Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) had a relatively short lifespan, it offered a treasure trove of games that are still beloved by fans today. The handheld tiger298 console pushed the limits of portable gaming and provided a platform for many memorable experiences, from fast-paced action games to deep role-playing adventures. Even though the PSP has long since been discontinued, there are still plenty of titles that are worth revisiting for those looking to relive some of the best handheld experiences in gaming history.
One of the standout titles for the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007), a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII (1997). The game follows Zack Fair, a soldier in the Shinra corporation, as he navigates the events leading up to the original game. Crisis Core is a deeply emotional experience, offering players a closer look at the Final Fantasy VII universe and expanding on the backstory of some of the series’ most beloved characters. The game’s real-time battle system was a major innovation at the time, and its visuals were impressive for a handheld console. Even today, Crisis Core stands out as one of the best PSP games, especially for fans of Final Fantasy VII.
Another game that continues to hold up well is Persona 3 Portable (2010), the portable version of the critically acclaimed RPG Persona 3. The Persona series is known for its blend of life simulation and dungeon-crawling, and Persona 3 Portable brought that experience to the PSP with new features, including the ability to play as a female protagonist. The game’s compelling story, complex characters, and addictive combat mechanics make it one of the best JRPGs ever made, and the fact that it was ported to the PSP without losing any of its depth is a testament to how well it works as a handheld experience.
For fans of tactical RPGs, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (2011) is another essential PSP title. Originally released on the Super Famicom in 1995, the game was remade for the PSP with updated graphics and voice acting. The game’s strategic combat system, branching storylines, and multiple endings made it a standout in the genre. Tactics Ogre‘s deep narrative, which revolves around political intrigue and war, combined with its tactical gameplay, makes it one of the most rewarding RPGs on the PSP.
Gran Turismo (2009) was another stellar title on the PSP, offering players a portable version of the popular racing simulator. While it may not have had the same depth or content as its console counterparts, Gran Turismo on the PSP still delivered an excellent racing experience with impressive graphics and a large selection of cars and tracks. The game featured a range of vehicles, from everyday cars to high-performance racing machines, and allowed players to experience the thrill of racing without having to be tethered to a console. It remains one of the best racing games on the PSP, offering hours of fun for fans of the genre.
Lastly, Killzone: Liberation (2006) is a must-play for fans of tactical third-person shooters. Set in the Killzone universe, the game offers an isometric view of the battlefield, where players control a squad of soldiers in intense combat scenarios. Killzone: Liberation stands out for its tight controls, impressive visuals, and fun multiplayer modes. It offers a tactical, strategic experience that differs from the traditional first-person shooters of the time and remains one of the best action games available on the PSP.
In conclusion, while the PSP may no longer be in production, its game library is still filled with titles that stand the test of time. Whether you’re into fast-paced action, intricate role-playing games, or deep tactical experiences, the PSP has something for everyone. Games like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Persona 3 Portable, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, Gran Turismo, and Killzone: Liberation are still worth playing today and offer a nostalgic reminder of the PSP’s enduring legacy in the world of handheld gaming.