While the PSP was often seen as a sidekick to Sony’s mainline consoles, it played a crucial role in expanding the lore of some of the most iconic PlayStation games. Far from being simple side stories, many PSP games became integral chapters in the timelines of beloved franchises. This commitment to storytelling helped set the PSP apart from other handhelds, turning it into a necessary part of the PlayStation ecosystem.

Perhaps the most prominent example is Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, which didn’t just fill in backstory but introduced new characters and emotional depth that enriched the entire Final Fantasy universe. It became a must-play esse4d title for fans who wanted to fully understand the events surrounding the original game. Similarly, Resistance: Retribution served as a bridge between major console releases, diving deeper into character development and world-building.

These games treated handheld storytelling with the same gravity as console experiences, proving that narrative quality wasn’t dependent on screen size. In fact, the intimacy of a handheld system often made the emotional beats land even harder. Players weren’t just observers—they were part of the journey, no matter where they played.

For fans who care deeply about continuity and character arcs, the PSP offered more than convenience—it offered context. These weren’t throwaway spin-offs; they were carefully crafted entries that added to the bigger picture. It’s no wonder that so many of these PSP games are remembered today as essential components of the franchises they belong to.