The PlayStation Portable wasn’t just a platform for new games—it was also a second home for popular franchises that found renewed energy in a smaller format. These weren’t throwaway side stories or stripped-down Bolagila versions; they were fully realized entries that showed how beloved series could thrive in a portable format. For many players, the PSP offered a new way to engage with favorite characters and universes.

Take Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. It’s not just one of the best PSP games—it’s a critical piece of the MGS saga. The game introduced important story elements while expanding on the base-building mechanics that would later shape Metal Gear Solid V. With robust co-op play and stealth action refined for handheld controls, it felt like a core entry rather than a spin-off.

Final Fantasy also had a strong presence on the PSP, with titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This prequel to one of the most beloved JRPGs gave players an emotional backstory for Zack Fair, and its action-oriented combat system made it unique within the franchise. It was bold, ambitious, and visually stunning for a handheld device—proof that PSP could deliver blockbuster-level storytelling.

Even racing games like Wipeout Pure and Gran Turismo PSP offered console-like performance on the go, complete with slick controls, deep customization, and competitive gameplay. These weren’t watered-down—they were optimized, focused, and built to push the PSP to its limits.

Franchises that made their way to the PSP didn’t just survive—they often flourished. These titles proved that handheld gaming could provide just as much depth and excitement as a living room console. For fans of these series, the PSP offered a fresh, portable perspective on worlds they already loved.