The Best PSP Games: Reliving Handheld Classics That Stand the Test of Time

The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have been discontinued years ago, but its impact on the gaming industry and its vast library of games continue to live on. Released in 2004, the PSP was a game-changer for portable gaming, offering console-quality experiences on the go. While the system is no longer in production, its impressive lineup of games remains a cherished part of many gamers’ memories. Here’s a look back at some of the best PSP games that still hold up today.

One of the standout games on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. Set in the same world as Grand Theft Auto III, this open-world action-adventure game brings the chaotic, free-form gameplay of the GTA series to a handheld console. Players take on the role of Tony Cipriani, a mobster working his way through the criminal underworld jitutoto of Liberty City. The game offers everything fans love about GTA: high-speed chases, intense shootouts, and a sprawling city to explore. Despite being on a handheld system, Liberty City Stories successfully brings the gritty atmosphere and sandbox gameplay of its console counterparts, making it one of the best PSP games available.

Another unforgettable title from the PSP library is Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions. A remake of the classic Final Fantasy Tactics from the original PlayStation, this tactical RPG offers deep strategy and an engaging storyline. Set in the world of Ivalice, the game follows a group of mercenaries as they become embroiled in a political conspiracy. The game’s turn-based combat system requires careful planning and tactical thinking, making it a standout in the tactical RPG genre. The enhanced visuals and new content in The War of the Lions make it an even better experience for fans of the original game, and its challenging difficulty ensures that players are always kept on their toes.

For action lovers, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is a must-play. This action RPG lets players step into the boots of a monster hunter, tasked with taking down massive creatures in an expansive world. With a rich crafting system that allows players to forge new weapons and armor from defeated monsters, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite offers a deeply satisfying gameplay loop. The cooperative multiplayer mode lets friends team up to hunt even larger monsters, making it a social experience as well. The game’s addictive progression system and thrilling combat make it one of the best action games on the PSP.

Wipeout Pure is another standout game that continues to impress. This futuristic racing game offers high-speed races with anti-gravity vehicles, set against visually stunning tracks. The game’s tight controls, fast-paced gameplay, and vibrant graphics make it one of the best racing experiences on the PSP. Whether you’re racing solo or competing against friends, Wipeout Pure delivers an exhilarating and visually stunning experience that stands the test of time.

While the PSP may no longer be a part of Sony’s current lineup, its library of games is still celebrated by fans of portable gaming. Titles like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, and Wipeout Pure continue to shine as some of the best handheld games ever made. These classics remind us of the PSP’s incredible legacy and its ability to deliver immersive, high-quality gaming experiences on the go.