10 Best Pixel Art JRPGs

As a seasoned gamer with decades under my belt and a heart that yearns for the nostalgia of yesteryears, I must say, these games are nothing short of a treasure trove for us old-timers!

In the olden days of gaming, all games from platformers to JRPGs were rendered in pixel graphics.

In simpler terms, it meant that style wasn’t the primary factor, but rather, the limited capabilities of consoles, which could only render pixels, played a significant role.

Nevertheless, despite our current immersive 3D environments, there’s an abundance of both well-known and independent games that continue to exist within the pixelated realm.

Indeed, unlike the pixels from the 80s and 90s, these games showcase stunning, intricate pixel art, which manages to be both complex and streamlined at the same time.

This specific style harmonizes beautifully with Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), stirring memories of classic RPGs from the past, yet offering fresh viewpoints.

10 Sea Of Stars

Tag-Team Travelers

10 Best Pixel Art JRPGs

In many pixel art JRPGs, you can clearly see the influence of retro styles, which is a common characteristic. This nostalgic vibe often assists in marketing the unique gaming experience they aim to provide.

Sea of Stars, for instance, is heavily inspired by the likes of Chrono Trigger and Super Mario RPG.

Previously introduced, we find ourselves immersed in a vast, captivating universe brimming with engaging plotlines and delightful personalities.

Instead, it offers a focus on action, particularly mini-games and time-sensitive button presses, to ensure excitement and a fast-paced experience.

9 Octopath Traveler 2

The Poster Child Of HD-2D

For quite some time now, Square Enix has consistently expanded its collection of high-definition 2D games, breathing life into old favorites and weaving fresh tales.

One of the best games to come out of this pursuit is Octopath Traveler 2.

Just as the original game, Octopath Traveler 2 features eight wanderers hailing from various parts of the globe, each with their unique objectives. Over time, these individuals unite.

This updated version of the game boasts enhanced fighting and system elements compared to previous editions, plus numerous convenience upgrades and novel aspects such as interwoven narratives involving multiple characters.

8 Chained Echoes

Monsters And Mech Suits, Oh My

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but ponder over the idea of a fantasy JRPG that doesn’t just stick to the traditional elements of magic and dragons. Instead, imagine a world where these classic aspects are infused with a touch of steampunk mecha!

In simpler terms, Chained Echoes is an old-fashioned role-playing game set in a fantasy world, centered around a band of heroes journeying across a battle-scarred land.

Apart from engaging enemies with swords and magic in close combat, you’re also given the option to pilot a gigantic mechanical exosuit.

In this suit, you can both take on larger monsters, as well as fly freely around the world.

7 Small Saga

It’s A Small World After All

If you’re familiar with The Secret of NIMH, you’d realize that such a story provides an ideal setting for a thrilling high-fantasy journey involving small animals.

Small Saga focuses on a medieval society of rats living beneath the streets of modern-day London.

Discover vast realms beyond what you know personally, and engage in fierce conflicts with colossal, terrifying beasts that tower over you.

In a world where smaller size doesn’t mean less capability, your rodent squadron wields tools like pencils and pocket knives, leveling the playing field in ingenious ways.

6 Meg’s Monster

You’re Not The One In Danger

Typically, in a JRPG, you stand on equal footing with whatever monsters or baddies you’re battling.

In Meg’s Monster, however, the main character Roy possesses a robust, sturdy build that makes him less vulnerable to injury or damage.

On the downside, your missing human charge, Meg, is viewed as an easy target by other monsters. To compound the issue, she’s quite fearful, and if she starts crying, it could lead to the end of the world.

Maintain vigilance against those who mean her harm, but also find moments to comfort her gently, perhaps by giving her a soothing pat on the head.

5 CrossCode

Life In An MMO

Imagining oneself confined within a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) is a recurring theme in anime and light novels. But what if this game world was the only dwelling you’ve ever known?

CrossCode blends the gear and character development aspects typical in traditional RPGs, such as leveling up stats, with the labyrinthine exploration and puzzle-solving features reminiscent of games like The Legend of Zelda.

Everything unfolds within an intriguing science fiction framework, enabling users to manipulate digital characters in a physically tangible dreamland.

The narrative offers an even blend of substantial character growth and humorous moments that might provoke a chuckle or two.

4 Chroma Squad

Make Your Own Sentai Show

Chroma Squad is a tactical role-playing game that takes its inspiration from the exciting world of tokusatsu series such as Super Sentai or Power Rangers, if you’re more familiar with the latter.

In every installment, a group of rebellious teenagers join forces to astound and annihilate rubber-costumed monsters using their abilities and combined attacks.

At the end of the episode, take control of the team’s giant robot to show off some real spectacle.

Besides shooting scenes, you also have the opportunity to secure fresh endorsement contracts. These agreements can then contribute towards procuring higher-quality outfits and stage accessories, ultimately enhancing the realism of your production.

3 Live A Live

A Long-Lost JRPG

Back in 1994, Square was responsible for creating and distributing a role-playing game titled “Live A Live,” which could only be played on the Super Famicom console.

In 2022, the game finally made it west in a beautiful full remake.

Live A Live stands out as an exceptionally innovative role-playing game (JRPG), boasting eight unique protagonists and eight distinct tales unfolding across various epochs.

One instant you’ll find yourself in a dusty old-west showdown, the very next, you’ll wield control over a colossal robot, empowered by psychic abilities.

Although this game might be considered older due to its release date, given that it wasn’t available in English until 2023, it can still be deemed as a fresh addition to the realm of pixel art games.

2 Jack Move

Attacks With Hacks

Any sufficiently advanced science is identical to magic, and any sufficiently understood magic is identical to science.

In the world of Jack Move, devoid of magical powers, technology has permeated every aspect so extensively that one can manipulate or demolish people and objects through the skillful practice of hacking.

Adjust your cyber-character to improve its equipment and hacking skills, enabling you to adapt its fighting capabilities whenever needed.

As an enthusiast, I delight in strategic, turn-based skirmishes where I outwit my adversaries by disabling and annihilating their digital fortresses, all the while safeguarding my very own systems.

1 In Stars And Time

If At First You Don’t Succeed…

Creating a game within a well-known genre offers the exciting opportunity to explore and twist familiar narrative patterns.

In the game “Stars and Time,” most of the typical JRPG journey’s events—such as assembling your team, collecting various important items, and so forth—have already transpired.

Yet, as soon as your main character, Siffrin, enters the final dungeon, he finds himself repeating the same sequence of events due to being trapped in a time loop.

The gem “Stars and Time” offers an intriguing playstyle, as save-loading is a fundamental aspect, yet manipulating future knowledge could lead to unexpected and dire outcomes.

2024-11-22 16:09