The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have been discontinued, but its legacy continues to live on through the many classic games that defined its library. Released in 2004, the PSP was Sony’s ambitious attempt to bring console-quality gaming to a portable format, and it succeeded in doing so with a range of memorable titles. While the system was not as commercially successful as its successors, the PSP remains a beloved handheld for those who experienced its vast library of games. Even years after its release, the games from the PSP era continue to be fondly remembered, offering some of the most unique and innovative handheld experiences in gaming.
One of the standout titles for the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This action RPG serves as a prequel to the beloved Final Fantasy VII and follows the story of Zack Fair, a member of the elite SOLDIER unit. The game introduces real-time combat, allowing players to engage in fast-paced battles while exploring the world of Final Fantasy VII in greater depth. The story of Crisis Core is emotional and provides important backstory to characters such as Cloud Strife and Sephiroth, making it an essential piece of the Final Fantasy series’ lore. The game’s mix of action, strategy, and engaging storytelling made it one of the most beloved titles on the PSP, and it remains a fan-favorite to this day.
Another classic PSP title is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. As a portable version of the iconic Grand Theft Auto series, Liberty City Stories brings all the chaotic fun of the open-world crime game to the handheld format. Set in Liberty City, players assume the role of Toni Cipriani, a member of the criminal underworld, and navigate a web of crime, betrayal, and power struggles. The game features the same open-world exploration, driving, and shooting mechanics that made Grand Theft Auto so popular, but with a more streamlined experience slot suited for portable play. Despite being on a smaller screen, Liberty City Stories captured the essence of the GTA series and delivered an engaging story and addictive gameplay.
For fans of tactical strategy games, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is a must-play on the PSP. This tactical RPG is set in a war-torn world where players control a group of heroes battling against powerful forces. The game features a grid-based combat system, where players must carefully plan their moves and consider the terrain, positioning, and abilities of their characters. Tactics Ogre is known for its deep narrative, which explores themes of politics, war, and morality, and its intricate gameplay mechanics. The game’s engaging story and challenging tactical battles make it one of the best strategy games available on the PSP.
The PSP may no longer be in production, but its library of games remains an important part of gaming history. Titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, and Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together showcase the incredible potential of handheld gaming, offering experiences that still hold up to this day. The PSP may have been ahead of its time, and its games will continue to be cherished by fans for years to come.