Despite its age, the PlayStation Portable holds a wealth of hidden gems that many gamers either missed or never had the chance to experience. Overshadowed by the rise of mobile gaming and the dominance of home pianototo consoles, the PSP still quietly boasts some of the best games ever made for a handheld system—some of which remain surprisingly relevant and playable even in 2025.

The 3rd Birthday, a spiritual sequel to the Parasite Eve series, offered a blend of RPG mechanics and third-person shooting wrapped in a mysterious sci-fi narrative. While the controls took getting used to, the ambition and presentation of the game were exceptional for the platform. It’s a title that deserves re-evaluation for its unique ideas and bold storytelling.

Another overlooked title is Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, a deep tactical RPG that was remade specifically for the PSP. Its branching storylines, intricate combat systems, and philosophical themes created an unforgettable experience that rivals the best strategy games on any platform. It’s easy to see why fans still consider it one of the best PSP games ever made.

Ys: The Oath in Felghana also deserves a mention. This action RPG is a remake of an older Falcom classic, featuring fast-paced combat, a memorable soundtrack, and vibrant visuals. It exemplifies what made the PSP special—compact games with immense heart and polish. Despite its niche status, its quality has helped it remain relevant for dedicated RPG fans.

While it’s easy to focus on big-name franchises, the real strength of the PSP lies in its surprising variety. From strategy to sci-fi shooters to under-the-radar RPGs, the system quietly cultivated one of the most diverse and rewarding libraries of its generation. Today, through emulation or used markets, these forgotten gems are being rediscovered—and they’re proving they were never meant to be forgotten.