9 Best JRPG Animal Party Members

One delightful aspect of a fantasy game lies in the creators’ boundless imagination, constructing extraordinary worlds teeming with groundbreaking innovations, exotic locations, deep lore, and diverse features that many players might not have thought possible.

In fantastical realms I adore, their masterminds dictate the laws that shape these extraordinary universes. Notably in Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), we frequently encounter sentient creatures, transcending the limits of mere barking or meowing. Some of these beings are formidable combat allies, while others lend humor or serve as endearing companions.

Additionally, expanding our viewpoint frequently reveals a diverse assortment of species inhabiting these imaginative realms. In this mix, anthropomorphic beings – animals displaying human-like characteristics – are quite prevalent. For those who appreciate an intimate connection, the term “furry” is particularly apt.

Indeed, our collection features not just traditional animals with rich histories, but also anthropomorphic creatures known as furries. This diverse assembly showcases the top JRPG companions boasting significant roles within the narrative and exceptional battle skills.

9. Draggy

Chrono Cross

In terms of the storyline, Draggy doesn’t play a significant role in Chrono Cross. Yet, given my fondness for dragons and understanding the lineage of the Reptites from Chrono Trigger as well as the emergence of the Dragonians, I believe it merits inclusion on this list.

In a straightforward manner, Serge discovers an egg belonging to Draggy and carefully deposits it into the hatchery at Fort Dragonia. After some time, the egg hatches, resulting in a baby dragon joining their group.

Should the gamer escort Draggy to Dragon’s Fossil Ground, it will interact with the fossilized remains of a dragon—apparently its mom. A short dialogue ensues, then normality resumes as Draggy acquires the skill to unleash the mighty Big Breath.

In truth, it’s always advantageous to have dragons as part of your team in Chrono Cross. While Draggy may not be the most powerful member, it certainly holds its ground. Plus, if you have Leah in your party, they can perform a joint attack called Draggy Rider, which is incredibly charming.

8. Repede

Tales of Vesperia

Everyone adores an excellent mascot, but what makes it exceptional is when it’s essentially a stealthy wolf-ninja brandishing a pipe that transforms into a knife for a more aggressive stance – that’s Repede from Tales of Vesperia, the comrade of main character Yuri.

In the game, you won’t find much depth in Repede’s storyline. However, the prequel movie, “Tales of Vesperia: The First Strike,” delves into his past. It is disclosed that the pipe Repede carries around is a memorial to Niren Fedrok, his previous owner who perished due to imperial corruption.

Yuri, driven away by the same corrupt forces, decided to abandon the military and lead an autonomous life. Along this journey, our main character took in Repede, a companion who shares in all of his escapades. Remarkably, the collar and mystical artifact around Repede’s neck were once owned by someone else before him.

7. Angelus

Drakengard

In the game “Drakengard,” we have Angelus, who serves as Caim’s companion, rather than a typical animal party member. What makes Angelus interesting is that while “Drakengard” doesn’t follow a conventional party system, you can still engage in both standard and flying missions alongside this dragon character.

In the game Drakengard, Angelus is among the mightiest beings, a dragon. Despite her disdain for humans, due to a necessary alliance with Caim for their shared preservation, she reluctantly suppresses her haughtiness. This partnership ultimately brings about mayhem and disorder within the empire.

As time goes by, the bond between Angelus and Caim becomes stronger, as they deeply care for each other. This mutual affection is what makes the game particularly captivating.

Given that Drakengard falls under the category of dark fantasy and Yoko Taro is known for his unconventional creativity, it’s likely their story will have a sad ending. The game offers five different outcomes, and in many cases, things turn out badly. However, it’s the journey that makes the experience worthwhile rather than the end result, isn’t it?

6. Chocobo

Final Fantasy Tactics

It’s difficult to think of a more recognized character in JRPGs than Chocobos, perhaps even Slimes from Dragon Quest, but it wouldn’t be truthful to overlook them. The most challenging aspect was selecting which game to highlight because the mascot is virtually everywhere.

In many different scenarios throughout the Final Fantasy series, a Chocobo can become part of your party, with the exception of spin-offs that focus on these creatures. However, I would like to draw attention to the role they play in Final Fantasy Tactics, where they prove to be particularly challenging.

the classic Yellow Chocobos, the powerful Black Chocobos, and the challenging Red Chocobos. The Yellow ones primarily offer support, while the Black Chocobos specialize in physical attacks, and the Red Chocobos are known for causing chaos.

What’s the reason? It’s because Red Chocobos naturally possess the skill to unleash the Choco Meteor ability, an attack with a long range and tremendous destructive power.

In Final Fantasy Tactics, if you don’t prefer to utilize a unit’s combat abilities, consider having them ride other units for an advantage, particularly the Black Chocobo that boasts swiftness, even flight.

