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Player Survey · 42 titles · 271 votes

The Best JRPGs of All Time

Discover the best JRPGs (Japan-style Role-Playing Games), ranked by surveyed players. Compare scores, platforms and reviews to find your next favorite.

241Players surveyed
271Total votes
20Votes for #1
5.0Top avg score

This ranking is a curated snapshot of the Best Games survey. Votes submitted on this page are not included.

Survey period: May 12 – Jun 2, 2026 · 241 players surveyed · Vote in the current survey →

How this ranking works
  • We surveyed 241 players, who named the games they recommend on each platform.
  • Where available, picks include ratings on five axes — story, gameplay, graphics, music and character.
  • Rankings are ordered by mentions (votes) first, then by average score.

The 42 best JRPG games

Persona 3 Portable20 votes
1

Persona 3 Portable

PlayStation Portable (PSP)

Survey scores · avg 4.6/5

Story5.0
Gameplay4.3
Graphics4.2
Music5.0
Character4.8

Persona 3 Portable brings the pioneer of the "Neo Persona" series to smaller screens, allowing players to experience its turn-based social adventure on the go. Framed as a hybrid visual novel and turn-based RPG, players can relive the original story as the male protagonist or choose the exclusive female protagonist route, which features a modified story and new Social Links.

Survey voice

Yuri / 20s / Male

’m very much a diehard Persona fan, and while I wouldn’t say Persona 3 Portable is the best entry in the series due to some of the compromises made to fit the PSP hardware, I still think it’s a phenomenal game. Despite the downgraded presentation in certain areas, it retains the compelling story, characters, and themes that made Persona 3 so memorable. What truly sets Persona 3 Portable apart is the introduction of the female protagonist.

Jonat / 20s / Male

Before I knew about the PS2 version, Portable was my first Persona 3 experience. It featured a hopeful story about death and a well-rounded cast of broken people who eventually found themselves through each other. Sure, young me was drawn in by the edgy exterior, but looking back as an adult, this is one of the most excellent and mature narrative experiences the PSP had to offer with an addictive JRPG and dungeon-crawling loop.

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Clair Obscur: Expedition 3318 votes
2

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.9/5

Story4.9
Gameplay4.9
Graphics4.9
Music5.0
Character4.8

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an RPG game that blends turn-based combat with action RPG elements, providing a fresh take on the genre. The game is set in a world with the Paintress looming over it. Every year, the Paintress paints a number, after which everyone whose age is above that number disappears. Players follow Expedition 33, the latest group of people who set out to fight the Paintress, and stop her from painting once and for all.

Survey voice

Noel / 30s / Male

A perfect marriage of nearly every creative field you can think of. The music? moving and grandiose. The art direction? Like concept art came to life straight from the page. The acting and voices laced to the brim with nuance and emotion. The gameplay an evolution of turn based and action, the Pictos and Lumina system a sandbox for experimentation, the characters all harboring a depth I've never seen before in a video game. Expedition 33 is a monolithic achievement in terms of interactive media. It is a moving painting crafted with a philosopher's insight and an artisan's masterful hand. It is a story that forces you to think about your own mortality, and those of your loved ones, it shows how differently people grieve, and how none are wrong but also none are right, and if you attempt to come to your own conclusion, even your very own family might suffer for it. Death comes for us all, but what can we do but cope? All the elements are there and they work together to create one of the finest works of art that I've had to use a controller to interact with.

Ronald / 20s / Male

One of my best games of all time. The game is really addictive and it was able to seemingly combine turn-based and action into one challenging but fun experience. Everything is top-notch from top to bottom. The story really hooked me until the end. It was confusing at first but really good when everything was put into place. The music really sets the mood of the battle or moment, and you are drawn into it.

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Final Fantasy VII16 votes
3

Final Fantasy VII

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story4.8
Gameplay4.6
Graphics3.9
Music4.8
Character4.9

The PS1 classic that redefined the RPG genre, one polygon at a time. Despite its dated look, Final Fantasy VII's story and gameplay still holds up and captivates gamers to this day. It goes beyond the limits of its hardware to tell a story that is still iconic up to this day, and its influence continues to shine through the games that it has inspired with its innovation and aesthetic.

Survey voice

Jori / 40s / Male

Final Fantasy VII on the PS1 is special for me because it feels like more than just a game I played, It feels like an experience that slowly builds up until it becomes something emotionally heavy and unforgettable. At first, I am just a mercenary in a group called Avalanche, fighting against a corporation that seems too big to take down. But as the story unfolds, it becomes much bigger than that. It turns into something personal, something about identity, memory, loss, and the fear of becoming something I do not understand. What really stays with me is how the characters feel real even with the simple graphics. Cloud, Tifa, Aerith, and Barret are not just party members, they feel like people with history and emotional weight behind everything they do. Their moments together carry more meaning the longer I stay with them. I also love how the game keeps shifting in tone. One moment it is serious and dramatic, and the next it lets me breathe with quiet, human moments. It makes the world feel alive instead of constantly intense.

しげぽよ

- The legend that created super-popular characters like Cloud and Sephiroth - Since it was when the PS came out, the graphics are full-on polygons and a bit rough, but at the time they were amazing - A very fun customization system where anyone can use magic, summons, and special commands by attaching Materia - With Materia combinations, you get surprising effects and cheat-like methods are born, lots to grind - There are plenty of minigames, and you could kill time on those alone - Every character is appealing - Each character's unique Limit Breaks are powerful and flashy in presentation - There's almost nothing to do after clearing, but even so, covering everything makes time melt away - It's no exaggeration to call it the greatest god-tier work of FF

Show original (日本語)

・クラウド、セフィロスといった超人気キャラを生み出した伝説 ・PSが出た頃なのでグラフィックはポリゴン全開でややだが、当時はすごかった ・マテリアをつけることで誰でも魔法や召喚、特殊コマンドを使えるカスタマイズ制が非常に面白い ・マテリアの組み合わせで、意外な効果を生んだり、ズルのような方法が生み出されたりなど、やりこみ要素が豊富 ・ミニゲームが豊富でそれだけでも時間を潰せる ・キャラクターがすべて魅力的 ・キャラ固有のリミット技が強力かつ演出が派手 ・クリア後の要素はほぼないが、それでもすべて網羅するには時間が溶けていく ・FFの一番の神作といっても過言ではない

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Dragon Quest VIII16 votes
4

Dragon Quest VIII

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.3
Gameplay4.3
Graphics3.9
Music4.4
Character4.3

Dragon Quest VIII is one of the most recommended entries in the series. It's a landmark title being Dragon Quests step into 3D graphics, while still retaining that Akira Toriyama vibe with its cel-shaded style. It has a lot of good mechanics going for it like the addictive alchemy system and the Dragonball-inspired tension gauge that allows your party members to go "super saiyan" in battle. This paired with its lovable cast make it one of the most memorable PS2 RPGs even among the other "Golden Age of JRPGs" releases of the PS2

Survey voice

しげぽよ

- Among the Dragon Quests it's top-class fun - Instead of a job system, there's a customization element where you allocate skill points to weapons set per character - The fun part of Dragon Quest is managing scarce battle resources in the early-to-mid game, and that's properly Dragon Quest here and fun - The mid-bosses are extremely strong and rewarding - There are parts that make you grin if you've played Dragon Quest 1-3

Show original (日本語)

・ドラクエの中でもトップクラスに面白い ・職業システムではなく、キャラによって設定された武器にスキルポイントを振っていくカスタマイズ要素がある ・ドラクエの面白い部分は序盤〜中盤の戦闘リソースが少ない時のやりくりだが、そこもちゃんとドラクエしてて面白い ・中ボスが非常に強く、やりごたえがある ・ドラクエ1〜3をやってるとニヤつける部分がある

よねさん / 30代 / 男性

My favorite work in the Dragon Quest series. The character designs, monsters included, are the best, and the story is superb too. The monsters you can recruit are strong too, and there was the fun of searching for monsters.

