The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was more than just a handheld console—it was a revelation. Launched in 2004, the PSP brought with it the promise of console-quality gaming on the go, something that had never been achieved at that scale before. While the device itself was sleek and ahead of its time, it bmw4d was the games that really made it special. Some of the best PSP games not only pushed the system to its limits but also rivaled home console experiences in terms of depth, storytelling, and innovation.
One of the most iconic titles on the platform was Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. As a prequel to one of the most beloved RPGs of all time, it had big shoes to fill—and it did so beautifully. The game’s protagonist, Zack Fair, quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his layered personality and emotional journey. Its fast-paced combat system and stunning visuals set a new benchmark for handheld RPGs. Even years later, Crisis Core remains a high point for both PSP games and Final Fantasy as a whole.
Another standout was God of War: Chains of Olympus. It managed to bring the epic scale and brutal combat of the God of War franchise to a handheld without compromise. Players were treated to massive boss fights, cinematic cutscenes, and intense gameplay that felt nearly identical to its PS2 predecessors. Few handheld games managed to capture such grandiosity in such a compact form, proving just how much the PSP could deliver.
The PSP also offered excellent open-world experiences, with Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories being a prime example. Rockstar didn’t water down its formula for the PSP; instead, it offered a fully featured GTA experience complete with missions, voice acting, and sandbox exploration. For many, it was their first taste of true open-world gameplay on a handheld, and it set a precedent for what portable gaming could be.
Although the PSP eventually gave way to newer technology, its games still hold a special place in the hearts of fans. They weren’t just good for handheld titles—they were genuinely great games, period. In a time before cloud gaming and Switch-level hybrids, the PSP’s library proved that handheld gaming could be just as compelling and meaningful as its console counterparts.