5. Rei

Breath of Fire III

Among all retro JRPGs, Breath of Fire III holds a special place in my heart as my most cherished one. While I often claim it as my preferred title, the truth is that its appeal lies not so much in the game itself, but in the nostalgic memories of a young and easily delighted me.

One reason I’m so captivated by this game is because of its compelling characters, particularly the protagonist Ryu and his step-brother figure, Rei. These two characters really draw me in and add a depth to the gameplay experience that makes it all the more enjoyable for me as a fan.

At the outset of the game, Rei encounters Ryu and immediately opens his home to the child without hesitation, a gesture similar to the one he extended towards the orphan Teepo earlier.

In her role as protector, Rei instructs them about the unforgiving aspects of life and initiates them into a criminal lifestyle, taking whatever steps are needed for their survival.

Over time, circumstances deteriorate significantly. Their dwelling is destroyed by fire, causing the group to disperse. After several years, Ryu encounters Rei again only to discover that he has lost control and mutated into a monstrous being.

Since their split, Rei has been on a quest to find the culprits responsible for setting fire to their home, as he suspects they may have also taken the lives of Ryu and Teepo. This touching reunion underscores the fact that Rei never stopped thinking about them.

4. Morgana

Persona 5

In the game “Persona 5”, Morgana might not appeal to everyone, but I appreciate his role as the protagonist’s advocate, despite the fact that the lead character is not actually silent.

Additionally, the catlike character aids in addressing some intriguing queries regarding the game’s environment and experiences an extraordinary transformation in its role, marking one of the most significant character evolutions.

Initially seen as just a symbolic mascot, this character later unfolds into a complex individual who grapples with self-doubt and questions his reality. This depth aligns perfectly with the broader themes in Persona 5, and for cat enthusiasts, he also happens to be a feline companion.

Although Morgana can be a bit irritating when debating with Ryuji or being overly attached to Ann, there’s no denying that he has a kind heart. Among the mascots from the Persona series, he might just be the least troublesome and most helpful, proving valuable in both combat situations and otherwise.

3. Red XIII

Final Fantasy VII

Red XIII, affectionately known as Nanaki by those close to him, serves as our wise yet innocent companion during the storyline of Final Fantasy VII. While he may appear like a dog to some, creator Tetsuya Nomura described him more as a feline-like creature, leaning toward a mountain lion in nature rather than your typical house cat.

Irrespective, let’s move past that matter. Red XIII is simply remarkable, and his character development deepens significantly in the upcoming game, “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

At first, he makes an impression with a mature, deep-toned voice and an air of wisdom and age. But when he gets back home, the vibrant and exuberant younger version of him comes out, even though he’s 48 years old.

The emotional storyline of Cosmo Canyon involving Red XIII from Final Fantasy often leaves players in tears. Unlike most animal party members in games, who are typically presented as mascots or sources of humor, Red XIII was given a depth that’s seldom seen. In the end, he is simply what you see before you – no more than just another character.

2. Frog

Chrono Trigger

Despite not officially being part of the animal party in Chrono Trigger, Frog (or Glenn, if you like) is so emblematic that he merits attention. Frankly, he even makes a croaking sound when he’s happy! He’s utterly captivated by his role. If you prefer, though, you can call him Glenn.

In their quest to save Marle, Crono and Lucca encounter Frog. Recognizing his powerful demeanor and noble character instantly, they find that he truly embodies these traits consistently. Unlike many others, Frog doesn’t focus on his appearance; instead, he tirelessly searches for the person who transformed him while still radiating his heroic spirit.

The situation becomes more impressive when he brandishes Masamune, as his victorious melody begins echoing. Frog is a character who could be summoned for a journey through time to confront an extraterrestrial peril, aiming to safeguard a world he won’t outlive himself – and he would eagerly take on that challenge.

1. Donald Duck

Kingdom Hearts

Pondering over Donald Duck as an outstanding animal party member in a JRPG, I found myself quite surprised and taken aback by this notion.

The sound of it was somewhat off-kilter, yet undeniably fitting at the same moment. Regrettably, we can’t ignore that Donald Duck is undoubtedly one of the top-notch characters in the Kingdom Hearts, a fact that even those who aren’t fond of him must acknowledge.

Just like you, I’ve likely found myself frustrated when Donald took an excessive amount of time to cast Cure, resulting in my character’s demise, or when he excessively used Fire, depleting his limited MP resources. Yet, the uncontainable energy, flamboyant persona, and unique contributions Donald makes to the narrative of Kingdom Hearts are indisputably endearing.

It’s important to remember that, within the storyline of Final Fantasy, he held the title of the most potent mage for quite some time. He was the unique individual who could summon Zettaflare.

With the debut of Final Fantasy XVI, everything shifted as Bahamut too let loose a Zettaflare, equating his power to that of the Royal Magician from Disney’s castle.

2025-01-22 21:09