Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) is now considered a relic of gaming’s past, its impact on the handheld gaming industry remains undeniable. Released in 2004, andara88 the PSP was Sony’s first handheld console and quickly became a fan favorite, offering console-quality games in the palm of your hand. Even as we move into 2025, many PSP games continue to be revered by gaming enthusiasts for their rich experiences and timeless appeal. In this article, we’ll revisit some of the best PSP games that have left an indelible mark on the gaming world and continue to be celebrated by gamers to this day.
One of the most iconic PSP games is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. This entry in the Grand Theft Auto series offered players a chance to return to the criminal underworld of Liberty City, albeit from a different perspective. Players step into the shoes of Toni Cipriani, a mobster who must navigate the treacherous world of organized crime. The game brings the signature open-world gameplay of the GTA series to the PSP, offering a sprawling city filled with missions, side activities, and opportunities for mayhem. The PSP’s hardware limitations did not detract from the experience, as Liberty City Stories featured engaging missions, dynamic NPC interactions, and a captivating storyline. Even today, it remains one of the best open-world games on a handheld device.
Another beloved PSP title is Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops. This entry in the Metal Gear series features the stealth-based action that the franchise is known for but brings it to the portable format with unique mechanics. Players assume the role of Big Boss as he recruits soldiers, infiltrates enemy bases, and uncovers the mysteries behind the events leading to the formation of FOXHOUND. Portable Ops introduces new gameplay elements, including the ability to recruit enemies to join your ranks, adding a tactical layer to the gameplay. The game features a compelling story, impressive visuals for its time, and thrilling stealth action. As one of the best stealth games on the PSP, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops holds a special place in the hearts of fans of the series.
For those who enjoy tactical RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is a standout title on the PSP. Originally a classic Super Famicom game, the PSP version brings new life to the game with updated graphics, voice acting, and additional content. Players must guide a group of warriors through a series of intricate battles set in a world rife with political intrigue and moral dilemmas. The game’s deep tactical combat and branching storylines make it one of the best RPGs on the PSP. With multiple endings and a richly detailed world, Tactics Ogre remains a must-play for fans of the genre.
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII is another standout title that remains one of the best RPGs on the PSP. A prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core follows the story of Zack Fair, a soldier who plays a pivotal role in the events that lead up to the original game. With fast-paced action combat, a compelling narrative, and stunning visuals for the PSP, Crisis Core brings new depth to the Final Fantasy VII universe. The game’s emotional storyline, unforgettable characters, and epic music make it an essential experience for fans of the Final Fantasy franchise.
Lastly, Patapon is a unique rhythm-based strategy game that stands out as one of the most memorable titles on the PSP. Players control a tribe of small, colorful creatures known as Patapons and guide them through various challenges by tapping on the PSP’s buttons to the beat of the music. The game’s combination of rhythm-based gameplay, strategy, and charming art style makes it a standout on the PSP. Its simple yet addictive mechanics and captivating soundtrack ensure that Patapon remains a beloved title for PSP owners.
The PSP’s library of games offered a wealth of memorable experiences that still resonate with gamers in 2025. Whether you’re reliving the chaos of Grand Theft Auto, sneaking through enemy lines in Metal Gear Solid, or embarking on an epic RPG adventure in Crisis Core, the PSP’s best games continue to captivate and entertain. As handheld gaming evolves, these titles remain classics that are celebrated for their lasting impact on the gaming landscape.
