The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a revolutionary handheld console that brought console-quality games to the palm of your hands. Released in 2004, it offered players an incredible experience for on-the-go gaming, with impressive graphics and a diverse library of titles. While it may have been overshadowed by the rise of smartphones and newer handheld consoles, the PSP still holds a special place in the hearts of gamers who experienced its many gems. From immersive RPGs to fast-paced action games, the PSP had a little something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the best PSP games that continue to be appreciated for their quality and innovation.
One standout title for the PSP was Monster Hunter Freedom Unite. Released in 2009, it was a game that defined multiplayer action on the handheld console. Players could team up in ad-hoc mode to hunt down massive monsters, with each hunt requiring careful planning, tactical combat, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. Freedom Unite was a game that kept players coming back for more, thanks to its challenging difficulty and a robust progression system that encouraged replayability. The franchise would go on to become one of Capcom’s biggest hits, but it was on the PSP where Monster Hunter found its early success.
Another iconic game for the PSP was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. While the Grand Theft Auto series had already made a name for itself on consoles, this handheld version captured the same level of chaos, action, and freedom that made the franchise so popular. Set in Liberty City, the game allowed players to explore the urban jungle, turbo x500 complete missions, and engage in all sorts of mayhem. What made the PSP version so special was its ability to condense the core GTA experience into a portable format without losing any of the fun. It proved that the PSP could deliver open-world experiences on the go, and its success paved the way for other GTA titles to be adapted to handheld systems.
For fans of tactical strategy games, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together was a must-play on the PSP. This critically acclaimed tactical RPG was a remake of the classic Super Nintendo game, and it showcased what the PSP could do in terms of delivering deep, story-driven experiences. Players took control of a group of mercenaries, navigating a complex plot filled with political intrigue and moral dilemmas. The game’s turn-based combat, along with its branching narrative choices, made Tactics Ogre a standout title in the PSP’s library. It’s a game that continues to be celebrated for its depth and intricacy, offering one of the best tactical RPG experiences on any platform.
Finally, God of War: Chains of Olympus deserves recognition for pushing the boundaries of handheld gaming. The God of War franchise is known for its cinematic action and brutal combat, and Chains of Olympus brought that same intensity to the PSP. Set before the events of the main series, the game follows Kratos as he battles through Greek mythology to save the gods. The game’s impressive visuals, fluid combat, and epic boss battles made it feel like a true God of War experience, even on a portable console. It showed that handheld systems were capable of delivering console-quality action and helped solidify the PSP’s place in the gaming world.
The PSP’s library of games remains one of the best among handheld consoles, with titles like Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, and God of War: Chains of Olympus still holding up as classics. These games are a testament to the power of the PSP, showcasing that handheld gaming could offer rich, deep experiences without sacrificing quality. While the PSP may no longer be at the forefront of portable gaming, its influence is still felt in the games that continue to resonate with fans.