When the PlayStation Portable (PSP) debuted, it disrupted the handheld gaming market in a way few devices ever had. Prior to its release, handheld consoles were mostly reserved for shorter, simpler games. Sony’s ambition was different — to bring the depth and complexity of home console titles to a portable mg4d device. With its sleek design, powerful hardware, and multimedia capabilities, the PSP quickly attracted developers who created some of the best games ever seen on a handheld platform.

What truly defined the PSP was its ability to host full-scale experiences like “Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories” and “Monster Hunter Freedom Unite.” These weren’t watered-down versions of their console counterparts; they were expansive, ambitious titles designed to give players the feeling of carrying a PlayStation in their pocket. The PSP became a destination for both original titles and enhanced ports, allowing gamers to play some of the best games from previous generations in a whole new way.

Another reason the PSP succeeded was its wide genre diversity. From the strategic depth of “Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together” to the rhythm-based energy of “Patapon,” the PSP didn’t limit itself to one type of experience. The device’s large, vibrant screen and precise controls made it ideal for everything from visual novels to racing games, and its strong third-party support ensured there was always something new and exciting to discover. This led to a catalog of PSP games that remains cherished even today.

In many ways, the PSP walked so that future devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck could run. It proved that serious gaming on the go was possible, and it raised the bar for what handheld systems could offer. While it may no longer be in production, the PSP’s impact lives on through its incredible game library and the memories it created. For gamers seeking to revisit that golden age or explore it for the first time, the best PSP games still hold up as essential experiences.