The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may not have had the long-lasting impact of its console counterparts, but it remains one of the most beloved handheld devices in gaming history. Launched in 2004, the PSP offered gamers a chance to experience console-quality games on the go, and over the years, it developed a library of titles that showcased the device’s impressive power. In this article, we look back at some of the best PSP games that defined the handheld experience and left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape.
One of the standout games of the PSP era was God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), which brought the epic action franchise to the handheld for the first time. Developed by Ready at Dawn, Chains of Olympus captured the fast-paced combat and cendanabet mythological storytelling that made the God of War series famous. The game told an original story set between the events of God of War and God of War II, and it featured the same brutal combat, impressive visuals, and intricate puzzle-solving that players had come to expect from the franchise. Chains of Olympus proved that the PSP was capable of delivering console-quality experiences in the palm of your hand.
Another game that showcased the PSP’s capabilities was Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007). As a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core explored the story of Zack Fair, a character central to the original game’s narrative. The game featured real-time combat and a compelling story that expanded the Final Fantasy VII universe. The characters, music, and world-building in Crisis Core made it a must-play for fans of the Final Fantasy series, and its deep emotional storytelling helped elevate it above other handheld RPGs.
For fans of racing games, Gran Turismo (2009) on the PSP delivered an unparalleled driving experience. Known for its realistic physics and stunning car models, Gran Turismo on the PSP provided players with a true console-like racing game on the go. The game featured over 800 cars and a variety of tracks, making it one of the most comprehensive racing titles available for the handheld. Whether you were a car enthusiast or simply a fan of racing games, Gran Turismo on the PSP offered hours of driving excitement.
The PSP was also home to some of the most iconic action-adventure games, such as Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010). A direct sequel to Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, Peace Walker introduced new stealth mechanics and multiplayer elements, making it a standout title in the series. Players once again controlled Big Boss as he built a private army in Central America, and the game’s deep tactical gameplay and engaging story made it one of the PSP’s defining titles.
The PSP’s library may have been relatively short-lived, but it offered a wealth of unforgettable experiences that showed the potential of handheld gaming. Titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Gran Turismo, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker ensured that the PSP left a lasting legacy. These games demonstrated that portable gaming could deliver experiences that rivaled those of home consoles, and they continue to be celebrated by fans of the device. While the PSP has been succeeded by newer handhelds, its impact on the gaming industry remains undeniable.