Though the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was officially discontinued years ago, its library of games remains one of the most impressive collections for a handheld console. The PSP brought console-quality games to the palm of your hand, offering experiences that could rival their console counterparts. While newer handheld devices have entered the market, the best PSP games still stand out in 2025 due to their captivating gameplay, compelling narratives, and innovative mechanics. For those lucky enough to own a PSP or those revisiting these classics via emulation, here are some of the best games from the PSP era that still hold up today.
One of the best PSP games of all time is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This action RPG, which serves as a prequel to Final Fantasy VII, offers a deeper dive into the story of Zack Fair, a character who plays a crucial role in the larger Final Fantasy VII universe. Crisis Core was praised for its real-time combat system, which combined traditional RPG mechanics with fast-paced action. The game’s emotional depth, which explores Zack’s journey as a soldier in the Shinra company, was a key component of its success. The visuals were impressive for the PSP’s hardware, and the memorable soundtrack and voice acting added to the immersive experience. Crisis Core remains a standout PSP title and is a must-play for fans of the Final Fantasy series.
Another beloved title is Patapon, a rhythm-based strategy game that’s as unique as it is addictive. In Patapon, players control a tribe of small creatures known as Patapons, who march and battle to the beat of the music. The gameplay revolves around tapping the PSP’s buttons in sync with the rhythm to issue commands to the Patapons, making it both a rhythm game and a real-time strategy title. Its charming art style, catchy soundtrack, and innovative baccarat online mechanics made Patapon a cult classic on the PSP. It’s a game that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master, offering hours of entertainment for those who enjoy a challenge. Even in 2025, Patapon remains one of the most memorable and unique experiences on the PSP.
God of War: Chains of Olympus is another iconic PSP title that proved the power of the handheld console. As a prequel to the main God of War series, the game follows Kratos as he faces off against the gods and monsters of Greek mythology. Despite the PSP’s hardware limitations, Chains of Olympus delivered a seamless and thrilling experience, with fast-paced combat, brutal boss fights, and puzzle-solving mechanics that were all hallmarks of the God of War series. The game’s visuals were impressive for a handheld, with detailed environments and fluid character animations. God of War: Chains of Olympus remains one of the best action games on the PSP, and its success proved that a handheld device could deliver console-quality experiences.
Lastly, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker is a standout game for fans of stealth-action titles. Developed by Kojima Productions, Peace Walker is set in the Metal Gear universe and follows Big Boss as he attempts to create a private army while navigating the complexities of Cold War geopolitics. The game’s unique features, such as cooperative multiplayer and base-building mechanics, set it apart from other titles in the series. The gameplay was a perfect blend of stealth, strategy, and action, and the intricate plot was filled with twists and turns. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker was a true achievement for the PSP, offering a deep, engaging experience that made the handheld console feel like a true home for large-scale games.
The PSP’s library of games remains as relevant today as it was during its heyday. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Patapon, God of War: Chains of Olympus, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker are just a few examples of the incredible titles that helped shape the PSP’s legacy. These games demonstrated that handheld gaming could offer rich, immersive experiences that rivaled those of their console counterparts. As we look back in 2025, the PSP’s best games continue to stand as pillars of innovation, creativity, and gaming excellence.