Show original (日本語)

ドラクエシリーズの中で一番好きな作品。 キャラデザがモンスター含めて最高で、ストーリーも秀逸。 仲間にできるモンスターも強くて、モンスターを探す楽しみもあった

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Final Fantasy X14 votes
5

Final Fantasy X

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.7/5

Story4.7
Gameplay4.4
Graphics4.6
Music4.9
Character4.5

Final Fantasy X follows the journey of a young blitzball player named Tidus as he joins the summoner Yuna on her pilgrimage across the world of Spira. The game is a turn-based RPG and one of the most iconic entries in the series, celebrated for its emotional storytelling, unforgettable cast, and the meaningful character development as you progress through the story.

Survey voice

だーます

Youth. Playing at night and then talking about it endlessly with friends at school the next day was the ultimate set of fun. Dodging 200 lightning bolts on the Thunder Plains toughened up my mental fortitude. It's also a good memory that I had a friend who got so absorbed he wrote character names on his house's walls in permanent marker and got scolded by his parents.

Show original (日本語)

青春。夜プレイして次の日学校で友達とひたすら話すところまでがセットで最高に楽しかった。雷平原の雷よけ200回でメンタルが鍛えられました。のめり込みすぎて家の壁にキャラの名前を油性ペンで書いて親に怒られてる友達がいたのも良い思い出。

Ervin / 30s / Male

Last mainline Squaresoft Final Fantasy. They went out with a bang. Square Enix was never the same after this. The sin boss fights were so amazing

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Final Fantasy VII Remake13 votes
6

Final Fantasy VII Remake

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.6/5

Story4.5
Gameplay4.5
Graphics4.9
Music4.5
Character4.6

Final Fantasy VII Remake serves to welcome new players into the world of FF7, while also catering to lovers of the original PS1 classic. It retains aspects of the nostalgic turn-based combat from the original game while also spicing it up for those who prefer a much faster, action-oriented playstyle. It expands on aspects that were left unexplored before in the story, giving the player lots of freedom to explore the city of Midgar as the city comes to life with stunning quality.

Survey voice

Teddy / 20s / Male

A great lookback on a classic, but with a twist! It was fun reminiscing a game that I have loved so much growing up, while sprinkled with some subtle surprises that kept the game fresh.

the other david / 20s / Male

Expanded on the early game sections of the original, and also introduced some new aspects that only became canon in later entries of the series.

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Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep12 votes
7

Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep

PlayStation Portable (PSP)

Survey scores · avg 4.7/5

Story4.7
Gameplay4.8
Graphics4.7
Music4.8
Character4.9

Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is a prequel that features a story split across three routes, with each character's perspective filling in the gaps left by the others to weave a larger narrative. Play as Terra, Aqua, and Ventus, each boasting a distinct combat style and set of abilities that offer a fresh gameplay experience with every route.

Survey voice

Zam / 20s / Male

A great (and important) addition to the overarching plot of Kingdom Hearts, and a good translation of and update to the combat system from the PS2 to the PSP. You have to play all three characters to fully understand what makes this game good. Aside from their intersecting stories, you also get to see the game through different lenses due to the differences in the characters' playstyles.

Sicat / 20s / Male

While I am more critical of this game nowadays, this game is just accompanied with many memories that it has a special place in my heart. A really good prequel that has some problems, especially boss design but still fun if you play casually. Story is also interesting and has some of the best cutscenes (Blank Points)

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Persona 511 votes
8

Persona 5

PlayStation 4

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.9
Gameplay4.7
Graphics4.6
Music5.0
Character5.0

Persona 5 returns to the urban setting of Tokyo, where you play as Joker, a transfer student forced to relocate to the city after getting caught in a scandal. The game explores different forms of corruption, from school abuse to the broader political environment of Tokyo, and even the actions of major corporations. Joker, along with the allies he meets throughout the game, works toward exposing these scandals through the Metaverse, where they take on their secret identities as the Phantom Thieves.

Survey voice

Yuri / 20s / Male

Persona 5 is my favorite game of all time on the PS4. It's a stunning game that perfectly showcases Atlus' strengths in storytelling, art direction, gameplay, and music. In many ways, it's the title that helped Atlus reach a much wider audience and grow into the globally recognized company it is today, and for good reason. From its stylish presentation to its unforgettable cast and compelling themes, Persona 5 delivers an experience that stands out as one of the best RPGs of its generation.

Ronald / 20s / Male

I am a HUGE Persona fan, and this game was really good. The HUD and animations set the bar for turn-based games incredibly high. You can really feel the amount of effort put into the combat and new mechanics like the “Showtime”. The story was interesting and dark, although the twist of Akechi being the traitor was pretty easy to figure out. Unlike Adachi in Persona 4, I never figured that one out until I actually took the time to analyze everything.

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Persona 5 Royal11 votes
9

Persona 5 Royal

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.6
Gameplay4.9
Graphics4.7
Music5.0
Character4.7

Much like Persona 4 Golden and Persona 3 Reload, Persona 5 Royal is the updated and definitive version of the base game. It fully utilizes the school year, giving you more time to explore its new features, such as the additional storyline that takes place after the main story and the new Confidants introduced in this version. The Palaces have also been expanded. While they still retain most of their original layouts, the addition of Will Seeds not only makes dungeon exploration more fulfilling but also gives you a greater sense of completion as you collect them.

Survey voice

サイダー

The Persona series everyone loves. As someone who'd played Persona 5, I thought "do I really have to do that long story again," but since Persona 5 was already complete, I was able to get through it. This game in particular has wonderful music, a work where I thought it'd be worth buying just for the music.

Show original (日本語)

みんな大好きペルソナシリーズ。ペルソナ5をやった身としてはまたあの長いストーリーをやらなきゃいけないのかと思ったが、ペルソナ5が完成していたため、やれた作品。 特にこのゲームは音楽が素晴らしく音楽だけでも買っていいと思った作品。

Dee / 30s / Male

It was a shared console with my former partner, but Persona 5 Royal was one of the games I played there and eventually brought over to my PS5.

