20 Best JRPGs of All Time: Which Game to Play in 2025?
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Developing a complete love for this genre was inevitable in my case, so you can thank that for this useful list of the best JRPGs of all time. Rich stories that blow my mind or hit me in the feels always drew me in. Anime and RPG games were right up my alley. Then, I discovered JRPGs and the rest is history.
I’ve clocked hundreds or maybe thousands of hours into Atlus’ games like Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal. Right now, I’m enjoying Shin Megami Tensei V Vengeance. I’ve mashed my console’s buttons during combat in Final Fantasy XV and Crisis Core. I’ve dived into a nostalgia rabbit hole playing Xenoblade Chronicles: The Definitive Edition, and so on.
What makes a title worth playing? The story should capture you, the characters should intrigue you, the worlds should immerse you in their bubbles, and lastly: it should be fun.
I’ll be showing you star titles you shouldn’t miss. Plus, I’ll include links to great deals if you feel like buying and playing the game immediately.
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My Top Picks for JRPG Titles
As a big-time fan, picking the top five best JRPGs was difficult. I had to overcome my biases and look at all aspects of what makes a great JRPG to bring you the best. Here are the top contenders. Click links for a general overview on Eneba or scroll down for my detailed reviews below:
- Metaphor: ReFantazio (2024) – Groundbreaking RPG from the group behind Persona that mixes fantasy, politics, and turn-based combat into an ultimate cocktail. And, in [currentyear], Atlus is rolling out new story DLC that adds fresh quests and expands character paths.
- Persona 5 Royal (2020) – Stylish entry with slick combat in a high-school setting. The game keeps its momentum with ongoing ports and quality-of-life updates on newer platforms, making it easy to dive in today.
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (2020) – Legendary rework of a classic that delivers emotion and fantasy. The next chapter in the remake trilogy is set to launch in 2025, pushing Cloud’s journey forward with new areas and story twists.
- Dragon Quest XI (2019) – A modern take on traditional RPGs packed with adventure, fantasy, and great world-building. The Definitive Edition remains the go-to version, with extra content and quality upgrades that still feel current.
- Yakuza: Like A Dragon (2020) – Funny crime drama JRPG with an emotional underdog story. With the release of Infinite Wealth in early 2024, this entry ties perfectly into the latest chapter of the saga.
There are a lot more titles on the list, so keep reading to find out everything about them how they rule this era. You’ll find the real hitters here.
20 Best JRPG Games: Breakdown of The Greatest Titles
Just a short note on what I looked into to choose the best JRPGs for this list. What makes a JRPG stand out in the JRPG ocean? Which elements should it deliver? Here are key points:
- Story, Characters, and Worldbuilding: A story that hooks. Characters that you’ll remember. Worlds that you sink into easily.
- Combat and Gameplay Mechanics: Combat that’s fun, engaging, or challenging. Gameplay mechanics that contribute to the whole entry and make it better.
- Art, Music, and Aesthetics: Eye-candy and ear-candy. Creativity and beauty.
- Replayability and Side Content: Secret bosses, multiple endings, and great DLCs.
- Public Reception: Genuine and honest opinions on the game provided by the community.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get into it.
1. Metaphor: ReFantazio [Best New JRPG Experience]
| Our scores | My score: 10
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Metacritic User Score: 8.5
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| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Themes | Anxiety, political struggle, prejudice, and the pursuit of utopia |
| Combat Style | Turn-Based with Real-Time Elements |
A bold new entry in the genre, Metaphor: ReFantazio comes from the creators of Persona, and it already bagged Game of the Year awards in 2024. Impressive and a top factor that makes it a MUST try. This contender transports you into a fantasy world rife with political tension and competition for the throne. You have to build your relationships and struggle for power.
What’s cool about this fantastic single-player game is that it blends classic turn-based combat with real-time mechanics. You’ll need to prioritize strategy over force in this game. Like most of Atlus’ games, it has a unique, anime-inspired art style with rich design elements.
