AdminWhen Sony released the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2004, the gaming world was introduced to a device that brought console-quality gaming into the palms of players’ hands. While the PSP may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as its competitors, it remains a beloved platform with a library of standout games that many consider to be some of the best handheld titles ever made. From immersive RPGs to high-octane action games, the PSP’s diverse collection of titles demonstrated that portable gaming could offer experiences that rivaled those found on home consoles.
One of the best games on the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, a prequel to the highly revered Final Fantasy VII released in 1997. Developed by Square Enix, Crisis Core followed the story of Zack Fair, a member of SOLDIER, as he embarks on a journey that unravels the mysteries surrounding the iconic characters from the original game. The game’s real-time battle system was a fresh and exciting take for the Final Fantasy series, incorporating action-oriented mechanics into the RPG formula. With stunning graphics, a deeply emotional storyline, and ties to the greater Final Fantasy VII universe, Crisis Core remains a standout title on the PSP and is considered one of the best RPGs in the series.
Another memorable game for the PSP was God of War: Chains of Olympus, which brought the brutal action of the God of War series to the handheld console. Released in 2008, Chains of Olympus followed Kratos as he battled gods, monsters, jambitoto and mythological creatures in the world of ancient Greece. The game maintained the series’ signature fast-paced combat and cinematic presentation while adapting them to fit the constraints of the PSP. The story, which took place between the events of the original God of War and God of War II, provided players with new insights into Kratos’ past. Despite the technical limitations of the handheld platform, Chains of Olympus delivered a truly epic experience that proved the PSP could handle large-scale, high-quality action games.
The PSP also excelled in delivering unique and experimental games like Patapon, a rhythm-based strategy game developed by Japan Studio. In Patapon, players control a tribe of creatures by pressing drumbeats to guide their actions, such as moving, attacking, or defending. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, along with its charming art style and rhythmic soundtrack, made it a favorite among players. Patapon was a fresh and original concept that showcased the PSP’s potential for innovative gameplay experiences that didn’t rely on high-end graphics or complex mechanics.
Lastly, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker proved that the PSP was capable of delivering a full-fledged, complex gaming experience. Developed by Kojima Productions, Peace Walker followed Big Boss as he navigated the geopolitics of the Cold War and built his own private army. The game featured the same stealth-based gameplay that the Metal Gear series is known for, but it also incorporated multiplayer elements and base management mechanics. The depth of the story, combined with the innovative gameplay features, made Peace Walker a standout title on the PSP and a worthy entry in the Metal Gear series.
While the PSP is no longer in production, its legacy lives on through the unforgettable games that defined its era. Titles like Gran Turismo, Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions, and LocoRoco showed that handheld gaming could be just as immersive and engaging as console gaming. The PSP may have been short-lived in terms of market dominance, but its library of games remains a testament to the creativity and innovation that Sony brought to portable gaming.
