The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a groundbreaking handheld console that changed the landscape of portable gaming. Released in 2004, the PSP offered console-quality games on the go, introducing players to a new world of possibilities for mobile gaming. Though the PSP has long since been discontinued, its library of games remains one of the most cherished in gaming history. Many of the titles released on the system continue to hold up today, offering timeless experiences that are just as engaging now as they were when first released. Here, we revisit some of the best PSP games that defined the console and remain memorable to this day.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories is one of the standout titles on the PSP. As a prequel to Grand Theft Auto III, this open-world action-adventure game takes players back to Liberty City, where they assume the role of Tony Cipriani, a mobster working his way through the criminal underworld. The game captures the essence of the GTA series, offering the same chaotic jitutoto sandbox gameplay that players loved on consoles. Players can engage in high-speed chases, intense shootouts, and explore the vibrant, sprawling city. Despite being on a handheld system, Liberty City Stories does an incredible job of replicating the expansive, immersive world that GTA fans had come to expect. It remains one of the most iconic PSP games of all time, offering hours of entertainment in a portable format.
Another classic from the PSP library is Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions. A remake of the original Final Fantasy Tactics from the PlayStation 1, The War of the Lions takes players back to the world of Ivalice, where they control a group of mercenaries caught in a web of political intrigue and war. The game’s tactical, turn-based combat system demands careful planning and strategy, rewarding players for thinking several moves ahead. The PSP remake introduced enhanced visuals, new characters, and additional story content, making it an even better version of an already fantastic game. With its deep lore, complex characters, and challenging battles, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is one of the best tactical RPGs ever made, and a must-play for PSP owners.
For fans of action and adventure, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is another standout title on the PSP. This entry in the Monster Hunter series allows players to take on the role of a monster hunter tasked with slaying massive creatures in a sprawling, open world. The game’s complex crafting system, which lets players create new weapons and armor from the monsters they defeat, adds a rewarding progression element to the gameplay. The ability to team up with friends in co-op multiplayer further enhances the experience, allowing players to take on the toughest beasts together. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is a challenging and addictive game that has remained a fan favorite among PSP enthusiasts.
Lastly, Wipeout Pure delivers one of the most thrilling racing experiences available on the PSP. Set in a futuristic world where players race anti-gravity ships at high speeds, Wipeout Pure features fast-paced, intense racing action combined with stunning visuals and tight controls. The game’s challenging tracks and exhilarating speed make it a standout in the racing genre, and the PSP’s hardware is pushed to its limits to deliver a smooth, high-performance experience. Whether racing solo or competing against friends, Wipeout Pure remains one of the best racing games ever made for a handheld system.
The PSP may no longer be in production, but its library of games continues to stand the test of time. Titles like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, and Wipeout Pure offer some of the best handheld gaming experiences ever created. These games remain cherished by fans, and their legacy continues to influence portable gaming to this day. The PSP’s influence on gaming cannot be overstated, and its games are a testament to the handheld console’s lasting impact on the industry.
