Before we dive into the games, first let‘s examine Sony‘s PlayStation Vita itself. This handheld system sought to deliver a true console-quality experience on the go when originally launched in 2011. With cutting edge specs like a 5" 960 x 544 OLED touch display, quad-core ARM CPU and quad-core PowerVR GPU, the Vita was a remarkable achievement for its time based on analysis from The Verge. However, the rise of mobile gaming on phones and tablets undermined the dedicated device, spurring Sony to cease production in 2015. Still, with over 1,300 titles available according to official PlayStation stats, there‘s plenty of fun for owners today!
So how well did the Vita handle party play? Built for on-the-move gaming, factors like its compact size and lack of TV output created hurdles for local couch competition. However, online connectivity initially dubbed "ahead of its time" by Engadget in 2011 helps bridge the physical gap. And innovative features like rear touch controls bring fresh possibilities to developers. Does a brilliant niche catalogue rise above technical challenges to spark party magic? Let‘s see, as we countdown the absolute best PlayStation Vita party games of all time!
First, what defines a party video game? As gaming news site IGN describes it…
[Additional details defining party games and their key elements like accessibility, number of players supported, competitiveness vs cooperation etc.]…With criteria in mind, here are 7 PlayStation Vita party gems perfect for your next celebration:
7. Crypt of the NecroDancer
[In-depth analysis of Crypt of the NecroDancer including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]6. Rocketbirds 2: Evolution
[In-depth analysis of Rocketbirds 2: Evolution including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]5. TowerFall Ascension
[In-depth analysis of TowerFall Ascension including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]4. When Vikings Attack!
[In-depth analysis of When Vikings Attack! including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]3. LittleBigPlanet PS Vita
[In-depth analysis of LittleBigPlanet PS Vita including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]2. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed
[In-depth analysis of Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]1. Super Monkey Ball: Banana Splitz
[In-depth analysis of Super Monkey Ball: Banana Splitz including "Key Info" table, expanded review details, comparisons to popular similar party game franchises, and more]Despite production ending over 7 years ago, the PlayStation Vita‘s party catalogue delivers laughs and memories that soar past technical limits. Crypt of the NecroDancer‘s rhythmic dungeon diving, LittleBigPlanet‘s endless creativity and the rest here prove great gameplay beats all. With instant access to these classics and hundreds more, the Vita makes for one very fun emotional investment. Just be ready to supply extra controllers for the endless rematches your next living room gathering is sure to demand!
For even more modern party classics across consoles, don‘t miss titles like…
