In a fast-paced industry where technology evolves rapidly and trends change by the pianototo season, certain games endure—transcending graphics, control schemes, and even console generations. Many of the best games in PlayStation history, from both home consoles and the PSP, continue to influence new titles and remain relevant to players. Whether it’s due to their groundbreaking mechanics, unforgettable stories, or innovative design, these games represent timeless experiences that still hold up today.

Take Final Fantasy VII, for example. Though originally released on the first PlayStation, it laid the groundwork for an entire era of RPG design. The game’s emotional narrative, strategic combat, and world-building set a gold standard, and its PSP prequel Crisis Core enriched its legacy. Then there’s Shadow of the Colossus, which took minimalism to new heights with its desolate yet breathtaking landscapes and morally complex gameplay. These games remain touchstones for developers and gamers alike.

On the portable side, PSP games like Daxter and Monster Hunter Freedom Unite offered full-fledged adventures that could be played anywhere, proving that handheld gaming didn’t have to be a compromise. Daxter, with its tight platforming and humor, remains one of the most enjoyable spin-offs in the PlayStation library. Meanwhile, Monster Hunter paved the way for multiplayer RPGs on handheld devices, influencing future titles on other platforms and introducing many to the joy of cooperative gameplay.

What unites these games, across both PSP and PlayStation home consoles, is their ability to create lasting memories. They aren’t just games people played once and forgot—they’re experiences that players carry with them. As remakes, remasters, and reimaginings continue to hit the market, it’s clear that these classic titles are still alive and well. The best PlayStation games don’t just belong to the past—they help shape the future of gaming.