8 Best Modern JRPGs Inspired By Classics

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During the 7th and 8th generations of video game consoles, there was a period when developers felt it necessary to give Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) a contemporary refresh.

As a gamer, I can’t help but reflect on the transformation that swept through our gaming world. The traditional turn-based combat, a cornerstone of my childhood gaming experiences, was replaced by real-time action. And oh, the iconic “four guys in a row” setup? It seemed to vanish like a puff of smoke. This change was just the beginning of an iceberg, a shift that brought forth some incredible games. Yet, it also left many of us old-school gamers with a bittersweet longing for a cherished, battle-tested formula.

Luckily, the industry began to take notice, leading to a revival of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) in subsequent years. They reintroduced classic gameplay elements but with a contemporary touch. These games paid homage to the genre’s legendary past and provided long-time enthusiasts with something they had been yearning for.

In this list, we’ll explore 8 of the best modern JRPGs inspired by the great classics.

8.
Octopath Traveler

Back to Basics

The journey commences with the game that unequivocally demonstrated the enduring appeal of traditional Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs): Octopath Traveler.

The game evoked all that fans were longing for: classic turn-based combat, captivating pixel art, and an intricately developed universe, which was further enhanced by its stunning high-definition 2D display. Despite the slightly altered format, focusing on eight distinct character narratives rather than one grand saga, it still manages to fulfill the craving for traditional gaming experience.

Octopath Traveler demonstrated it’s possible to refresh an established genre while preserving fundamental gameplay elements, as evidenced by its battle/boost system which encourages strategic thinking and creative play instead of repetitive button pressing.

As a gamer, I’d say this game feels reminiscent of classic SNES titles, but with an added twist – it looks every bit as stunning as those memories without the need for any nostalgia goggles!

7.
Bravely Default

Return of Jobs

Bravely Default, much like Octopath Traveler, demonstrated the ongoing desire for traditional JRPGs in gaming. However, it had already made this argument a few years prior. It’s not just influenced by vintage Final Fantasy games; instead, it evokes a forgotten entry from the SNES or PS1 era, enhanced with some contemporary, intelligent innovations.

As a gamer, I’ve got my hands on a game with an enchanting crystal narrative, a versatile job system, turn-based action, and a world brimming with peril and allure. But what truly elevates it above the rest is its Brave and Default mechanism, which allows me to bank or expend turns for a thrilling risk-reward experience that keeps battles exciting and immersive.

The visuals convey a magical, fairy-tale feel, the music is excellent quality, and the game embraces classic JRPG elements skillfully rather than attempting to revolutionize the genre. Instead, it refines what has proven successful in the past. For some, this was the modern reinterpretation of Final Fantasy V they had eagerly anticipated.

6.
I Am Setsuna

I Am Intrigued

In a more conversational style, one could say: “I Am Setsuna shows its emotions openly. It’s a peaceful, snow-covered role-playing game reminiscent of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) days, and that’s precisely what it aims to achieve.

Tokyo RPG Factory aimed to recreate the atmosphere of traditional Japanese role-playing games, particularly resonating with Chrono Trigger. This intention is evident in the game, as it features:

1. A battle system similar to Active Time Battle, incorporating combo techniques and status effects.
2. Visible enemies on the map, eliminating random encounters.

In simpler terms, Tokyo RPG Factory’s goal was to revive the charm of old-school JRPGs like Chrono Trigger. They achieved this by adopting a familiar battle system with combo moves and status effects, as well as showing enemies on the map instead of having random encounters.

In terms of style rather than technicalities, Setsuna distinguishes itself through its somber and contemplative atmosphere. The narrative primarily focuses on themes of sacrifice and melancholy, with an emphasis on the process rather than the end result.

The simple piano melody enhances the emotional depth, while the sparse visuals create a chilling allure. It’s not flashy or action-packed, but if you’re yearning for something that encapsulates the tranquil essence of classic JRPGs, this certainly delivers.

5.
Sea of Stars

It Just Gets It

As soon as I dove into Sea of Stars, it became crystal clear that its creators were kids who spent their childhoods enamored with the charm of 16-bit JRPGs, just like me!

Clearly influenced by Chrono Trigger, this game features turn-based battles where timing plays a role, combined moves, an enchanting universe brimming with hidden treasures, and some melodies penned by the legendary composer Yasunori Mitsuda himself.

