When Sony introduced the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2004, it was a game-changer for handheld gaming. The PSP was capable of delivering console-quality experiences on the go, with impressive graphics, expansive worlds, and deeply engaging gameplay. While the PSP is no longer in production, its library of games still holds up today, with a variety of genres that made it a favorite among gamers. If you’re looking to relive the glory of the PSP, here are some of the best games from the system’s golden years.
One of the standout titles of the PSP era was God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008). This prequel to the God of War series brought the brutal, high-paced combat of Kratos to Sony’s handheld. The game takes place before the events of the original God of War, allowing players to dive into Kratos’ past as he battles BEST 188 gods, monsters, and demons. Chains of Olympus featured tight controls, jaw-dropping visuals for a handheld game, and epic boss fights that fans of the series had come to expect. The game demonstrated the PSP’s capability of delivering a cinematic, action-packed experience in the palm of your hands.
Another title that pushed the boundaries of what handheld gaming could achieve was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005). Set in the same open world as GTA III, Liberty City Stories allowed players to explore the chaotic streets of Liberty City and wreak havoc or follow the game’s gripping story. With a full open world to roam, vehicles to drive, and missions to complete, Liberty City Stories delivered everything players loved about the GTA franchise, but on a portable device. The game captured the essence of Grand Theft Auto while taking advantage of the PSP’s capabilities to create a truly immersive experience.
For fans of RPGs, Persona 3 Portable (2010) was one of the best role-playing games available on the PSP. This handheld version of the critically acclaimed Persona 3 allowed players to experience the deep narrative and strategic combat of the original PlayStation 2 classic while offering new features and improvements. The game’s unique blend of social simulation and dungeon crawling set it apart from other RPGs of the time, and the ability to play as a female protagonist in Persona 3 Portable added additional depth to the story. The game remains one of the most beloved JRPGs to this day.
Lumines (2004) was another standout game that became a cult classic for the PSP. This addictive puzzle game combined colorful visuals, an electronic soundtrack, and simple yet challenging gameplay. Players had to match blocks of various colors to clear the screen, but what made Lumines unique was its rhythm-based gameplay, where the music and visuals would change as the player cleared blocks. It was a hypnotic and relaxing experience, perfect for short bursts of gaming on the go. Lumines became an instant hit on the PSP, and its influence can still be seen in modern puzzle games today.
