When people reflect on the best handheld games, the Nintendo DS often gets the spotlight. But those who owned a PlayStation Portable (PSP) know that Sony’s handheld boasted an incredibly strong lineup of titles that rivaled even slot4d home console experiences. The PSP was a technological marvel, and it played host to some of the best games ever released on a portable device—many of which flew under the radar.

Some of the most critically acclaimed PSP games offered console-quality depth in a portable format. Daxter brought a beloved side character from the Jak and Daxter series into his own adventure with humor, platforming, and inventive level design. Resistance: Retribution translated a gritty console shooter into a streamlined, mobile-friendly experience without losing the franchise’s core identity. These games proved the PSP wasn’t just a novelty—it was a serious contender in the gaming world.

What set PSP games apart was their ability to deliver rich, complete experiences without compromise. Jeanne d’Arc, for example, combined tactical RPG mechanics with an alternative take on history to craft a memorable campaign. Meanwhile, Killzone: Liberation used an isometric view to create one of the most polished shooters ever seen on a handheld. These games offered impressive depth, and in some cases, even outshone their console siblings.

Although the PSP has long been discontinued, it remains a beloved piece of PlayStation history. Many of the best PSP games have become cult classics, and some have even been re-released on newer platforms due to popular demand. For gamers willing to revisit the platform today, the PSP offers a treasure trove of overlooked gems that are well worth rediscovering.