The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may not have had the same commercial success as its console counterparts, but it remains one of the most beloved handheld gaming devices ever created. Sony’s ambition to bring console-quality gaming experiences to a portable format was realized through a library of impressive titles that still hold up as some of the best handheld games ever made. From action-packed adventures to deep role-playing games, the PSP offered a wealth of experiences that made it a standout in the handheld gaming market.
One of the best PSP games is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII. Released in 2007, Crisis Core follows Zack Fair, a member of SOLDIER, as he slot uncovers the mysteries surrounding the tragic fall of the planet’s energy source. The game’s real-time battle system, along with its emotional narrative and stunning visuals, made it a standout title on the PSP. Crisis Core offered players a chance to explore the world of Final Fantasy VII from a different perspective, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
Another standout PSP game is God of War: Chains of Olympus, which brought the brutal action and epic storytelling of the God of War series to the handheld format. Released in 2008, Chains of Olympus follows Kratos as he battles gods and monsters in an effort to save Olympus from an ancient evil. The game successfully captured the series’ signature combat mechanics and larger-than-life battles while maintaining a solid narrative and impressive graphics. God of War: Chains of Olympus proved that the PSP could deliver console-quality experiences in the palm of your hand.
For fans of tactical RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is an essential PSP title. A remake of the original Final Fantasy Tactics, the game features a deep and strategic battle system where players command units on a grid to defeat enemies. With an engaging story, complex characters, and the added bonus of updated visuals and voice acting, The War of the Lions brought a beloved classic to the PSP in style. Its intricate gameplay mechanics and compelling narrative made it one of the best tactical RPGs on the platform.
In addition to these titles, the PSP was home to a number of other gems, such as Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, Patapon, and LocoRoco. Each of these games brought unique gameplay experiences to the handheld console, further solidifying the PSP’s reputation as a powerhouse of portable gaming. While the PSP may no longer be in production, its legacy lives on through its exceptional library of games, and these titles remain some of the best that handheld gaming has to offer.
