The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was one of the most successful handheld gaming devices ever released, bringing console-quality gaming to the palm of your hand. Its impressive graphics, portability, dewatogel and large library of games made it a go-to choice for gamers who wanted to enjoy their favorite titles on the go. While the PSP is no longer in production, many of its games remain highly regarded and still provide exceptional experiences. In this article, we will explore some of the best PSP games that hold up to this day and continue to be loved by fans.
One standout title for the PSP is Persona 3 Portable (2010), a re-release of the critically acclaimed Persona 3 from the PlayStation 2. This version brings the iconic JRPG to the PSP with new features, including the ability to play as a female protagonist. Players take on the role of a high school student who must balance their daily life with fighting shadows in a mysterious tower known as Tartarus. The game’s unique combination of dungeon-crawling, turn-based combat, and social simulation makes it one of the most engaging RPGs available on the PSP. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, identity, and the struggles of growing up, making it a deeply emotional experience. With its compelling characters, gripping story, and thought-provoking gameplay, Persona 3 Portable remains one of the best handheld RPGs of all time.
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars (2009) is another unforgettable title for the PSP. The game is set in Liberty City and follows Huang Lee, a young man seeking revenge for the murder of his father. It features the same open-world gameplay that the GTA series is known for, allowing players to explore the city, take on missions, and engage in various activities. Chinatown Wars introduces a new perspective, with a top-down, cel-shaded visual style that gives it a unique look compared to other entries in the series. The game’s story is filled with twists and turns, and its gameplay is packed with action, making it an essential title for fans of the Grand Theft Auto series. Despite being released on a handheld device, Chinatown Wars captures the essence of GTA while making the most of the PSP’s hardware.
Another exceptional PSP game is LocoRoco (2006), a unique and charming platformer that offers a simple yet incredibly fun gameplay experience. Players control a group of colorful creatures called LocoRocos, rolling and bouncing them through vibrant levels while avoiding obstacles and solving puzzles. The game’s intuitive controls, vibrant art style, and catchy soundtrack make it an addictive and joyful experience. The physics-based gameplay, where players tilt the environment to move the LocoRocos, creates a sense of playfulness and experimentation. LocoRoco is a perfect example of how a simple concept can be elevated into something special with a unique visual style and gameplay mechanics. Its lighthearted tone and colorful aesthetics still make it a standout title on the PSP.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010) is another essential PSP game that continues the legacy of the iconic Metal Gear series. Developed by Kojima Productions, Peace Walker follows Big Boss as he builds a private military company and faces off against a new nuclear threat. The game combines stealth, tactical gameplay, and an engaging story that deepens the lore of the Metal Gear universe. Peace Walker introduced a cooperative multiplayer mode, where players could team up to take on challenging missions, adding a new layer of replayability. The PSP version of Peace Walker is a testament to the series’ ability to adapt to handheld consoles without compromising on gameplay or story quality.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (2007) is a tactical RPG that remains one of the best games on the PSP. This enhanced remake of the original Final Fantasy Tactics features a deep, strategic combat system, an engaging story, and a richly developed world. The game’s narrative centers on political intrigue, betrayal, and the consequences of war, with players guiding a group of mercenaries through a series of intense battles. The tactical grid-based combat requires careful planning and consideration, making each battle feel like a puzzle to solve. Final Fantasy Tactics is a timeless classic, and the PSP version brings it to life with updated visuals, new voice acting, and additional content.
These five games—Persona 3 Portable, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars, LocoRoco, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions—are some of the best titles the PSP has to offer. Each game provides a unique experience, whether it’s through rich narratives, deep gameplay mechanics, or charming visuals. Though the PSP is no longer in production, these games prove that its legacy as a handheld console remains strong, with timeless titles that are still worth playing today.
