The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s ambitious attempt to bring console-quality gaming to the handheld market, and it succeeded with a remarkable library of games that continue to captivate players even years after the system was discontinued. Despite its small size and limited hardware, the PSP was able to deliver games that rivaled the experiences of its home console counterparts. Whether you were battling monsters in a sprawling RPG or solving puzzles in a fast-paced action game, the PSP offered a diverse range of titles that are still considered some of the best handheld experiences ever created.
One of the best PSP games is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, released in 2007. This action RPG serves as a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, following Zack Fair, a member of the elite SOLDIER unit in the Shinra Corporation, as he uncovers cendanabet the secrets of a conspiracy that threatens the world. The game’s real-time combat system was a significant step forward for the PSP, offering fluid and dynamic action that was both engaging and visually impressive for a handheld system. With its emotional storytelling, deep character development, and connection to the Final Fantasy VII universe, Crisis Core remains a standout title on the PSP. Its exploration of Zack’s journey and his relationship with Cloud Strife adds new depth to the original Final Fantasy VII story, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Another standout title is God of War: Chains of Olympus, released in 2008. This game brought the brutal action of the God of War series to the handheld world, and it did so without compromising on quality. Set between the events of the original God of War and God of War II, Chains of Olympus follows Kratos as he battles gods and mythological creatures in a quest to save the gods of Olympus. The game’s fast-paced combat, epic boss battles, and cinematic storytelling made it feel like a true God of War experience, despite being on a portable device. The game’s graphics were stunning for the PSP, and its seamless integration of action, puzzle-solving, and exploration made it one of the most memorable handheld games of its time.
For fans of tactical RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is one of the finest games available on the PSP. Released in 2011, this game is a remake of the 1995 classic and features deep strategic combat, an engaging story, and moral choices that influence the course of the game. Players take control of a group of heroes who must navigate a war-torn world, where every decision could have far-reaching consequences. The game’s battle system requires careful planning and strategy, and its branching narrative adds significant replay value. Tactics Ogre is a perfect example of how the PSP could handle complex, story-driven games without sacrificing the depth and quality expected from a console RPG.
The PSP was home to a wealth of incredible games, and titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, God of War: Chains of Olympus, and Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together continue to stand as some of the best experiences ever offered by a handheld console. These games demonstrated the versatility of the PSP, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality action, emotional storytelling, and strategic gameplay in a portable format. While the system itself may no longer be in production, its library remains a testament to Sony’s ability to create incredible gaming experiences, regardless of the platform. These games will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, proving that great games are timeless, no matter the system.