The PlayStation Portable (PSP), Sony’s first attempt at handheld gaming, introduced a whole new level of gaming on the go. Released in 2004, the PSP boasted impressive hardware for its time, offering a handheld experience that rivaled home consoles. With its crisp graphics and variety of genres, the PSP quickly became a fan favorite, leaving behind a library of games that remain beloved by players today. While the PSP may no longer be in production, its games continue to be remembered fondly, many of which still stand out as some of the best handheld games ever made.
One of the most iconic and unforgettable PSP games is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. Serving as a prequel to the beloved Final Fantasy VII, this action RPG follows Zack Fair, a young SOLDIER member, as he uncovers the secrets behind the game’s iconic events. The game’s fast-paced real-time combat system, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals made it one of the standout titles for the PSP. It provided fans of Final Fantasy VII with a deeper understanding of the characters and world, and its emotional story left a lasting impact on those who played it. Crisis Core is widely regarded as one of the best games to ever grace the PSP platform, earning praise for both its gameplay and its story.
Another standout title on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. The Grand Theft Auto series has long been known for its open-world chaos, and Liberty City Stories brought that formula to the handheld device with remarkable success. Set in the same city as Grand Theft Auto III, slot thailand the game follows Toni Cipriani, a member of the Leone crime family, as he rises to power and navigates a world full of crime, corruption, and danger. Despite the limitations of the PSP’s hardware, Liberty City Stories delivers a vast and detailed open world, packed with missions, side activities, and exploration. The game’s open-world design, engaging story, and signature GTA gameplay make it a classic in the PSP library.
For fans of stealth-action games, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is another standout title on the PSP. Developed by Hideo Kojima, this entry in the Metal Gear series takes players into the shoes of Big Boss, as he leads his private military group to combat a nuclear threat. Peace Walker blends tactical espionage with strategic gameplay, and its co-op multiplayer mode adds a unique twist, allowing players to team up and tackle missions together. The game’s compelling story, engaging stealth mechanics, and innovative multiplayer features helped it stand out as one of the best PSP games. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is often regarded as a masterclass in handheld game design, making it a must-play for PSP owners.
Lastly, Patapon is one of the most unique and creative games to appear on the PSP. This rhythm-based strategy game lets players control a tribe of adorable creatures called Patapons, using rhythmic button presses to direct their actions in battle. With its catchy music, colorful art style, and innovative mechanics, Patapon stands as one of the most memorable and original games on the PSP. Its simple yet addictive gameplay keeps players engaged, and its unique rhythm-based system is unlike anything else found on the platform. Patapon’s charm and creativity make it a timeless classic that remains one of the best handheld gaming experiences.
The PSP’s library is filled with fantastic titles, and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and Patapon are just a few of the standout games that helped define the system. These games pushed the boundaries of handheld gaming, offering experiences that rivaled console games and leaving a lasting impact on the world of portable gaming. Despite its discontinuation, the PSP’s legacy continues to live on through these exceptional titles.
