The PlayStation Portable, affectionately known as the PSP, wasn’t merely a handheld console; it was a bold statement, a declaration that console-quality gaming could exist beyond the confines of your living room. Launched in Japan in late 2004 and subsequently conquering the world in 2005, the PSP directly challenged Nintendo’s long-held dominion over the handheld gaming market. And it did so with a confident swagger, boasting a sleek, almost futuristic design, a breathtakingly beautiful widescreen display (a rarity for handhelds at the time), and the multimedia capabilities that went far beyond just gaming. The PSP wasn’t just about playing games; it was about carrying your entire entertainment world in your pocket. The UMD (Universal Media Disc) format, while ultimately not as successful as Sony had hoped, was a testament to this ambition, allowing users to watch movies and listen to music on the go, in addition to playing games. I vividly recall the sheer awe I felt the first time I held a PSP. It felt like holding a miniature PlayStation 2, a technological marvel that defied expectations. The smooth, rounded edges, the satisfying weight in your hands, the vibrant screen that seemed almost impossibly large for a handheld device – it was a game-changer.

Beyond its impressive hardware, the PSP fostered a remarkably diverse and high-quality game library. It wasn’t just about scaled-down versions of console games; it was about creating unique and compelling experiences that leveraged the PSP’s strengths. Sure, there were portable iterations of beloved franchises like Grand Theft Auto, Gran Turismo, and Metal Gear Solid, but there were also original titles, experimental concepts, and niche genres that found a thriving home on the PSP. It was a platform that encouraged developers to take risks, to push the boundaries of what was possible on a handheld device. And for gamers, it was a haven, a place to discover new favorites, to experience familiar worlds in new ways, and to connect with a passionate community of fellow players. The PSP was more than just a console; it was a culture, a shared experience, and a testament to the power of portable gaming. Even today, the PSP holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers, a reminder of a time when handheld gaming was truly revolutionary. And now, let us embark on a detailed journey, exploring the top 10 best-selling games that defined this incredible handheld, starting, of course, with number 10. The sheer volume of copies sold by these top 10 best-selling PSP games is staggering!

10. Daxter (2.3 million units)

• Release Date: March 14, 2006 (NA), March 24, 2006 (EU)
• Developer: Ready at Dawn
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

The very idea of a Daxter solo game seemed almost comical at first. Jak, the stoic, brooding protagonist of the Jak and Daxter series, was the obvious hero. Daxter, his furry, wisecracking ottsel companion, was the comic relief, the sidekick who provided levity and witty banter. But Ready at Dawn, a relatively new studio at the time, saw the potential in Daxter, the untapped charisma, the inherent humor, and the opportunity to create a gameplay experience that was distinctly different from the main Jak and Daxter games. And they absolutely nailed it. Daxter, a spin-off set during the two-year time gap between the original Jak and Daxter and Jak II, places players directly in control of the diminutive ottsel. He’s not just tagging along for the ride this time; he’s the star of the show. The story is surprisingly engaging: Jak has been captured by the Krimzon Guard, and Daxter, initially fleeing in terror, eventually finds himself working as an exterminator in Haven City, a job that surprisingly suits his penchant for chaos and destruction. His primary weapon is an electric bug swatter, and his arsenal expands with various gadgets and upgrades as the game progresses. The premise itself is inherently humorous, and the game leans into this, with Daxter constantly delivering sarcastic one-liners, breaking the fourth wall, and generally acting like the lovable goofball that he is. The narrative cleverly weaves in and out of the established Jak and Daxter lore, providing context and backstory while also standing on its own as a self-contained adventure.

