When the PSP launched, Sony entered a territory long dominated by Nintendo—but with a completely different vision. Instead of focusing solely on cendanabet bite-sized casual gameplay, PSP games aimed to deliver full-scale console-like experiences. In many ways, the PSP’s ambitious game library laid the groundwork for what PlayStation would later attempt with the PlayStation Vita, and even what’s now echoed in hybrid gaming consoles.

One of the biggest strengths of the PSP was its ability to run large, complex titles without sacrificing quality. Dissidia Final Fantasy, for example, reimagined the traditional RPG formula with high-octane, one-on-one combat and fan-favorite characters from the Final Fantasy universe. It became a must-play for PSP owners and proved that handheld games could achieve the depth and drama typically reserved for home consoles.

Another important title in the PSP’s legacy is LittleBigPlanet PSP, which carried over the creativity and charm of its PS3 counterpart while adapting its platforming and level-creation tools for a handheld experience. The fact that players could create, share, and play custom levels on the go was revolutionary at the time. This commitment to user-generated content showed just how ahead of its time the PSP really was.

Though Sony eventually shifted away from handheld gaming, the lessons learned from the PSP era continue to influence its approach to remote play, mobile connectivity, and companion experiences. The best PSP games did more than just entertain—they paved the way for a future in which powerful, portable PlayStation experiences would no longer be seen as a compromise, but as an extension of the brand’s core promise.