When most people talk about PlayStation’s greatest hits, they often focus on the home consoles. Titles 138 like Spider-Man 2 on PS5 or Bloodborne on PS4 are undeniably masterpieces. But lost in that conversation is the PSP, a handheld console that quietly delivered some of the best games of its era and played a crucial role in expanding the PlayStation ecosystem.

The PSP wasn’t just about portability—it was about power. Sony delivered a machine that brought console-level experiences into the palm of your hand. With a screen that showcased vibrant visuals and a control scheme familiar to PlayStation fans, the PSP quickly became a favorite among core gamers. More importantly, it hosted a lineup of PSP games that was both broad and deep, covering genres from action RPGs to puzzle adventures.

What made PSP games stand out was their ambition. Developers didn’t treat the platform as a side project. Instead, they used it as a playground for innovation. Games like Killzone: Liberation and LittleBigPlanet PSP weren’t just ports—they were thoughtfully redesigned to maximize the handheld format. This commitment to quality helped establish PSP titles as legitimate contenders alongside their console counterparts.

In the grand narrative of PlayStation history, the PSP may not always get top billing, but it deserves far more recognition. It offered many of the best games in the PlayStation library and influenced game design decisions that would carry over into the PS Vita and even modern PlayStation games. Its contributions, though quieter, are lasting and significant.