Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was discontinued years ago, its legacy still resonates with gamers who remember the groundbreaking handheld console fondly. Released in 2004, the PSP offered a console-quality gaming experience on the go, introducing players to a library of titles that blended deep gameplay with the convenience of portability. While newer handheld consoles have emerged, the best PSP games still hold up, providing nostalgic and engaging experiences for both newcomers and veterans of the platform.
One of the most iconic PSP games is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, a game that brought the open-world chaos of the Grand Theft Auto series to a handheld console with remarkable success. Set in the fictional Liberty City, the game follows Toni Cipriani as he navigates the dangerous world of organized crime. The game features all the signature elements of the series—car chases, shootouts, and an expansive world to explore. The PSP version retained the series’ trademark humor, gripping storylines, and action-packed gameplay while optimizing it for the handheld experience. Liberty City Stories remains a standout title for the PSP and one of the most memorable games on the platform.
Another unforgettable game for the PSP is Persona 3 Portable, a spin-off of the critically acclaimed Persona 3 that brings the classic JRPG experience to the handheld console. Players take slot on the role of a high school student who must balance their school life with battling supernatural creatures during the mysterious “Dark Hour.” The game combines turn-based combat with life simulation elements, where players must forge relationships with classmates and grow their character’s abilities. Persona 3 Portable is often considered one of the best RPGs available on the PSP, offering a rich and emotionally charged narrative that resonates with players even years after its release.
For fans of tactical RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is another PSP gem that remains a fan favorite. A remastered version of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics, the game improves upon the original with updated visuals, voice acting, and additional content. Set in the world of Ivalice, the game focuses on large-scale, turn-based battles that require strategic thinking and careful planning. The game’s deep combat mechanics, combined with its intricate political intrigue and captivating story, make it one of the best tactical RPGs of its time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to tactical RPGs, The War of the Lions is a must-play for anyone with a PSP.
Despite its age, the PSP continues to offer a library of classic games that remain relevant and enjoyable today. Titles like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Persona 3 Portable, and Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions showcase the handheld’s ability to deliver deep, immersive experiences. For those looking to revisit the golden age of handheld gaming, the PSP’s collection of games still offers timeless gems that hold up incredibly well even in the modern era. The PSP may be gone, but its legacy will live on in the hearts of gamers who experienced its iconic library.