Released in 2004, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) marked Sony’s first foray into the handheld gaming market, and it did so with impressive results. The PSP offered console-quality gaming on the go, delivering experiences that had previously only been possible on home systems. Over its lifespan, the PSP saw an array of excellent titles that showcased its unique capabilities, from expansive role-playing games to action-packed adventures. While the PSP is no longer in production, its library of standout games remains relevant and beloved by fans. Here’s a look at some of the best PSP games that took handheld gaming to new heights.
One of the standout titles of the PSP era was God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008). A prequel to the main God of War series, this game delivered the signature brutal combat and cinematic storytelling that made the original console games famous. Players control Kratos, ONBET.com the God of War, as he battles through Greek mythology’s most dangerous creatures and gods. Despite being a handheld title, Chains of Olympus showcased the PSP’s potential with its smooth gameplay, impressive graphics for the time, and epic boss battles. The game proved that handheld systems could deliver experiences comparable to their home console counterparts.
Another major highlight of the PSP’s library was Persona 3 Portable (2010). This was a handheld version of the critically acclaimed Persona 3 for the PlayStation 2, with enhancements that made it even more accessible. The game combined turn-based combat with life simulation elements, offering players the chance to live out a school year while also battling mysterious creatures in a hidden tower. Persona 3 Portable expanded on the original’s story by introducing a female protagonist, allowing players to experience the game’s narrative from a different perspective. The game’s deep mechanics and compelling story made it one of the best RPGs on the PSP.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005) was another essential game on the PSP. Set in the same world as Grand Theft Auto III, this title allowed players to explore the open-world city of Liberty City, engaging in a variety of missions, side activities, and criminal enterprises. The game delivered the same free-form gameplay that made the GTA series famous, all within the confines of a handheld system. The narrative, combined with the franchise’s signature humor and action, made Liberty City Stories one of the PSP’s best-selling titles and a must-have for fans of the open-world genre.
For fans of strategy games, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) provided a deep and rewarding experience on the PSP. A remaster of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics for the PlayStation, the game featured a complex, turn-based battle system set in the war-torn world of Ivalice. The game’s strategic depth, rich narrative, and excellent music made it one of the most beloved tactical RPGs of all time. The War of the Lions also added voice acting, cutscenes, and a more refined translation, making it a definitive version of a classic title.
The PSP also had its fair share of great racing games, with Wipeout Pure (2005) standing out as one of the best. A futuristic racing game set in anti-gravity vehicles, Wipeout Pure combined sleek visuals, fast-paced action, and a killer soundtrack. The game’s sharp controls and stunning environments made it one of the most visually impressive games on the PSP, and its addictive gameplay ensured that it kept players coming back for more. Whether playing through the game’s campaign or competing against friends in multiplayer mode, Wipeout Pure was a definitive racing title for the handheld system.
Finally, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (2008) was a key title for the PSP, particularly for those who enjoyed multiplayer experiences. The game allowed players to team up to hunt giant monsters in a fantasy world, combining deep combat mechanics with cooperative gameplay. The game’s complex crafting system, where players could gather materials to create stronger weapons and armor, kept the gameplay engaging and rewarding. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite was a prime example of how the PSP could deliver deep, multiplayer experiences that were often reserved for console gaming.
