Best Turn-Based JRPGs To Try If You Are Not Into The Genre

JRPGs are renowned for delivering thrilling stories, memorable characters, and strategic battles. Despite their popularity, some mechanics, such as turn-based systems and resource management, might deter new players due to the unique style these games possess, potentially preventing them from experiencing these unique adventures.

Related

10 Best JRPGs For Fast-Paced Gameplay, Ranked

From Granblue Fantasy: Relink to Nier: Automata, these JRPGs deliver fast-paced combat and thrilling action for fans of frenetic gameplay.

Nevertheless, numerous titles stand out among the best turn-based JRPGs for beginners. These titles typically feature captivating narratives that offset the complexity of their mechanics or offer accessible gameplay, whether action-oriented or turn-based. As a result, even less experienced players or those not fond of the genre can enjoy incredible stories and immersive combat systems, making the genre more inviting.

10

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Tactical Gameplay, But Less Punishing For Players

Systems

Released

July 26, 2019

Publisher(s)

Nintendo

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Expand

Although not a JRPG, Fire Emblem: Three Houses incorporates several elements common to the genre, making it an excellent introduction for players looking to familiarize themselves with these mechanics. The combat is accessible, especially with the option to disable permanent loss of defeated units, reducing the penalty for careless moves and allowing for a smoother and more strategic experience.

Additionally, the narrative offers multiple routes, each exploring the consequences of war from unique and engaging perspectives. Despite its foundation in tactical mechanics, the game presents a blend of elements that bring it closer to a JRPG, balancing strategic battles with a captivating story where players take on the role of a teacher guiding students on the battlefield.

9

Super Mario RPG

A Turn-Based JRPG Perfect For Beginners

With simple and easy-to-understand gameplay, Super Mario RPG is a great introduction to the JRPG genre, especially for beginners. The turn-based combat system is straightforward but adds a touch of interactivity with timed commands, keeping battles dynamic and engaging. This accessible approach makes the game perfect for those seeking a fun and uncomplicated experience.

The charisma of the characters is another highlight, especially Mario, one of the most recognized faces in the video game industry. The story has a lighter tone but still manages to create an engaging and accessible narrative. Vibrant settings and a memorable soundtrack complement the experience, ensuring that Super Mario RPG is a welcoming title for those not accustomed to JRPGs.

8

Final Fantasy 10

A Timeless Classic For JRPG Fans

Your changes have been saved

My List

My Favorite Games
My Played Games
My Games Wishlist

Final Fantasy 10

Systems

Released

December 17, 2001

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Expand

Final Fantasy is one of the major references among JRPGs, helping establish many of the genre’s pillars and expanding its popularity. Many games in the franchise are excellent for beginners, particularly Final Fantasy 10, which stands out as one of the best turn-based JRPGs in the series, serving as a perfect starting point for many newcomers.

In addition to impressing with the excellent graphics it had upon release on PlayStation 2, showcasing the potential of the PlayStation 2, the game remains beautiful to this day. Thus, Tidus and Yuna’s journey through the world of Spira, combined with dynamic combat, allows Final Fantasy 10 to be a complete experience for those exploring the genre for the first time.

7

Pokemon FireRed Or LeafGreen

Excellent Way To Introduce The World Of JRPGs

Systems

Released

September 7, 2004

Publisher(s)

Nintendo

Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen are excellent for beginners in JRPGs, offering simple and intuitive gameplay. The turn-based combat systems are easy to grasp, with clear and accessible mechanics that do not overwhelm new players. Additionally, progression is smooth and encourages exploration, allowing even the least experienced to enjoy the experience.

Related

8 Pokemon That Look Like Dragons But Are Not Dragon Type

The Pokemon franchise is home to a vast array of creatures that look like dragons, but not all of them are of the Dragon-type.

The presence of iconic Pokémon, such as Pikachu and Charizard, makes these titles even more inviting, attracting those unfamiliar with the franchise. The wide selection of charismatic creatures, combined with simple objectives and a welcoming world design, makes FireRed and LeafGreen some of the best turn-based JRPGs for starting in the genre.

