When Sony released the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2004, it brought handheld gaming to a whole new level. It wasn’t just a portable version of existing console games; it was a pianototo platform that pushed the boundaries of what handheld devices could do. With its powerful hardware, beautiful graphics, and wide selection of games, the PSP quickly became a favorite among gamers on the go. Many iconic titles graced this handheld system, offering diverse experiences from action and adventure to puzzle-solving and strategy. Here are some of the best PSP games that defined a generation.
One of the most beloved games on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. As a spin-off of the Grand Theft Auto series, this game delivered an expansive open world packed with crime, chaos, and excitement. The game brought all the trademark GTA elements—shootouts, car chases, and story-driven missions—into a portable format, which was impressive given the technical limitations of the PSP. The storyline, set in the city of Liberty City, is gripping, and the ability to freely explore the city made it one of the most immersive experiences on the platform.
For fans of action-adventure games, God of War: Chains of Olympus remains one of the best experiences on the PSP. This title brought Kratos’ rage-filled adventures to a portable device, and it did so without compromising on the epic scale that the franchise is known for. The game is a prequel to the main God of War series and follows Kratos as he battles gods, titans, and mythical creatures. The combat is fluid and visceral, and the puzzles are challenging, making it one of the best action games on the system.
Another standout title for the PSP is Monster Hunter Freedom Unite. If you enjoy action RPGs, Monster Hunter is a game you shouldn’t miss. In this game, players take on the role of a hunter tasked with slaying massive monsters across various environments. The multiplayer feature was a highlight, allowing friends to team up and take down colossal creatures together. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite was a fantastic game on the PSP because it provided an incredibly deep and rewarding experience that kept players coming back for more, with tons of content, gear, and hunting missions to explore.
One more game that deserves a mention is Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core. A prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, this game focuses on Zack Fair, a soldier in the Shinra Corporation. Crisis Core delivers a fast-paced action combat system that was different from the turn-based battles found in the main Final Fantasy series. The storyline is gripping and rich with lore, and the graphics were stunning for a handheld console at the time. Fans of the original Final Fantasy VII will appreciate the deeper look into the world of Gaia and the events that led up to Cloud Strife’s journey in the main game.
The PSP was a portable powerhouse that offered experiences rivaling many home console games. With unforgettable titles like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, God of War: Chains of Olympus, and Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core, the PSP became a must-have device for gamers who wanted a console-quality experience in the palm of their hands. These games not only defined a generation but set the bar for handheld gaming that continues to influence the industry today.