While the PSP is often remembered for adapting popular PlayStation franchises cendanabet to handheld, it was also a launchpad for original ideas that would later influence or evolve into major console experiences. Some of the best games to grace PlayStation systems started right on the PSP—earning fanbases, critical acclaim, and eventual expansion to the PS3, PS4, or even PS5.
One standout example is Daxter, a spin-off from the Jak and Daxter series. While originally a sidekick, Daxter took center stage in this platformer that retained the series’ charm while introducing stealth and puzzle-solving elements. The game was so well-received that it set a benchmark for character-driven handheld games and proved that supporting characters could carry their own titles successfully.
Another influential title is Resistance: Retribution. As a bridge between Resistance 2 and Resistance 3, the PSP version added unique mechanics like third-person shooting and cover systems that hadn’t been seen in the mainline series. This helped shape future combat design for the franchise and proved that even large-scale shooters could work on a handheld without sacrificing intensity.
The PSP wasn’t just a secondary device—it was a proving ground. Several PlayStation games found their identity and polish on the PSP before being elevated to next-gen platforms. In doing so, the PSP earned its place not just as a portable machine, but as an essential part of the PlayStation ecosystem.
