Upcoming PSP games for February 2008

February is already here, and with it a new batch of PSP releases for North America. There is not much here to make the rest of the world green with jealousy — they have already been playing Patapon (Japan) and Wipeout Pulse (Europe) for months. Still, these hotly anticipated titles are sure to make a dent in many PSP owners’ wallets over the next few weeks. A couple of other interesting titles round out the mix: Dungeon Explorer could provide a much needed boost to the action-RPG lineup on the system, while Downstream Panic could prove to be every bit as captivating to puzzle fanatics as other niche titles like Loco Roco and Patapon have been to their fans.

Downstream Panic — February 5: This cute puzzler from Atari has you guiding some lost fish through treacherous levels reminiscent of Lemmings. But with fish.

Dungeon Explorer: Warriors of the Ancient Arts — February 12: An action RPG from Hudson with a Gauntlet-like feel and 4-player co-operative exploration.

Wipeout Pulse — February 12: Sony Liverpool’s futuristic racer finally makes an appearance in North America. Look for our review of this highly-anticipated title later this week.

Need for Speed Pro Street — February 18: EA finally brings their console street racer to the PSP. Like its console brethren, the portable version retains a heavy focus on automobile customization, tuning, and pimpin’.

Pinball Hall of Fame: Williams Collection — February 20: Are you a pinball wizard or just a wannabe? Come test your skills on classic tables like Whirlwind and Pinbot.

Patapon — February 26: This charming music rhythm / strategy hybrid has already captured gamers’ attention in Japan. Check out our detailed preview for more on the unique gameplay mechanics that have made this title such a cult favorite.