Metaphor: ReFantazio shines by blending classic turn-based combat with quick, real-time action. Its vibrant, anime-inspired world is packed with gripping political drama and unforgettable characters.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is shaping the future of Japanese role-playing games, but a lot of newcomers might find its mechanics confusing at first. Seriously though, just push past the learning curve and this game will probably become one of your favorite JRPG games.
2. Persona 5 Royal [Best Story-Driven Pick]
| Our scores | My score: 9.8
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Metacritic User Score: 8.7
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| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox, PC, Switch |
| Release Date | 2020 |
| Themes | Rebellion, identity, societal injustice, and personal freedom |
| Combat Style | Turn-based |
When speaking of incredible Persona games, this one is an absolute must-try for newcomers and genre fans. You play as a masked vigilante, balancing high school life with heists inside surreal palaces. Outside of that, you’re a high school student who bonds with other high school students.
Honestly, the plot and settings alone make the game very unique and are elements that make it truly stand out.
It’s a stylish game overall and it hooks you emotionally. The game is also packed with deep choices. A true embodiment of this genre. The combat features your classic turn-based battles. You win by being good at strategy. And it probably has one of the best soundtracks I’ve heard in a game. Truly an elite JRPG with a strong world and a distinct hero.
Persona 5 Royal lets you live a normal high school life while pulling off thrilling heists. The smart turn-based battles, unforgettable music, and meaningful friendships make it special. With over 100 hours of play, it’s a great mix of story and strategy.
Persona 5 Royal is lengthy, offering over 100 hours of content. However, its social-sim aspects may not appeal to those who prefer non-stop action. If that’s not a dealbreaker, it’s one of the best JRPGs ever crafted.
3. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade [Best Action JRPG]
| Our scores | My score: 9.7
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Metacritic User Score: 8.4
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| Platforms | PS5, PC |
| Release Date | 2020 |
| Themes | Environmentalism, corporate greed, identity, grief, and perseverance |
| Combat Style | Real-time action and tactical elements |
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is a modern rework of an excellent RPG game. The game brings back Cloud Strife, a popular Square Enix protagonist. And they bring him back in some very stunning visuals, for real. This Final Fantasy game places you in an expanded world filled with cinematic cutscenes and deep character arcs.
The Square Enix overhaul adds fast-paced, strategic battles while keeping its RPG essence intact. You’ll enjoy real-time action with tactical combat elements. Plus, the Intergrade Edition makes the game’s performance better and it also introduces Yuffie’s DLC. Who doesn’t love extra content for a game that’s already great in the first place?
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade brings back Cloud Strife with stunning graphics and a bigger world. The fast battles need strategy, and the game adds Yuffie’s story. The story comes in parts, but it’s great for fans of strong characters and action.
A downside of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade might be the episodic approach to revealing the plot. You have to wait for the full story and that might not be appealing to all gamers.
4. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition [Best Traditional Pick]
| Our scores | My score: 9.5
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Metacritic User Score: 8.8
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch |
| Release Date | 2019 |
| Themes | Destiny, redemption, family, and resilience in the face of adversity |
| Combat Style | Turn-based |
Few JRPG games capture the essence of the genre like a really great Dragon Quest game. It nails the party members’ dynamic. The devs gave each character/companion a rich backstory and a genuine purpose, so you’ll never feel like they’re just filler characters. The story follows a young hero uncovering his destiny.
The entry mixes high-stakes adventure, exploration, charm, and humor. And it does it well! The Definitive Edition upgrades the experience with orchestrated music, faster battles, and a 2D mode for old-school enthusiasts. It’s a gameplay masterclass with over 6 million copies sold worldwide according to Square Enix.
We chose Dragon Quest XI S because it has great characters with real stories that matter. The game mixes fun adventure, exploration, and humor really well. It has faster battles and a cool 2D mode for fans of old-school games. The music is amazing, and with over 6 million players worldwide, it’s clear many people love it.
The only noticeable downside of Dragon Quest XI S is that some of the cutscenes are extremely drawn out. That kind of diminishes the overall gameplay experience and makes the pace too slow at times.
