JRPGs Designed for Players Who Love Getting Lost

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I honestly didn’t get into RPGs for a long time, or even JRPGs specifically. But then I started playing Final Fantasy VI, and after just the first hour, I was completely obsessed! The story, the characters, even the battles – it was exactly what I’d been looking for in a game. It felt like I was the hero in an epic, high-stakes movie.

I generally don’t like feeling lost in video games. However, when I’m lost in a Japanese role-playing game, it feels like a chance to become better and more ready for the next challenge. Plus, these games often have beautiful worlds that make it enjoyable to explore at my own pace.

This list features a wide range of fantastic JRPG experiences, including classic games, updated versions, complete remakes, and fresh takes on beloved worlds.

It’s tough to compare these games just by how big their worlds are, so I’ve mainly ranked them based on how well they were received overall. If there were any close calls, I went with my own personal favorites. Now, let’s jump into some amazing JRPG worlds!

10. Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition

Yuri vs. Flynn

I’m not usually a big fan of Tales games, but Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition really stood out. It’s easy to see why it’s become a beloved game among fans.

Whether it was the story about exploiting the Blastia, the differences between the world’s cultures, or the bitter rivalry between Yuri and Flynn, or simply the exciting, action-packed battles, Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition had something truly special about it.

You’ll discover some beautiful places to explore, including the Shaikos Ruins, Yormgen, and even areas unlocked after completing the game, like the Necropolis of Nostalgia.

9. Rogue Galaxy

Level-5 Strikes Again

Level-5 consistently creates high-quality games, and they really shine when they step away from their popular series like Professor Layton to develop JRPGs. I’ve been completely drawn into two of their JRPGs – Jeanne d’Arc and Rogue Galaxy – and both were fantastic experiences.

Rogue Galaxy is a really fun space adventure where you search for a hidden treasure, acting a bit like a space pirate. One of the best things about it is the freedom to explore and complete optional sidequests whenever you want, though there’s also a main story to finish when you’re ready.

If I wasn’t considering scores, Rogue Galaxy would be much higher on my list. I rarely get so lost in exploring a JRPG world, and I’d love to see a modern remake for today’s consoles. As it stands, it’s a really fun retro game that I recommend to anyone.

8. Octopath Traveler 2

Tentacles of Adventure

I mentioned earlier that some JRPGs are great for losing yourself in and steadily becoming more powerful, and Octopath Traveler 2 is a perfect example. While the story, characters, and world are all fantastic, the game is challenging – you’ll definitely want to spend time leveling up before taking on the tough enemies.

Solistia is a beautiful world to explore, and this game lets you see it in eight different ways! You can even sail the seas like a pirate. What really makes this sequel special is its day and night cycle, which lets you fully appreciate the game’s gorgeous art style from every angle.

Although Octopath Traveler 2 can be challenging, it’s a fantastic game, and I’m happy to see Square Enix continuing to create JRPGs with its unique HD-2D visual style.

7. Star Ocean The Second Story R

Sail Across Inky Skies

I didn’t start playing the Star Ocean games until recently. I first tried Star Ocean The Second Story R a few years ago at PAX West. I’d previously stayed away because I thought the combat didn’t let you fully control your characters, but after playing it, I really enjoyed the game.

Star Ocean The Second Story R offers a unique and demanding combat system where you directly control one character while your teammates fight on their own. The game is also set in a beautiful 2.5D world. While I really like the look of Octopath Traveler 2, I think Star Ocean The Second Story R is even more visually impressive.

That’s great news, because you’ll be exploring a truly incredible world! It blends science fiction and fantasy, all tied together by an age-old prophecy. Plus, you’ll enjoy getting immersed in the game’s beautiful soundtrack, created by the talented Motoi Sakuraba!

6. Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered

Studio Ghibli’s Legacy

As a huge Studio Ghibli fan, I’ve always loved their beautiful movies. But I was so excited to see them bring that same magic to a video game with Ni No Kuni Wrath of the White Witch Remastered! It’s a really captivating JRPG, and it truly feels like playing one of their films, especially with the incredible music by Joe Hisaishi – it’s just gorgeous!

The original game looked great, and this remaster makes everything even more polished and detailed. The combat is also really fun and fluid, letting you instantly switch between characters to keep the action fresh.

