assist you during battle. Also included in this release are two Monster Hunter Frontier monsters – Hypnocatrice and Lavasioth – from their previous version as well as Ad-Hoc functionality that allows cooperative multiplayer play over Wi-Fi as well as several armor and weapon types designed specifically for your Felyne companion.
3. Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
Square Enix’s Kingdom Hearts series has long been an immensely popular franchise, boasting iconic Disney characters, flashy Keyblade action, and an engaging story. The prequel, which takes place prior to Kingdom Hearts 1, does not disappoint either, featuring similar combat, visuals and story elements while offering deeper insights into franchise lore.
Birth by Sleep follows in the tradition of other Kingdom Hearts games with its battle system: enemies materializing around you as you explore a world and attack with your sword. Graphically, Birth by Sleep holds up well considering it originally appeared on portable platforms; however, its camera may become wonky at times while its lock-on system often makes it hard to see who or what you’re attacking with your sword. Still, Birth by Sleep remains an amazing addition to the franchise overall!
The latest addition to the series also introduces a brand-new gameplay element – Command Style. By completing combos in combat and filling a meter to customize abilities during fights, combat becomes less repetitive as attacks rarely repeat themselves over and over. Unfortunately some repetition exists between worlds; nonetheless this entry remains an excellent addition.