How to Upload Games to a PSP (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Upload Games to a PSP (Step-by-Step Guide)

The PlayStation Portable remains one of the most versatile handheld consoles ever made. Nearly two decades after launch, the PSP is still loved for its, physical controls, and its ability to play PSP titles, PS1 classics, and homebrew software - all in one device.

If you’re new to the PSP scene or recently picked up a modded PSP, this guide will walk you through how to upload games to a PSP, step by step.


What you need before you start

Before uploading games, make sure you have the following:

● A PSP with custom firmware installed

● A Memory Stick Pro Duo (or microSD + adapter)

● A Mini-USB cable or SD-Card adapter

● A Windows PC or Mac


Step 1: Connect your PSP to a computer

 1. Power on your PSP

 2. Connect it to your computer using a Mini-USB cable

 3. On the PSP, navigate to:
Settings → USB Connection

Your PSP memory card will now appear on your computer like a USB drive.


Step 2: Open the PSP memory card structure

When you open the PSP drive, you’ll see several folders, usually including:

  ●  PSP

  ●  MUSIC

 ● PICTURE

 ● VIDEO

 ● ISO

If you don’t see a folder called ISO, create one manually:

  ●  Right-click → New Folder → name it ISO (uppercase)

This folder is required for PSP game files.


Step 3: Upload PSP games (ISO / CSO files)

PSP games use .ISO or .CSO file formats.

  ● Copy your PSP game files directly into the ISO folder

  ● Do not unzip, extract, or rename the files

Correct file path:

/ISO/GameName.iso

Once copied, the PSP will automatically detect the games.


Step 4: Upload PS1 games to PSP (EBOOT format)

The PSP can also run PlayStation 1 games using a special format.

 1. Open the PSP folder

 2. Open the GAME folder

 3. Each PS1 title must be inside its own folder

Correct file path:

/PSP/GAME/GameName/EBOOT.PBP

If the file structure is correct, the game will appear just like a native PSP title.


Step 5: Safely disconnect the PSP

  ● Eject the PSP drive from your computer

  ● Press Circle on the PSP to exit USB mode

This prevents data corruption and ensures the files load correctly.


Troubleshooting common issues

Games not showing up?

  ● Confirm the game is in the correct folder

  ● Ensure the file extension is .ISO, .CSO, or EBOOT.PBP

  ● Check that custom firmware is installed

 

Legal Notice & Disclaimer

This guide is meant to help you get started.

Please make sure you’re using games you legally own. We don’t provide or link to copyrighted content, and nothing here is meant to encourage piracy.

Custom firmware and homebrew are commonly used for personal backups, homebrew apps, and other legally obtained content. How you use your device is up to you, and you’re responsible for following local copyright laws.

Back to blog