When the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was released in 2004, it brought console-quality gaming to a handheld device, setting a new standard for portable gaming. While the PSP may not be in production anymore, its library of games still holds up as some of the best portable titles ever created. From action-packed adventures to role-playing epics, the PSP offered an incredible range of experiences for gamers on the go. Games like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, and Patapon continue to be celebrated as some of the best PSP games ever made.

One of the standout titles on the PSP is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. As a prequel to the iconic Final Fantasy VII, this action-packed RPG follows Zack Fair, a young SOLDIER operative, as he embarks on an emotional journey within the Final Fantasy VII universe. The game’s combat system was a departure from traditional turn-based mechanics, opting instead for real-time, action-oriented combat that gave players greater control. The game’s emotional narrative, coupled with its stunning visuals for a handheld device, made it a standout title on the PSP. Fans of Final Fantasy VII found it to be a must-play, as it provided greater depth to the world and characters they already loved.

Another standout PSP game is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, which brought the chaos and freedom of the Grand Theft Auto series situs62 to the handheld platform. Set in the same familiar Liberty City as Grand Theft Auto III, this game allows players to explore the criminal underworld as Toni Cipriani, a character caught in a web of violence and intrigue. The game features the same open-world gameplay that the Grand Theft Auto series is known for, allowing players to engage in missions, side activities, and unadulterated mayhem. Despite being on a handheld device, Liberty City Stories maintained the signature depth and freedom that made the series a fan favorite.

Patapon is a unique and innovative title that stands out as one of the most original games on the PSP. This rhythm-based strategy game had players control a tribe of Patapons, guiding them through various challenges and battles with rhythmic button presses. The game’s charm lies in its simple mechanics, catchy music, and the way it combines rhythm with strategy. Its minimalist art style and quirky characters made it a refreshing departure from the more conventional titles on the PSP. The game’s addictive nature and creative gameplay made it an instant classic, offering a unique gaming experience that was unlike anything else at the time.

While the PSP may no longer be in production, the best games for the system like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, and Patapon continue to be remembered for their excellence. These titles pushed the limits of what a portable console could achieve, delivering experiences that were just as captivating and engaging as their home console counterparts. The PSP remains a beloved system for those who remember it, and its best games will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers.