The PlayStation Portable (PSP) might not have achieved the level of commercial success that Sony hoped for, but its impact on handheld gaming cannot be overstated. It was the first real handheld console to deliver console-quality gaming experiences, and it was home to a number of iconic games that continue to be fondly remembered today. From action-packed shooters to immersive role-playing games (RPGs), the PSP’s library was diverse, offering something for every type of gamer.

One standout title that demonstrated the PSP’s capabilities was God of War: Chains of Olympus. This portable prequel to the God of War series brought Kratos’ brutal combat and epic mythology to the PSP with tiger298 impressive graphics and engaging gameplay. The fact that it successfully replicated the console experience on a handheld device made it an instant hit. Chains of Olympus proved that the PSP could offer the same level of action, scale, and story-driven depth as its console counterparts, offering an unforgettable experience for fans of the series.

Another iconic PSP game was Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core, a prequel to one of the most beloved RPGs of all time. Crisis Core followed the story of Zack Fair, a key character in Final Fantasy VII, and delivered the classic turn-based combat, exploration, and narrative depth that fans of the series had come to expect. The game featured beautiful visuals for its time, captivating music, and a story that expanded upon the world of Final Fantasy VII, making it an essential play for RPG fans. Crisis Core became one of the most beloved titles on the PSP and remains a standout in the Final Fantasy franchise.

In addition to action games, the PSP was also home to some excellent strategy titles. Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness brought the quirky, tactical RPG series to the handheld device, offering players a deep and humorous experience filled with complex turn-based battles. Disgaea was known for its over-the-top humor, zany characters, and extensive gameplay mechanics, and the PSP version successfully brought all of these elements to a portable format. The game’s engaging combat and unique humor made it a cult favorite among strategy RPG fans.

Lastly, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories was another title that highlighted the PSP’s potential. The GTA series had already made a massive impact on consoles, and the PSP version allowed players to experience the freedom of Vice City in the palm of their hands. Vice City Stories delivered the same open-world chaos that fans loved, including driving, shooting, and engaging in criminal activities, all while capturing the essence of the 1980s-era Miami setting. It was one of the defining games of the PSP era and a must-play for fans of the open-world genre.