PS Fanboy Best of 2007: Best Strategy Game

By Andrew Yoon

Stay tuned all this week as we reveal the our nominees for the very best games of 2007. Winners will be declared on December 27th.

This is the one category to rule them all. PSP became the de-facto system to own for fans of the strategy genre, and chances are, the winner of this category will end up winning the coveted Game of the Year award. This is easily the most difficult genre to pick a winner from.

The nominees for PSP Fanboy – Best Strategy Game are...

Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness
Nippon Ichi Software | NIS America

Disgaea is known amongst hardcore gamers as one of the best SRPG games as around. Why? Because the game is so hilariously over-the-top with its tactics. The gem-based grid system will have people searching for the best combos, while others will use the grab and throw ability to the best of their abilities. And what other game lets you throw exploding penguins?

%Gallery-6345%

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
Square Enix | Square Enix

The War of the Lions is a classic for a reason. Since its initial release on PS1, it continued to be heralded as the definitive SPRG by many. There are so many things to think about, such as the position of your characters, their character classes ... and their Zodiac signs. Really. And what other game inspires such terror at the sight of a chocobo?

%Gallery-5456%

Jeanne d'Arc
Level-5 | Sony Computer Entertainment
This PSP-exclusive SRPG is easily the most accessible of the bunch, thanks to its streamlined gameplay. That's not to say it's simple — the game features a complex skill customization system for each character, allowing you to create characters that truly meet your needs. A fascinating story that offers a new, original look on the Joan of Arc story and impressive visuals make this easily one of the system's best games. And what other game suggests that the English are actually all demons?

%Gallery-3213%

SOCOM Tactical Strike
Slant Six | Sony Computer Entertainment
Unlike the other candidates, Tactical Strike is a very real-world strategy game. Inventory selection is crucial to each mission: equipping one less flash bang might spell certain doom for your squad. You must be quite precise with your placement, setting up effective lines of crossfire that'll eliminate enemy forces in an instant. However, getting into placement is also a challenge, thanks to realistic enemy AI. And what other game makes you feel like you're really part of the SEALS or SAS?

%Gallery-3218%

Stay tuned to PSP Fanboy on December 27th for the winners. Best of 2007 image based off of work from Studio469.

Recommended