While the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was officially discontinued years ago, its legacy still lives on through a variety of standout titles that continue to captivate fans and newcomers alike. The PSP may not have enjoyed the same kind of mainstream success as its home console counterparts, but it offered a unique portable experience that allowed gamers to enjoy rich, console-quality games on the go. As we move into 2025, it’s clear that many of the best PSP games continue to hold their own, offering exciting gameplay, deep storytelling, and addictive mechanics that are just as enjoyable today as they were when first released.
One game that remains a classic in the PSP library is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007), a prequel to the beloved Final Fantasy VII. As one of the standout action RPGs on the platform, Crisis Core introduced players to Zack Fair, a charismatic character whose story ties directly into the events of the original Final Fantasy VII. The real-time combat system was a departure from the typical turn-based combat of the series, and it introduced new players to the Final Fantasy universe in an exciting way. The game’s emotional storyline, which explores themes of duty, friendship, and sacrifice, continues to resonate with fans of the franchise. Even in 2025, Crisis Core remains one of the most beloved and memorable games on the PSP, offering a compelling RPG experience for anyone looking to dive into the Final Fantasy VII universe.
Another title that still holds up today is God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), which brought the brutal and visceral action of the God of War series to Sony’s handheld console. Chains of Olympus successfully captured the essence of the home console games, offering a compelling story set in Greek mythology, along with fast-paced combat and epic boss battles. Despite being a handheld title, the game’s visuals were striking for its time, and it delivered the same satisfying combat and exploration that made the God of War series famous. Chains of Olympus continues to be a standout in the PSP library, and it’s a must-play for fans of action games and the God of War franchise.
Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (2008) was another groundbreaking title for the PSP that has continued to hold its appeal. The Monster Hunter series, known for its challenging and cooperative gameplay, became a phenomenon in Japan, and Freedom Unite was one of the best entries in the series. The game allowed players to team up with friends to hunt massive monsters, craft powerful weapons, and explore detailed environments. The PSP’s local multiplayer feature, along with the game’s addictive gameplay loop, made it an incredibly popular title that still has a dedicated fanbase. In 2025, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite remains one of the best cooperative experiences available on the platform, offering a blend of action, strategy, and teamwork.
Finally, Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (2005) remains an essential PSP title that has aged surprisingly well. This open-world action game brought the chaos of Liberty City to the handheld device, offering players the Irit4d opportunity to explore the urban jungle, commit various crimes, and engage in a variety of side activities. The game’s expansive world, detailed missions, and freedom of choice gave players a console-like experience in a portable package. While newer Grand Theft Auto titles have far surpassed Liberty City Stories in terms of graphics and scope, the game’s charm, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay ensure that it still holds a special place in the hearts of PSP fans.
In conclusion, the PSP may no longer be in production, but its library of games continues to endure. Titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, God of War: Chains of Olympus, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories have remained timeless classics, offering exceptional gameplay and deep, engaging worlds that still hold up in 2025. While handheld gaming has evolved over the years, these PSP games still deliver experiences that are as enjoyable today as when they first launched, cementing their place in the history of gaming.