Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of PlayStation Mobile games on the PS Vita. For those of you who remember, PlayStation Mobile (PSM) was Sony's attempt to create a unified platform for mobile gaming across various devices, including the PS Vita. While the service is no longer active, it left behind a fascinating library of games that are worth exploring if you own a PS Vita. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about PlayStation Mobile games on the PS Vita, how to access them (if possible), and some of the standout titles you might want to check out.

What Was PlayStation Mobile?

PlayStation Mobile (PSM) was launched by Sony in 2012 as a cross-platform gaming initiative. The idea was to create a marketplace where developers could release their games on multiple devices, including the PS Vita and PlayStation-certified Android devices. This meant that if you bought a PSM game, you could potentially play it on your Vita and your compatible smartphone or tablet. The platform aimed to foster indie game development and bring a diverse range of unique titles to the PlayStation ecosystem.

Sony envisioned PSM as a way to compete with the growing mobile gaming market dominated by iOS and Android. By offering a curated selection of games optimized for the PS Vita and other devices, they hoped to attract both developers and gamers. The platform featured a variety of games, from original titles to ports of popular indie games. However, despite its initial promise, PlayStation Mobile ultimately failed to gain significant traction and was shut down in 2015.

Why PlayStation Mobile Mattered

Even though PlayStation Mobile is no longer active, it holds a special place in the hearts of many PS Vita owners. It provided a unique and diverse library of games that complemented the Vita's existing lineup of AAA titles and PlayStation Portable (PSP) classics. PSM games often featured innovative gameplay mechanics, creative art styles, and experimental concepts that you wouldn't typically find in mainstream games. This made the platform a haven for indie developers and gamers looking for something different.

Moreover, PlayStation Mobile allowed the PS Vita to tap into the burgeoning mobile gaming scene. While the Vita was a powerful handheld console, it struggled to compete with the sheer volume of games available on smartphones and tablets. PSM helped bridge this gap by offering a curated selection of mobile-style games that were optimized for the Vita's hardware and controls. For a time, it seemed like PlayStation Mobile could be a viable alternative to the traditional mobile app stores. The initiative fostered creativity and provided opportunities for developers to reach a wider audience. Despite its eventual closure, PlayStation Mobile's impact on the PS Vita's legacy should not be underestimated.

Accessing PlayStation Mobile Games Today

Now, the big question: how can you access PlayStation Mobile games on your PS Vita today? Unfortunately, since the PlayStation Mobile service was officially shut down in 2015, it's no longer possible to purchase or download new PSM games. The PlayStation Store no longer lists PSM titles, and the PlayStation Mobile app is no longer available for download. However, if you previously purchased PlayStation Mobile games, there may still be a way to access them.

Re-downloading Purchased Games

If you had purchased PlayStation Mobile games before the service was discontinued, you might be able to re-download them from your download list on the PlayStation Store. Here's how:

1. Sign in to your PlayStation Network account: Make sure you're signed in to the same account you used to purchase the games.
2. Navigate to the PlayStation Store: On your PS Vita, go to the PlayStation Store app.
3. Check Your Download List: Look for the "Download List" or "Download History" section. This is where all your previously purchased games and apps are stored.
4. Find Your PSM Games: Scroll through your download list to find the PlayStation Mobile games you want to re-download.
5. Download and Install: Select the game and choose the "Download" option. Once the download is complete, install the game on your PS Vita.

Keep in mind that this method only works if you had previously purchased the games. If you never bought any PlayStation Mobile titles, you won't be able to access them now. Additionally, there's no guarantee that all previously purchased games will still be available for download, as Sony may have removed some titles from the servers.

Alternative Methods

As of now, there are no official alternative methods for accessing PlayStation Mobile games on the PS Vita. Sony has not provided any way to re-activate the service or offer the games through other channels. Unofficial methods, such as downloading ROMs or using emulators, may exist, but they are generally not recommended due to legal and security concerns. Stick to official channels and respect copyright laws to avoid any potential issues.