The gameplay in Daxter is a masterful blend of platforming, action, and puzzle-solving, all perfectly tailored to the PSP’s control scheme. The platforming sections are fluid and responsive, with Daxter’s agility and small size allowing for intricate level design and challenging jumps. The combat is surprisingly satisfying, with the electric bug swatter serving as a versatile weapon for both melee attacks and ranged zaps. Daxter can also utilize various gadgets, like a spray gun that can propel him to higher areas or a bomb that can clear obstacles and stun enemies. The puzzle elements are cleverly integrated into the environment, requiring players to use Daxter’s abilities and tools in creative ways. One of the most memorable aspects of Daxter is the “dream sequences,” mini-games that parody various movies and pop culture tropes. These sequences offer a hilarious and often bizarre break from the main gameplay, and they showcase the developers’ sense of humor. Visually, Daxter was a showcase for the PSP’s graphical capabilities. The character models were detailed and expressive, the environments were vibrant and varied, and the overall presentation was polished and professional. It was a game that looked and felt like a console title, shrunk down to fit in the palm of your hand. The soundtrack was also excellent, featuring a mix of upbeat, adventurous tunes and quirky, comedic pieces that perfectly complemented the game’s tone. Daxter wasn’t just a great spin-off; it was a fantastic game in its own right, proving that even the smallest heroes can have the biggest adventures. It’s a testament to Ready at Dawn’s talent and a shining example of what the PSP could achieve. The vibrant colours, varied enemies and engaging gameplay make this a must play for any PSP owner.

9. Monster Hunter Freedom 2 (2.4 million units)

• Release Date: February 22, 2007 (JP), August 29, 2007 (NA), September 7, 2007, (EU)
• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom

Monster Hunter Freedom 2 wasn’t just a game; it was a phenomenon, particularly in Japan, where it helped solidify the PSP’s position as a dominant force in the handheld market. Building upon the success of the original Monster Hunter Freedom, this sequel took the core gameplay loop – hunt giant monsters, gather their materials, craft better weapons and armor, and then hunt even bigger monsters – and refined it to near perfection. It was a formula that was both incredibly simple and endlessly addictive. The sheer depth and complexity of the game were staggering. There were dozens of different monsters to hunt, each with its own unique attack patterns, weaknesses, and behaviors. Learning these patterns, mastering the various weapon types, and crafting the perfect gear to exploit those weaknesses was a deeply satisfying and rewarding experience. The game didn’t hold your hand; it threw you into the wilderness and expected you to learn, to adapt, and to overcome. And that sense of accomplishment, of finally taking down a particularly challenging monster after countless attempts, was unparalleled. The crafting system was incredibly deep, with hundreds of different weapons and armor sets to create, each with its own unique stats and abilities. Gathering the necessary materials, from monster hides and bones to rare ores and plants, required exploration, patience, and often, a bit of luck.

But Monster Hunter Freedom 2 wasn’t just a solo experience. The game’s multiplayer component was a crucial part of its appeal. Up to four players could connect their PSPs via ad-hoc connection and team up to tackle the game’s toughest hunts. This cooperative gameplay was where Monster Hunter truly shined. Coordinating attacks, sharing resources, and supporting each other in battle was essential for success. The feeling of camaraderie, of working together as a team to overcome a seemingly insurmountable challenge, was incredibly rewarding. The social aspect of Monster Hunter was a huge part of its popularity. Players would gather in public spaces, share tips and strategies, and embark on hunts together. It was a community, a shared experience, and a testament to the power of portable multiplayer gaming. Beyond the core gameplay loop, Monster Hunter Freedom 2 offered a wealth of content to keep players engaged. There were gathering quests, fishing quests, and even cooking quests, all of which contributed to the overall sense of immersion and progression. The game’s world, while not as visually stunning as some other PSP titles, was filled with detail and atmosphere. The different environments, from lush forests to scorching deserts to icy mountains, each had their own unique flora and fauna, adding to the sense of exploration and discovery. The soundtrack was also excellent, featuring a mix of epic orchestral scores and more traditional Japanese-inspired tunes. The sheer volume and variety of monsters to hunt is a major part of the games appeal. Monster Hunter Freedom 2 was a game that demanded dedication, patience, and skill, but it rewarded those who persevered with an incredibly deep, engaging, and ultimately unforgettable experience.

8. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (3.1 million units)

• Release Date: September 13, 2007 (JP), March 25, 2008 (NA), June 20, 2008 (EU)
• Developer: Square Enix
• Publisher: Square Enix

Stepping back into the world of Final Fantasy VII, even in a prequel, carried a tremendous weight of expectation. Final Fantasy VII wasn’t just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon, a defining moment in the history of RPGs. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, released exclusively on the PSP, had the daunting task of expanding upon that beloved universe, exploring the backstory of key characters, and providing a new perspective on the events leading up to the original game. And, against all odds, it succeeded brilliantly. The game centers on Zack Fair, a SOLDIER 2nd Class operative working for the Shinra Electric Power Company. Zack is a cheerful, optimistic, and incredibly likable protagonist, a stark contrast to the brooding Cloud Strife, the hero of Final Fantasy VII. The story follows Zack’s early career, his training under the legendary SOLDIER 1st Class Angeal Hewley, his friendship with the enigmatic Sephiroth, and his burgeoning relationship with Aerith Gainsborough. The narrative is meticulously crafted, weaving in and out of the established Final Fantasy VII lore, providing new insights into familiar characters and events while also standing on its own as a compelling and emotionally resonant story. Seeing Sephiroth before his descent into madness, witnessing the camaraderie and rivalry within SOLDIER, and experiencing the events that shaped Zack’s destiny was a treat for fans of the original game. The game also explored themes of duty, sacrifice, and the corrupting influence of power, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

The gameplay in Crisis Core represented a significant departure from the traditional turn-based combat of Final Fantasy VII. Instead, it adopted a real-time action RPG system, with Zack engaging in fast-paced battles against a variety of enemies, from Shinra soldiers to monstrous creatures. The combat was fluid and dynamic, requiring quick reflexes and strategic use of Zack’s abilities. The most unique aspect of the combat system was the “Digital Mind Wave” (DMW), a slot machine-like mechanic that constantly spun during battles. The DMW could trigger various effects, such as limit breaks, status buffs, and even level-ups, adding a layer of randomness and excitement to the combat. While some players found the DMW system to be intrusive or overly reliant on chance, it undeniably added a unique flavor to the gameplay. Beyond the combat, Crisis Core featured a wealth of side missions and optional content, allowing players to further explore the world and deepen their understanding of the characters and lore. The game also boasted stunning visuals for a PSP title, with detailed character models, beautifully rendered environments, and impressive cutscenes. The soundtrack, composed by Takeharu Ishimoto, was a masterful blend of orchestral scores and rock-infused battle themes, perfectly capturing the emotional intensity of the story. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII wasn’t just a prequel; it was a love letter to fans of the original game, a deeply moving and unforgettable experience that expanded upon the Final Fantasy VII universe in meaningful and compelling ways. The characters, combat and music make this a game to remember.

7. God of War: Chains of Olympus (3.2 million units)

• Release Date: March 4, 2008 (NA), March 28, 2008 (EU)
• Developer: Ready at Dawn
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

The God of War series, known for its brutal combat, epic scale, and cinematic presentation, seemed intrinsically tied to the power of the PlayStation 2. Bringing that experience to a handheld console, the PSP, appeared to be an impossible feat. But Ready at Dawn, the studio that had already proven their mastery of the PSP hardware with Daxter, once again defied expectations and delivered a God of War game that was both faithful to the spirit of the series and perfectly tailored to the portable format. God of War: Chains of Olympus serves as a prequel to the original God of War, exploring Kratos’s ten years of servitude to the Olympian gods, before his eventual rebellion and quest for vengeance. The story delves into Kratos’s past, revealing his struggles with his own inner demons and the sacrifices he made in the name of the gods. The narrative is surprisingly emotional, exploring themes of loss, guilt, and the burden of power. Seeing Kratos grapple with his past, his family, and his own monstrous nature added a layer of depth to the character that was often missing in the main series. The game’s setting, the mythical world of ancient Greece, was beautifully realized on the PSP, with stunning environments ranging from the sun-drenched shores of Attica to the dark and foreboding depths of the Underworld.

