The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may not have had the same longevity or mass appeal as its console counterparts, but it remains one of the most influential handheld gaming systems of its time. Released in 2004, the PSP brought console-quality graphics to the palm of your hand, and with a rich library of titles across various genres, it quickly became a go-to device for gamers on the move. From epic action adventures to deep RPGs and innovative puzzle games, the PSP offered a variety of experiences that kept players engaged. Here’s a look at some of the best PSP games that truly defined the handheld experience.

One of the standout titles on the PSP was God of War: Chains of Olympus. As a prequel to the main God of War series, Chains of Olympus took players on an epic journey through Greek mythology as Kratos, the game’s iconic antihero. The PSP’s hardware limitations didn’t stop this game from delivering the same brutal, fast-paced combat that the series is known for. The game featured stunning visuals for its time and a gripping story that filled in the gaps of Kratos’ past. God of War: Chains of Olympus proved that the PSP could deliver console-quality experiences in a portable format, and it remains one of the best action games available for the device.

Another notable PSP title was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. While the Grand Theft Auto series was already popular on consoles, Liberty City Stories allowed players to experience the chaos slot qris of Liberty City on the go. The game features an engaging storyline, a sprawling open world to explore, and the signature mayhem that GTA fans know and love. Released in 2005, Liberty City Stories was one of the first games to show that a fully realized, open-world experience could be delivered on a handheld system. Its ability to capture the essence of the GTA series made it an instant classic and one of the top games for the PSP.

For fans of tactical RPGs, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is another must-play title for the PSP. A remaster of the beloved Final Fantasy Tactics from the original PlayStation, this game offered a deep, strategic combat system that kept players hooked for hours. Set in the fictional land of Ivalice, the game’s intricate storyline, coupled with its complex battle mechanics, provided a rewarding and immersive experience. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions showcased the PSP’s potential for delivering sophisticated and engaging games, and it remains one of the best examples of the tactical RPG genre on a handheld.

Finally, Patapon offered a unique and innovative gaming experience on the PSP. This rhythm-based strategy game allowed players to control a tribe of small creatures by tapping along to a rhythm, giving commands that dictated their movement and actions. The gameplay was addictive and challenging, with players needing to master the rhythm and timing to guide their Patapon tribe to victory. Its unique concept and art style made Patapon stand out from other games on the PSP, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. The game’s quirky visuals and catchy music, combined with its unconventional gameplay, made it one of the most memorable titles on the handheld.

These four games—God of War: Chains of Olympus, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, and Patapon—are just a few examples of the incredible titles that defined the PSP. Each game showcased the handheld’s ability to offer console-quality experiences, whether through action-packed adventures, strategic gameplay, or unique mechanics. The PSP may not have enjoyed the same mainstream success as other consoles, but its library of games continues to be celebrated by gaming enthusiasts.