Even in today’s world of 4K graphics and expansive open-world games, there’s something uniquely charming about classic PSP games. The PlayStation Portable may have had a smaller screen and fewer technical capabilities than its home console siblings, pianototo but what it lacked in hardware, it more than made up for in creativity and fun. For many gamers, the PSP was their first introduction to console-quality gaming on the go—and it delivered a wide array of titles that still hold up today.

Some of the best games on the PSP weren’t just portable spinoffs—they were full-fledged experiences that expanded beloved franchises. Persona 3 Portable, for instance, brought one of the most celebrated JRPGs of all time to a handheld system with new features and a playable female protagonist. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror revived a PlayStation classic with improved gameplay mechanics that made it feel modern even on a handheld.

The PSP also allowed for experimentation in gameplay and design. Games like Echochrome and LocoRoco 2 used minimalist visuals and physics-based puzzles to create addictively fun experiences. Meanwhile, Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together offered complex, strategic gameplay that felt right at home on the device, perfect for short sessions or long hauls alike. These games didn’t rely on flashy visuals; they succeeded by focusing on solid mechanics and inventive design.

Though it’s been over a decade since the PSP was discontinued, its spirit lives on. Digital storefronts and emulators have helped keep its best games accessible, and there’s a growing retro community dedicated to preserving its legacy. For those who never got the chance to experience it firsthand, diving into PSP games today is a great way to discover a golden age of portable gaming where imagination was the main selling point.