The core gameplay of Chains of Olympus remained true to the God of War formula: brutal, visceral combat, epic boss battles, and a healthy dose of puzzle-solving. Kratos wields his signature Blades of Chaos, chained to his forearms, allowing for a wide range of devastating attacks and combos. The combat was incredibly satisfying, with a weighty feel and a visceral impact that belied the PSP’s small size. The controls were surprisingly intuitive, utilizing the PSP’s face buttons, shoulder buttons, and analog stick to great effect. The game also featured a variety of magical abilities, allowing Kratos to unleash powerful attacks and spells. The boss battles, a hallmark of the God of War series, were particularly impressive, with Kratos facing off against massive mythical creatures and gods in epic, multi-stage encounters. These battles were challenging, demanding, and ultimately incredibly rewarding. Beyond the main story, Chains of Olympus offered a variety of challenges and unlockables, providing additional replay value for dedicated players. The game also boasted some of the best graphics ever seen on the PSP, pushing the hardware to its absolute limits. The character models were detailed and expressive, the environments were vast and immersive, and the special effects were stunning. God of War: Chains of Olympus was a technical marvel, a testament to the skill of Ready at Dawn and the power of the PSP. It proved that console-quality action could be experienced on the go, and it remains one of the best action games ever released on a handheld console.

6. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (3.8 million units)

• Release Date: March 27, 2008 (JP), June 23, 2009 (NA), June 26, 2009 (EU)
• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, known in Japan as Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G, represents the pinnacle of the Monster Hunter experience on the PlayStation Portable. It’s not just a sequel to Monster Hunter Freedom 2; it’s a massive expansion, a definitive edition that adds a staggering amount of content to an already incredibly deep and rewarding game. It’s the kind of game that you can easily sink hundreds, even thousands, of hours into, and still find new challenges and discoveries. The core gameplay loop, of course, remains the same: embark on quests to hunt down and slay (or capture) a vast array of monstrous creatures, gather their materials, forge and upgrade your weapons and armor, and then take on even more formidable beasts. But Freedom Unite takes this formula to its absolute extreme. The sheer number of monsters to hunt is staggering, ranging from the relatively docile herbivores to the colossal, fire-breathing wyverns that will test even the most seasoned hunters. Each monster has its own unique attack patterns, behaviors, and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies and utilize different weapon types and tactics. The 11 weapon types from Freedom 2 return, each offering a distinct playstyle, from the fast and agile Dual Blades to the slow but powerful Great Sword. And Freedom Unite adds even more, including the Hunting Horn, a support-focused weapon that can buff allies, and the Long Sword, a versatile weapon that combines speed and power.

Beyond the sheer volume of monsters and weapons, Freedom Unite introduces the “G-Rank” quests, a new tier of difficulty that provides the ultimate challenge for veteran hunters. G-Rank monsters are significantly more powerful, with new attack patterns and increased health, requiring players to master their chosen weapon, optimize their armor sets, and work together effectively in multiplayer. The game also adds a new Felyne companion system, allowing players to recruit and train feline companions to assist them in battle. These Felynes can provide support by healing, setting traps, or even attacking monsters directly. The addition of Felynes adds a new layer of strategic depth to the gameplay. The multiplayer component, a cornerstone of the Monster Hunter series, remains a huge draw in Freedom Unite. Up to four players can connect their PSPs via ad-hoc connection and embark on hunts together. The cooperative gameplay is where Monster Hunter truly shines, with players coordinating their attacks, sharing resources, and supporting each other in battle. The feeling of camaraderie, of working together as a team to overcome a seemingly insurmountable challenge, is incredibly rewarding. The social aspect of Monster Hunter, with players gathering in public spaces to share tips, strategies, and embark on hunts together, was a significant part of its appeal. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite is a game that demands dedication, patience, and skill, but it rewards those who persevere with an almost limitless amount of content, a deeply engaging gameplay loop, and an incredibly satisfying sense of accomplishment. It’s the ultimate Monster Hunter experience on the PSP, and it’s a testament to the enduring power of this unique and beloved franchise. The sense of accomplishment when you beat a new monster is difficult to describe.

5. Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters (4.4 million units)

• Release Date: February 13, 2007 (NA), March 23, 2007 (EU)
• Developer: High Impact Games
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

The Ratchet & Clank series was a PlayStation 2 staple, known for its blend of action-platforming, over-the-top weaponry, and humorous storytelling. Bringing that experience to the PSP was a challenge, but High Impact Games (with some assistance from Insomniac Games, the creators of the series) rose to the occasion with Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters. This wasn’t just a scaled-down port of a PS2 game; it was a brand-new adventure, designed specifically for the PSP, that captured the essence of the series while also feeling fresh and unique. The story follows Ratchet and Clank on a well-deserved vacation that, of course, quickly turns into another galaxy-saving adventure. They encounter a young girl named Luna, who is searching for her lost father, a brilliant scientist who has been kidnapped by a mysterious race known as the Technomites. The narrative is lighthearted and humorous, filled with witty banter between Ratchet and Clank, and a cast of colorful and quirky characters. The game’s humor is one of its strongest assets, with plenty of slapstick, puns, and self-aware jokes that will appeal to both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike.

The gameplay in Size Matters is classic Ratchet & Clank, with a focus on third-person shooting, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Ratchet wields his trusty wrench for melee combat, but the real stars of the show are the outlandish and inventive weapons. From the classic Combuster pistol to the explosive Shock Rocket to the hilarious (and surprisingly effective) Agents of Doom, the arsenal is a joy to experiment with. Each weapon can be upgraded multiple times, increasing its power and adding new features. The platforming sections are well-designed, with plenty of challenging jumps, moving platforms, and environmental hazards to navigate. Clank also plays a significant role, with sections where you control the diminutive robot, utilizing his unique abilities to solve puzzles and assist Ratchet. The game also features a variety of mini-games and side activities, such as spaceship battles, arena challenges, and even a rhythm-based hacking game. Size Matters was a visual showcase for the PSP, with vibrant and detailed environments, smooth character animations, and impressive special effects. The game ran remarkably well on the handheld hardware, maintaining a consistent frame rate even during the most chaotic action sequences. The soundtrack was also excellent, featuring a mix of upbeat orchestral scores and catchy electronic tunes that perfectly complemented the game’s tone. The gameplay, graphics and length of the game combine to make it one of the best on the console. Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters was a testament to the PSP’s ability to deliver console-quality experiences in a portable format. It was a fun, engaging, and beautifully crafted adventure that proved that Ratchet and Clank were just as much at home on a handheld as they were on a home console.

4. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories (4.5 million units)

• Release Date: October 31, 2006 (NA), November 3, 2006 (EU)
• Developer: Rockstar Leeds, Rockstar North
• Publisher: Rockstar Games

Returning to the neon-drenched, pastel-colored paradise of Vice City was a stroke of genius. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, released on the PlayStation 2, was a cultural phenomenon, capturing the essence of the 1980s with its vibrant aesthetic, its unforgettable soundtrack, and its compelling story of ambition and excess. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, a prequel developed primarily by Rockstar Leeds for the PSP, had the unenviable task of revisiting that beloved setting and delivering a new experience that lived up to the legacy of the original. And, incredibly, it succeeded. The game is set in 1984, two years before the events of Vice City. You play as Victor Vance, a former soldier who is dishonorably discharged from the army and forced to turn to a life of crime to survive. Victor is a more morally grounded protagonist than Tommy Vercetti, the star of Vice City, making him a surprisingly relatable and sympathetic character. The story follows Victor’s rise through the criminal underworld of Vice City, as he builds his own empire, forms alliances, and clashes with rival gangs and corrupt officials. The narrative is well-written and engaging, filled with memorable characters, unexpected twists, and the signature dark humor that the Grand Theft Auto series is known for.

