Released in 2004, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was Sony’s first foray into the world of handheld gaming. The console quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to its powerful hardware and impressive game library. While the PSP was overshadowed by the Nintendo DS in terms of sales, it still boasts a catalog of games that rival some of the best home console experiences. From RPGs to action-adventure games, the PSP offered something for every type of gamer. Here, we explore some of the best games that helped define the PSP as a handheld gaming legend.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005) is one of the most celebrated titles on the PSP. Taking place in the iconic Liberty City from Grand Theft Auto III, the game offers players an open-world experience on a portable device. The storyline follows Toni Cipriani, a character from previous GTA games, as he rises through the ranks of the city’s criminal underworld. The game is packed with missions, side activities, and collectibles that make it a perfect time-sink for fans of the series. The PSP’s power allowed for a surprisingly detailed and expansive version of Liberty City, and the game remains one of the most well-regarded Grand Theft Auto spin-offs.
Another standout PSP game is Patapon (2007), a rhythm-based strategy game that combines music with gameplay in a way that’s entirely unique. Players control an army of small creatures known as Patapons, issuing commands through rhythmic beats to move, attack, and defend. The game’s art style is visually distinct, and its simple yet addictive gameplay makes it a standout in the PSP library. Its combination of rhythm-based mechanics and strategy elements sets it apart from other games on the platform, and it remains a beloved cult classic.
For fans of action games, Daxter (2006) provides an unforgettable experience. A spin-off of the popular Jak and Daxter series, Daxter places the lovable sidekick in the limelight as he embarks on his own adventure to rescue his friend Jak. The game offers solid platforming mechanics, colorful environments, and plenty of humor that fans of the series have come to love. The visual quality of the game is impressive for a handheld title, and it manages to maintain the essence of the Jak and Daxter series while delivering a fresh experience. Daxter proves that the PSP was capable of delivering full-fledged platforming action, offering one of the best 3D platformers on the handheld system.
Tekken: Dark Resurrection (2006) is a must-play for fans of the fighting game genre. Featuring a roster of iconic characters and a deep combat system, the game allows players to experience the fast-paced, technical battles of the Tekken series on the go. The visuals are some of the best seen on the PSP at the time, with fluid animations and detailed character models. The game also includes a robust multiplayer mode, allowing players to go head-to-head with friends. Tekken: Dark Resurrection showcases the PSP’s capability to handle complex fighting games, and it remains one of the best fighting games ever released on a handheld device.