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Persona 410 votes
10

Persona 4

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story4.7
Gameplay4.6
Graphics3.8
Music5.0
Character4.8

Deviating from the bleak themes of its predecessor, Persona 4 takes on a lighter, more intimate tone without losing the formula established by Persona 3. Bond with friends and solve a murder mystery in the small town of Inaba by wielding the power of your Persona in this 70-hour turn-based RPG.

Survey voice

Yuri / 20s / Male

While Persona 3 was my introduction to the series, Persona 4 is my favorite game of all time. I've lost count of how many times I've replayed both Persona 4 and Persona 4 Golden over the years. There's just something special about the game that keeps bringing me back. Beyond being an incredible RPG, the game taught me a lot about friendship, self-acceptance, and understanding others. The cast feels so genuine and close-knit that it made me wish I had friends like them. Even after all these years, the characters, story, and unforgettable moments continue to resonate with me, making Persona 4 a game I'll always cherish.

Ronald / 20s / Male

The very first Persona game that I played and my entry into the series. This was the game that I played a LOT during my high school years. I was really engrossed in the story and its mysteries surrounding the deaths of the people in Inaba. I really enjoyed the funny moments between the characters whenever they hung out, and it really made you feel like you were part of their group. The combat was really addictive and I was always curious with what Personas I could get after mixing two or more other persona. I also enjoyed the game’s BGM and there were times when I would just stand around and listen to it.

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Final Fantasy VIII9 votes
11

Final Fantasy VIII

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story4.1
Gameplay4.4
Graphics4.7
Music4.6
Character4.6

Final Fantasy VIII definitely has some mixed reviews due to the unconventional Junction system which was hard to understand at first, but later turned out to break the game wide open if used correctly. It also differed from previous Final Fantasy games due to the enemies being at the same average level as the party, which led to battles becoming easier at low levels. Despite these, it had a fresh story based on romance, a very memorable soundtrack, and one of the best minigames in Final Fantasy in Triple Triad. Final Fantasy VIII is definitely a nostalgic turn-based JRPG worth playing, even if it takes some time to get used to its unique mechanics.

Survey voice

しげぽよ

- The first school-themed FF in FF history - FF7 was a 3-CD set, but 8 is a 4-disc set with huge volume - Following Cloud, the cool-character protagonist has quirks on quirks - The Junction system of equipping magic to stats is superb - Since you can also refine magic from items, the key is whether you realize you don't even need to draw magic from enemies in the first place - There's a card game with its own rules, but it's so fun it's sometimes called a card game - Since you can also refine items from cards, it's no exaggeration to say whoever controls the cards controls the game - Thanks to the Junction system, you can get strong even at low levels - Conversely, if you level up, enemy levels rise too, so if you think you just need to level up, you'll struggle - The theme song "Eyes On Me" is a good song

Show original (日本語)

・FF史上初、学園もののFF ・FF7はCD3枚組だったが、8は4枚組と大ボリューム ・クラウドにつづき、クールキャラの主人公が一癖も二癖もある ・魔法をステータスに装備させるというジャンクションシステムが秀逸 ・アイテムから魔法を精製できたりするのでそもそも敵から魔法をドローする必要ないことに気付けるかどうかが鍵 ・独自ルールのカードゲームがあるが面白すぎてカードゲーといわれることがある ・カードからもアイテム精製ができるため、カードを制するものはゲームを制すると言っても過言ではない ・ジャンクションシステムのおかげでレベルが低くても強くなれる ・逆にレベルを上げると敵のレベルも上がっていくのでレベルを上げればいいと思っていると苦戦してしまう ・主題歌のアイズオンミーが良い曲

Sora / 30s / Male

If Kingdom Hearts 2 is my all-time favorite game, then this is my eldest brother's. Whenever I play this game, it always reminds me of BJ, and the days and nights I spent watching him play it for hours and hours on end, trying to complete it as best as one could. This game ignited my love for great stories. I will firmly die on the hill that this is THE BEST of the classic Final Fantasy games, even greater than 7 and 9. And yes, I am willing to fight for it.

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Dragon Quest IX9 votes
12

Dragon Quest IX

Nintendo 3DS / DS

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story4.0
Gameplay4.4
Graphics3.6
Music4.2
Character4.1

Dragon Quest IX is the 9th mainline entry in the traditional turn-based RPG series, Dragon Quest. You play as a Celestrian, an angelic race, tasked to investigate the disaster in your homeland and recover the scattered fruits of the World Tree called Fyggs. However, fate has not been kind to you, and you wake up as a mortal soon after you fall from your homeland. This is the first entry in the series that features a customizable protagonist and multiplayer, where players can form a party of 4 to tackle a huge endgame content after the main story. Take on a journey alone or with your friends to reclaim your role as a guardian of the mortal realm and save the world.

Survey voice

葉桜

The title that became my biggest gateway to getting hooked on games. The weighty story of course, but also grind elements you could call playable forever are, I think, this game's appeal. Even now, new maps are being discovered among enthusiasts, making it a game with deep-rooted popularity.

Show original (日本語)

ゲームにハマる最大のきっかけになったタイトルです。重厚なストーリーはもちろん、永遠に遊べるとまで言えるほどのやり込み要素もこのゲームの魅力だと思います。いまだに有志の間では新しい地図が発見されており、根強い人気を誇るゲームです。

Ray / 20s / Male

We really need more mainline Dragon Quest entries where you can customize your character instead of an established one.

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Final Fantasy IX8 votes
13

Final Fantasy IX

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.6/5

Story4.9
Gameplay4.5
Graphics4.2
Music4.9
Character4.6

Final Fantasy IX is a triumphant return to the series' roots, with a joyful, cartoonish fantasy style that recalls classic JRPGs the likes of Dragon Quest. The soundtrack a sweeping, melodic epic by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, the story a wistful tale of identity and purpose, the characters all lovable and memorable, with very distinct personalities and great banter. FFIX is a breath of fresh air and a nostalgic JRPG, and the mainline FF series would certainly be less colorful without it.

Survey voice

Piolo / 30s / Male

This game is the last numbered Final Fantasy title on the PlayStation, and it's unforgettable due to its excellent story. The most memorable moment for me is Steiner's date scene with Beatrix and his recognition of Zidane as an ally despite his initial impression of him when they first met. Steiner is a really memorable character, and the way his arc ends is satisfying. The praise he receives is well-deserved.

だーます

A work I love enough to fight for 1st or 2nd place in the FF series. The story and music in particular are the best, and it's one of the works I want to replay now that I'm an adult. I'm eagerly awaiting a remake.

Show original (日本語)

FFシリーズで1,2位を争うほど好きな作品。特にストーリーと音楽が最高で、大人になってやり直したいと思う作品のひとつ。リメイクを心待ちにしております。

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Dragon Quest V8 votes
14

Dragon Quest V

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story5.0
Gameplay4.5
Graphics3.2
Music4.9
Character4.0

Dragon Quest V is the fifth main instalment of the Dragon Quest series, and it has players going through the three different eras of the protagonist's life. The game starts off with the Hero being a young child and eventually ends with him having his own family and children who fight alongside him. Aside from that, the game features a new monster recruitment system, which allows players to add monsters to their own party and use them in battle.