It’s wonderful to get lost in this world! Whether you’re speeding through the Summerlands or Autumnia, or discovering its islands, it’s a beautiful and captivating place built for exploration.

5. Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of An Elusive Age

Prophecy of the Luminary

The Dragon Quest series is definitely a throwback to classic RPGs. While it’s updated over time, it still feels like a traditional JRPG, and recent versions have been beautifully remastered. Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a fun game, but don’t expect a groundbreaking story.

Despite its classic roots, Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is far from dull. The game features art by the same creator as Dragon Ball, and that vibrant style is immediately noticeable. Players will follow The Luminary on an epic journey through the fantastical world of Erdrea, filled with incredible locations and challenging enemies.

One of the best features of this game is the ability to change the visual style whenever you want. You can experience the game with beautiful, modern graphics, or switch to a classic, 8-bit style reminiscent of the original Dragon Quest games on the NES. No matter which style you choose, you’ll have a vast world to explore and plenty of monsters to defeat.

4. Chained Echoes

Unchained Adventure

Honestly, Chained Echoes totally blew me away. I kept hearing everyone rave about it, so I had to check it out for myself. After about 20 hours or so, I can say all the hype is deserved! It’s clearly inspired by those classic JRPGs I grew up with, and it does them proud. But it’s not just nostalgia – they’ve added some really cool, modern features that make it a blast to play.

Okay, so this game is seriously tactical. Every choice you make in a fight actually matters, which I love. Be warned though, you’ll definitely need to put in some time and level up – there’s a bit of a grind. But honestly, exploring the world makes it worth it! It’s packed with secrets, hidden areas, and some seriously tough monsters to fight. Plus, you get an airship surprisingly early on, which is awesome for getting around!

You can explore this fantastic 16-bit game at your own speed and discover all it has to offer. With a captivating story full of political intrigue and powerful magic, it’s a standout indie title that feels right at home alongside classic JRPGs.

3. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

X Marks the Spot

I’m a big fan of Xenoblade Chronicles. I actually contributed to a website that played a part in bringing the first game to the US, even before I started working there. I remember being one of the people who eagerly awaited its release, and then being completely captivated when I finally got to play it on my Wii. Even that initial version of the game was incredibly immersive.

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Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition brings the original game to the Switch, but with improvements to make it smoother and more visually appealing. You can relive the epic story and memorable characters, and still enjoy the complex and engaging combat. While I don’t usually like getting lost while playing, this game is an exception – it’s a joy to explore.

Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition is a fantastic game for adventurers, packed with sidequests and impressive monsters. You’ll always feel like your time is well spent, though completing everything could take a while! Plus, it’s the game that launched a whole series of equally enjoyable sequels.

2. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Yakuza’s Delight

To be honest, I’m mainly interested in the Yakuza series because of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and the game before it. They perfectly combine the wild and unpredictable world of Yakuza with turn-based combat you’d find in a traditional JRPG. And this new sequel to Yakuza: Like a Dragon is even more over-the-top and fun, while still feeling familiar.

The adventure will take you to a variety of exciting locations, including Yokohama, Hawaii, and the popular Kamurocho district. Exploration is key, as you’ll discover strange and unexpected events, plenty of fun mini-games, and opportunities to strengthen your relationships with your team.

If you’re looking for a place to settle down and embrace a life of crime, Dondoko Island is the perfect spot. It’s full of shady dealings and ideal for anyone wanting to make a name for themselves in the underworld.

1. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

The Anticipation of Exploration

I’m a huge Nintendo fan, so I typically wait to play major games until they’re available on a Nintendo console – currently, I’m playing Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade. Knowing that more Final Fantasy VII Remake games are on the way, I’m really looking forward to playing Final Fantasy VII Rebirth when it’s released.

Everyone knows the Final Fantasy series, and I especially loved the original Final Fantasy VII when it first came out. Although the original hasn’t held up perfectly over time, the remake did a great job of satisfying fans. While the Final Fantasy VII Remake was quite straightforward and focused, Square Enix really expanded the scope and freedom in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth improves on everything that made the first game great. It’s now easier than ever to truly immerse yourself in this beautiful and well-known world. The remake also includes fun surprises and new elements, like discovering Protorelic Phenomenons, racing Chocobos, and finding secret Moogle Emporiums, which add even more life to the experience.

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2026-01-25 02:42