In the long timeline of PlayStation history, the PSP era often sits quietly in the background, overshadowed by the blockbuster console generations. But if you ask those who grew up gaming on Sony’s first portable system, they’ll tell you the truth: some of the best PlayStation games ever made were on the PSP. This wasn’t a system that settled for second best—it hosted games that were inventive, daring, and in many cases, better than their console counterparts.
Take Daxter, for instance. As a spinoff from the Jak and Daxter series, it had every excuse to be a low-effort cash grab. Instead, it svip6 delivered a surprisingly polished and entertaining platformer that stood on its own. The game was not only visually stunning for a handheld title, but it was also packed with charm and tight controls. This wasn’t just one of the best PSP games—it was one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable PlayStation games of the time.
Similarly, Killzone: Liberation took a bold approach by shifting away from the first-person view that defined the console series. By adopting an isometric perspective, it created a fast-paced, strategic shooter that worked perfectly for the PSP’s control scheme. The game emphasized tactical combat over run-and-gun action, and it succeeded in standing out. It showed that PSP games weren’t just derivative—they were capable of transforming franchises in smart, fresh ways.
Another gem from the PSP era was SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo. The game retained the tactical depth of its console siblings but added new mechanics that suited portable play. It also featured a solid multiplayer component, which allowed players to connect and engage in coordinated missions. The experience felt substantial, meaningful, and—most importantly—fun. For fans of the genre, it was clear that PSP games could rival the intensity and strategy of full-blown console titles.
Even racing and sports genres found new life on the PSP. WipEout Pure and Gran Turismo weren’t just acceptable handheld entries; they were high-octane, beautifully rendered games that brought adrenaline-fueled action to your fingertips. These titles helped expand the definition of what a PlayStation game could be, showing that speed, control, and excitement didn’t require a massive screen or a high-end console. All it took was solid design and Sony’s commitment to quality.
As time goes on and digital libraries expand, more players are discovering or revisiting the PSP’s hidden gems. They’re realizing that the best games aren’t always the ones with the most marketing—they’re the ones that stick with you, that surprise you, that remind you why you love gaming in the first place. The PSP may be gone, but its greatest titles remain vital parts of PlayStation’s legacy.