Survey voice

The first time I played, that scene with Pankraz was so sad I couldn't stop crying. Within the numbered series, it's rare for the fun of recruiting monsters as allies, and the talking-point appeal where fans can get worked up over who to choose as a marriage partner, in short, it's a must-play. I'm a Bianca partisan, of course.

Show original (日本語)

初めてプレイした時、パパスのあのシーンが悲しすぎて涙が止まらなかった。ナンバリングシリーズの中では珍しいモンスターを仲間にする楽しさ、結婚相手を誰にするかでファン同士盛り上がることもできる話題性、とにかくプレイ必須ですね。私はもちろんビアンカ派です。

れーや / 20代 / 男性

I played it many times with all sorts of restrictions, no casino, no Elfin Elixir, etc. During play, I accidentally touched the console itself and it froze. The despair when I saw the words "Your adventure log has been erased" along with the cursed BGM is, now, a good memory too.

Show original (日本語)

カジノなし縛り、ひとしこのみなし縛り、等いろんな縛りでプレイして何周もしました。プレイ中、ゲーム本体に触れてしまいフリーズ。呪いのBGMと共に「ぼうけんのしょが消えました」の文字も見た時の絶望感も、今となっては良い思い出です。

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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth7 votes
15

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story4.3
Gameplay4.4
Graphics4.9
Music4.4
Character4.4

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a direct continuation of FFVII Remake, answering questions left by the previous game and leaving players with even more. As the cast explores the rest of the planet in their quest to defeat Sephiroth, the game's scale has considerably increased. Prominent side activities, such as its own dedicated card game, bring another dimension to an already expansive experience with entire regions to explore. Overall, Rebirth builds upon the story and the system that Remake began, resulting in a game that's both much deeper and wider in scale. This is definitely a must-play for gamers seeking a complete RPG experience.

Survey voice

あるえ / 30代 / 男性

I was moved to be able to play FF7 with PS5 graphics. It was great that you can control not just Cloud but the party members too. It was fun discovering strong moves that weave in Synergy attacks.

Show original (日本語)

PS5のグラフィックでFF7をプレイできるのに感動した クラウドだけでなく仲間キャラも操作できるのが良かった 連携技を絡めた強いムーブを発見するのが面白かった

the other david / 20s / Male

Fleshed out the world visually and also added new elements similar to Remake

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Chrono Cross6 votes
16

Chrono Cross

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.2
Gameplay4.4
Graphics3.8
Music4.6
Character4.0

Chrono Cross is a classic JRPG exploring parallel dimensions. Featuring a huge cast of memorable characters, a story that wraps around multiple worlds, and challenging strategic turn-based combat, enjoy this spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger.

Survey voice

Iommi / 20s / Female

I loved this game and its story so much. It's the only Chrono game I've ever played and I've never met anyone who knows it. I was surprised to go on the internet years later and discover that this game is widely disliked by the Chrono Trigger fanbase.

vik / 20s / Male

Strange sequel, but solid game overall. Characters might not be as deep since they focused more on quantity over quality but it was a fun ride nonetheless. Life changing OST too.

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Chrono Trigger5 votes
17

Chrono Trigger

Super Nintendo (SNES / SFC)

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.8
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.4
Music5.0
Character5.0

Chrono Trigger is a legend in the JRPG space. It's a project that was headed by Square's so-called "Dream Team" consisting of Final Fantasy Creator, Hironobu Sakaguchi, Dragon Quest Creator, Yuji Horii, and Dragon Quest designer and Dragonball author, Akira Toriyama. It tells a time travel tale spanning eras, featuring lovable characters with their combo techs showcasing their amazing teamwork on the battlefield. Chrono Trigger is a must-play classic that any JRPG fan needs to experience at least once.

Survey voice

Jori / 40s / Male

I love how it immediately pulls me into this adventurous, almost magical feeling world, then quickly expands into time travel, which completely changes how I think about the story. I am not just moving forward through a linear journey, I am jumping across eras, seeing how my actions in one time period affect another. That idea alone already makes it exciting, but the game goes way beyond that. What really gets me is the pacing. It never feels slow or wasted. Every moment feels like it matters, whether I am meeting a new character, discovering a new era, or uncovering something about the world’s history. It keeps building momentum in a way that makes me want to keep going just to see what happens next. And the characters, they are unforgettable. Crono, Marle, Lucca, Frog, Robo, Ayla, and Magus all feel distinct, not just in gameplay but in personality and story importance. I genuinely care about them, and the game keeps giving me moments that make them feel more real and meaningful.

しげぽよ

- One of the SNES's god-tier works, made through the dream collaboration of Dragon Quest's Mr. Horii + Dragon Ball's Akira Toriyama + FF's Mr. Sakaguchi - A game system exactly like Dragon Quest + FF, with a grand-scale story that travels back and forth between past, present, and future - Fresh touches everywhere, like a mechanism where what you did in the past is reflected in the present and future (the black treasure chests) - Battles use FF's ATB method, but a unique "Combo tech" system is built in, making it fun and tricky to decide who to put in your party - It adopts multiple endings, rare for the era, and it's fun to experiment to see what endings you can get - One of the masterpieces from Square Enix's golden age

Show original (日本語)

・ドラクエの堀井氏+ドラゴンボールの鳥山明氏+FFの坂口氏の夢のコラボで作られたSFCの神作の一つ ・まさにドラクエ+FFのようなゲームシステムで、ストーリーは過去現在未来を行き来するスケールの大きい話 ・過去に行ったことが現在や未来にも反映される仕組み(黒宝箱)など随所にみられて新鮮 ・バトルはFFのATB方式だが「連携技」という独自のシステムが構築されておりパーティに誰を入れるかが悩ましく面白い ・この時代にはめずらしいマルチエンディングを採用しており、どんなエンディングが見れるか試行錯誤するのが楽しい ・スクエニ黄金期だった時の名作の一つ

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Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories5 votes
18

Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories

Game Boy Advance

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.6
Gameplay4.8
Graphics5.0
Music4.6
Character4.8

This is the in-between of Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2 with a massively different gameplay twist. Building your deck for combat and drafting different cards for rooms to explore really adds to the complexity and confusion of both the actual plot and mapping out Castle Oblivion. Its lore is essential with its introduction of Organization XIII and how tied they are to the entirety of KH plot.

Survey voice

Seto Kai B. / 20s / Male

YOOOOO Im one of the few who played chain of memories here first before PS2 lol, i first got GBA before ps2 so yeah, that explains my addiction

Joshua / 20s / Male

The best Kingdom Hearts ever released

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Bravely Default5 votes
19

Bravely Default

Nintendo 3DS / DS

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story4.4
Gameplay4.4
Graphics4.0
Music4.8
Character4.4

Bravely Default is a turned-based JRPG revolving around the unique Brave and Default system. It uses Brave Points, which dictates how many actions you can take in one turn. Gain Brave Points and defend against foes using Default, or use up Brave Points and attack multiple times with Brave. You may use different gameplay styles on your characters using the Job system. Defeat bosses to gain access to their Jobs, and freely customize your party to fit your playstyle. Follow the four protagonists, Tiz, Agnès, Ringabel, and Edea, as they journey to save the four elemental crystals from the darkness. As they attempt to restore balance to the world, they will face an army in pursuit of Agnès, and to possibly uncover a greater threat waiting for them in the end.