The gameplay in Vice City Stories is familiar to anyone who has played a Grand Theft Auto game. It’s an open-world action-adventure, with a focus on driving, shooting, and completing missions. The city of Vice City is beautifully recreated on the PSP, with its iconic landmarks, its vibrant neighborhoods, and its distinct 1980s atmosphere. The sense of freedom is palpable; you can steal cars, explore the city, engage in side activities, or simply cause chaos and watch the world react. But Vice City Stories also introduced some significant new gameplay mechanics. The most notable addition is the “empire building” system, which allows you to take over businesses and manage them to generate income. You can choose from a variety of different businesses, such as protection rackets, loan sharking, and drug dealing, each with its own unique gameplay mechanics and challenges. This added a layer of strategic depth to the game, and it made you feel like you were truly building your own criminal enterprise. The combat system was also refined, with improved targeting and cover mechanics. And, of course, the soundtrack was once again a highlight, featuring a killer selection of 80s hits across a variety of radio stations. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories was a remarkable achievement, proving that a full-fledged Grand Theft Auto experience could be had on a handheld console. It was a love letter to the 1980s, a thrilling crime epic, and a testament to the power and versatility of the PSP.

3. Gran Turismo (4.67 million units)

• Release Date: October 1, 2009 (NA/EU)
• Developer: Polyphony Digital
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Gran Turismo for the PSP was a long time coming. Announced alongside the console itself back in 2004, it was repeatedly delayed, leading many to wonder if it would ever see the light of day. But when it finally arrived in 2009, it was clear that Polyphony Digital, the studio renowned for its obsessive attention to detail and its commitment to realism, had poured their hearts and souls into creating a true Gran Turismo experience on a handheld console. This wasn’t a watered-down version of a console game; it was a fully fledged racing simulator, designed to deliver the signature Gran Turismo gameplay on the go. The sheer scope of the game was staggering. It featured over 800 cars from a vast array of manufacturers, from humble hatchbacks to exotic supercars, each one meticulously modeled and rendered with an incredible level of detail. The cars looked stunning on the PSP’s screen, with realistic reflections, accurate lighting, and detailed interiors (although the cockpit view was somewhat limited). The game also included over 35 tracks, many of which were based on real-world locations, offering a diverse range of racing environments, from tight city circuits to sprawling country roads.

The driving physics in Gran Turismo for PSP were, as expected, incredibly realistic. Each car handled differently, with its own unique weight, balance, and performance characteristics. Mastering the nuances of each vehicle, learning the braking points, and finding the perfect racing line required skill, patience, and a deep understanding of driving dynamics. The game offered a variety of driving aids, such as traction control and stability management, to help newcomers get to grips with the realistic handling, but purists could turn these off for a truly authentic simulation experience. While Gran Turismo for PSP lacked the traditional career mode of its console counterparts, it still offered a wealth of content. The “Single Player” mode featured a variety of challenges, including time trials, single races, and drift trials. The “Ad Hoc” mode allowed up to four players to connect their PSPs wirelessly and race against each other, providing a thrilling multiplayer experience. The game also featured a “car trading” system, allowing players to exchange vehicles with friends. One of the most impressive aspects of Gran Turismo for PSP was its technical performance. The game ran smoothly and consistently, even with multiple cars on screen, maintaining a solid frame rate and delivering a visually stunning experience. It was a testament to the skill of Polyphony Digital and the power of the PSP hardware. Gran Turismo for PSP was more than just a portable racing game; it was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Gran Turismo series and a showcase for the capabilities of the PSP. It proved that a true driving simulator could be experienced on the go, and it remains one of the most impressive technical achievements on the handheld console.

2. Monster Hunter Portable 3rd (4.9 million units)

• Release Date: December 1, 2010 (JP)
• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom

Monster Hunter Portable 3rd holds a unique position in the Monster Hunter pantheon. It was a Japan-exclusive release, never officially localized for Western audiences, yet it still managed to become one of the best-selling PSP games of all time, a testament to the series’ explosive popularity in its home country. And for those dedicated fans who imported the game, it offered a fresh and refined Monster Hunter experience that built upon the foundations of previous PSP entries while also introducing new elements and a distinct Japanese aesthetic. The game is set in Yukumo Village, a serene mountain retreat inspired by traditional Japanese architecture and culture. The village serves as your hub, where you can accept quests, forge and upgrade equipment, interact with NPCs, and prepare for your hunts. The atmosphere of Yukumo Village is a stark contrast to the more Western-inspired settings of previous Monster Hunter games, adding a unique flavor to the experience. The surrounding environments are equally diverse and beautiful, ranging from lush bamboo forests to snow-capped mountains to volcanic caverns.

