When Sony introduced the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2004, it was a game-changer in the world of handheld gaming. With its powerful hardware and ability to deliver console-quality experiences on the go, the PSP quickly became a favorite among gamers. Over its lifespan, the system saw a plethora of incredible titles that provided a wide variety of gaming experiences. One standout title is God of War: Chains of Olympus, released in 2008. This action-packed adventure brought the larger-than-life action of the God of War franchise to the small screen of the PSP. Players take on the role of Kratos as he battles gods and monsters in the ancient world. The game’s fast-paced combat, epic boss battles, and cinematic presentation made it a perfect fit for the PSP, offering players an experience that rivaled the console versions of the game.
Another essential game for the PSP is Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010), developed by Kojima Productions. As part of the legendary Metal Gear series, Peace Walker takes players back into the shoes of Big Boss as he builds a private army maindikilo and becomes entangled in international conflicts. The game features the same stealth-based gameplay that the series is known for, along with a compelling story that explores themes of war, loyalty, and personal identity. What set Peace Walker apart from other handheld titles was its ability to deliver a deep, complex narrative and the inclusion of co-op missions, which allowed players to team up with friends to take on the game’s challenges. The game proved that the PSP was more than capable of handling complex, strategic gameplay.
For fans of tactical RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) is a must-play on the PSP. A remastered version of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics, this game features an intricate story set in the world of Ivalice, a land filled with political intrigue and deep characters. Players command a group of heroes as they navigate a series of tactical battles, utilizing strategy and positioning to overcome enemies. The remastered version of the game included updated graphics, new characters, and additional story content, making it a perfect addition to the PSP’s library. Its rich storytelling and strategic depth made The War of the Lions one of the best RPG experiences available on the handheld system.
Lastly, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005) brought the open-world action of the Grand Theft Auto series to the PSP. Set in the familiar Liberty City, the game allows players to explore a bustling urban environment, engage in criminal activities, and complete missions. Liberty City Stories successfully captured the essence of the GTA series while adapting it for the portable format. The game’s open-world freedom, engaging missions, and memorable characters made it a standout title for the PSP and solidified its place as one of the best games on the handheld system.
These PSP games—God of War: Chains of Olympus, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories—are among the best the system has to offer. Each of these games took full advantage of the PSP’s hardware, delivering rich, detailed experiences that rivaled those found on consoles. Though the PSP is no longer in production, these games remain timeless classics that are still cherished by fans today.