Finally, a good PSP RPG.
The platforming aspects of this game really give it a fresh feel from the normal third person, or top down view. Being able to dodge monsters, sneak up on them and smack a good one with your sword for the initiative or simply freeze it with your crystal to buy sometime to access a chest, it's all one of those things that involve you in the game. No longer does dungeon diving mean just pain-stakingly walking around for hours on end looking for some damned key, while making a random encounter every few steps.
The battle system is fresh to the handheld, a breath of fresh air from the typical ATB or menu heavy turn based model.
The graphics aren't something to laugh at either. While the sprites obtained somewhat of a blurry feel to them, probably because of the widescreen ratio of the PSP, the beauty of the hand drawn sprites and backgrounds really show through. The lush FMVs littered about really help remind you it's that "OMG IT'S SQUARESOFT!" that you remember from the good old days.
The game takes a bit of time to learn and get the hang of, so pay attention when you start out or you might miss something important. Though the game manual is always a good source to learn more control tips.
With different endings dependent on what you do in the game, it has alot of replay value and there are so many different things that you can do. Which is a good thing to have from a portable RPG. No one wants a $40 game sitting on their shelf because they beat the damn thing already.
It's not without it's own flaws though. It has a little bit of lag when entering the menu, but it's nothing too bad. There's a bit of on-screen slowdown too while moving around in the dungeons, but it only lasts for maybe a second at the most.
Overall, if you're one of those rare PSP owners who has been dying for a good RPG, pick up Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth.