Portable offerings: PSP releases for June 23, 2009

June 21, 1:02 PMVideo Games ExaminerJason Evangelho

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Every week I'll let you know what Sony PSP publishers have in store for your time and your wallet. Instead of lazy lists, you'll get an intelligent game synopsis as well as my weekly recommendation. What's your best bet this week?

(Looking for this week's DS Release Roundup? Click Here)

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen | Activision | E10+

The PSP tie-in to the summer blockbuster of the same name calls the DS versions out for the blatant cash cows they are. Here, you play as both Autobots and Decepticons and unlike 2007's shoddy attempt at Tranformers bliss, RotF closes the door lid to the sandbox, relying on tightly structured mission-based gameplay. This is a good thing. Throw in online co-op and Activision is at least attempting to make up for past mistakes. While I hesitate plunking down $40, it's worth a rental if you're a Transformers fan.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite | Capcom | Rated T

To a few million people, the Monster Hunter franchise needs no introduction. If the phrase "Gotta Catch 'Em All" has good memories, or if the thematic opening music to Phantasy Star Online still gives you goosebumps, then this one is pure gaming gold. Let me hit you with a number: 500 hours of gameplay. No, I didn't slip and accidentally drop an extra zero. 1500 weapons and 2000 pieces of armor are yours for the claiming as you hunt down those pesky monsters with up to 3 buddies (sadly via Ad-hoc and not Infrastructure mode). If it's a grind-fest you seek, Capcom's newest Monster Hunter (arguably as popular Pokemon in Japan), your search just ended. Snag it at Amazon for $27.99 & free shipping. 

Pangya: Fantasy Golf | Tomy Corporation | Rated E10+

Sony has this knack for attracting alluring, quirky golf titles to their platforms, and this is the anti-Tiger Woods of golf titles. Actually based on a PC MMO called Pangya, it calls to mind cross-genre spinoffs like Prinny: Can I Really Be The Hero. Playable characters from that global MMO jump over to swing it out over 9 fantasy inspired courses. RPG elements, beautiful course design, and 1000's of unlockable items push this beyond just a simple golf game, and with a budget price tag ($29.99) it's at least worth a rental before you plunk down full price. 

This Week's Pick: While the choice between Pangya and Monster Hunter boils down to personal preference, it's not a stretch to lean towards Monster Hunter simply for the franchise's pedigree and the sheer volume of gameplay. Grindfest or not, it looks outstanding, but only if you have a couple friends to join up with from time to time. 

We'll see ya for next week's releases. Until then, throw down your opinion in the comments. Are you taking a gamble on any of these?