The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may not have had the same lasting impact as other consoles, but it was home to some of the most innovative and memorable handheld gaming experiences. Released in 2004, the PSP brought console-quality games to a portable format, allowing gamers to take their favorite titles on the go. With its impressive graphics, extensive library, and robust multimedia features, the PSP offered much more than just games—it became an entertainment device in its own right. Among the many titles released for the handheld console, several standout games have remained beloved by fans for years.
One of the best PSP games is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. Released in 2005, this game brings the open-world gameplay of the GTA series to the handheld platform. Set in the same world as Grand Theft Auto III, Liberty City Stories allows players to explore the criminal underworld of Liberty City, complete missions, slot and engage in various activities that make the GTA franchise so beloved. The game’s success on the PSP proved that handheld consoles could handle expansive, open-world games without sacrificing quality. The game’s story, characters, and gameplay mechanics made it one of the standout titles for the PSP and one of the best handheld games of its era.
Another gem for the PSP is God of War: Chains of Olympus. Released in 2008, this game brought the brutal action of the God of War series to the portable format, offering players a taste of the franchise’s signature combat and mythological storytelling on the go. In Chains of Olympus, players control Kratos as he battles gods and monsters from Greek mythology in a story that takes place before the events of the main God of War series. The game’s graphics, combat, and narrative depth impressed players, showcasing the PSP’s power to deliver console-like experiences. Chains of Olympus is often considered one of the best games on the PSP, cementing the series’ legacy in handheld gaming.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is another standout PSP title that pushed the boundaries of handheld gaming. Released in 2010, Peace Walker is a tactical action game that continues the story of Big Boss and his mercenary army. The game is notable for its deep, complex narrative and its innovative multiplayer features, which allowed players to team up for co-op missions. The game’s stealth mechanics, combined with its engaging story and strategic gameplay, made it one of the best tactical games on the PSP. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker proved that the PSP was capable of handling large-scale, story-driven games, cementing the Metal Gear Solid series’ place as one of the greatest franchises in gaming.
The PSP may have been discontinued, but its legacy lives on through games like Liberty City Stories, Chains of Olympus, and Peace Walker. These best PSP games showed the world that handheld gaming could provide console-quality experiences, offering players memorable adventures wherever they went. These titles continue to be cherished by fans and are a testament to the innovative spirit of the PSP.