When the PSP launched, it was hailed as a handheld console that could rival home systems in power and performance. While many of the best PSP games were praised during their release, some didn’t get the recognition they deserved for pianototo being years ahead of their time in concept and design. Today, with the benefit of hindsight, we can better appreciate how visionary some of these titles were.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker stands out as a game that delivered a massive, console-worthy experience on a small screen. It introduced base-building mechanics that would later become standard in many AAA titles. Its multiplayer co-op missions also foreshadowed trends in shared-world experiences. Another bold title was Killzone: Liberation, which shifted from first-person to top-down tactical gameplay, proving the franchise could evolve creatively on a different platform.

Even smaller-scale games like Every Extend Extra and LocoRoco broke traditional gameplay molds with abstract mechanics and artistic direction. These PSP games challenged what portable gaming could be, offering depth and innovation typically found in console or PC games. Their experimental nature makes them feel more in tune with today’s indie scene than with their own generation.

Many of these games are now being rediscovered through emulation and digital re-releases. Looking back, it’s clear that some of the best PSP games were not just great for their time—they were forward-thinking prototypes for trends that would shape the industry. The PSP’s legacy lives on through these ahead-of-their-time experiences.