Survey voice

Ralph / 30s / Male

Spoilers: During the final battle where Ouroboros announces his intent to invade the Celestial Realm. The 3DS' camera turns on, revealing your face in the background of the final fight. It basically confirms that the "celestial entity" helping Tiz is none other than you, and that the Celestial Realm is the real world. Probably the best 4th wall break in any videogame since Psycho Mantis in Metal Gear Solid.

Sicat / 20s / Male

Best FF game that isn't FF. Story is a bit generic but the characters carried especially Edea and Ringabel. Job system is awesome and the music is hype. 2nd half of the game could've been better but the true end is peak

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Final Fantasy XII5 votes
20

Final Fantasy XII

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.0
Gameplay4.0
Graphics4.6
Music4.2
Character4.6

Final Fantasy XII follows the story of Vaan and his band of friends. This game moves away from the usual turn-based combat and completely revamps it into a new and highly stylized field combat system. It also features new game mechanics, such as the Gambit system for auto-battles. First launched on the PlayStation 2, this game was way ahead of all its predecessors at the time with its extraordinary graphics that surpass even that of Final Fantasy X. The story will have you start simple, with a peak of the lowly life in Rabanastre, but then it gradually ups the ante as you progress.

Survey voice

ryunosuke.hamada / 30代 / 男性

I remember buying it in junior high after seeing a friend playing it and thinking it looked fun. Back then I only got as far as reaching the ending without even a strategy guide, but years later I learned about FF12's reputation at the time and its grind elements, and played it again in college. After that, once I became a working adult, I bought and played the TZA version too. It's a game that takes dozens of hours to clear, but it's fun no matter how many times you play, and a highlight is how the way you feel the story changes greatly with age. If there's anyone who played it long ago and left it at that, it's an immortal masterpiece I'd want you to pick up again now that you're an adult.

Show original (日本語)

中学生の頃、友達がプレイしているのを見て面白そうだと思い買ったことを覚えています。当時は攻略本もなしにエンディングにたどり着いて終わる程度でしたが、後年になってFF12の当時の評判ややりこみ要素などを知り大学生になってもう一度プレイ。その後、会社員になってからもTZA版を購入しまたプレイ。クリアまでに数十時間かかるゲームですが、何度遊んでも面白く、またストーリーの感じ方が年齢とともに大きく変わるのも見どころ。昔遊んでそのままの人がいれば、大人になった今こそ再び手にとって見てほしい不朽の名作です。

Hisa

I liked Final Fantasy 10's story the best among Final Fantasy, but the one I unexpectedly got hooked on was Final Fantasy 12. Including the secret boss, the game volume is enormous, and you can fully immerse yourself in the world of Final Fantasy. I also liked the battle action better than 10.

Show original (日本語)

ファイナルファンタジーのストーリーはファイナルファンタジー10が一番好きだったが、意外にハマったのがファイナルファンタジー12だった。裏ボス含めるとゲームボリュームはめちゃくちゃあって、ファイナルファンタジーの世界にどっぷり浸れる。バトルアクションも10より好きだった。

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Digimon World 35 votes
21

Digimon World 3

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story4.0
Gameplay4.6
Graphics4.0
Music3.8
Character4.4

Digimon World 3 is the most fleshed-out Digimon World game released on the PlayStation. Here, you can raise three Digimon and unlock their branching evolution paths throughout the game. How they Digivolve is up to you and depends on which Digimon you want them to become as they grow. The world itself is also expansive, with plenty of areas to explore and train your Digimon.

Survey voice

Trick / 20s / Male

The gameplay isn't anything that special since it's very similar to Pokemon where it's turn-based. But, what's cool about this game is the Digivolution trees where I could set the Digimon into anything based on how I train them. You can get evolutions by having two Digimon fuse together during battle!

Seto Kai B. / 20s / Male

The music, the color scheme. Everything. TBH I had no switch growing up so i never really liked Pokemon. Up til now, i still prefer digimon over those palworld copies

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Dragon Quest XI5 votes
22

Dragon Quest XI

PlayStation 4

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story4.8
Gameplay3.8
Graphics3.4
Music4.4
Character4.2

Dragon Quest XI, like all its predecessors in the mainline series, is a turn-based JRPG that stays true to its roots. You play as the Luminary, a hero prophesized to save Erdrea from calamity. The Luminary is fated to come across a cast of colorful characters each with their own motivations as you journey across the world of Erdrea and help people you come across. What keeps it distinct from other JRPGs are the charmingly timeless character designs from the late Akira Toriyama, well-known for Dragon Ball. This game is perfect for anyone who wants something that feels nostalgic and familiar, or wants to give the Dragon Quest series a try for the first time.

Survey voice

あすりすた / 20代 / 男性

The foreshadowing and its payoff in the story were amazing, and it gave me the biggest shock of any numbered Dragon Quest title. While enjoying the combat as an RPG, it felt like watching a single movie or drama.

Show original (日本語)

ストーリーの伏線と回収がすごくて、ドラクエナンバリングシリーズの中で最も衝撃を受けた。RPGとしての戦闘も楽しみつつ、1つの映画ドラマを見た感じだった。

あふー / 20代 / 男性

The newest Dragon Quest title, a work that both people who've played past titles and those who haven't can enjoy. The story that properly pays off the title is especially superb.

Show original (日本語)

ドラクエシリーズ最新作で、過去作をやったことがある人も、やったことがない人も楽しめる作品。タイトルをしっかり回収するストーリーが特に素晴らしい。

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Octopath Traveler4 votes
23

Octopath Traveler

Nintendo Switch

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.8
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.5
Music4.8
Character4.5

Octopath Traveler is a role-playing game that features an HD-2D aesthetic where you can play as any or all of the eight protagonists without a specific order. The game utilizes Break-and-Boost battle system in a turn-based format, creating a great opportunity for players to outsmart their opponents. Strategy is the game's core; perfect for anyone who loves calculated combat, retro art in a modern perspective, and a wide range of personal stories.