The essence of Chrono Trigger is evident; it boasts turn-based fighting with strategic timing, coordinated moves, a delightful realm teeming with mysteries, and original music contributed by Chrono Trigger’s renowned composer, Yasunori Mitsuda.

The pixel artwork is simply amazing, ranking it among the finest in recent times, while the narrative skillfully blends elements of fun-filled escapade with some unexpectedly touching scenes.

However, Sea of Stars isn’t merely a walk down memory lane. Instead, it skillfully sidesteps old-fashioned elements such as random encounters or endless leveling, choosing instead for a well-balanced pace and deliberate design. It pays homage to the classics without being bound by them.

This game isn’t attempting to revolutionize its genre; instead, it beautifully demonstrates that classic formulas can still captivate when handled thoughtfully. For anyone who was raised on RPGs from the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) era, playing this feels remarkably nostalgic and comforting.

4.
Triangle Strategy

Old School Tactics

If you’ve ever hoped for a return of Final Fantasy Tectactics, Triangle Strategy is likely as close as we’ve come to it in recent times.

This tale unfolds gradually, offering an abundance of political intrigue, complex choices, and challenging ethical dilemmas that mold the narrative. The strategic combat, presented in a grid format, is rich and thought-provoking, as factors such as height, placement, and terrain significantly impact each encounter, making every battle feel like a strategic game of chess with explosive elements.

Similar to numerous other options on the list, this game showcases a contemporary twist on traditional pixel art, featuring high-definition 2D graphics and stunning landscapes that accentuate its strategic gameplay. It’s not for casual gamers, but if you appreciate strategically deep, decision-based gameplay with a retro taste (particularly if you’re a fan of Final Fantasy Tactics),

3.
Undertale

Like Nothing Before, but Still Nostalgic

Without a doubt, Undertale isn’t like other JRPGs that have come before it, yet to turn a genre upside down, one must deeply understand it and wear the influences with pride.

In this game, players are offered the option to resolve conflicts through dialogue or opt for traditional combat. The outcome can dramatically vary based on your chosen strategy and various other intricate elements.

Every choice you make, whether it’s your actions towards adversaries or the language you use in conversations, has a lasting impact in this game. It keeps track of everything, from the jokes to the bizarre moments and the poignant emotional moments. While Undertale carries a similar tone to EarthBound, it manages to maintain its own distinct identity.

The memorable soundtrack significantly contributes to Undertale’s allure, with its unique and emotional tunes making it a popular choice among many gamers’ favorite game soundtracks.

2.
Persona 5

A Real Show-Off

Including Persona 5 in this list could seem like an unfair advantage, given that it’s a direct sequel instead of a retro tribute or homage from an indie developer. However, it undeniably deserves its place. Amidst a trend where many major JRPG franchises were shifting towards real-time combat, Persona remained steadfast with its turn-based gameplay, and this choice proved to be highly successful.

Conflicts are swift, tactical, and fashionable, incorporating a system that emphasizes vulnerability exploitation, maintaining a quick and immersive pace. As expected in the franchise, it encompasses dungeon exploration, demon gathering, fusion techniques, and the distinctive lifestyle aspect, which includes dating, part-time work, and other everyday activities.

This game, Persona 5, follows the traditional formula but with a more modern and refined twist. Essentially, it pays homage to the entire genre while solidifying its place as a leader in the series. It demonstrated that classic role-playing games (JRPGs) can still be relevant if executed properly, and this game did just that flawlessly.

1.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

More Than a Spiritual Successor

The Suikoden series, a cherished franchise in the world of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG), has been adored since it last launched a primary installment back in 2006. Every game captivated fans with its compelling narratives, innovative battle system, extensive cast of unforgettable characters, and an abundance of engaging side activities.

It’s not surprising that the fans, who had always harbored hopes for a return, were overjoyed when the original makers disclosed a fresh endeavor.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes evokes the essence of a worthy successor, capturing the charm in every aspect. It reintroduces an expansive roster of recruitable characters (numbering more than 100), turn-based combat with six-member teams, and the irresistible mix of strategy, politics, and personal narratives, all presented with fashionable HD-2D graphics that offer a nostalgic yet contemporary feel.

Among the many aspects I adore in Suikoden, one that particularly stands out is the gradual development of your own personal stronghold throughout the game. Remarkably, this aspect has been preserved and continues to captivate in its authenticity. To put it simply, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes seems like a heartfelt tribute to Suikoden.

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2025-06-02 17:40