5. Yakuza: Like A Dragon – Hero Edition [Best Genre-Bending Pick]
| Our score | My score: 9.4
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Metacritic User Score: 8.2
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation, Xbox |
| Release Date | 2020 |
| Themes | Brotherhood, redemption, societal outcasts, and personal growth |
| Combat Style | Turn-based with real-world interactions |
A wild reinvention of the Yakuza series, this popular JRPG trades brawling for turn-based RPG battles. And for some reason, it works. Ichiban Kasuga’s journey through Japan’s underworld is both emotional and ridiculous, featuring over-the-top fights, hilarious minigames, and deep party mechanics.
This is one of the most interesting RPGs in recent years. The game’s world is alive and kind of reminds you of some of the nicest open-world games out there. It has dynamic side quests, a fully explorable city, and even job-based character progression. It kind of feels like an oriental GTA V or something along those lines.
Yakuza: Like A Dragon stands out by changing the usual Yakuza style into turn-based battles with a story that’s both fun and emotional. The game offers a lively city full of side quests and activities. With job-based character growth and things like karaoke and street fights, there’s always something to do.
There’s a lot to do: from karaoke to fighting street thugs. Sometimes, some of the fights feel like they drag on quite a bit because of enemy scaling.
6. Fire Emblem: Three Houses [Best Tactical Pick]
| Our score | My score: 8.9
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Metacritic User Score: 8.9
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| Platforms | Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | 2019 |
| Themes | War, political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of choice |
| Combat Style | Grid-based tactical RPG |
Here’s an addictive multiplayer Switch game for Nintendo fans. If you like strategy-heavy RPGs then Fire Emblem: Three Houses will be your muse. You play as a professor at a fancy academy where you train students who will shape a kingdom’s fate.
Enjoy grid-based combats that force you to be sharp and calculated. On the other hand, you’ll also enjoy relationship-building mechanics like you usually do in JRPGs. Replayability is sky-high as well because you have numerous story paths to discover. You bond with characters, train them in battle, and shape their future. Plus, there’s a permadeath option which makes every fight intense.
We chose Fire Emblem: Three Houses because it blends smart strategy with strong story choices. You train students, fight grid-based battles, and build relationships. With many story paths and permadeath, every choice counts. It’s tough for beginners but great for fans who love challenge and replay.
A downside to Fire Emblem: Three Houses is that it’s not beginner-friendly and some of the mechanics can feel overwhelming to newcomers. But it’s still an amazing entry that sold over 4 million copies according to Nintendo.
7. Final Fantasy XVI [Best Cinematic Boss Battles]
| Our score | My score: 8.7
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Metacritic User Score: 8.4
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| Platforms | PlayStation 5, PC |
| Release Date | 2023 |
| Themes | Free will, brotherhood, and the struggle against oppression |
| Combat Style | Real-time action |
Final Fantasy XVI is pure cinematic fun, ditching turn-based combat for high-speed action. Following Clive Rosfield, the game presents an epic, dark fantasy tale with brutal real-time combat and stunning summon battles. The Square Enix team crafted a dark fantasy world filled with intense battles that feel larger than life.
The boss (Eikon) battles feel like a Hollywood blockbuster, with massive creatures clashing in explosive combat. It’s easily one of the most ambitious entries in the Final Fantasy game franchise. The real-time fighting is fluid, flashy, and satisfying, designed by Devil May Cry’s combat director. It has a high score of 88/100 on Metacritic for a good reason.
Final Fantasy XVI shines with fast, real-time combat and epic battles. You follow Clive Rosfield in a dark, action-packed world. The Devil May Cry team made the fights smooth and exciting. Though it lacks a classic party system, it still offers a great story and thrilling gameplay for RPG fans.
A downside of Final Fantasy XVI is that it doesn’t have a traditional party system like past Final Fantasy games, which may disappoint longtime fans. Overall, this is a must-try with something to offer all RPG fans.
8. Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance [Best Overall Balance]
| Our score | My score: 8.7
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Metacritic User Score 8.1
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| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Themes | Revenge, systems of oppression, and the nature of divinity |
| Combat Style | Turn-based |
I can get behind Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (SMT V Vengeance) as one of Atlus’ best JRPGs so far. You’re thrust into an Isekai situation, where you go in and out of a post-apocalyptic Tokyo and a normal Tokyo. Your choices will impact the end of the story and for the most part, you’re fighting angels and demons, recruiting them, and getting flabbergasted by plot twists.
I played it on the Nintendo Switch online version and it runs well on there. A lot of things stand out to me when playing this top JRPG but what truly shines is the plot and gameplay balance. The story is very immersive and grips you. The cutscenes are cool. The opening soundtrack is insane.
The gameplay mechanics: story progression, side quests, main quests, turn-based combat, and expansive map WORK so well together. They make up a very balanced game with high replayability and an addictive formula.
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance stands out for its exciting story where your choices shape the ending. You fight and recruit angels and demons while exploring two versions of Tokyo. The battles and quests are fun and balanced. The music and cutscenes add to the experience. Some parts can feel slow, but it’s still a great JRPG many will enjoy.
A potential con of SMT V Vengeance is that some of the maps can feel tedious at times because of the background music and design choices, and certain parts of the game may seem repetitive or slow. This can affect the pacing and make it harder for some players to stay fully engaged throughout the journey.
9. Persona 4 Golden [Best Mystery-Driven Pick]
| Our score | My score: 8.6
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| Platforms | PC, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PS Vita |
| Release Date | 2008 |
| Themes | Truth, self-acceptance, and the duality of human nature |
| Combat Style | Turn-based |
Persona 4 Golden is an absolute must-play and another top JRPG from Atlus. It blends random battles, dungeon crawling, and a murder mystery set in a small town. You play as a transfer student investigating bizarre murders while balancing school life, friendships, and battles.
With a great cast of lovable characters and a heartfelt story, it’s one of the most engaging entries on the list. It was released in 2008 but you can still play it on modern consoles and it’s still a crazy strong game! It can compete with the newer entries, for real. The social sim mechanics add depth, making every decision feel meaningful.
Persona 4 Golden mixes a fun murder mystery with school life and turn-based battles. Its story and characters are strong, and the updated version looks and runs much better. Some dungeon parts can feel repetitive, but it remains a favorite JRPG for many players.
The remastered version improves visuals and load times, making it the definitive edition. It has over 45,000 positive reviews on Steam. A downside of the game is that some of the dungeon gameplay can feel repetitive.
10. Nier: Automata [Best Philosophical RPG]
| Our score | My score: 8.5
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Metacritic User Score: 8.8
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| Platforms | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch |
| Release Date | 2017 |
| Themes | Existentialism, the meaning of life, and the cyclical nature of existence |
| Combat Style | Hack-n-Slash |
One of the few games in the genre that make you question existence. Enter Nier: Automata. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where androids fight against machine invaders, it delivers one of the most thought-provoking game experiences I’ve ever played. The battles are fast and fluid, blending hack-and-slash with RPG progression.
With multiple endings and a narrative that changes based on your choices, this game rewards curiosity. The legend of its story only grows with time, thanks to its emotional soundtrack and deep themes. If you haven’t played it yet, prepare for an unforgettable ride. With over 7.5 million copies sold, you’ll come to understand the hype behind it once you’ve tried this top JRPG.
Nier: Automata stands out for its fast, fluid battles and a deep, thought-provoking story set in a post-apocalyptic world. The game offers multiple endings that change based on your choices, making it rewarding to explore. Its emotional music and strong themes add to the experience. While some side quests can feel repetitive, the main story keeps you engaged.
Some side quests in Nier: Automata feel repetitive, with fetch-style objectives slowing down the pacing. However, the main quests are always engaging.
11. Final Fantasy XV [Best Open-World Exploration]
| Our score | My score: 8.5
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Metacritic User Score: 7.4
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| Platforms | PC, PS4, Xbox One |
| Release Date | 2016 |
| Themes | Brotherhood, duty, and the journey from adolescence to adulthood |
| Combat Style | Real-time combat |
Get ready for another killer Final Fantasy game that blesses you with real-time combat that’s both fun and challenging. You’re thrown into a massive open world where Prince Noctis and his party journey across beautiful landscapes in a beautiful ride called the Regalia. It’s a pretty dreamy entry that combines cinematic fights with road trip vibes. I’m completely here for it.
