PSP games challenged the common perception that handheld gaming was limited to simple or casual titles. With a hardware architecture closer to that of the PINK4D PlayStation 2, the PSP was capable of running games with impressive visuals and complex gameplay, which made its best games feel more like console experiences than portable ones.

Titles such as Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker and Lumines demonstrated the system’s versatility, offering a blend of stealth action and addictive puzzle gameplay. The depth found in many PSP games was a clear sign that portable gaming could be both engaging and rewarding. Moreover, games like Patapon combined unique art styles and rhythm mechanics to deliver truly original experiences.

The success of PSP games in maintaining high quality while embracing the portability factor influenced later handheld devices and how developers approached mobile gaming. Today’s best games owe much to the groundwork laid by the PSP’s diverse and rich library.