The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have been discontinued, but its influence on the world of gaming remains undeniable. Released in 2004, the PSP brought console-quality gaming to a portable device, allowing players to enjoy their favorite titles on the go. While the handheld console’s production has ceased, the PSP’s legacy continues through its standout games, which pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a portable platform. Many of the best PSP games remain beloved classics, and even years after its discontinuation, the device is remembered fondly for its innovative design and diverse library of titles.

One of the most iconic games for the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. A spin-off of the popular Grand Theft Auto series, the game brought the open-world chaos of Liberty City to a handheld console. Players could engage in a variety of missions, criminal activities, and exploration, all while enjoying the turbox500 signature GTA experience on the go. Despite the hardware limitations of the PSP, Liberty City Stories managed to maintain the depth and complexity of its console counterparts. The ability to freely roam the city, undertake missions, and interact with a variety of characters was a major achievement for the PSP, proving that it was capable of handling large, complex games.

Another standout title is Monster Hunter Freedom Unite. This action RPG, which has since become a global phenomenon, allowed players to hunt gigantic monsters in a rich, expansive world. The game’s cooperative multiplayer mode and strategic combat system made it one of the most addictive and rewarding experiences on the PSP. Players could team up with friends to hunt monsters together, collecting materials to craft better gear and taking on increasingly difficult challenges. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite helped cement the Monster Hunter series as one of the most successful franchises in gaming, and its influence can still be seen in the more recent titles of the series.

For a more whimsical experience, LocoRoco offered a charming and colorful platformer that became an instant hit. Players controlled a group of adorable, blob-like creatures as they rolled through vibrant levels, solving puzzles and avoiding obstacles. The game’s simple mechanics, engaging visuals, and delightful soundtrack made it a standout on the PSP, offering a more lighthearted and family-friendly alternative to the more intense games on the system. LocoRoco exemplified the versatility of the PSP, showing that the device could handle both complex action games and quirky, imaginative experiences.

The PSP’s library—featuring titles like Liberty City Stories, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, and LocoRoco—proved that handheld gaming didn’t have to sacrifice depth or quality. These games helped solidify the PSP’s place in gaming history and showed that portable devices could offer rich, console-like experiences. Though the PSP is no longer in production, its legacy continues to be celebrated by fans, and many of its best games remain beloved classics that paved the way for future handheld gaming systems.