Underrated PS1 Games: Revisiting those hidden gems

The PlayStation 1 is still a fan favourite among retro gaming platforms. We loved how the PS1 is home to some of the most iconic games of all time. The amount of quality games from Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon to pioneering RPGs like Final Fantasy VII.

There are numerous hidden jewels on the console that are frequently ignored. These underappreciated PS1 games are as deserved of your time and attention, although they are frequently overshadowed by the library's better names.

In this blog article, we'll look at some of the most overlooked PS1 titles that you should play. From obscure Japanese imports to forgotten classics, these games provide amazing gameplay experiences and tales.

So grab a controller and prepare to explore some hidden gems on the PlayStation.

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10. Koudelka

Koudelka is an underappreciated PS1 game that was released to mediocre reviews in 1999. There are, however, numerous reasons why this game deserves more attention and appreciation. In this blog post, we will look at the unique qualities and intriguing tale that distinguish Koudelka.

To begin, Koudelka is a game that combines various genres, ranging from survival horror to RPG. Players assume the role of psychic Koudelka Iasant, who is stuck in a haunted monastery with two other characters, Edward and James. They must work together to defeat the supernatural creatures that lurk within the monastery and unearth its terrible mysteries. This blend of horror and RPG components creates a fascinating and intriguing gameplay experience.

Second, for a game released in 1999, Koudelka's graphics and sound design are outstanding. The game has realistic backgrounds, outstanding lighting effects, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that contributes to the overall mood.

Finally, and perhaps most crucially, Koudelka features an engaging tale unlike any other PS1 game. The plot of the game looks into spirituality, religion, and the power of the human mind. Players must negotiate the individuals' intricate relationships while also unravelling the mysteries of the monastery.

9. Silent Bomber

Silent Bomber gives you a combination of old arcade-style gameplay and current 3D graphics is one of its most notable characteristics. This integration results in a refreshing gameplay experience as well as a visual feast. We'll look at how the game blends the two aspects precisely.

The explosive gaming elements are what truly distinguishes Silent Bomber. We'll look at how players employ skills like jumping and rolling to navigate levels full of hidden passageways and secrets. We'll also watch how gamers deal with different foes and bosses.

The marketing and timing of release are two of the reasons why this game is frequently rated as unappreciated, despite its greatness.

8. Tomba!

Tomba! is an amazing one of a kind platformer that mixed adventure, RPG aspects, and puzzle-solving in a truly innovative way. It was difficult not to fall in love with the game's colourful graphics, engaging music, and eccentric characters. Its greatness was due to more than just its charm.

The game has so many surprises like some hidden locations, wonderful secret quests, and extremely unique gameplay features that kept us engaged the entire way through. Despite receiving critical acclaim, it never achieved the amount of success it deserved.

Tomba!'s brilliant and colourful world, complete with distinctive characters and amusing side quests that make exploration exciting and rewarding, is one of the game's major aspects. The game's animal transformation mechanisms offer another layer of depth and strategy to the action, allowing players to tackle difficulties in a variety of ways depending on which shape they choose.

7. Einhänder

Einhänder is an amazing shoot em up that will keep you guessing the entire time. You'll play as a pilot flying a customizable spacecraft in a bleak era where the moon has been colonised and Earth is a wasteland. You'll progress through several stages, each having its unique set of obstacles and adversaries to defeat.

Despite its distinct gameplay, Einhänder received little attention at its initial release. There are numerous reasons why it is worthwhile to revisit. To begin, the game's graphics have aged astonishingly well, with rich settings and fluent animations that will still wow modern gamers.

Einhänder is a criminally underappreciated game that is still enjoyable to play today. It stands out from other games of its day because to its unique gameplay mechanics, excellent graphics, and customization choices.

If you enjoy side-scrolling shooter games or are looking for something new to play, give Einhänder a try.

You will not be sorry.

6. Brave Fencer Musashi

While some games have weathered the test of time, while others have faded away into obscurity. Brave Fencer Musashi is one such game that, while distinct and enjoyable in its own right, is sometimes neglected.

