When the PlayStation Portable (PSP) launched in 2004, it changed the landscape of handheld gaming forever. Sony’s ambitious handheld console delivered console-quality gaming experiences on the go, and its library of games reflected the potential of portable gaming. Though the PSP eventually gave way to newer handheld devices, it remains one of the most beloved consoles in gaming history. In this retrospective, we revisit some of the best PSP games that made the device a staple in the gaming world.
One of the most iconic games on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. As a prequel to Grand Theft Auto III, this game brought the chaotic world of Liberty City to the palm of your hand. Despite the limitations of handheld hardware, Rockstar Games managed to deliver an experience that felt just as expansive as the console versions. With an engaging story, memorable characters, and a sprawling open world to explore, Liberty City Stories became a standout title on the PSP and one of the most popular games for the system.
Another standout game is God of War: Chains of Olympus. This action-adventure title took the brutal combat and epic storytelling of the slot online God of War franchise and distilled it into a handheld experience. Developed by Ready at Dawn, Chains of Olympus captured everything that made the God of War series great, from its intense combat to its compelling mythology. The game’s visuals and gameplay were remarkably similar to its console counterparts, showcasing the PSP’s ability to handle large-scale action games. Chains of Olympus is still considered one of the best action games ever made for a handheld console.
Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core is another title that remains a fan favorite on the PSP. A prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core followed the story of Zack Fair, offering players a deeper understanding of the game’s universe. With fast-paced action combat, a memorable story, and stunning visuals, Crisis Core became one of the best RPGs on the PSP. Its emotional narrative, combined with its connection to Final Fantasy VII, made it a must-play for both fans of the original game and newcomers to the series.
Finally, Patapon stands out as one of the most unique and innovative games on the PSP. Combining rhythm-based gameplay with strategy, Patapon tasked players with leading a tribe of small creatures by issuing commands in time with the rhythm of the music. The game’s quirky art style, catchy soundtrack, and addictive gameplay made it a cult classic. Patapon was a perfect example of how the PSP allowed developers to experiment with new mechanics and gameplay styles, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
These titles—Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, God of War: Chains of Olympus, Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core, and Patapon—are just a few examples of the incredible games that defined the PSP. Despite being a handheld console, the PSP offered experiences that rivaled those of home consoles, and its games remain beloved by fans to this day. As one of the most successful handheld consoles in history, the PSP’s legacy continues to influence the gaming world.