The characters don’t feel like fillers since their dynamics and friendships feel genuine. The story has emotional weight thanks to that. Other than that, you can enjoy monster hunts, side quests, sword fights and more. A potential con I found in the game is that the story’s pacing feels a bit inconsistent and uneven at times.
Final Fantasy XV offers fun, challenging real-time combat in a large, beautiful world. You follow Prince Noctis and his friends on a journey full of strong bonds and emotional moments. The game blends cinematic fights with a road trip vibe and has plenty of monster hunts and side quests. Though the story’s pacing can be uneven, the characters and world make it a memorable experience.
A potential con in Final Fantasy XV is that the story’s pacing can feel inconsistent and uneven at times. This may make it harder for some players to stay fully invested in the plot, especially during slower or less connected moments.
12. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 [Best Unique Combat System]
| Our score | My score: 8.4
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Metacritic User Score: 8.7
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| Platforms | Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | 2022 |
| Themes | War, loss, and the pursuit of freedom and identity |
| Combat Style | Real-time action |
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 delivers emotional depth and weight thanks to a good story. If you’ve played its predecessors, it retains a similar sci-fi aesthetic mixed with something else. You enter a world where soldiers only live to fight. You form a group of unlikely allies that go on a journey to break from this miserable cycle.
The open world in this game is something to take in. It’s breathtaking and the contrast between looking at machines and lush nature in one setting is indescribable. The party-based real-time combat is unique to this game. At least, I’ve never seen this style of combat in other JRPGs.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 shines with its emotional story about soldiers breaking free from endless fighting. The open world is stunning, blending machines and nature in a special way. Its unique real-time party combat sets it apart from other JRPGs. Although the start is slow with tutorials and lots of talking, it’s a must-play for JRPG fans.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has over 15,000 positive Steam reviews and is a must-play title just like the others in this list. A potential con in the game is that the first few chapters feel slow because of tutorials and exposition-heavy sequences.
13. Granblue Fantasy: Relink [Best Co-op Action Experience]
| Our score | My score: 8.3
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Metacritic User Score: 8.2
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, PC |
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Themes | Adventure, camaraderie, and the fight against overwhelming odds |
| Combat Style | Real-time action |
A newer entry that deserves your attention is Granblue Fantasy: Relink. You control a party of skyfaring adventurers, each with unique abilities. You battle against monstrous foes in fluid, flashy action combat.
It stands out with seamless co-op multiplayer, allowing up to four players to tackle epic bosses together. Visually, it’s a masterpiece, with detailed environments and smooth animations. The game blends story, exploration, and stylish combat.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink provides fast-paced, thrilling action with a crew of skyfaring heroes. You can team up with friends to take down massive bosses, all while exploring beautifully detailed locations with fluid animations. While the loot system can feel a bit grindy, it still offers a rewarding blend of story, exploration, and stylish combat that many players enjoy.
With a 8.9/10 USER score on Metacritic, it’s clear that the people like Granblue Fantasy: Relink. A potential con found in the game is that it feels a bit grindy because of the loot system. It kind of feels like an online MMORPG because of that. No wonder it’s inspired by one. Even so, it’s a great reimagining of the genre.
14. Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered [Best Whimsical Play]
| Our score | My score: 8.2
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| Platforms | PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC |
| Release Date | 2019 |
| Themes | Grief, love, and the journey of self-discovery |
| Combat Style | Turn-based with real-time movement |
A Studio Ghibli-inspired entry that feels like pure magic. Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered follows Oliver, a young boy transported to a whimsical parallel world. Here, he befriends creatures and battles evil. The gorgeous art makes it feel like you’re playing through an anime masterpiece.
The story is heartwarming. The turn-based combat feels fresh with creature collection mechanics and the world is full of wonder. Its adventure offers nostalgia while welcoming newcomers to the genre. It has over 25,000 positive reviews on Steam.
Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered stands out with its beautiful, Studio Ghibli-inspired art and a warm, magical story. The turn-based battles are fun and fresh thanks to the creature collection system. It’s a game that both new players and longtime JRPG fans can enjoy.
A potential downside in Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered is that some of the play mechanics feel a bit outdated and frustrating, especially the AI-controlled party members during battles.
15. Chained Echoes [Best Indie Classics Tribute]
| Our score | My score: 8.1
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC |
| Release Date | 2022 |
| Themes | War, moral ambiguity, and the complexities of human nature |
| Combat Style | Turn-based with strategic resource management |
If you love entries inspired by the golden age of Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) RPGs like Super Mario RPG, Earthbound, and older Final Fantasy entries then Chained Echoes is a must-play. With Chrono Trigger-style pixel art, deep turn-based combat, and an epic story, it feels like a lost classic.
Combat is refreshingly strategic, relying on managing a constantly shifting resource bar rather than mindless grinding. It’s one of the best entries from an indie developer, It offers deep lore, meaningful choices, and a world brimming with surprises.
Chained Echoes captures the charm of classic Super Nintendo games with its detailed pixel art and strategic turn-based combat. The story is expansive and full of twists, offering meaningful choices along the way. Even without voice acting, it’s considered one of the top indie RPGs, earning praise from both players and critics.
With a 91/100 Critic Score on Metacritic, check the hype out for yourself. A downside is that there’s no voice acting in Chained Echoes. This might be a drawback for gamers who like to be fully immersed.
16. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth [Best Comedic Pick]
| Our score | My score: 8
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC |
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Themes | Redemption, personal growth, and the value of human connections |
| Combat Style | Turn-based with dynamic battlefield mechanics |
If you love games that mix absurd humor with heartfelt stories, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth delivers. Ichiban Kasuga returns for another wild adventure, taking his party across Japan and Hawaii. Enjoy fighting with over-the-top moves in its refined turn-based system.
The world is alive with minigames, social interactions, and side quests that are often just as engaging as the main story. The game retains the ridiculous charm of the Yakuza series while refining its battles to be more dynamic than ever.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth combines witty humor with a compelling story. Its turn-based battles are thrilling, and the many side quests and mini-games add variety. The vibrant, detail-packed world offers endless activities, making it a hit with players.
A downside in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is that some mechanics feel bloated because of the sheer number of side activities. It can feel overwhelming and frustrating for completionist gamers.
17. Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core – Reunion [Best Prequel]
| Our score | My score: 7.7
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Metacritic User Score: 7.6
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| Platforms | PS5, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC |
| Release Date | 2022 |
| Themes | Heroism, sacrifice, and the burdens of duty |
| Combat Style | Real-time action |
This one didn’t fly under my radar. You play as Zack Fair, a SOLDIER operative. One thing about Final Fantasy entries are that they never fail in some fields of game development: their visuals are always on point, their dubbing is always on point, and their soundtracks too.
I thoroughly enjoyed the combat in this game. Fluid, fast, and beautiful plus the unique slot-based mechanics added extra buffs that were needed for those hard bosses. But a lot of the other mechanics and elements in the game are so outdated. You can’t interact with most things in the world. The pacing doesn’t flow.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth impresses with stunning visuals, excellent voice acting, and a memorable soundtrack. Its fast-paced battles are engaging, enhanced by a unique slot system that offers an edge in tough encounters. While a few sections may feel dated or slow, the thrilling combat and captivating story make it a rewarding experience.
It’s odd that the combat system feels like it’s from the year 2030, but everything else feels like it’s from 2000. The whole game feels a bit half-baked but it’s still plenty of fun and worth the try.
18. EarthBound [Best Cult Classic]
| Our score | My score: 7.3
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Metacritic User Score: 7.3
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| Platforms | SNES, Nintendo Switch Online |
| Release Date | 1994 |
| Themes | Friendship, adventure, and the battle between good and evil |
| Combat Style | Turn-based with Unique PSI Abilities |
If there’s one cult classic that keeps getting better with age, it’s EarthBound. This quirky RPG follows Ness, a boy with psychic abilities. He fights against an otherworldly horror: Giygas. The game’s bizarre humor, fourth-wall-breaking dialogue, and strangely unsettling moments make it an unforgettable experience.