Monster Hunter Portable 3rd introduced a number of new monsters to the series, including the Zinogre, a lightning-fast wolf-like creature that quickly became a fan favorite. The game also featured returning monsters from previous installments, all rendered with impressive detail on the PSP’s hardware. The 12 weapon types from Monster Hunter Freedom Unite return, each offering a distinct playstyle, from the fast and agile Sword and Shield to the slow but devastating Hammer. The combat system was refined and tweaked, making the action feel even smoother and more responsive. One of the most significant additions in Monster Hunter Portable 3rd was the removal of the underwater combat sections that had been introduced in Monster Hunter Tri on the Wii. While some players enjoyed the underwater battles, many found them to be clunky and frustrating, so their removal was a welcome change for many. The game also introduced a new Felyne companion system, allowing players to bring two Felynes along on hunts, providing additional support and strategic options. The multiplayer component, a crucial aspect of the Monster Hunter experience, remained as robust as ever, with up to four players able to connect their PSPs via ad-hoc connection and embark on hunts together. The cooperative gameplay was, as always, where Monster Hunter truly shined, with players coordinating their attacks, sharing resources, and celebrating victories together. While the lack of an official Western release was a disappointment for many fans, Monster Hunter Portable 3rd remains a highly sought-after title for import gamers and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Monster Hunter series. Its unique setting, its refined gameplay, and its impressive roster of monsters make it a standout entry in the franchise.

1. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (8 million units)

• Release Date: October 24, 2005 (NA), November 4, 2005 (EU)
• Developer: Rockstar Leeds, Rockstar North
• Publisher: Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories was a landmark achievement. It was the first fully 3D Grand Theft Auto game on a handheld console, and it proved that the open-world mayhem and cinematic storytelling of the series could be successfully translated to a portable format. Developed primarily by Rockstar Leeds, in collaboration with Rockstar North, the game is a prequel to Grand Theft Auto III, returning players to the familiar streets of Liberty City, but three years earlier, in 1998. You play as Toni Cipriani, a loyal and trusted member of the Leone crime family, who returns to Liberty City after a period in hiding. Toni is a classic GTA protagonist: tough, resourceful, and morally ambiguous. He’s a man who gets things done, and he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty. The story follows Toni’s rise through the ranks of the Leone family, as he completes missions for Salvatore Leone, navigates the complex power struggles within the criminal underworld, and clashes with rival gangs, corrupt cops, and ambitious politicians. The narrative is well-written and engaging, filled with memorable characters, sharp dialogue, and the signature dark humor that the Grand Theft Auto series is known for.

The most impressive aspect of Liberty City Stories was its sheer scope. The entire city of Liberty City, meticulously recreated from Grand Theft Auto III, was squeezed onto the PSP’s UMD format. The sense of freedom was remarkable; you could steal cars, explore the city’s three distinct islands (Portland, Staunton Island, and Shoreside Vale), engage in side activities, or simply cause chaos and watch the world react. The gameplay was classic GTA, with a focus on driving, shooting, and completing missions. The controls were surprisingly intuitive, considering the PSP’s limited number of buttons, and the action felt fluid and responsive. The game also introduced some new features, such as the ability to change clothes and the inclusion of motorcycles, which were absent from GTA III. The radio stations, a hallmark of the Grand Theft Auto series, were once again a highlight, featuring a diverse selection of music genres and hilarious talk radio shows. The soundtrack perfectly captured the atmosphere of 1998 Liberty City, adding to the game’s immersive quality. Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories was a technical marvel, a testament to the skill of Rockstar Leeds and the power of the PSP hardware. It was a game that defied expectations, delivering a full-fledged Grand Theft Auto experience on a handheld console. Its massive sales figures reflect its success, and it remains one of the most impressive and influential games ever released on a portable system. It showed the world what handheld consoles could do, and raised the bar for mobile gaming experiences, paving the way for the open world experiences we have on our phones today.

The Best PlayStation 1 Games of All Time