The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s answer to the growing demand for portable gaming, and it certainly delivered. Launched in 2004, toto77 the PSP boasted impressive hardware for its time, offering near-console quality gaming on the go. Despite its relatively short lifespan—replaced by the PlayStation Vita in 2011—the PSP built a library of exceptional games that continue to hold up well today. Whether you were a fan of action games, RPGs, or sports simulations, the PSP had something for everyone. Below, we take a look at some of the best PSP games that every handheld gaming enthusiast should experience.
One of the standout titles for the PSP is God of War: Chains of Olympus. This action-packed prequel to the God of War series brought Kratos’ brutal brand of combat to the handheld in a way that felt just as intense and cinematic as the console versions. Players take control of Kratos as he navigates through Greek mythology, battling gods and monsters with his signature weapons and devastating attacks. Despite the limitations of the PSP hardware, Chains of Olympus delivered a visually impressive and engaging experience that matched the high standards set by the console games. The combination of satisfying combat, intricate puzzles, and a strong narrative made God of War: Chains of Olympus one of the best action games on the PSP.
Another must-play title is Persona 3 Portable. Originally a PlayStation 2 exclusive, Persona 3 was brought to the PSP with an enhanced, portable version that kept all the core elements intact while adding a new female protagonist to the story. The game blends turn-based combat with life simulation, as players balance their time between fighting monsters in dungeons and forging relationships with classmates. The story explores deep themes of mortality, fate, and the bonds we create with others, while the gameplay is both strategic and rewarding. Persona 3 Portable remains one of the best JRPGs available on the PSP, and it’s an essential title for fans of the genre.
For fans of open-world action, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories offers a taste of Rockstar’s signature gameplay in a compact handheld form. Set in the familiar city of Liberty City, the game follows Toni Cipriani as he navigates the criminal underworld, completing missions and exploring the city. Liberty City Stories offers everything fans love about the Grand Theft Auto series—chaotic action, a rich open world, and plenty of side activities—while taking advantage of the PSP’s portability. The game’s engaging story and vast world make it one of the best open-world experiences on the handheld.
The PSP was home to a range of exceptional titles that pushed the boundaries of portable gaming. From action epics like God of War to deep, character-driven RPGs like Persona 3 Portable, the PSP gave gamers access to some of the best handheld experiences ever created. Despite the PSP’s limited lifespan, its library of standout games has earned it a special place in the hearts of gamers everywhere. These titles are a testament to the potential of portable gaming and remain some of the best experiences available on a handheld console.