The turn-based combat is straightforward but engaging, with status effects, item use, and PSI abilities. Its modern-day setting, full of satirical takes on American culture, makes it stand out among fantasy-heavy JRPGs. The game is accessible via Nintendo Switch Online, so new players can experience brilliance from the 90s.
EarthBound is memorable for its quirky humor and unusual charm, blending lighthearted, odd moments with straightforward, enjoyable battles. Set in a modern-day world, it playfully pokes fun at American culture. While it can be challenging for newcomers, it’s a beloved classic now available on Nintendo Switch Online.
EarthBound has a cult following and is a beloved older JRPG. It can be difficult for newcomers though because of its grind-heavy difficulty curve.
19. Chrono Trigger [Best Timeless Pick]
| Our score | My score: 7.1
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Metacticic User Score: 9.2
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| Platforms | SNES, PC, Mobile, Nintendo Switch Online |
| Release Date | 1995 |
| Themes | Time travel, destiny, and the impact of choices |
| Combat Style | Active Time Battle [ATB] Turn-Based |
No list of great JPRGs is complete without Chrono Trigger. Created by Square Enix legends, this game is old but a masterpiece. The time-traveling narrative is still one of the best stories ever told in gaming.
Its Active Time Battle combat was groundbreaking. Battles happen seamlessly, with dual and triple tech attacks that make every fight dynamic. Multiple endings, side quests that actually change the story, and a legendary soundtrack keep this game relevant decades later. The Steam and mobile versions make sure you can still enjoy this now.
Chrono Trigger is a classic that still shines today because of its amazing time-travel story and smooth, exciting battles. The way fights flow with special team attacks makes the game fun and different. There are many endings and side quests that change the story, keeping players interested.
20. The KINGDOM HEARTS -HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX [Best Pioneer Gem]
| Our score | My score: 7
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Metacticic User Score: 8.7
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| Platforms | PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch (Cloud) |
| Release Date | 2002 (original), multiple remasters since |
| Themes | Friendship, identity, darkness vs. light |
| Combat Style | Real-time action with RPG elements |
Kingdom Hearts is one of the most unique JRPGs ever made. A chaotic, charming fusion of Square Enix storytelling and Disney magic, it somehow makes Cloud and Goofy feel like natural allies. You play as Sora, keyblade-wielding hero bouncing between worlds like Atlantica and Hollow Bastion. You battle the darkness, literally and metaphorically.
The real-time combat is flashy and satisfying. It’s got summons, magic, and crazy boss fights. But what really makes this game sing is its heart..pun intended. The story is emotional and unapologetically weird. I suppose its fans wouldn’t have it any other way.
And that soundtrack? Instant nostalgia.
Kingdom Hearts is special because it mixes Disney magic with exciting stories from Square Enix. The real-time battles are fun and flashy, with magic and big boss fights. The story is emotional and a little strange, which fans love. Plus, the music brings back great memories, making the game unforgettable.
If you’re still seeking more new games then I got you. Check out our list of the best PC games if you’re on PC. Xbox players, don’t miss our best Xbox games. There’s a lot more to discover here.
Best JRPGs of All Time: Legendary Picks That Still Hit Hard
You’ll find most of these picks on our list, but I have to give credit where it’s due (twice). These are the games that built the foundation. Their gameplay systems, characters, and stories continue to influence everything released today.
- Chrono Trigger – A masterclass in storytelling with time travel, layered characters, and seamless battle design.
- Persona 4 Golden – A small-town mystery filled with emotional arcs, unpredictable twists, and strong social dynamics.
- Final Fantasy VII – Massive in scope, unforgettable in delivery. Its blend of cinematic moments and strategic combat still works.
If you’re chasing the peak of genre design, these titles deliver.
