In a time when handheld gaming is surging thanks to devices like the Steam Deck and Switch, many gamers are revisiting the PSP—Sony’s first portable PlayStation system. Though it was released over a decade ago, the PSP pianototo continues to be remembered for housing some of the best games ever seen on a mobile platform. What made the PSP remarkable wasn’t just its power for the time, but its ability to bring the full PlayStation experience into the palms of players’ hands.

Games like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and God of War: Ghost of Sparta were standout titles that felt like true console-quality adventures. These weren’t watered-down spin-offs but robust experiences that pushed the PSP to its limits. Many players fondly remember how these PSP games offered hours of immersive gameplay, rich stories, and a level of polish rarely seen in handhelds then—or even now.

Beyond the big franchises, the PSP was also a playground for creativity. Titles like Patapon, LocoRoco, and Jeanne d’Arc showcased experimental game design that thrived on the system’s unique capabilities. These lesser-known games became cult classics, contributing to the diversity and charm of the PlayStation library. The PSP was proof that handheld gaming could be bold and intelligent, not just casual or gimmicky.

With the rise of digital game preservation and emulation, PSP games are finding new life in 2025. For both retro enthusiasts and younger players curious about PlayStation history, the PSP remains a vital part of Sony’s legacy. It may have been succeeded by the PS Vita, but its catalog remains a time capsule of daring design and portable excellence. Its best games still inspire, entertain, and push the limits of what a handheld experience can deliver.