How to Make a PSP Load Games Faster

by Marie Cartwright
Despite slow load times, the PSP is a popular gaming device.

Despite slow load times, the PSP is a popular gaming device.

Junko Kimura/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Though well-liked amongst fans of portable gaming systems, the PSP is also known for its lengthy load times. These problems mainly stem from the PSP's use of Universal Media Discs, the discs PSP games are stored on. Accessing information on a UMD takes a lot more time than loading up a game cartridge. Individual load times for games are dependent on the design of the game itself, not the PSP. While some PSP games load without any problems, others can take several minutes to get running. Though there is no universal fix for PSP load times, there are a few tips that can help speed things up.

Step 1

Check the game developer's website for patches. In response to customer complaints about long load times, some PSP game makers have released patches that optimize the performance of the existing game. These patches will likely need to be downloaded to your computer and then transferred to your PSP via the USB data transfer cable. Consult the developer's website for more specific installation instructions.

Step 2

Put your PSP into sleep mode by quickly pressing the power switch. This method only works if you are planning on playing the same game later on. Sleep mode essentially puts the PSP into hibernation, turning off the screen and controls while leaving the game loaded. To turn off sleep mode, press the power switch again. The PSP will return to the game exactly where you left it. Please note this method will drain the battery if the PSP is left in sleep mode for too long. It is not recommended to leave the PSP in sleep mode for more than two hours.

Step 3

Skip or turn off opening cinematics. While cut scenes are always a dynamic addition to a game, loading them on a PSP can take a long time. Some games will have an option in the settings to turn off any cut scenes or animated intros in the future.

About the Author

Marie Cartwright began writing in 2010. Her work has appeared on various websites. Having worked previously in theater administration and Web design, Cartwright now works from her home in Northern California. She also maintains an events website geared toward the science and technology community. Cartwright studied performing arts at the University of San Francisco.

Photo Credits

  • Junko Kimura/Getty Images News/Getty Images