The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have come and gone, but the games that defined the handheld console continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers. Released in 2004, the PSP was Sony’s first foray into the handheld market, and it quickly became known for its ability to deliver console-quality gaming experiences on the go. With a library of diverse titles across many genres, the PSP offered an unforgettable experience for those who loved portable gaming. Here are some of the best PSP games that should be on any gamer’s radar.

Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories was one of the standout titles for the PSP. Set in the same open-world universe as Grand Theft Auto III, this entry allowed players to experience the chaos of Liberty City in the palm of their hand. Despite the limitations of the handheld hardware, Liberty City Stories maintained the signature gameplay mechanics of the series, including driving, shooting, and taking on missions. The game’s detailed world and gripping storyline made it a must-play for PSP owners. It offered players the freedom to explore the city while completing a series of action-packed missions.

Another exceptional game for the PSP was Persona 3 Portable. This handheld version of the beloved Persona 3 retained all the depth and spaceman slot complexity of the original but introduced new features, including a female protagonist. The game blended dungeon crawling and life simulation elements, where players navigated daily life in a Japanese high school while also battling supernatural creatures in a mysterious realm. Persona 3 Portable excelled in its character development, social interactions, and turn-based combat, making it one of the best RPGs for the system. The game’s strong narrative and addictive gameplay kept players hooked for hours on end.

For fans of strategy games, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions was another standout title on the PSP. This tactical RPG followed the journey of a group of soldiers caught up in a battle for control of the kingdom of Ivalice. The game’s deep combat system, with its intricate class system and strategic grid-based battles, made it a classic for fans of the genre. The PSP version of Final Fantasy Tactics included enhanced graphics, new cutscenes, and a localization update, making it a must-have for any RPG enthusiast. The game’s complex political intrigue and rich world-building made it one of the most critically acclaimed tactical RPGs ever made.

God of War: Chains of Olympus is another gem that took advantage of the PSP’s capabilities to bring console-quality gameplay to the handheld. This action-adventure title featured Kratos, the legendary anti-hero, as he fought his way through a mythological world filled with gods, monsters, and epic battles. The game’s smooth combat system, combined with a compelling story, made it one of the most engaging titles for the PSP. Chains of Olympus delivered the brutal action and dramatic moments that the God of War franchise was known for, and it stood out as one of the best action games available on the handheld.

The PSP may have been short-lived compared to other consoles, but its library of games has left a lasting impact on handheld gaming. Whether it was the open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, the deep RPG mechanics of Persona 3 Portable, the tactical battles of Final Fantasy Tactics, or the mythological adventure of God of War: Chains of Olympus, the PSP provided countless hours of entertainment. These games remain some of the best handheld experiences ever made, showcasing the power and potential of portable gaming.