The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s first foray into handheld gaming, and it made a huge impact when it was released in 2004. With its impressive graphics, multimedia capabilities, and large library of games, the PSP quickly became one of the most popular handheld consoles of its time. Despite the eventual rise of smartphones and the Nintendo Switch, the PSP remains a cherished device for many gaming enthusiasts, thanks to its vast selection of titles that offered immersive experiences, deep narratives, and engaging gameplay on the go. Even years after its release, some of the best PSP games still hold up as must-play titles for any gamer.

One of the standout games for the PSP was Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007), a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII. Developed by Square Enix, Crisis Core follows Zack Fair, a soldier in the Shinra military company, as he unravels the mysteries surrounding his role in the events leading up to the original game. The real-time battle system, which blended fast-paced action with strategic elements, was a major departure from the traditional turn-based combat found in other Final Fantasy titles. The game’s story is emotional and deep, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and fate. Crisis Core is often considered one of the best RPGs on the PSP, with its captivating narrative and engaging combat system making it a standout on the platform.

Another great title for the PSP is God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), developed by Ready at Dawn. The God of War franchise is known for its brutal combat, engaging storylines, and cinematic experiences, and Chains of Olympus brought that signature formula to the PSP. The game follows Kratos as he battles gods and monsters in a quest to free the detiktoto ancient world from the clutches of the Underworld. The controls were expertly adapted for the PSP, offering players the same visceral combat experience they enjoyed on the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3. The game’s stunning visuals for a handheld console and its epic scope made it a must-have for any action-adventure fan, proving that even on a portable system, God of War could deliver a memorable and exciting experience.

Finally, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories (2006) is another title that showcased the PSP’s potential. As a prequel to Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, the game delivers all the open-world mayhem players expect from the series, but in a more portable format. Set in the 1980s, Vice City Stories features a young Vic Vance, a man trying to rise through the criminal ranks in a vibrant and dangerous city. The game retained the series’ trademark freedom and level of detail, allowing players to engage in a variety of missions, drive vehicles, and cause chaos in the city. The story is compelling, and the gameplay is as engaging as ever, making Vice City Stories one of the best open-world games on the PSP.

These games—Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, God of War: Chains of Olympus, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories—represent some of the best the PSP had to offer. They are not just great games for a handheld console; they are some of the best games in their respective genres. Even years after their release, these titles continue to be celebrated by fans, showing that the PSP had a library of games that still holds up today. Whether you’re looking for a deep RPG, an action-packed adventure, or an open-world experience, the PSP offered something for everyone, and these games stand as testaments to its legacy.