Brave Fencer Musashi is an excellent adventure game that blends some extremely serious exploration, wild puzzles for you to solve, and combat components to produce a truly unique experience. The game takes place in a vibrantly coloured environment and follows the actions of the titular Musashi, a noisy and pompous hero entrusted with saving the world from a terrible scheme.

5. Suikoden II

Suikoden II was not as economically successful as some of its predecessors, despite its engaging tale, unique gaming mechanics, and iconic cast of characters. With such an amazing game, we wished that this type of game was way more well received when it comes to RPG greatness.

Suikoden II is a game about war and politics at its core. It tells the narrative of a young hero who becomes embroiled in a fight between two neighbouring countries. Along the way, he must gather an army of 108 distinct characters, each with a unique backstory and goal.

The game's large array of characters, which allows players to customise their group and explore new methods to approach combat, is one of its most amazing elements. With such a satisfying group of cast, it is no doubt in our eyes that Suikoden II makes for a fantastic use of the turn based combat.

4. Alundra

The narrative of Alundra is one of its most notable aspects. The plot of the game is more grounded and personal than the traditional RPG themes of saving the world from an ultimate evil. The story is portrayed through well-written characters and entertaining dialogue, and it deals with themes of loss, grief, and faith.

Alundra's puzzle design is another excellent suit. The game includes challenges that are tough but fair and ask you to think outside the box. The puzzles in Alundra are gratifying to solve and will keep you focused throughout the game, from moving blocks to figuring out how to traverse an area loaded with hazardous traps.

Alundra's fighting is fast-paced and fun. You'll be able to use a range of weapons and magic spells, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Boss bouts are especially fascinating since they require you to employ all of your talents to defeat some truly remarkable opponents.

3. Threads of Fate

Threads of Fate is a fantastic RPG that has some action platforming sections developed and published by SquareSoft in 1999. Rue and Mint, two characters on a search for magical artefacts, are central to the plot.

The characters in Threads of Fate each have some seriously neat unique abilities and play styles, and the game includes multiple endings dependent on your choices.

We wished that Threads of Fate had the same level of success as other amazing games of the time, we're looking at you Final Fantasy VII and Chrono Trigger. This is most likely due to the game industry's lack of advertising and awareness. On the other hand it's has gained a cult following over the years, with many praising its intriguing story and well-designed soundtrack.

2. Legend of Legaia

Legend of Legaia provides a unique and interesting gameplay experience with a highly configurable battle system that lets players to create strong combos by combining different move sets. The story of the game is extremely well written, with so many memorable characters and a completely compelling plot that gradually develops as you travel through it.

Legend of Legaia has a distinct "Tatsumi-style" martial arts fighting system in which you enter combinations to perform strong moves. We'll go into the fighting system's complexities and what sets it apart from other RPGs on the platform.

Despite its qualities, Legend of Legaia is frequently eclipsed by other RPGs from the same era, such as Final Fantasy VII. However, it is a game that no RPG lover should neglect, especially those who appreciate a well-designed fighting system.

1. Vagrant Story

The story of Vagrant Story is a masterclass in storytelling, with a deep and intricate narrative full of intrigue, mystery, and betrayal. Ashley Riot, the game's protagonist, is a member of an elite organisation entrusted with researching a violent cult.

As he looks deeper into the conspiracy, he uncovers astonishing revelations that threaten to upend all he believes. The plot of the game is beautifully weaved, keeping the player on the edge of their seat until the very end.

The gameplay in Vagrant Story combines RPG and action components, creating a completely unique experience. The game's novel risk-reward fighting system necessitates strategic decisions in real-time conflicts, while also managing inventory, equipment, and character growth.

In addition, the game has sophisticated crafting and customization mechanics that let players to design weapons and spells to suit their playstyle.

Conclusion

It's as simple as that! These are the best underappreciated PS1 games of all time, as well as why they're so special.

If you're looking for something new to try, these are the games to give a go.

So, what are you waiting for?

Get your old PlayStation 1 out and start playing some of these classics right away!

Here are all of the titles we've covered.

1. Vagrant Story
2. Legend of Legaia
3. Threads of Fate
4. Alundra
5. Suikoden II
6. Brave Fencer Musashi
7. Einhänder
8. Tomba!
9. Silent Bomber
10. Koudelka