Few games capture the essence of a beloved cartoon as well as Ben 10: Protector of Earth does. This action-packed title throws players into the shoes of Ben Tennyson, a kid with the power to transform into ten different alien forms, each with unique abilities. Whether you’re smashing through enemies as Four Arms, speeding past obstacles as XLR8, or solving puzzles with Grey Matter, the game stays true to the show’s spirit. The combat is fluid, the level design encourages exploration, and the boss battles feel like episodes straight out of the series. For fans of the original Ben 10 cartoon, this is as close as it gets to stepping into Ben’s shoes.
One of the standout features of Protector of Earth is how well it balances action and strategy. You can’t just button-mash your way to victory—each alien form has strengths and weaknesses, forcing you to think before transforming. Heatblast is great for ranged attacks but struggles in close quarters, while Diamondhead’s defensive capabilities make him ideal for tanking damage. The game also introduces co-op play, allowing a second player to jump in as Ben’s cousin, Gwen, adding another layer of fun. It’s a smartly designed beat-’em-up that respects the intelligence of its players while delivering plenty of excitement.
Visually, the game holds up surprisingly well for a PSP title. The cel-shaded art style mimics the cartoon’s aesthetic, and the animations—especially the alien transformations—are smooth and satisfying. The environments, from city streets to alien-infested spaceships, are varied enough to keep things fresh. The sound design is another strong point, with voice lines from the original cast and a soundtrack that amps up the energy during fights. Even years after its release, Protector of Earth remains one of the best-looking Ben 10 games ever made.
The story follows an original plot that fits neatly into the show’s continuity. Vilgax is up to his usual world-conquering schemes, and it’s up to Ben (and sometimes Gwen) to stop him. The writing captures the humor and personality of the characters, making it feel like a lost season of the show. While the narrative isn’t groundbreaking, it serves its purpose—giving players a reason to punch, blast, and outsmart their way through hordes of enemies. For fans, the nostalgia alone makes the journey worthwhile.
Playing Ben 10: Protector of Earth on PPSSPP is a great way to relive the experience today. The emulator enhances the graphics, making the colors pop even more, and the ability to save anywhere removes some of the frustration of older portable gaming. Since the game isn’t overly long, it’s perfect for quick play sessions or a weekend binge. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, this remains one of the best Ben 10 games ever made—a must-play for fans of the series.