As we move deeper into the era of next-gen consoles, it’s easy to forget the impact that older systems like the PlayStation Portable (PSP) had on the gaming landscape. Released in 2004, the PSP was Sony’s first foray into the handheld market jitutoto and quickly became one of the most popular portable gaming systems of its time. Despite the eventual rise of smartphones and the transition to more powerful handheld devices, the PSP’s legacy remains intact, with many gamers still fondly remembering the incredible games that made it a beloved system. In this article, we’ll look back at some of the best games that defined the PSP and solidified its place in gaming history.
One of the PSP’s standout titles was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005), which brought the iconic Grand Theft Auto series to a handheld console for the first time. Set in the fictional Liberty City, the game offered the same open-world action, chaotic missions, and criminal activities that players loved from the main console titles, but now in the palm of their hands. Liberty City Stories wasn’t just a port of the console games—it was a full-fledged entry in the GTA series, with a new storyline, engaging characters, and plenty of opportunities for mayhem. It showed that the PSP was capable of handling large, immersive worlds, making it one of the standout titles in the system’s library.
Another title that captured the imagination of PSP players was Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010). This tactical action game was a direct continuation of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and saw players take on the role of Big Boss in an all-new adventure. Peace Walker featured a gripping story, innovative stealth mechanics, and a multiplayer mode that allowed players to team up and tackle missions together. The game was praised for its ability to deliver the same depth and complexity as the console Metal Gear games while utilizing the PSP’s unique capabilities. Peace Walker remains one of the most beloved titles in the Metal Gear franchise and is often regarded as one of the best PSP games of all time.
For fans of RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) remains one of the best games on the PSP. A remaster of the original Final Fantasy Tactics, this tactical RPG introduced a more refined version of its classic battle system, stunning animated cutscenes, and a new translation that enhanced the overall experience. The War of the Lions also featured new characters and missions, making it a must-play for both newcomers and veterans of the Final Fantasy Tactics series. The game’s rich narrative, complex strategy, and deep character progression have kept it a fan favorite and ensured its place as one of the PSP’s finest offerings.
Patapon (2008) is another PSP game that has left a lasting impact. This rhythm-based strategy game took a unique approach to gameplay by combining musical timing with tactical combat. Players controlled a tribe of quirky, eye-catching creatures by issuing rhythmic commands that determined their actions on the battlefield. The game’s simple yet addictive mechanics, coupled with its vibrant art style and infectious soundtrack, made it a standout title on the PSP. Patapon became a beloved cult classic, praised for its originality and creativity. Even today, many consider it one of the most innovative games ever made for the handheld system.
Lastly, God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008) is one of the PSP’s most iconic action games. The game followed Kratos, the antihero of the God of War series, as he battled gods, monsters, and other mythological creatures in an effort to save the world. Chains of Olympus successfully brought the brutal combat and epic storytelling of the God of War franchise to the portable format, delivering an experience that was on par with its console counterparts. The game’s fast-paced action, cinematic presentation, and deep lore made it a fan favorite, and it remains one of the best action games on the PSP.
The PSP’s library is filled with many other unforgettable titles, from platformers like LocoRoco to racing games like Wipeout Pure and action RPGs like Monster Hunter Freedom Unite. These games, along with many others, cemented the PSP’s legacy as one of the greatest handheld consoles ever made. Though the PSP is no longer in production, its influence on portable gaming and its incredible library of games will continue to be felt for years to come. If you’re looking to experience the magic of the PSP for the first time or revisit some old favorites, these titles are essential for any true gaming enthusiast.