When the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was first introduced in 2004, it was a game-changer in the world of handheld gaming. Sony’s ambitious portable console was designed to bring console-quality gaming experiences to the palm of your hand, and it succeeded in delivering some of the best handheld games of its generation. Despite its relatively short lifespan and eventual discontinuation, the PSP remains a beloved system, and many of its standout titles continue to be regarded as some of the best handheld experiences ever created. From intense action games to immersive RPGs, the PSP’s library is full of gems that are still worth revisiting today.
One of the most iconic titles on the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII. Released in 2007, Crisis Core follows Zack Fair, a member of Shinra’s elite SOLDIER unit, as he uncovers the sinister plans of the megacorporation while cendanabet battling monsters and forging powerful friendships. The game combines real-time combat with strategic elements, and its cinematic presentation pushed the limits of what was possible on the PSP. The story adds depth to the Final Fantasy VII universe, making it a must-play for fans of the original game. With its emotional narrative, memorable characters, and exciting combat system, Crisis Core remains one of the best RPGs on the PSP and an essential part of the Final Fantasy legacy.
Another standout title for the PSP is God of War: Chains of Olympus, which brings the brutal action of the God of War series to the handheld format. Released in 2008, the game follows Kratos as he battles gods and mythological creatures to save the gods of Olympus from an ancient threat. Despite being on a portable console, Chains of Olympus retains the cinematic storytelling and intense combat that the series is known for. The game’s fluid combat system and engaging puzzles make it feel like a full-scale God of War adventure, and its immersive story adds a new chapter to Kratos’ journey. Chains of Olympus is a prime example of how the PSP was capable of delivering console-quality experiences in a portable format, making it one of the best games in the system’s library.
For fans of strategy and tactical RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is a standout title. Released in 2011 as a remake of the 1995 classic, the game offers a deep, strategic experience with a branching narrative and multiple endings based on the player’s choices. Set in a war-torn world, players control a group of heroes as they navigate complex political intrigue, form alliances, and face tough moral decisions. The game’s tactical combat system requires careful planning and consideration, and its rich story provides a compelling backdrop for the gameplay. Tactics Ogre remains one of the best tactical RPGs available on the PSP, offering hours of gameplay and a story that can be revisited multiple times for a different experience.
The PSP may no longer be in production, but its library of incredible games like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, God of War: Chains of Olympus, and Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together continues to stand the test of time. These titles not only exemplify the potential of handheld gaming but also remain some of the most memorable experiences in the entire gaming landscape. Whether revisiting them for the nostalgia or experiencing them for the first time, these PSP games remain as enjoyable and relevant today as when they were first released, solidifying the PSP as one of the most beloved handheld consoles in history.
