The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may no longer be in production, but its impact on handheld gaming remains significant. Released in 2004, the PSP offered console-quality games in a portable format, enabling gamers to take their favorite titles on the go. Despite the competition from other handheld consoles, the PSP amassed a library of standout games that pushed the boundaries of what portable gaming could offer. Whether you were into action-packed adventures, racing, or puzzle-solving, the PSP had something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the best PSP games that are still fondly remembered today.
One of the most celebrated PSP titles is God of War: Chains of Olympus. As a prequel to the original God of War series, Chains of Olympus brought Kratos’s brutal combat and action-packed adventure to the handheld device. The game maintained the series’ signature sukaspin fast-paced combat and intricate puzzles, all while delivering a gripping story set in Greek mythology. Despite the limitations of the PSP hardware, Chains of Olympus impressed players with its visuals, solid gameplay mechanics, and smooth controls. It was a testament to the PSP’s capabilities and showed that you could have a console-quality experience on a portable device.
Another standout game on the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. Released in 2007, this action role-playing game serves as a prequel to the beloved Final Fantasy VII, one of the most influential RPGs of all time. Players control Zack Fair, a member of the elite military group SOLDIER, as he navigates a complex and emotionally charged story. The game’s combat system was fast and dynamic, offering a refreshing twist on traditional turn-based combat. Crisis Core was well-received for its deep story, memorable characters, and connection to the Final Fantasy VII universe, making it a must-play for any fan of the franchise.
Gran Turismo for the PSP is another standout game that showcased the handheld’s graphical power. Known for its realistic driving simulation, Gran Turismo offered players the chance to race iconic cars on a variety of meticulously recreated tracks. The game’s attention to detail and its large roster of cars made it a hit among racing fans. For a handheld console, the game’s graphics were impressive, and it provided a satisfying racing experience that could rival many home console racing games. The game’s success on the PSP cemented it as one of the best racing games on the platform.
The PSP may have been short-lived compared to other PlayStation consoles, but its library of games remains a testament to what was possible in handheld gaming. Games like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, and Gran Turismo exemplified the PSP’s potential and left a lasting legacy in the world of portable gaming. These titles continue to be fondly remembered by those who had the pleasure of playing them during the PSP’s heyday.