What Are JRPGs?

The JRPG is a staple genre for players who enjoy atmospheric and immersive worlds and sprawling narratives. The worlds and characters created throughout the highly-lauded history of the genre remain as influential today as ever before. This is not only a testament to the impact that the JRPG genre has had on gaming as a whole but also the strength of its core design. There are many design choices that go into the creation of these unforgettable titles. We hope to bring you just some of the elements that make these games so spectacular in their own right.

Whether you are someone who is quite familiar with the genre or a newcomer, there is much to learn about these vast worlds. Each of the games created in this genre, in their own way, managed to pave the way for the success of more contemporary titles. One of the core aspects of these games that stand the test of time is its commitment to character-driven narratives. For this reason, many characters remain near and dear to players far after their introduction to these characters. So, join us as we highlight What Are JRPGs?

What Are JRPGs?

As alluded to above, these games offer not only a grand sense of gravitas and scale but also a sense of attention to detail. It is this attention to detail, no matter how minute, that makes these worlds feel vibrant and alive. These games can also be broken down into different subgenres, each with their own particular niches & intricacies. For example, there is quite a distinction to be made between the action-based JRPG and the turn-based JRPG, with each side having its core tenets.

The characters that shape these worlds are also as much a part of the player’s journey as any form of gameplay. This is a hallmark trait that JRPGs share, with these games often placing emphasis on one’s role within a group. This also gives the worlds created by these games a great sense of breadth and scale. With various organizations and power systems at play, these games manage to have a sense of gameplay variety that, in many ways, is unmatched.

In addition, each player’s individual choices and actions are brought to the forefront. This allows each player’s moves throughout the game to have a palpable sense of impact. This remains true even far after these battles take place. Often, these narratives have an element of rebellion to them and deal with either political dealings or a rough-and-tumble group of characters saving the world or simply trying to survive in an unforgiving environment. For their narrative weight and emotional impact, JRPGs are some of the best games of all time.

Gameplay

Another significant aspect of JRPGs as a genre is their varied approach to gameplay. Everything from in-depth turn-based mechanics to real-time strategy-to-action combat can be seen here. The gameplay within these titles is also paramount, as this is how the player intakes the world and its characters. Also, the gameplay mechanics are where the game’s depth truly gets to shine. Learning the ins and outs of these aspects of JRPGs can be challenging but rewarding. This makes the genre great for players who want to enjoy a memorable experience with a notable sense of flair and stellar visuals.

This sense of style and flair would go on to become a staple of the genre. Each of the franchises in the genre would have their own take on this level of epic scale, and this is partially the beauty of it. These games not only introduce a beautiful blend of strategy and action but do so in a novel way. This makes these titles play pretty different from many of the games that players might be used to.

The gameplay variety that can be seen throughout these games is also a core element of their success. Whether you are a more methodical player who wishes to plan out each individual move or someone who enjoys flashy and responsive combat, the choice is yours. This sense of freedom when it comes to game design is one of the genre’s strong suits, so to speak. Additionally, Each of the characters in these games is given a distinct power to utilize. All around, JRPGs boast some of the finest & most memorable gameplay segments in gaming history. For these reasons and more, we consider the gameplay of JRPGs to be one of their most shining and vital elements.

Best JRPGs

5. Monster Hunter: World

For the first entry on our list of the best JRPGs, here we have Monster Hunter: World. This game not only allows players to engage in some of the most thrilling and rewarding gameplay moments on this list but also while retaining its identity. The Monster Hunter franchise’s legacy speaks for itself, and World only cements that legacy. If you are looking to play one of the best JRPGs in terms of combat, Monster Hunter: World is a great place to start.

4. Nier: Automata

We are straying quite far from

We stay much in the same vein as our last entry with our next. Here, we will cover the existential and thrilling world of Nier: Automata. Boasting some of the highest production value and most unforgettable story moments in modern JRPG history, Nier: Automata is stellar. It has a cast of characters & a world that will resonate with the player far after the credits roll and phenomenal combat. Nier: Automata is one of the best JRPGs for both old and new players.

3. Octopath Traveler II

For the turn-based JRPG fans, here we have Octopath Traveler II. Through not only its pixelated art style but also its breadth, Octopath Traveler II pays homage to JRPGs of the past. With a number of ways to play and eight unique stories to unravel, Octopath Traveler II is stunning in a narrative sense. Visually, the game’s world is vibrant and atmospheric, leading to one of the most immersive game worlds in JRPG history. All around, Octopath Traveler II is one of the best JRPGs for fans, both new and old.

2. Persona 5 Royal

Our next entry is one that exploded onto the modern JRPG scene. The world of Persona 5 Royal is one of the most beloved in recent memory. The characters and their stories remain as memorable and relevant as ever within the genre, and for good reason. This game manages to build itself on a solid foundation of having the player combat Shadows. Each of these Shadows has its own core strengths and weaknesses. For its sense of style, level of tactical depth, and flair, we consider Persona 5 Royal to be one of the best JRPGs.

1. Final Fantasy VII Remake

In terms of our final entry, there are few titles that we could recommend more than Final Fantasy VII Remake. This game not only manages to bring the timeless story of Final Fantasy VII into a new era. But it manages to do so masterfully. Improving on many of the gameplay systems while retaining the heart of the game was an absolute masterstroke of design. The story maintains the same level of gravitas and narrative weight it was so beloved for as well. Simply stated, if you are looking for one of the best JRPGs, you would be hard-pressed to find a better title than Final Fantasy VII Remake.

So, what are your thoughts on JRPGs as a whole? Let us know on our socials here.