6

Persona 4 Golden

The Start Is Slowpaced, But The Wait Is Worth It

Despite having a slower start, with several hours of dialogue before the main story begins, Persona 4 Golden is still a great choice for beginners in Turn-Based JRPGs. Its simpler graphics are compensated by an engaging narrative that combines mystery and interpersonal relationships, ensuring a memorable experience even for those new to the genre.

Furthermore, outside of the central plot, which is intriguing and leads players to investigate a series of murders in the city of Inaba, the game features well-developed characters that fit seamlessly into the story’s plot. The gameplay is also somewhat simpler, without many mechanics to explore, unlike the modern entries in the series.

5

Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

Game Successfully Balances Classic Mechanics With Modern Concepts

Like Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest is a highly respected franchise in the genre, mainly for consistently adhering to many pillars established in the first title. Thus, Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age is an excellent way to introduce players to the different aspects of a Turn-based JRPG, especially because the game balances classic mechanics while staying modern.

Additionally, the Echoes Of An Elusive Age version, which includes various improvements, also has means to speed up combat, making battles pass quickly, something useful when players want to grind experience or simply return to exploring the environments. Thus, the game manages to offer easier grinding, something that usually deters players interested in the genre.

4

Chrono Trigger

A Turn-Based Classic Is A Great Way To Start In JRPGs

Considered one of the best games of all time, Chrono Trigger is an excellent starting point for beginners seeking a great Turn-based JRPG. The graphics are beautiful and the gameplay quite simple, without many heavy mechanics that require a lot of time to understand, keeping the title at a good pace.

The story is also one of the main strengths of Chrono Trigger, involving time travel and a series of memorable characters that keep players engaged from start to finish. Additionally, the game features multiple endings, which can lead to more exciting or even more comedic conclusions, making the title an accessible introduction to the genre.

3

Yakuza: Like A Dragon

The Introduction Of A New Protagonist Made The Franchise Perfect For Beginners

Once a reference among beat ’em ups, the introduction of Kasuga Ichiban marked the transition of the Yakuza series to Turn-Based JRPGs, becoming an excellent option for fans of the genre. Combat in Yakuza: Like A Dragon is dynamic and innovative, allowing characters to move around the battlefield during their turns, which adds fluidity and strategy to the game.

Related

10 Best JRPGs In Contemporary Settings, Ranked

JRPGs most often take place in fantasy settings, but the modern world can be just as effective as a backdrop for these stories.

The title perfectly balances absurdly funny scenes with moments of great emotional depth, captivating new players through its engaging narrative. The charisma of the characters, especially the new protagonist, matches the tone of the story, consolidating Yakuza: Like A Dragon as a unique and essential experience for those seeking something different in the genre.

The Medieval Fantasy Setting Is Very Well Done

For players who enjoy the mechanics of the Persona series, such as interpersonal relationships with characters and a focus on time management, but do not like the more youthful high school setting the game has, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a perfect alternative. The title, also developed by Atlus, takes many mechanics from the series and transports them to a high medieval fantasy setting.

Thus, the game also features one of the most enjoyable Turn-based combats for JRPGs, offering dynamic battles and greater fluidity. The characters are also interesting, and interactions with them, in the case of incorrect responses, are less punitive than in Persona, as relationships advance without the need for further interactions, regardless of the given response.

1

Octopath Traveler 2

Game Features Incredible Visuals And Gameplay

Octopath Traveler 2 is an excellent choice for beginners in the JRPG genre, combining HD-2D style visuals with accessible and well-structured gameplay. The turn-based combat system is intuitive but offers enough depth to keep the experience strategic and engaging, mainly due to the Boost Points mechanic that allows players to strengthen attacks.

The narrative is divided among eight unique characters, each with captivating and well-developed stories, allowing players to explore different perspectives. This approach gives freedom to progress at one’s own pace, while the interconnected world design and immersive soundtracks make the journey even more memorable. It is a welcoming and remarkable title for beginners.

More

8 Slow Burn JRPGs That Pay Off in the End, Ranked

These slow burn JRPGs start slow but deliver unforgettable narratives and gameplay experiences, rewarding players with their depth and payoffs.