When the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was first released in 2004, it revolutionized portable gaming. The device offered a level of performance and graphics that were previously unseen in handheld consoles. It gave gamers the ability to play console-quality games on the go, opening up new possibilities for portable entertainment. While the PSP may no longer be in production, it remains a beloved part of gaming history, with several titles standing out as some of the best games ever created for handheld systems. From action-packed adventures to in-depth RPGs, the PSP was home to a diverse range of genres and unforgettable gaming experiences.
One of the standout titles for the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007). This action RPG is a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII and follows Zack Fair, a young soldier, as he navigates a world filled with political intrigue and personal turmoil. The game offers gogo78 real-time combat, a departure from the traditional turn-based system used in previous Final Fantasy games. Crisis Core combines fast-paced action with an emotional narrative, giving players a deeper understanding of the Final Fantasy VII universe. The game’s stunning visuals and engaging gameplay made it one of the most memorable PSP titles, solidifying its place as one of the best games on the handheld console.
Another beloved PSP game is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005). This title brought the open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto to the portable format, giving players the chance to explore the iconic Liberty City. As Toni Cipriani, players engage in a variety of criminal activities, from car chases to shootouts. The game’s open-world design allows for a high degree of freedom, much like its console counterparts. Despite being on a handheld device, Liberty City Stories provided a full GTA experience, making it one of the most beloved PSP games. Its seamless world design and engaging missions kept players hooked for hours, proving that the PSP could handle expansive, complex games.
For fans of strategy games, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) is another essential title for the PSP. This tactical RPG is a remake of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics and features updated graphics, voice acting, and additional content. Set in the war-torn world of Ivalice, the game combines deep strategic gameplay with a compelling story about political intrigue and war. The turn-based combat system is complex and rewarding, and the game’s story is rich with twists and moral dilemmas. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions remains one of the best tactical RPGs ever made and a must-play for any PSP owner.
These best PSP games—Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Liberty City Stories, and Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions—showcase the potential of portable gaming. The PSP provided players with experiences that were on par with home console games, offering depth, quality, and variety. Despite the PSP’s discontinuation, these standout titles continue to be remembered as some of the best handheld games ever made. The legacy of the PSP lives on through these classics, proving that portable gaming can deliver experiences as rich and immersive as any home console.