Best Modern JRPGs: Titles That Set Today’s Standard
Current-gen JRPGs are sharper and more ambitious. They experiment while keeping what matters intact.
- Persona 5 Royal – Turns daily life and dungeon runs into a compelling loop, with standout music and smart mechanics.
- Metaphor: ReFantazio – Layers political intrigue, relationship building, and tactical combat into a bold new experience.
- Final Fantasy XVI – Features aggressive real-time battles, strong character arcs, and massive-scale boss encounters.
These ditch old rules and build new ones.
Best JRPGs for Newcomers: Start Strong Without the Grind
Getting into the genre is easier with games that explain well and stay fun. These titles give you space to learn and enough depth to keep you playing.
- Dragon Quest XI – Balanced progression, colorful visuals, and a clear path through every mechanic.
- Persona 5 Royal – Walks you through social elements and turn-based combat without overwhelming you.
- Fire Emblem: Three Houses – Tactical depth and narrative choices that keep each run fresh. You guide your characters, and their futures.
This list gives new players everything they need to get hooked fast.
Turn-Based Combat in JRPGs Isn’t Dead (It Just Got Smarter)
Turn-based battles used to mean standing in line and trading slaps. Not anymore. Modern JRPGs like Persona 5 Royal and Metaphor: ReFantazio prove that turn-based can be strategic, snappy, stylish, and FUN. Now you’re exploiting enemy weaknesses, stacking buffs, watching for status effects, and timing attacks like chess with an anime budget.
Here’s what makes modern turn-based systems thrive:
- Enemy variety that forces tactical thinking
- Synergy between party skills, not just brute force
- Status effects that actually matter
- Visual flair that keeps combat interesting hour after hour
How JRPGs Weaponize Emotion Better Than Any Genre
If you’ve ever finished a JRPG and just sat there, staring at the credits in emotional shock… yeah, same. These games know how to mess you up. It’s the buildup and everything else. The 40 hours you spent with those characters before the heartbreak. The slow-burn loyalty. The music that cues right when you’re most vulnerable.
And that’s the point. It’s not about spectacle..it’s about stakes. JRPGs make you care before they break your heart. That’s why when they land, they stay a while.
FAQs
What was the first JRPG of all time?
Dragon Quest from 1986 is often credited as the first true JRPG. It combined elements from Western RPGs like Ultima and Wizardry, and set the standard for future Japanese role-playing games.
What is considered the best JRPG of all time?
Many consider Chrono Trigger the best but opinions vary and it’s a much older title. Its innovative time-travel storyline, memorable characters, multiple endings, and seamless combat system have left a lasting impact on the genre.
What is the best JRPG to start with?
Persona 5 Royal or Dragon Quest XI are great picks for beginners. It offers a modern setting, engaging turn-based combat, and a balance between daily life simulation and dungeon exploration.
Is Kingdom Hearts a JRPG?
Yes. It blends action RPG elements with Disney worlds. It blends action RPG mechanics with a rich narrative that intertwines original characters and various Disney worlds.
Is Rune Factory 4 a JRPG?
Yes. It mixes farming sim mechanics with RPG combat. Players engage in dungeon crawling, combat, and character interactions, alongside managing crops and building relationships.
Is Octopath Traveler a JRPG?
Yes. It features turn-based combat and a deep class system. It features eight protagonists, each with their own unique storylines. It has a rich and varied gameplay experience.
Are all RPGs made in Japan JRPGs?
Not exactly. While “JRPG” originally meant “Japanese RPG,” it’s now more about style than location. JRPGs usually have turn-based or tactical combat, anime-inspired art, and story-heavy progression. So, a Western studio can make a JRPG-style game, and not every Japanese RPG fits the mold.
Is Elden Ring technically a JRPG?
Technically, yes. It’s made by a Japanese studio (FromSoftware), and it’s an RPG. But stylistically, it leans more toward action RPG or “Soulslike.” It doesn’t have the typical JRPG traits like turn-based combat or anime aesthetics. So while it qualifies in origin, most gamers don’t consider Elden Ring a traditional JRPG.
