PSP Games That Deserve a Second Life

Though it was discontinued years ago, the PlayStation Portable violin88 (PSP) remains one of the most fascinating chapters in Sony’s gaming history. It was more than a handheld device — it was a bold experiment in bringing console-quality games to your pocket. Over its life, it built a strong library of titles that still hold up today, and many PSP games are overdue for a modern revival.

Daxter, for example, was a technical marvel. As a spin-off of the Jak and Daxter series, it didn’t just rest on the franchise’s popularity — it delivered its own identity with slick platforming, sharp visuals, and an original story. It captured the humor and charm fans loved from the series, all while demonstrating what the PSP was capable of at its best. It remains one of the finest examples of a handheld-exclusive spin-off done right.

Then there’s Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, a prequel that explored Zack Fair’s journey in a way that deeply enriched the Final Fantasy VII mythos. It was bold, emotional, and featured an experimental combat system that added a layer of unpredictability. Fans still discuss its ending and soundtrack today, and its 2022 remake for modern consoles proves how much demand remains for PSP classics.

Meanwhile, Killzone: Liberation took the shooter genre and flipped expectations. Rather than trying to replicate first-person mechanics on a portable system, it opted for a top-down tactical approach that was praised for its strategy and fluidity. It stands as a testament to the PSP’s strength — developers didn’t just shrink console experiences; they rethought them for mobile play.

PSP games continue to find new life through emulation, remasters, and fan projects. As more players look back at handheld gaming’s golden era, it becomes clear that the PSP wasn’t just a stepping stone — it was a pioneer. Its library, filled with daring ideas and ambitious titles, deserves to be preserved and rediscovered by new generations of gamers.