The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have been ahead of its time when it launched in 2004, offering console-quality gaming on the go. While its lifespan was shorter than many anticipated, the PSP’s library of games remains a testament to the potential of handheld gaming. As the first true portable gaming device from Sony, the PSP provided gamers with an immersive experience that they had never before experienced on a portable console. Despite being overshadowed by mobile phones in the years following its release, the PSP’s influence on the handheld gaming market cannot be denied.
One of the standout games for the PSP was Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. As a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core provided a deeper look into the backstory of Zack Fair, a beloved character from the Final Fantasy universe. The game combined real-time combat with a compelling narrative, creating an experience that felt cinematic and emotionally charged. With stunning graphics for its time and a rich story that connected to the greater Final Fantasy VII world, Crisis Core became one of the most praised titles on the PSP, cementing its place as one of the best games of the platform.
Another iconic PSP title was God of War: Chains of Olympus, which brought Kratos’ brutal adventures to the portable console. The game managed to replicate the fast-paced combat, slot intricate puzzles, and epic scale that made the original God of War series so popular, despite the hardware limitations of the PSP. Set between the events of the first God of War and its sequel, Chains of Olympus offered a story that was both engaging and filled with memorable moments. The game’s visuals were striking for a handheld title, and its tight controls and fast combat made it an excellent addition to the God of War franchise.
The Monster Hunter franchise was another key player in the PSP’s lineup, with Monster Hunter Freedom Unite becoming one of the console’s most beloved games. The title offered a rich, multiplayer experience that allowed players to team up with friends and hunt massive monsters across a sprawling world. The depth of gameplay in Freedom Unite was remarkable, with its extensive crafting and leveling systems, allowing players to gather resources, upgrade weapons, and take on increasingly challenging hunts. The PSP version of Monster Hunter helped establish the series as a worldwide phenomenon, and it remains one of the best multiplayer experiences ever created on a handheld device.
Lastly, LocoRoco remains one of the most charming and unique experiences available on the PSP. This quirky puzzle-platformer featured colorful, rolling creatures called LocoRoco, who players had to guide through vibrant and whimsical environments. The simple yet addictively fun gameplay, paired with a colorful art style and catchy soundtrack, made LocoRoco a standout title that appealed to gamers of all ages. Its joyful tone and easy-to-learn mechanics made it an essential part of the PSP’s library, offering a delightful break from the more intense, action-packed titles.
Though the PSP is no longer in production, its collection of games remains a highlight of portable gaming, and the memories of these experiences continue to live on in the hearts of fans.