Notable PlayStation Mobile Games

While the PlayStation Mobile library may be limited, it does contain some hidden gems that are worth checking out if you can get your hands on them. Here are a few notable PlayStation Mobile games that stood out during the platform's lifespan:

Super Crate Box

Super Crate Box is an addictive arcade-style shooter developed by Vlambeer. The game features a simple but challenging premise: collect crates to unlock new weapons and survive as long as possible against waves of enemies. Its fast-paced gameplay, retro graphics, and catchy soundtrack made it a hit among PSM players.

The beauty of Super Crate Box lies in its simplicity. The controls are easy to pick up, but mastering the game requires skill and strategy. Each weapon offers a different play style, and the ever-increasing difficulty keeps you on your toes. It's the kind of game you can pick up for a quick session or spend hours trying to beat your high score.

Frobisher Says!

Frobisher Says! is a quirky and hilarious minigame collection developed by Honeyslug. The game presents you with a series of bizarre and nonsensical instructions that you must follow as quickly as possible. Its absurd humor, creative visuals, and fast-paced gameplay make it a truly unique experience.

The minigames in Frobisher Says! are incredibly varied and range from simple tasks like tapping the screen to more complex actions like drawing shapes or tilting the Vita. The game's humor is its biggest draw, with each minigame featuring its own absurd twist. It's a great party game to play with friends and is guaranteed to elicit plenty of laughs.

Rymdkapsel

Rymdkapsel is a minimalist real-time strategy game developed by Grapefrukt games. The game challenges you to build and manage a space station while defending it from alien invaders. Its unique blend of resource management, strategic planning, and abstract visuals make it a standout title in the PSM library.

In Rymdkapsel, you must carefully allocate resources, research new technologies, and construct various rooms to expand your station. The game's minimalist design creates a sense of calm and focus, while the constant threat of alien attacks keeps you on edge. It's a challenging and rewarding game that will test your strategic thinking skills.

Ten By Eight

Ten By Eight is an interesting puzzle game developed by TACS Games. Ten By Eight has a distinctive concept that mixes aspects of matching games with strategic thinking. Players tackle the challenge of removing groups of tiles in a 10x8 grid by strategically matching them to reach particular targets.

What makes Ten By Eight captivating is its sophisticated yet user-friendly design. The game's straightforward mechanics make it easy for players to quickly grasp the game, but there's also enough complexity to maintain interest over a number of play sessions. Each stage poses a distinct challenge, compelling players to adjust their strategy and think outside the box in order to succeed.

Reversi (by Licket Games)

Reversi from Licket Games provides a classic board game experience on the PlayStation Mobile platform, offering a virtual version of the timeless strategy game also known as Othello. Reversi is a two-player game played on an 8x8 board, in which the goal is to outflank and convert the opponent's pieces to one's own color.

Licket Games' version of Reversi offers a simple interface with easy touch controls, allowing players to participate in matches against AI opponents or human players. Its minimalist design and clean graphics make it ideal for quick gaming sessions on the PS Vita or other PlayStation Mobile-enabled devices. Reversi from Licket Games offers a classic gaming experience on the PlayStation Mobile platform, whether you're a seasoned Reversi player or fresh to the game.

The Legacy of PlayStation Mobile

Although PlayStation Mobile is no longer around, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced it. The platform showcased the potential of cross-platform gaming and provided a platform for indie developers to shine. Many of the games that were released on PSM went on to find success on other platforms, proving the value of the platform's curated selection.

For PS Vita owners, PlayStation Mobile was a unique and valuable addition to the console's library. It offered a diverse range of games that complemented the Vita's existing lineup and provided a glimpse into the future of mobile gaming. While it's a shame that the service is no longer active, the games it brought to the PS Vita will always be remembered fondly.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a look back at PlayStation Mobile games on the PS Vita. While you can no longer purchase new PSM titles, those who previously bought games may still be able to re-download them. And if you do manage to get your hands on some of these hidden gems, be sure to give them a try. You might just discover your next favorite game! Happy gaming, guys!