The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may no longer be in production, but its legacy as one of the most influential handheld consoles lives on. Released in 2004, the PSP provided players with console-quality gaming on the go, which was a revolutionary concept at the time. The handheld device boasted an impressive library of games, many of which remain some of the best in the handheld gaming genre. One such game is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005), a spin-off of the beloved Grand Theft Auto series. This title brought the open-world, crime-driven gameplay of its console counterparts to the PSP, allowing players to explore Liberty City, complete missions, and engage in chaotic activities—all from the palm of their hand. The game’s story, action, and free-roaming mechanics made it a standout on the handheld, and it remains one of the most iconic PSP games to this day.

Another classic title for the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007), a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII. Crisis Core tells the story of Zack Fair, a young SOLDIER operative, and provides crucial backstory to the events that occur in Final Fantasy VII. The game is notable for its real-time combat system, which was a departure from the slot qris turn-based system that the series is known for. Crisis Core also features an emotionally charged narrative, shedding light on Zack’s relationship with Cloud Strife and other key characters. Its engaging combat, captivating story, and memorable soundtrack make it one of the best games on the PSP, and it remains a beloved entry in the Final Fantasy series.

For those who enjoy puzzle and strategy games, Patapon (2008) stands as one of the most unique and memorable PSP titles. The game blends rhythm-based gameplay with strategy elements, as players control a tribe of adorable creatures called Patapons by inputting rhythmic commands. The gameplay requires players to tap to the beat of the music, making it an innovative and addictive experience. The charming art style, catchy soundtrack, and unconventional mechanics set Patapon apart from other PSP titles and helped establish it as one of the console’s most beloved games.

Finally, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (2009) proved that the PSP could handle complex, multiplayer experiences. In this action RPG, players take on the role of a hunter, tasked with slaying massive creatures and crafting weapons and armor from their remains. The game’s cooperative multiplayer mode, deep progression system, and challenging monsters kept players engaged for hours on end. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite helped popularize the Monster Hunter series outside of Japan and became a major success for the PSP, influencing the success of later titles in the series.

These four games—Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Patapon, and Monster Hunter Freedom Unite—represent the very best of the PSP’s library. Each one offered something unique, from open-world action to rhythm-based gameplay, and they continue to be remembered as standout experiences on the handheld console. Despite the PSP’s discontinuation, its games remain beloved by fans and continue to serve as a reminder of the impact that portable gaming has had on the industry.