The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is remembered fondly by gamers as one of the most successful handheld consoles of its time. Released in 2004, the PSP offered players a way to enjoy console-quality games on the go, a concept that TST4D had never been realized to this extent before. With its powerful hardware, large display, and impressive game library, the PSP quickly became a fan favorite, and many of its best games remain iconic in the handheld gaming space.

One of the standout titles for the PSP was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, which brought the infamous open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto to the handheld. The game offered everything fans loved about the GTA franchise—fast-paced action, expansive environments, and a compelling storyline—all in a portable package. The success of Liberty City Stories demonstrated that the PSP could handle complex, sprawling games that were typically reserved for home consoles. This game set the tone for the type of high-quality experiences players could expect on the PSP.

Another critical hit was Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, a title that brought the iconic stealth-action gameplay of the Metal Gear series to the handheld. As a direct sequel to Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, Peace Walker continued the story of Big Boss and introduced a host of new gameplay mechanics, including co-op multiplayer, which was revolutionary for a handheld game at the time. Peace Walker’s rich narrative, strategic gameplay, and innovative features made it one of the best PSP games ever and solidified its place in the series’ lore.

The PSP also excelled at offering unique, creative experiences that were perfect for handheld gaming. Patapon and LocoRoco were two such games, combining simple gameplay with a unique visual style and quirky mechanics. Patapon blended rhythm-based gameplay with strategic elements, challenging players to control an army of tiny creatures using rhythm patterns. Similarly, LocoRoco was a colorful, side-scrolling game where players controlled a blob-like creature, rolling through whimsical environments. Both games had a distinctive charm that made them stand out from traditional handheld offerings and offered something truly unique for players.

Sports games also found a solid home on the PSP, with titles like FIFA Soccer and NBA Live offering solid, portable versions of their console counterparts. These games were ideal for quick pick-up-and-play sessions, allowing players to dive into matches whenever they had a few moments to spare. Additionally, the Tekken and Street Fighter series found success on the PSP, offering portable versions of the popular fighting franchises that were just as fun and competitive as their console counterparts.