When Sony launched the PlayStation Portable in 2004, it redefined what gamers thought handheld devices could do. With a sleek design, a large screen, and impressive processing power, the PSP offered games Dragon Tiger that felt far closer to home console experiences than anything the market had seen before. The best PSP games delivered depth, scale, and immersion rarely matched in portable gaming even today.

Titles like Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker brought console-level stealth mechanics and production values to the handheld space. Not only did it offer a lengthy campaign and multiplayer co-op, but it also continued the complex narrative of the series, proving that a handheld title could be part of a core franchise and not just a spinoff. In the same vein, Gran Turismo PSP offered an astounding amount of content, with hundreds of cars and dozens of tracks, all packed into a UMD.

The PSP’s innovation extended beyond big franchises. Games like LocoRoco and Patapon showcased the PSP’s ability to support original IPs with fresh art styles and inventive gameplay mechanics. These titles appealed to gamers of all ages and represented a bold approach to game design, using simple inputs and unique visuals to create unforgettable portable experiences.

Today, these games are not only fondly remembered—they are still playable on emulators, remastered collections, or through backward compatibility in some PlayStation services. The best PSP games didn’t just ride on the console’s power; they used that power to explore new genres and ideas, leaving a legacy that endures in portable and indie development alike.