Survey voice

しげぽよ

- A masterpiece that reminds you all over again of the appeal of SNES-era pixel-art RPGs - It accurately recreates the style of good old SNES-era RPGs like FF4-6 - The system is a turn-based command RPG, but it's fun with its own unique Break and Boost mechanics - Several protagonists' individual stories unfold - There are elements that link behind the protagonists' stories, and that connects to hidden content - The secret boss is extremely difficult and rewarding - There are customization elements like jobs and subjobs, so you can enjoy building - You can perform special actions like stealing from or fighting townspeople, which is fun; some ordinary NPCs are absurdly strong, which is amusing - A masterpiece that people who love SNES-era Square Enix RPGs are sure to love

Show original (日本語)

・SFC時代のドット絵RPGの良さを再度確認させてくれる名作 ・FF4〜6といったSFC時代の古き良きRPGの作風を的確に再現してくれている ・システムもターン制コマンドRPGだがブレイクやブーストで独自のシステムがあり面白い ・主人公数名で個々のストーリーが展開していく ・主人公達のストーリーの裏でリンクする要素があり、それが隠し要素に繋がる ・裏ボスの難易度が非常に高く、やりがいがある ・ジョブ、サブジョブなどのカスタマイズ要素ありでビルドを楽しめる ・街の人に盗むや戦うなどの特殊アクションを行えて楽しい、中にはめちゃくちゃ強い一般人がいて面白い ・SFC時代のスクエニRPGが大好きな人はきっと好きになる名作

Diana / 20s / Female

Personally, this is what I believe is the successor to my Mana Khemia game experience. Pixel-art turn-based JRPG with such a deep lore with 8 options for characters. Beautiful visuals and depth of the environment as well. This is what kept me inspired to keep pursuing game development for my college degree.

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Final Fantasy Tactics4 votes
24

Final Fantasy Tactics

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story5.0
Gameplay4.7
Graphics3.3
Music5.0
Character4.7

Final Fantasy Tactics is a story of two childhood friends who are ultimately separated by class division and a looming war in Ivalice. As Ramza, you navigate complicated politics between two power-hungry nobles, a corrupt church looking to consolidate power, and your own childhood friend Delita whose ambition grows following the death of his sister. As Ramza struggles against his own noble family, he uncovers a more sinistor plot from ancient demons looking to use the bloody War of the Lions to ressurect their demonic leader, Ultima. This TRPG entry into the Final Fantasy series is well-known for its job system, which allows you to freely mix and match the abilities of different jobs, encouraging players to create 'hybrid' classes that are extremely powerful. You'll need to make your units and team powerful as the bosses in the game don't pull any punches, ensuring that you feel the same urgency Ramza feels as he struggles and fights to save Ivalice.

Survey voice

Ralph / 30s / Male

The pivotal moment in Chapter 2 where you confront Alphonse Delacroix in the Oratory in Lionel Castle where he suddenly transforms into the demonic Cúchulainn. It's the point in the game where the story transitions from a class war into what's essentially the plot of Berserk.

かねやん

The story has a dark atmosphere, but each character's thoughts and convictions are depicted in detail, making it interesting.

Show original (日本語)

暗い雰囲気の話だが、各キャラの思考や信念が詳細まで描かれていておもしろい。

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Golden Sun4 votes
25

Golden Sun

Game Boy Advance

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story4.8
Gameplay4.8
Graphics4.2
Music4.0
Character4.8

Golden Sun is a classic turn-based RPG that follows the journey of Isaac and his team as they explore towns and dungeons, solve complex puzzles, and engage in strategic combat with the help of Djinn, which allows you to customize each character's abilities, making it one of the most unique RPGs on the Game Boy Advance during its time.

Survey voice

Seto Kai B. / 20s / Male

The best JRPG on the Game Boy Advance. I swear, I also used to find cheats and walkthroughs for this.

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Metaphor: ReFantazio4 votes
26

Metaphor: ReFantazio

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story4.5
Gameplay4.8
Graphics3.8
Music4.5
Character3.5

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a love letter by ATLUS for its other games and it clearly shows with the amount of love and effort poured into it. The Press Turn system from SMT, the Calendar based gameplay from Persona, and references to their other games like Etrian Odyssey and Devil Summoner all combined makes for a great game to pick up for anyone who is a fan of the company. Combine that with its high fantasy themes and a very intriguing storyline that is relevent in the modern age, Metaphor earns itself the title as the king of modern-day RPGs.

Survey voice

Dee / 30s / Male

One of my first experiences as a sublead, and I still enjoyed the game despite the work pressure. I loved the overall story, design, and creativity behind the classes.

あすりすた / 20代 / 男性

An RPG where you build your own schedule with a calendar system and go on adventures, letting you enjoy both suspense and excitement.

Show original (日本語)

カレンダーシステムでスケジュールを自分で組み立てて冒険できるRPGで、ハラハラとわくわく感が楽しめた。

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Legend of Legaia4 votes
27

Legend of Legaia

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.0
Gameplay4.7
Graphics3.7
Music4.3
Character4.3

Legend of Legaia is a classic JRPG with a unique turn-based combat system that plays like a turn-based fighting game. Instead of selecting attacks from a menu, you chain directional inputs into powerful Arts, and experimenting with different combinations can even unlock new ones. The story follows Vahn and his companions as they journey across a world shrouded in the Mist, battling monsters while uncovering the truth behind the Mist's origin. Legend of Legaia features a memorable combat system, challenging boss fights, and an emotional story that make it a timeless PlayStation RPG.

Survey voice

Piolo / 30s / Male

A unique take on turn based combat, most memorable for me is getting the hang of the combo system before you unlock Super Arts. Right now, I'm wondering if a Clair Obscur sequel will have you inputting your attacks similar to this system.

Than / 20s / Male

One of my RPG games ever. I spent so much time in the first area as a newbie gamer.

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Dragon Quest VII4 votes
28

Dragon Quest VII

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 3.4/5

Story4.0
Gameplay3.2
Graphics2.5
Music3.8
Character3.8

Perhaps the most popular game in all of Dragon Quest, VII was published by Enix at the start of the new millennium, and is hailed to be one of the most legendary games for the PlayStation. The Akira Toriyama aesthetic that has been kept on Dragon Quest games at this time feels timeless and distinct, and the gameplay, although aged, aged well, what with the remastering of this game being a proof of its longetivity. Set in the island nation of Estard, you, the Hero, will explore the world, learn its secrets and go through the standard RPG fanfare of defeating enemies, doing quests, and eventually discovering that the world around you is larger than what was once thought. Like most JRPGs, it is a turn-based one, featuring different classes that the Hero can turn to, and is considered as one of the blueprint inspirations of many other modern JRPGs that come after it. Dragon Quest VII would go on to sell more than 4 million copies during its release period in the early 2000s, and is now hailed as one of the PS1 classics today.

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Final Fantasy VI3 votes
29

Final Fantasy VI

Super Nintendo (SNES / SFC)

Survey scores · avg 5.0/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics5.0
Music5.0
Character5.0

Final Fantasy VI is the last epic saga to keep the classic Final Fantasy 16-bit pixel art on the SNES that takes you to a steampunk world where machine and magick create not just wonders but weapons of war. In this tactical turn based adventure game, the War of the Magi affects everyone, especially a vibrant ensemble cast, their individual stories intertwining into a grand narrative that tells tales of war, love, loss, and self-discovery.

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the other david / 20s / Male

#1 game, hasn't changed so far in over a decade.

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Persona 33 votes
30

Persona 3

PlayStation 2

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story5.0
Gameplay4.7
Graphics4.7
Music5.0
Character5.0

Persona 3 is the quintessential JRPG Social Sim where you fight to uncover the origins of the Dark Hour, a mysterious thirteenth hour that plagues Japan. At the heart of the game is an orphaned high school boy bestowed with the power of Persona, an ability that unlocks one’s inner self. Fight against enemies in a dungeon crawl setting AND keep up the life of a normal high schooler in this devastating ballad for those who titter between life and death.

