Earlier today, we shared a report that suggested that the storefronts for PS3, PS Vita, and PSP games would be going away by this Summer. While there is still time and Sony has yet to address the worrisome news, we couldn't help but reflect back on some of the PS Vita games that we've enjoyed the most. For all of the lack of support that this handheld system had, it truly was revolutionary for its time with its dual cameras and tracking. The remote play was nothing to scoff at either. So, if the reports are accurate and the storefront does go away this year, here are 10 of the best PS Vita games that you should play before the store closes for good.
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection includes Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and the PS Vita port was optimized to perfection. The Vita version of these Hideo Kojima adventures fully utilized the unique (at the time) touch-screen controls when taking to combat. It was also really easy to go from playing this on the PlayStation 3 to the Vita, because saves and trophies all saved, making it even easier to take this particular Kojima experience on the go.
"The Metal Gear franchise has a long history and many exceptional moments," reads our review of the collection. "While this collection doesn’t give you the complete picture, it highlights many of the reasons this series has such a devoted following. The fight against The Boss, Colonel Campbell going nuts, the haunting tune as Chrysalis flies by – these are the kind of memorable events that define Metal Gear, and they are just as awesome as you remember."
Persona 4 Golden
Persona 4 Golden is a masterpiece. It's a fine representation of RPG gold and surprisingly enough, the PS Vita is the best way to play this game. While the title itself is available on other platforms like the PS2, PS3, and Windows PC, I feel that you haven't truly experienced what Persona 4 Golden has to offer until you've played it on Vita.
Using the PS2 version as its base, the Vita edition brought with it new characters to meet, new enemies to annihilate, and a new way to experience the branching story. To me, this game is one of those titles that are the reason to get a platform. If you didn't have a Vita already but love Persona, Golden is a fine excuse to get both.
I'm not kidding.
"Persona 4 Golden’s greatest strength is that everything fits together seamlessly, from the connected battle and social aspects to the fresh changes," reads Game Informer's review. "Newcomers are sure to find plenty to love, while series veterans can revisit fond memories and experience new content. This game still remains one of the best RPGs to date; don’t miss out on your second chance to experience it."
Guacamelee!
Guacamelee! is brilliance personified. The story of journeying through the land of the dead in the name of love is stunning in itself, but this 2D platformer shined for many reasons: the combat was spectacular (made even more so on the Vita), every inch of this game sparkles with individuality, and there are so many secrets to uncover hidden cleverly throughout the entire adventure.
Plus, you can play as a Mexican farmer that happens upon a magical luchador mask, how cool is that?!
According to our review, "Even with its platforming frustrations, Guacamelee is an excellent addition to the genre, retaining important classic elements and introducing several fresh additions. The main campaign took me around seven hours (with a decent amount of secret-searching). The pacing is just right, sending you from one adventure to the next without any bloated, boring spots. If you've got a PS3 or Vita, go suplex this into your system now."