Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was discontinued years ago, it remains one of the most beloved handheld consoles in gaming history. With its impressive paten188 library of games, the PSP delivered portable versions of major console titles and original games that took advantage of the device’s hardware. The PSP is an essential part of PlayStation’s legacy, and many of its best games still stand as some of the most unique experiences in handheld gaming. Here’s a look at some of the best PSP games that every gamer should try before they’re gone from the spotlight.
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is one of the most celebrated games in the Metal Gear series and a standout title on the PSP. Developed by Hideo Kojima, Peace Walker is a tactical action game that continues the story of Big Boss. Set in the 1970s, the game introduces a new cast of characters and a unique gameplay mechanic where players can build and manage their own army. The stealth-based gameplay, coupled with intense boss battles and a deep story, make Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker a must-play for fans of the series. The PSP version manages to retain the core elements of the franchise while offering a more compact, yet rich, experience that fits perfectly within the handheld format.
Another must-play title for PSP owners is Gran Turismo PSP, which brings the iconic racing simulation series to a portable device. Featuring a selection of over 800 cars and 35 tracks, Gran Turismo PSP provides a deep and realistic driving experience that fans of the franchise expect. The game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing you to race against friends or AI opponents in a variety of vehicles and environments. The lack of a full-fledged career mode doesn’t detract from the game’s appeal; the focus on pure racing and meticulous car details makes it a standout driving simulator on the PSP.
For fans of action RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is an absolute gem. Originally released for the Super Nintendo and later remade for the PSP, Tactics Ogre is a tactical RPG that follows a group of mercenaries caught in the middle of a war for control of the land. The game features deep strategy mechanics, with a robust class system and a branching narrative that allows for multiple endings based on your decisions throughout the game. With its detailed story and complex gameplay, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is one of the best tactical RPGs on the PSP and remains a standout in the genre.
Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is another critically acclaimed RPG that deserves attention. This prequel to the Kingdom Hearts series introduces new characters and gameplay mechanics while retaining the series’ signature blend of action, exploration, and Disney magic. The story follows three different characters—Terra, Aqua, and Ventus—who must protect the worlds from darkness. The game’s combat system, which allows players to seamlessly switch between different keyblades and abilities, adds depth to the gameplay. Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is an excellent entry point for fans of the series, offering a fresh take on the Kingdom Hearts universe while staying true to its roots.
Finally, Patapon is a unique rhythm-based strategy game that stands out as one of the most innovative games on the PSP. In Patapon, players control a tribe of tiny, drum-playing creatures who must follow the beat of the music to move, attack, and defend. The game blends rhythm gameplay with real-time strategy, requiring players to tap to the beat to direct their Patapon tribe through a series of challenges and enemies. The art style is charming, and the music is infectious, making Patapon one of the most memorable and fun experiences available on the PSP. The game’s simplicity in design doesn’t detract from its depth, and it’s a title that continues to be a cult favorite among fans.
These PSP games exemplify the handheld console’s potential, offering engaging, innovative, and unforgettable experiences. From tactical RPGs to rhythm games and epic action adventures, the PSP was home to a diverse library that continues to captivate players even years after the console’s discontinuation. Whether you’re revisiting these games or experiencing them for the first time, the PSP’s legacy is filled with classics that continue to be worth playing.