Survey voice

Ronald / 20s / Male

The second Persona game I've played, which had a darker story compared to Persona 4. I also enjoyed the story of the game and the mystery of the Dark Hour. The difficulty was a little challenging due to not being able to control the other party members and not being able to use guard/defend with your character, which made it really nerve-wracking whenever a buffed Shadow used a move. You had to make sure you were using the right Persona to block against it. The music was also a banger, and I had a lot of playthroughs with the game.

Ervin / 30s / Male

Innovative JRPG. Blew my mind how immersive it was an anime game. Shinjiro's death was devastating

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Suikoden II3 votes
31

Suikoden II

PlayStation (PS1)

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.3
Music4.7
Character5.0

The second installment to the franchise, Suikoden II is a classic even in JRPG terms. The story about you being separated from your bestfriend due to a war despite being so young is an emotional experience that would resonate with a lot of kids playing this while growing up. The world is lived in and fleshed out and the characters that you are sort of "tasked" to recruit into your 108 Stars of Destiny on the side of the resistance in a war are all interesting. The combat also lends itself to surprising depth and near-infinite possible combinations.

Survey voice

Seto Kai B. / 20s / Male

Oh yes. I remember my interview for the company and they asked me what I was looking forward for, I said this, the Suikoden 2 remaster! So happy it came true!

Joshua / 20s / Male

I love the story and it's the first time I played a JRPG blind

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Skies of Arcadia3 votes
32

Skies of Arcadia

Dreamcast

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story4.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.0
Music5.0
Character5.0

Skies of Arcadia is a classic JRPG that follows the adventures of Vyse, Aika, and Fina as they journey across different floating islands as sky pirates. Explore a vast open sky with your fully customizable airship, discover hidden locations, and engage in strategic turn-based combat both on foot and in airship combat.

Survey voice

Chad / 30s / Male

Another underrated JRPG.

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Dragon Quest VII Reimagined3 votes
33

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined

PlayStation 5

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.3
Gameplay4.0
Graphics4.3
Music4.0
Character3.3

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined takes place on the island of Estard, which is the only island in the entire world…or so everyone thinks. The desire for adventure and making a difference in the world leads you, our unnamed protagonist and a lowly fisherman’s son, Maribel, the sharp-mouthed daughter of Pilchard Bay’s mayor, and Kiefer, the crown prince of Estard, on a magical quest to restore the world to its former glory. Travel to the past, free the plights of the lost regions, restore their place on the map, and free the world from the clutches of the Demon King, Orgodemir, in this modern take on a timeless classic! Both newcomers and longtime fans of the franchise who have played the original Dragon Quest VII (originally called Dragon Warrior VII) will be able to enjoy high-definition graphics and smooth animation while experiencing a familiar yet refined storyline, familiar yet refined turn-based gameplay, and equally familiar faces that are sure to tug at your heartstrings!

Survey voice

あるえ / 30代 / 男性

You can set enemy strength and experience points yourself, your next destination is shown, and tedious fetch quests were removed, so overall it became quite a lot easier to play, which was great. It adopted a job dual-wielding system, a first (I think?) for Dragon Quest, and it was fun thinking about party formations and job combinations. The monster and town graphics also became quite beautiful, which impressed me.

Show original (日本語)

敵の強さや経験値などが自分で設定できたり、次の目的地が表示されたり、面倒なおつかいが削除されていたりと全体的にかなり遊びやすくなっていてよかった ドラクエ初(?)の職業掛け持ちシステムが採用され、パーティ編成や職業の組み合わせを考えるのが楽しかった モンスターや街のグラフィックもかなり綺麗になっていて感動した

For better or worse it plays smoothly, so even an old guy like me could casually go all the way to the Platinum trophy. Good story. The point that changing the difficulty carries no particular in-game penalty was a puzzling bit, but I got more satisfaction out of it than I expected.

Show original (日本語)

良くも悪くもサクサクプレイできておじさんにも軽い気持ちでトロコンまでいけた。 ストーリー良し。 難易度変更にゲーム内でのペナルティが特にないところが、解せぬポイントではあったけど、予想以上の満足感はあった。

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Final Fantasy XIII3 votes
34

Final Fantasy XIII

PlayStation 3

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.0
Gameplay3.7
Graphics4.3
Music5.0
Character5.0

Final Fantasy XIII is the 13th main instalment of the Final Fantasy series, and the first entry in the Lightning Saga trilogy. This entry follows a cast of characters through a beautiful world that's accompanied by an amazing soundtrack and has players engaging in the simple yet diverse Command Synergy Battle System. However, while this game has many upsides, many players do feel disappointed by its relatively mediocre and linear story.

Survey voice

Sora / 30s / Male

It was groundbreaking for a 2000s game, and the new take on the ATB gauge system, plus the Paradigm system, was truly iconic and way ahead of its time. I will never EVER understand where the hate for this game came from.

the other david / 20s / Male

Probably my favourite soundtrack across the whole series. Not the best game, but personally have it high in my list.

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Dragon Quest I&II HD-2D Remake2 votes
35

Dragon Quest I&II HD-2D Remake

Nintendo Switch 2

Survey scores · avg 5.0/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics5.0
Music5.0
Character5.0

Dragon Quest I&II HD-2D Remake gives two legendary RPGs the modern revival they deserve. Its gorgeous HD-2D presentation breathes new life into classic adventures, while updated mechanics and quality o life improvements make exploration and turn-based battles feel better than before. Perfect for newcomers and longtime fans, it's the definitive way to experience the beginnings of one of gaming's most iconic RPG series.

Survey voice

P-san

It's a remake of Dragon Quest I & II, but the volume was boosted to more than ten times what I imagined. The story felt lean, with the necessary information fleshed out. The difficulty was on the higher side too, so I could really enjoy it.

Show original (日本語)

ドラクエ1&2のリメイクだが、想像の10倍以上ボリュームが増えていた。ストーリーは無駄なく、必要な情報が肉付けされた印象。ゲームの難易度も高めでしっかり楽しめた。

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Persona 3 Reload2 votes
36

Persona 3 Reload

Nintendo Switch 2

Survey scores · avg 4.9/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.5
Music5.0
Character5.0

Persona 3 Reload is a modern remake of a certified classic. Take control of Makoto Yuki, a high school transfer student who soon realizes that there is something sinister lurking inT atsumi Port Island. As a member of the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad (S.E.E.S.), you must figure out exactly what is happening in the shadows, all while trying to live a fulfilling high school life. Recommended for those who want to get into the Persona series, as well as those who enjoy story-driven games that touch upon more serious, emotional topics.

Survey voice

Yuri / 20s / Male

Persona 3 Reload on the Switch 2 is phenomenal. It runs incredibly well both docked and in handheld mode, delivering a smooth and enjoyable experience no matter how you choose to play. What I love most, though, is the portability.

vik / 20s / Male

Great remake and solid performance on handheld mode!

