Open-world games were once the domain of powerful home consoles, but a handful of titles on the PSP challenged that situs toto notion by building expansive environments you could explore on the go. Some of the best PSP games not only offered freedom of movement but created immersive worlds that rivaled full-scale PlayStation games in ambition and execution.

One standout title was Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, which brought the chaotic energy of the GTA series to handheld for the first time. The game preserved the core mechanics of its console counterparts—driving, combat, mission structure—while introducing new characters and plotlines that enriched the GTA universe. It wasn’t a watered-down port; it was a full-fledged installment, tailored to fit the PSP’s capabilities.

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite also deserves praise for its massive hunting zones, multiplayer connectivity, and complex ecosystems. Though technically instanced rather than truly open-world, the game’s expansive design gave players the illusion of freedom and exploration. It redefined what was possible in co-op action gameplay on a handheld.

These PSP games demonstrated that open-world design didn’t need massive hardware to thrive. Through clever optimization and smart level design, developers delivered experiences that were portable yet sprawling. They helped pave the way for today’s handheld and hybrid platforms, where open-world games are now a staple.