The PlayStation Portable (PSP) may be a relic of the past, but its impact on the gaming world is still felt today. Released in 2004, the PSP was Sony’s first venture into handheld gaming, and it offered players a truly portable experience with console-quality bmw4d graphics, rich sound, and a library of diverse games. While the PSP may not have had the same longevity as other consoles, it became home to some of the most beloved and influential games of its time. As we look back at the PSP’s legacy, here are some of the best games that defined the handheld console and left a lasting impact on the gaming industry.

One of the standout titles of the PSP era was God of War: Chains of Olympus. This action-adventure game brought the brutal world of God of War to a handheld device, and it succeeded in every aspect. With its intense combat, beautiful visuals, and cinematic storytelling, Chains of Olympus felt like a console-quality game on a portable system. The story, which follows Kratos in a battle against the gods of Greek mythology, was compelling and immersive, making it one of the best PSP games ever made. The fluid combat system and epic set pieces brought the God of War experience to life in a way that hadn’t been seen on handheld devices before.

Another game that made waves on the PSP was Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions. This tactical RPG took the Final Fantasy franchise in a new direction, offering deep, strategic gameplay with a rich narrative. Set in the world of Ivalice, the game followed the story of a young knight named Ramza Beoulve, who became embroiled in a political conspiracy. The game’s intricate battle system, memorable characters, and engaging story made it one of the best tactical RPGs on the PSP. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions continues to be a beloved classic, with fans still praising its complexity and depth.

Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories was another game that defined the PSP’s success. As a portable entry in the Grand Theft Auto series, Liberty City Stories brought the chaotic, open-world experience of GTA to a handheld device. The game’s expansive city, engaging story, and diverse missions allowed players to immerse themselves in the world of crime, all while playing on the go. The PSP’s hardware allowed for impressive graphics and an expansive world that felt like the full GTA experience, making it one of the standout titles on the console.

For fans of racing games, Wipeout Pure was an essential PSP title. This futuristic racing game featured high-speed races on gravity-defying tracks, with stunning visuals and a thumping soundtrack. Wipeout Pure took full advantage of the PSP’s processing power, delivering smooth gameplay and beautiful environments. The game’s fast-paced action and adrenaline-pumping races made it one of the best racing games on the system. The Wipeout series had always been known for its unique style and innovation, and Wipeout Pure brought that same excitement to the PSP in a way that felt fresh and exhilarating.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker was another groundbreaking game for the PSP. As the fourth main entry in the Metal Gear series, Peace Walker expanded the story of Snake and introduced new gameplay mechanics. The game’s emphasis on stealth, strategic planning, and base management set it apart from other PSP titles. Peace Walker offered both a compelling single-player experience and multiplayer co-op missions, allowing players to team up and take on enemy forces together. The game’s deep narrative, tactical gameplay, and innovative mechanics made it one of the standout PSP titles.

The PSP may no longer be in production, but its legacy lives on through the incredible games it brought to players. God of War: Chains of Olympus, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Wipeout Pure, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker are just a few of the games that helped make the PSP a must-have handheld console. These games not only defined the PSP era but also influenced the gaming industry as a whole, paving the way for future handheld consoles and portable gaming experiences.