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Octopath Traveler 02 votes
37

Octopath Traveler 0

Nintendo Switch 2

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.5
Gameplay4.5
Graphics5.0
Music5.0
Character4.5

A prequel to the First Octopath Traveler game, Octopath Traveler 0 takes the plot of the mobile game and lets console players enjoy the experience without the hassle of the Gacha system. With over 30 playable characters, band together your party of 8 and travel the continent of Orsterra and become the hero of the story by completing the three paths! All thew while, you must also rebuild your broken town of Wishvale by inviting people into your town, starting farms, and building new structures.

Survey voice

Isa / 20s / Female

I've always loved JRPGs, and Octopath Traveler 0 is an experience that I enjoyed a lot in the Switch 2. The story was good, and I enjoyed playing through it. I loved being able to switch character's kits and build different teams. I also really enjoyed the 8-party battle system, which was new to the series. However, I do wish that they provided a chance to explore more of the characters and their dynamics with each other, and that it was integrated into the gameplay somehow.

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MOTHER21 votes
38

MOTHER2

Super Nintendo (SNES / SFC)

Survey scores · avg 5.0/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics5.0
Music5.0
Character5.0

Mother 2, most commonly known outside of Japan as Earthbound, is a turn-based RPG set in a modern world rather than a fantasy land. Battles are determined using conventional weapons and psychic powers as you mow down hordes of zombies, abstract arts, aliens, bugs, corrupt cops, cult members, and more! You follow Ness and his journey to save the world from an omnipotent being known as Giygas. His adventure will take you on a rollercoaster ride full of whimsy, suburban situations, and surreal and out-of-this-world encounters. Despite its colorful aesthetics, Mother 2 is not afraid to tackle heavier topics as well as take some risks with its characters and world to subvert expectations and create unforgettable moments.

Survey voice

だーます

If I really got into it, it'd become a huge 10,000-plus-character essay, so I'll leave it, but it's a work I want to play precisely now that I'm an adult. I learned everything important from Earthbound.

Show original (日本語)

本気で語ると1万字越えの超大作になるのでアレですが、大人になった今こそプレイしたい作品。大切なことは全てMOTHER2に教わりました。

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Dragon Quest III:The Seeds of Salvation1 votes
39

Dragon Quest III:The Seeds of Salvation

Game Boy / Game Boy Color

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Dragon Quest III: The Seeds of Salvation on Game Boy Color is basically classic DQ3 made portable, with Monster Medals giving you something extra to hunt for along the way. The class-changing system still makes building your party fun, while the adventure keeps that simple old-school RPG charm. It’s a solid pick for anyone who enjoys customizing their team, grinding at their own pace, and taking a classic hero’s journey on the go.

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Grandia II1 votes
40

Grandia II

Dreamcast

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story5.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics4.0
Music4.0
Character5.0

Grandia II follows the journey of Ryudo, a mercenary who is hired to escort Elena to the city of St. Heim. As their adventure unfolds, they become entangled in an ancient conflict that sets the stage for the game's story. Featuring a dynamic turn-based combat system that rewards timing and positioning, Grandia II offers a unique gameplay experience that was ahead of its time.

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The Last Remnant1 votes
41

The Last Remnant

Xbox 360

Survey scores · avg 4.5/5

Story3.0
Gameplay5.0
Graphics5.0
Music5.0
Character4.0

The Last Remnant is a turn-based JRPG with a unique battle system consisting of squads made up of multiple party members. Play as Rush Sykes and learn why his sister was kidnapped at the beginning of the game. Uncover the reasons behind her kidnapping and gather allies along the way.

Survey voice

しげぽよ

- A masterpiece put out into the world by the team that created Square Enix's "SaGa" - The battle system expressed on an army-vs-army scale is distinctive and one of Last Remnant's joys - Battles where up to 5 people form one unit called a Union, and 5 Unions of up to 18 members fight enemy forces, are fun - Battles deeply involve Union positioning, and strategies like pinning an enemy force with 2 Unions and hitting the defenseless army from behind are fun - Furthermore, "morale" is involved too; when allies gain the advantage, ally-army commands can use moves usable while advantageous, and the BGM changes to one that plays only when advantageous, an important element. Conversely, when at a disadvantage, the BGM changes to one with a disadvantaged feel, so tasting the battlefield atmosphere through the BGM is a good point too - The protagonist's builds are wide-ranging, and trying to master them (aiming for the Holy Order) requires grinding, deep knowledge, and an extraordinary amount of time, so it's second to none in grind value - The hidden boss "the one called God" has extremely harsh conditions, a timed event where it's game over if you can't beat it within 10 turns, so it's one grind element and very challenging - You can taste a SaGa feel everywhere too, so people who like SaGa will definitely come to love it, a masterpiece

Show original (日本語)

・スクエニの「サガ」をつくったチームが世に出した名作 ・軍VS軍のスケールで表現されるバトルシステムが特徴的でラスレムの楽しさの一つ ・最大5人を1つのユニオンという単位で、最大18名の5ユニオンで敵の軍勢と戦うバトルが面白い ・バトルはユニオンの位置が深く関係しており、敵の軍勢を2ユニオンで固めて背後から無防備な軍をついたりなど戦略が面白い ・さらに「士気」も関わっており、味方が優勢になると味方軍のコマンドも優勢時に使える技が使えたり、BGMも優勢の時にだけ流れるものに変化したりと重要要素となっている。逆に劣勢だとBGMも劣勢感あるものに変わり、戦場の雰囲気をBGMで味わえるのも良い点。 ・主人公のビルドが多種多様で、極めようとする(ホーリーオーダーを目指す)とやりこみと深い知識、尋常ではない時間が必要となるのでやりこみがいは随一。 ・隠しボスの「神と呼ばれしもの」は時限イベントかつ10ターン以内に倒せないとゲームオーバーと非常に厳しい条件のボスがいるため、一つのやりこみ要素となっていて非常に歯ごたえがある ・随所でサガ感を味わえることもあり、サガが好きな人は絶対好きになる名作

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Final Fantasy V1 votes
42

Final Fantasy V

Super Nintendo (SNES / SFC)

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Final Fantasy V is best known for its incredibly flexible Job system, which lets you freely change your party members’ classes and combine abilities from different Jobs. This makes the game feel very customizable, since you can experiment with all kinds of party setups instead of being locked into fixed roles. Its story follows Bartz and his companions as they travel across the world to protect the elemental crystals and stop the dark warlock Exdeath. While the plot has plenty of classic Final Fantasy adventure and charm, the real reason to play Final Fantasy V is how fun and rewarding it is to build your party your own way.

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FAQ

How were these best JRPG games chosen?

From a survey of 241 players. Games are ranked by mention count, then average score, with votes combined across platforms.

What is the top JRPG game?

Persona 3 Portable ranks #1 with 20 votes.

How to find the best JRPG games

The best JRPG games according to 241 surveyed players — ranked by votes with average score as the tie-breaker, with platform links and curated player comments.

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