The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s first foray into the world of handheld gaming, and it quickly became a beloved device for gamers seeking console-quality experiences on the go. Released in 2004, the PSP allowed players to enjoy some of their favorite PlayStation games while traveling or on the move. With its rich library of titles, the PSP became home to some truly remarkable games, many of which remain iconic to this day. Here’s a look at some of the best PSP games that helped define the handheld console.
One of the standout games on the PSP was God of War: Chains of Olympus. This prequel to the God of War series took Kratos, the infamous Spartan warrior, and placed him in a new adventure set between the events of God of War and God of War II. Despite being on a handheld platform, Chains of Olympus delivered the same brutal combat, epic boss battles, and cinematic storytelling that the main series was known for. The game utilized the PSP’s hardware to its fullest, offering visuals and gameplay that were impressive for a portable console. Fans of the God of War franchise still look back fondly on Chains of Olympus as one of the PSP’s best offerings.
Another beloved title on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. The GTA series is known for its expansive open worlds, chaotic gameplay, and engaging narratives, and Liberty City Stories delivered all of these features on the PSP. Players assumed the role of Toni fals4d Cipriani, a character from GTA III, and navigated the criminal underworld of Liberty City. The game featured the same open-world structure that the series was known for, allowing players to engage in a variety of activities from story missions to side quests. The PSP’s portability made it easy to jump into the chaotic world of Liberty City Stories at any time, making it one of the best PSP games for fans of open-world gameplay.
For those who enjoyed tactical gameplay, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together was another standout title on the PSP. This tactical RPG offered players a deep and intricate combat system, where units moved across grid-based battlefields in turn-based combat. What set Tactics Ogre apart was its branching storylines and player-driven choices, which allowed for multiple paths and outcomes. The game’s narrative, which explored themes of war, morality, and politics, made it one of the most engaging RPGs available on the PSP. Its detailed art, well-designed mechanics, and thought-provoking story made Tactics Ogre a must-play for fans of strategy games.
Lumines was another game that demonstrated the PSP’s potential for casual gaming. This addictive puzzle game combined elements of Tetris with a rhythmic soundtrack, creating an experience that was easy to pick up but hard to put down. With its simple yet engaging gameplay, Lumines became a fan favorite and one of the most successful puzzle games on the PSP. Its colorful visuals, catchy music, and satisfying gameplay made it one of the best games for casual gamers who wanted something lighthearted and fun on the go.
These four games—God of War: Chains of Olympus, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, and Lumines—are just a few examples of the best PSP games that showcased the console’s ability to deliver a wide range of experiences. From action-packed adventures to deep RPGs and casual puzzle games, the PSP was home to some of the most memorable handheld titles ever made. Though the PSP is no longer in production, its games remain beloved by fans and are an important part of gaming history.
