The mid-2000s were an exciting time for video game fans, especially those who appreciated the idea of console-quality gaming on the go. When Sony launched the csb135.org PlayStation Portable (PSP), it ushered in a new age of handheld gaming that was ambitious, visually stunning, and deeply immersive. Unlike other portable consoles that emphasized simplicity, the PSP aimed to replicate the depth of full-scale PlayStation games. As a result, some of the best games of the handheld generation were found on the PSP.

One of the key reasons for the PSP’s success was its incredible lineup of first-party and third-party titles. Whether players were looking for action, role-playing, racing, or strategy, PSP games delivered in every genre. Blockbusters like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, and Daxter became system-sellers. These were not shallow mobile versions of console titles, but robust adventures with full stories, excellent gameplay mechanics, and replay value. For many fans, the PSP became a gateway to PlayStation gaming in general.

Another factor that cemented the PSP’s legacy was its support for rich multimedia experiences. Gamers could watch movies, listen to music, and even browse the internet on their devices. But it was the games that really made the PSP stand out. Titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII showed that handheld RPGs could be as emotionally compelling and mechanically deep as any console experience. These games demonstrated how portable platforms could be home to some of the best games of a generation.

Today, the PSP may be a relic of the past, but its influence endures. Emulators, remasters, and spiritual successors continue to draw from its innovations. The PSP was more than a stepping stone in PlayStation’s history—it was a defining moment in portable gaming. With a library full of unforgettable titles, the PSP gave us some of the best games that are still worth revisiting in 2025.