Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) may no longer be in production, the library of games that graced this iconic handheld device continues to be cherished by fans around the world. Released in 2004, the PSP was a groundbreaking console that allowed gamers to experience console-quality games on the go. Despite its discontinuation in 2014, the PSP remains a significant part of gaming history, with its unique titles and innovative features. In this retrospective, we look back at some of the best PSP games that still hold up as all-time favorites.
One of the standout titles for the PSP was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, a game that captured the open-world chaos of the Grand Theft Auto series while adapting it to the slot online handheld format. Set in Liberty City, the game allowed players to explore the city, take on missions, and engage in the usual mayhem that defines the franchise. The game’s story, which follows Toni Cipriani as he rises through the criminal ranks, is engaging and well-written, while the gameplay remains as addictive and chaotic as ever. Liberty City Stories proved that the PSP could deliver a deep and satisfying open-world experience, making it one of the best games on the platform.
Another exceptional title on the PSP was Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. This game, a portable entry in the beloved Metal Gear series, delivered the same stealth gameplay and deep storytelling that fans had come to expect. Peace Walker follows Big Boss as he builds his own army and confronts global military threats. With its cooperative multiplayer missions, intricate plot, and stealth-based gameplay, Peace Walker became one of the defining games on the PSP. The game’s unique features, such as base-building and managing soldiers, were innovative for its time, and the story remains one of the best in the Metal Gear franchise.
For RPG fans, Persona 3 Portable remains one of the best handheld role-playing games ever released. This portable version of the critically acclaimed Persona 3 allowed players to experience the deep, character-driven story of high school students battling dark forces. The game’s social simulation elements, combined with dungeon exploration and turn-based combat, set it apart from other RPGs. Persona 3 Portable not only brought the Persona series to a new audience but also proved that handheld consoles could handle complex, deep RPGs. The game’s blend of everyday life with supernatural battles made it a memorable experience for fans of the genre.
The PSP may be a relic of the past, but its library of games continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and Persona 3 Portable are just a few of the titles that defined the handheld gaming experience. These games not only pushed the limits of what was possible on a portable console but also created experiences that remain unforgettable to this day. Despite the PSP’s discontinuation, these games continue to be a testament to the legacy of one of the most beloved handheld systems in gaming history.