The Lowdon on Game Availability for the PSP

An unfortunate truth about the PSP is that while the machine is capable of an awe-inspiring amount, downloadable psp games are few and far between. However, there are a few pieces to tide you over while you wait to afford the new great game. Yourpsp.com, the official Sony site for the PSP, allows you to download free psp games, or at least demos.

Most genres are represented here, from racing (Ridge Racer 2, MotoGP) to sports (World Tour Soccer 2), to puzzle games (LocoRoco). LocoRoco actually has three demos, one basic demo, one Halloween demo, and a Christmas demo. Additionally, you can download psp games' add-ons, such as new levels for Lemmings.

In terms of full downloadable games, there is nothing to speak of. This, of course, is not incredibly surprising. Free games have been something of a naughty phrase to console makers for years, and only recently has Nintendo bundled a game with their system. However, many PSP games have now been given a "Classic" designation, and so they can be had for as little as 19.99 at retail.

Many of these games can indeed be considered classics, so they are well worth the price. Newer games can be found used at many outlets, from retails stores to online trading sites. This can certainly soften the blow of the cost that many PSP games retail at.

Okay, so we know there are no true "free" PSP games. However, there are a number of PSP games that are so bad, they should be free. I don't know why you'd want any of those, however. Street Supremacy on the PSP could be considered one of those. An ill-considered game in the first place, it's miraculous that it was ported to the PSP at all.

Remember, if you buy bad games, that makes companies think that it's okay to create bad games. Keep that in mind if you ever decide to buy Rengoku. Rengoku: Tower of Heaven is a first-generation action game that is one of the worst reviewed PSP games since its inception. Reviewers state that it's just a hideous bugfest, and a real shame too, since it actually looked quite good before it came out.

The truth is, you get what you pay for in life, and the PSP is no exception to the rule. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories is priced at 49.99, which is somewhat daunting for a portable title, but it certainly doesn't seem like a portable title.

With graphics that exceed its PS2 counterpart and more features besides, the game clearly earns its price point. There are plenty of demos to try though, and they will perhaps inspire you to purchase a fine game or two.