Japan Rankings
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) wasn't just Sony’s first foray into handheld gaming—it was a global phenomenon. But while it shared the same hardware across regions, the favorite games in Japan and overseas were very different.
This article compares the Top 10 best PSP games in each region, and explores why tastes diverged, what made each title special, and how the PSP defined a generation of portable play.
Here are the most beloved PSP titles among Japanese gamers. These games became cultural icons, and many are still celebrated today.
（モンスターハンターポータブル3rd）
Co-op action RPG perfection. This title ignited the "Monster Hunter craze" in Japan. Players gathered in cafés and schools to hunt together via Adhoc.
（モンスターハンターポータブル2nd G / Freedom Unite）
Even before 3rd, this one set the stage with refined mechanics and legendary difficulty.
（クライシス コア）
A dramatic prequel to FFVII starring Zack Fair. Beloved for its emotional story and real-time battle system.
（ファイナルファンタジー零式）
A darker, more militaristic take on FF, featuring 14 playable characters and a tragic tale.
（ファイナルファンタジータクティクス 獅子戦争）
A classic strategy RPG remastered with beautiful cutscenes and added content.
（初音ミク）
The game that helped define the rhythm genre in Japan. Hugely popular among anime and vocaloid fans.
（ペルソナ3ポータブル）
A slick adaptation of the PS2 classic with new story routes and dungeon improvements.
（第2次スーパーロボット大戦Z 再世篇）
Tactical RPG packed with mechs from dozens of anime. A dream crossover for fans.
（テイルズオブ ザ ワールド）
A celebration of the “Tales” series, letting you fight alongside classic characters.
（モンスターハンターポータブル）
The game that started it all—laid the groundwork for one of Japan’s biggest franchises.
Western PSP fans leaned more toward cinematic action, open-world chaos, and console-like experiences on the go.
A full GTA experience in your pocket. Open-world mayhem, missions, and mature themes made it the top seller.
More of what fans loved, now in a neon-lit 80s setting.
Kratos’ handheld debut brought brutal combat and epic storytelling to PSP.
An even more refined sequel—some argue it’s the best PSP action game ever made.
A spin-off from the Jak and Daxter series. Funny, smooth, and full of charm.
High-speed racing with deep customization and urban style.
Street racing, police chases, and a strong single-player campaign.
Annual entries gave soccer fans plenty of portable action, and multiplayer options kept players hooked.
Third-person shooter based on the popular PS3 franchise. Big guns, big aliens, and solid controls.
Tactical espionage action with deep strategy and online co-op. A must-play for MGS fans.
| Category | Japan | Overseas |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Genre | JRPG, Hunting, Rhythm Games | Action, Open World, Racing |
| Multiplayer Focus | Local Adhoc (Co-op) | Solo / Online |
| Character Appeal | Anime-style, emotional depth | Gritty, realistic, cinematic |
| Top Publishers | Capcom, Square Enix, Atlus | Rockstar, EA, Sony Santa Monica |
| Social Culture | Gaming together in person | More single-player or online oriented |
While the PSP itself has been discontinued, many of these classics live on:
Despite the huge cultural differences, both Japan and overseas markets embraced the PSP in their own way. Whether you were hunting dragons in Shibuya or stealing cars in Vice City, the PSP offered unforgettable experiences.
💬 What was your favorite PSP game? Drop a comment and tell us which side of the world your PSP memories belong to!
