The PlayStation Portable (PSP) marked a revolutionary moment in portable gaming when it was released in 2004. With its impressive graphics, expansive game library, and multimedia capabilities, the PSP offered a console-quality experience in the palm of your hand. Though it is no longer in production, the PSP’s legacy lives on through the games that defined the system and made it a favorite among handheld gaming enthusiasts.
One of the most iconic games for the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. As a spin-off of the Grand Theft Auto series, Liberty City Stories allowed players to experience the open-world chaos of Liberty City on the go. The game retained the core elements that made the GTA series so popular—freedom of exploration, engaging storylines, and permata4d over-the-top action. Despite being on a portable console, Liberty City Stories managed to capture the essence of the Grand Theft Auto franchise, making it one of the best games on the PSP.
Another standout title is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII tells the story of Zack Fair, a character whose actions directly impact the events of the original game. The game’s fast-paced combat system, combined with its emotional narrative and connection to one of the most beloved RPGs, made it a must-play for Final Fantasy fans. The depth of the story and the emotional journey of Zack made Crisis Core one of the PSP’s best RPGs.
For fans of tactical games, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker was a standout title. This entry in the Metal Gear series brought the same stealth-based gameplay to the PSP, with an engaging narrative and cooperative multiplayer elements that allowed players to team up with others to complete missions. The game’s complex story, set during the Cold War, made it one of the most memorable games on the PSP, appealing to both fans of the series and newcomers alike.
The PSP also featured unique games like Patapon, a rhythm-based strategy game, and LocoRoco, a quirky platformer that utilized the handheld’s unique controls to create an experience unlike anything else. These titles, along with many others, helped cement the PSP’s place as one of the best handheld consoles in gaming history.