The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a revolution in handheld gaming when it was released back in 2004. Offering console-quality games in a portable form, it captured the hearts of gamers worldwide and laid the foundation for future portable gaming devices. Though the PSP was slot online discontinued in 2014, its legacy continues to endure through its impressive catalog of games, many of which are still fondly remembered today. As we move through 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the PSP’s standout titles and how they still hold up as some of the best games ever made for a handheld system.
One of the most beloved PSP titles is Gran Turismo for the PSP. The Gran Turismo series has long been recognized for its meticulous attention to detail and realistic driving simulation. On the PSP, Gran Turismo maintained the series’ tradition of offering an extensive roster of cars, detailed tracks, and challenging driving mechanics, all packed into the handheld format. Despite the limitations of the PSP’s hardware, the game offered a true-to-life racing experience that was both visually stunning and incredibly engaging. For racing fans, Gran Turismo PSP remains a standout title that highlights the PSP’s ability to deliver an immersive, console-like experience on a portable system.
Another classic PSP title is Persona 3 Portable, which brought the critically acclaimed Persona 3 RPG to the handheld device. With its engaging turn-based combat, social simulation elements, and unforgettable soundtrack, Persona 3 Portable offered an experience that was both emotionally impactful and deeply rewarding. The game follows a group of high school students as they balance their everyday lives with battling dark forces during a mysterious hour known as the Dark Hour. The introduction of new features, including the ability to play as a female protagonist, added additional layers of replayability to an already outstanding game. Persona 3 Portable is a must-play for fans of JRPGs and is a shining example of the depth and storytelling the PSP was capable of delivering.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is another PSP game that remains unforgettable. This title continues the story of Metal Gear Solid and takes players on an action-packed journey filled with stealth, combat, and intricate plot twists. Developed by Kojima Productions, Peace Walker features a deep, tactical gameplay system where players must use strategy and stealth to overcome enemies. The game’s narrative is as rich and engaging as the mainline Metal Gear titles, and its multiplayer modes added an exciting cooperative element that allowed players to team up for missions. Peace Walker is not just one of the best PSP games but also a significant entry in the Metal Gear series.
For puzzle fans, LocoRoco remains one of the PSP’s most unique and charming titles. The game features colorful, rolling blobs known as LocoRocos, and players must tilt the environment to guide them through various levels. With its whimsical art style, catchy music, and simple yet addictive gameplay, LocoRoco offers a light-hearted and fun experience. The game’s ease of play and unique mechanics made it a standout for all ages, and it remains a beloved classic in the PSP’s library.
God of War: Chains of Olympus is yet another highlight in the PSP’s impressive roster of games. As a prequel to the original God of War games, Chains of Olympus delivers all the brutal combat, exploration, and mythological storytelling that fans of the series loved, all on a handheld console. The game’s fluid combat and engaging story made it a standout action title on the PSP. The attention to detail and quality of the gameplay experience, despite the technical limitations of the PSP, is a testament to the prowess of the development team at Santa Monica Studio.
The PSP’s legacy as a gaming powerhouse for its time is undeniable, with a library of titles that still resonate with gamers today. Whether you’re revisiting these games for the nostalgia or discovering them for the first time, the PSP’s impact on handheld gaming continues to be felt. These games remain memorable not just for their technical achievements, but for their ability to create immersive worlds and unforgettable experiences that still hold up in 2025.