While the PlayStation Portable (PSP) might no longer be the cutting-edge handheld console it once was, its legacy lives on through a collection of unforgettable games that still hold up in 2025. The PSP, originally released in tiger298 2004, was ahead of its time, offering gamers the ability to play console-quality games on the go. As we look back, certain PSP games have remained timeless, thanks to their innovative gameplay, memorable stories, and captivating visuals.
One of the most iconic games on the PSP is Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. This title brought the open-world chaos and freedom of the GTA series to the portable platform, offering a sprawling city to explore, a compelling narrative, and plenty of missions that kept players hooked. What made Liberty City Stories stand out was how it translated the larger-than-life feel of the console games into a more compact experience. It didn’t cut corners on gameplay or design, and the ability to play such a rich, interactive world on a handheld system was nothing short of revolutionary at the time.
Another standout is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This action RPG was a prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII and told the story of Zack Fair, a beloved character whose fate was tied to the main narrative of Final Fantasy VII. Crisis Core received critical acclaim for its captivating story, emotional depth, and real-time combat system. The game’s visuals were stunning for the PSP, and its soundtrack has become iconic among fans of the Final Fantasy franchise. It’s a game that not only expanded the lore of the Final Fantasy VII universe but also offered a standalone experience that could be enjoyed by both newcomers and longtime fans.
For fans of strategy games, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is another PSP title that remains a classic in 2025. This tactical RPG, which was a remake of the 1995 SNES game, offered deep tactical battles and a complex, branching narrative that could change depending on the player’s choices. The game’s intricate battle mechanics, coupled with a thought-provoking storyline about war and the consequences of one’s actions, made it a standout title for strategy game lovers. The remake also featured enhanced visuals, voice acting, and improved gameplay elements, bringing this cult classic to a wider audience and ensuring its place in the PSP’s library of must-play games.
Even though the PSP has been replaced by newer handheld consoles, its library of games remains as strong as ever. Titles like Liberty City Stories, Crisis Core, and Tactics Ogre have aged well, with their innovative gameplay and compelling narratives continuing to resonate with gamers in 2025. For anyone with a PSP lying around or who’s interested in experiencing handheld gaming history, these titles represent the best of what the console had to offer, making t