The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was one of the most ambitious handheld consoles ever created. Released in 2004, the PSP was Sony’s attempt to bring console-quality gaming to a portable device, and it violin88 largely succeeded. With a large screen, impressive graphics, and a wide array of game genres to choose from, the PSP quickly became a favorite among handheld gaming enthusiasts. While its successor, the PlayStation Vita, would eventually follow, the PSP’s legacy lives on, with a library of standout games that remain fondly remembered by fans. Let’s revisit some of the best PSP games that helped shape the device’s legacy.

One of the best games on the PSP was Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This action RPG, a prequel to the classic Final Fantasy VII, followed Zack Fair, the protagonist who plays a key role in the original game’s backstory. Released in 2007, Crisis Core featured real-time combat that was fluid and engaging, a departure from the turn-based combat system of earlier Final Fantasy games. The game’s emotional story, stunning visuals for its time, and deep connection to the world of Final Fantasy VII made it one of the most beloved games on the PSP. Fans of the series were able to dive deeper into the lore of Final Fantasy VII while experiencing an unforgettable character-driven narrative.

Another standout PSP game was God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), which brought Kratos and his brutal combat style to the portable system. Set before the events of the original God of War, Chains of Olympus allowed players to experience the story of Kratos’ time in the service of the gods of Olympus. The game retained the series’ signature visceral combat and large-scale set pieces, proving that the PSP could deliver the same high-quality action and spectacle seen on the PlayStation 2. Chains of Olympus was widely praised for its tight controls, gripping combat, and cinematic feel, making it one of the best action games on the handheld system.

In the world of strategy games, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) stands out as a standout title. A remake of the original Final Fantasy Tactics for the PlayStation, The War of the Lions offered players the chance to experience a deep and complex tactical RPG on the go. With updated visuals, a refined battle system, and a compelling story filled with political intrigue and personal betrayal, Final Fantasy Tactics remains one of the most beloved strategy games ever made. The game’s deep customization options and tactical gameplay made it a perfect fit for the PSP, and it became a fan-favorite for strategy RPG enthusiasts.