The PlayStation Portable may not have had the commercial dominance of its rivals, but in terms of game quality and diversity, it stands tall situs toto among the most beloved handhelds in history. With an extensive library of innovative and genre-spanning titles, the PSP gave gamers access to some of the best games ever created for a portable system. Over the years, many have looked back fondly at this system not just for nostalgia, but for the sheer excellence of its software.

Sony’s strategy for the PSP was unique: instead of simply shrinking down existing PlayStation games, the company and its developers created titles that were tailored specifically for portable play. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, for instance, offered hundreds of hours of multiplayer hunting action and helped grow the Monster Hunter fanbase in the West. Meanwhile, Dissidia Final Fantasy brought together characters from across the franchise in a dramatic, arcade-style battle format that felt fresh and exciting.

One of the greatest strengths of PSP games was their breadth of genres. Whether you wanted a traditional RPG like Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, a musical experience like Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA, or an action platformer like Mega Man: Powered Up, the PSP had something for everyone. These weren’t watered-down versions of console experiences—they were fully fleshed-out games in their own right, complete with deep mechanics and memorable stories.

As retro and portable gaming enjoy a resurgence, many collectors and fans are returning to the PSP’s catalog. Emulators and remasters have made it easier than ever to experience these classics again. These titles are not just charming relics; many still hold up as some of the best games in their respective genres. The PSP may be long discontinued, but its influence and its impressive library of games endure.