The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may have been discontinued, but it remains one of the most beloved handheld consoles ever made. Released in 2004, the PSP was an ambitious attempt to bring the quality and depth of console gaming to a portable device, and it succeeded in spades. Its library of games was incredibly diverse, offering everything from epic adventures to fast-paced action games, and many of these titles still hold up today. For anyone looking to relive the magic of the PSP, there are several standout games that are absolutely worth revisiting.

One of the best PSP games of all time is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII. This action-RPG tells the story of Zack Fair, a young soldier who plays a crucial role in the events leading up to the original game. Featuring an engaging real-time battle system and a moving story, Crisis Core offers a compelling mix of fast-paced action and emotional depth. The game was praised for its visuals, especially for a handheld console, and remains a fan favorite among Final Fantasy fans for its connection to the franchise’s lore and memorable characters.

Another standout title is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. This PSP-exclusive installment of the Grand Theft Auto series delivered all the chaos and freedom players expected from the franchise, with the added benefit of portability. Set in the infamous Liberty City, the game allowed players to explore the open world, complete slot 5000 missions, and engage in all sorts of criminal activities. The game’s story was full of twists and turns, and it captured the essence of Grand Theft Auto while offering a great experience on the go. Its ability to retain the franchise’s signature open-world gameplay in a portable format was nothing short of impressive.

For fans of strategy games, Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness was a standout title on the PSP. This tactical RPG offered deep, turn-based combat with a humorous and quirky storyline. Set in a dark and bizarre world, players controlled Laharl, the son of a demon king, as he embarked on a journey to take over the Netherworld. With its complex battle mechanics, extensive character customization, and endless replayability, Disgaea became a cult hit, earning a loyal following among RPG fans. It was one of the few games that truly demonstrated the PSP’s ability to handle deep, strategy-driven gameplay without compromising on portability.

Lastly, Patapon stood out as one of the most innovative and unique games on the PSP. Combining rhythm-based gameplay with real-time strategy, Patapon tasked players with guiding a tribe of drumming creatures through various challenges by tapping out rhythms on the PSP’s buttons. The game’s visual style, music, and engaging mechanics made it one of the most memorable titles in the PSP’s library. Its quirky gameplay and catchy tunes were so addictive that it quickly became a fan favorite, proving that the PSP was capable of offering truly creative experiences.

The PSP may have been ahead of its time, but its library of games still holds up as some of the most innovative and enjoyable experiences in handheld gaming. Titles like Crisis Core, Liberty City Stories, Disgaea, and Patapon continue to be fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of experiencing them. For those looking to revisit the magic of the PSP, these games are just a few examples of the platform’s unique ability to deliver deep, engaging experiences in the palm of your hand.