The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was a game-changer for handheld consoles, offering a level of performance and graphics that rivaled some home consoles at the time. Released in 2004, the PSP quickly gained a rtp live loyal following thanks to its expansive game library and innovative features. While the handheld gaming scene has since evolved, the PSP’s games still hold a special place in the hearts of retro gaming fans. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best PSP games that made the console unforgettable.

One of the standout titles for the PSP was Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, a prequel to Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and part of the GTA series. The game brought the open-world chaos that fans loved to the handheld console, offering a vast, immersive environment set in the vibrant, 1980s-inspired Vice City. Players take on the role of Victor Vance, a former soldier who becomes embroiled in the criminal underworld. With all the familiar GTA elements—car chases, gunfights, and chaotic missions—Vice City Stories delivered the full GTA experience on the go. The open-world gameplay and immersive story made it a standout in the PSP library.

For action-platformer fans, Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles was an absolute must-have. This game brought the classic Castlevania experience to the PSP, featuring updated graphics and a reimagined version of the original Castlevania: Rondo of Blood. Players control Richter Belmont as he battles his way through Dracula’s lair in an effort to save his kidnapped beloved. The game is packed with fast-paced action, brutal combat, and signature Castlevania bosses. Its impressive visuals, challenging platforming, and nostalgic feel made it one of the best platformers on the handheld.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker also stands out as one of the most impressive games on the PSP. Developed by Kojima Productions, this entry in the Metal Gear series offered a deep, story-driven experience that continued the saga of Big Boss. As the head of a private military company, players must navigate complex moral decisions, engage in tactical combat, and deal with global threats. Peace Walker took full advantage of the PSP’s hardware limitations, providing a mix of stealth gameplay, intense combat, and cooperative multiplayer. The narrative, character development, and gameplay mechanics made it one of the most important titles in the Metal Gear franchise.

RPG fans also found a lot to love on the PSP, particularly with Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions. This tactical RPG was a reimagining of the beloved Final Fantasy Tactics from the PlayStation 1 era, with improved visuals, voice acting, and additional content. The game features grid-based combat and a complex story set in the war-torn kingdom of Ivalice, offering players a deep and strategic experience. The story is filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and personal drama, while the battle mechanics are as challenging and rewarding as ever. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions remains a timeless classic for fans of the genre.