PSP Popularity Peak: 2005–2008

PSP launched March 2005 (Japan) / September 2005 (NA/EU). Peak relevance: 2005–2008.

Why It Took Off

• Hardware leap: 4.3" 480×272, 333 MHz MIPS, 32MB RAM — near-PS2 visuals handheld.
• UMD movies: Sony pushed film distribution — early adopter draw.
• Killer apps: Gran Turismo, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, God of War: Chains of Olympus, Monster Hunter Freedom (Japan phenomenon).
• Wi-Fi ad-hoc: Local multiplayer without router — huge in Japan schools/trains.
• Homebrew scene: Custom firmware (1.50, 3.03 OE, 5.00 M33) exploded 2006–2008.

Decline Factors

• Nintendo DS touchscreen + dual screen + Pokémon = mass market win.
• iPhone (2007) + App Store (2008) redefined mobile gaming.
• UMD movie format failed (no TV out initially, proprietary).
• Piracy via CFW hurt software sales.

Legacy

• 80M+ units sold.
• Established PlayStation portable identity → Vita → Remote Play → Portal.
• Best emulation target today (PPSSPP near-perfect).