The PSP didn’t just bring console-quality visuals to a portable device—it redefined what handheld gaming could be. For years, Nintendo had dominated the space, but Sony’s first handheld offered an alternative with more mature themes, deeper narratives, and a broader array of genres. The PSP quickly became a home for some of the best games ever made for a handheld device, many of which still hold harum4d up today in terms of both gameplay and design.
One game that helped solidify the PSP’s place in gaming history was Daxter. A spin-off from the Jak and Daxter series, this game showcased just how much charm and creativity developers could pack into a portable title. With fluid platforming mechanics, inventive levels, and sharp humor, Daxter was a joy to play whether you were a longtime PlayStation fan or a newcomer. It became one of the best games in the PSP library for its accessibility and polish.
Another standout in the PSP catalog was Gran Turismo PSP, which brought the iconic racing simulation to a handheld format with remarkable success. The depth of vehicle customization, the realism of handling, and the sheer number of cars made it an impressive technical achievement. While the lack of a traditional career mode drew criticism, the core gameplay was solid enough to rank it among the best games for racing fans on PSP.
RPGs thrived on the PSP, and Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together was a shining example of what the platform could do. A remake of a classic tactical RPG, it offered an intricate story, branching paths, and deeply strategic gameplay. It joined the ranks of other excellent PlayStation games that prioritized story-driven, meaningful choices. For fans of strategy games, it was nothing short of essential.
PSP games like Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror and Killzone: Liberation also brought action and shooter mechanics to the handheld in ways that didn’t feel watered down. These games proved that intense, mission-driven gameplay didn’t require a big screen. They stood toe-to-toe with their console counterparts in both challenge and excitement, becoming some of the best games for fans of tactical action and shooting.
The impact of the PSP and its games continues today, especially with remasters and ports making their way to newer systems. While newer handhelds have since taken center stage, the best games from the PSP era still resonate with players. They serve as a reminder that great PlayStation games aren’t bound by screen size—they’re defined by ambition, innovation, and fun.