9 Best JRPG Robot Party Members

As a gamer, I don’t mind venturing into various game worlds – from the classic medieval fantasy realms to the intricate steampunk landscapes, or even brand-new, uncharted territories. No matter what the setting is, I’ve come to expect that the creator will always find a clever way to integrate technology within these imaginary environments.

Games such as “Final Fantasy” and “Xenoblade,” which initially seem to be set primarily in a fantasy world, often incorporate science fiction elements over time. Among these futuristic aspects, I particularly enjoy the character designs featuring robots.

As a game enthusiast, I find the dynamic between organic and mechanical characters nothing short of thrilling. Each brings a unique viewpoint, often resulting in laugh-out-loud disagreements and unforeseen clashes that keep me on my toes!

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises for these mechanical marvels that grace our JRPG parties. Unlike their biological counterparts, they might not have a physical heartbeat, but the love and affection they exude is beyond compare in the gaming world.

9. Cait Sith

Final Fantasy VII

Despite not being my top pick, there’s no denying that Cait Sith from Final Fantasy VII possesses certain allure and an undeniable originality, making him stand out among other robot characters.

For those who might not know yet, the cute cat figure perched on the plush moogle toy isn’t real but rather an automated robot imitation, replicating the look of a living creature.

Although he’s not truly independent in thought, as he’s primarily operated by Reeve, it’s plausible that Cait Sith possesses some level of AI self-governance. I find it hard to envision Shinra’s Urban Development leader managing the cat around the clock—given his constant corporate obligations, particularly meetings without end.

It’s unclear if Cait Sith is a secondary personality of Reeve or merely an irritating AI, but he doesn’t appeal to everyone. However, his prophetic utterances, enigmatic remarks, betrayal, and redemption storylines were more effectively portrayed in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, boosting the cat’s popularity among fans and making him a favorite character in various polls.

8. Cube

Live A Live

Among the numerous Japanese role-playing games I’ve experienced, Live A Live stands out as one of the most distinctive. It offers a multitude of characters, each with their individual storyline and tailored gameplay mechanics. Out of all these characters, it’s Cube, the protagonist of the Distant Future chapter, who I find myself particularly fond of.

In Cube’s chapter, there are likely only a handful of confrontations at best. Instead, it often resembles a detective story series, where you’re engaged in solving the puzzle of who is behind the mysterious deaths on board the spaceship, Cogito Ergo Sum.

Essentially, regardless of your decisions earlier on, the truth eventually comes out anyway. However, watching the story develop along the way remains captivating.

Although Cube doesn’t have the ability to talk, it exhibits a number of traits typically associated with humans, like compassion and inquisitiveness.

When the spaceship’s team begins accusing one another, Cube stays neutral and fair-minded, independently uncovering the truth, thereby rescuing the surviving crew members. What a sweet, well-balanced little robot he is.

7. Steve

Rogue Galaxy

Steve Pocacchio is among the initial associates who embark on Jaster’s space journeys in the game titled “Rogue Galaxy.” Accompanied by his reliable friend, Simon, they enter together in pursuit of the fabled Desert Claw, but end up mistakenly identifying the main character as the one they were searching for. This misunderstanding serves as the catalyst for the storyline’s development.

Steve, who was developed by Dr. Pocacchio, frequently communicates with him for mission updates. They have a heartwarming bond, as Steve eagerly shares his experiences with excitement and an innocent wonder.

Eventually, it comes to light that Dr. Pocacchio had implanted the recollections of his deceased son, Mark, within Steve. This means that whenever Dr. Pocacchio offers feedback, he essentially brings back Mark in some way.

Ultimately, the authorities uncover the doctor’s actions and wipe out all data banks, effectively removing Mark (Steve’s identity) from existence. Despite this, the android persists in living, gradually evolving a more human-like character of its own each day.

6. Poppi (Hana)

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Poppi is a robot-like character from the game Xenoblade Chronicles 2, designed by the annoying character named Tora. One of the best aspects of Poppi is her frequent criticism towards Tora, as Tora tends to be quite irritating and often comes close to doing something inappropriate, much like other Nopons.

Poppi’s vibrant enthusiasm and honesty make her stand out as one of the top characters. She has a deep fascination for exploring the world, all while concealing an arsenal of numerous robot weapons within her.

She talks like someone from the region of the Nopons, a trait she got from Tora. Additionally, Poppi possesses two distinct forms, each embodying an older version of herself.

Beyond her maid attire, Poppi Quixotic Tutelar, often referred to as QT, is a grown-up and battle-ready version of Poppi. Her ultimate form, Poppi Quantum Technochampion π, commonly abbreviated as Poppi QT π (pronounced “Poppi QT pi”), adopts a more mature look and attitude for the Blade, complete with sophisticated dialogue.

5. KOS-MOS

Xenosaga

Following her debut in Xenosaga, KOS-MOS became the face of Monolith Soft, gracing numerous crossovers so frequently that even the popular character 2B from NieR might feel envious.

In the game Xenoblade Chronicles 2, the android reappeared as a legendary weapon, triggering a flurry of fan speculation from enthusiasts who follow both series.

KOS-MOS truly warrants more than just this outpouring of affection. Originally designed for battle against Xenosaga’s primary adversary, the Gnosis, it is her intriguing bond with the protagonist, Shion, that leaves gamers spellbound.

In parallel with the scientist, KOS-MOS undergoes a transformation, gaining human characteristics and empathy, and starts pondering over her own purpose.

Not only does KOS-MOS possess immense power, but she’s also a formidable force, armed with a variety of deadly weapons that make her a significant threat to her adversaries.

Originally crafted by Tetsuya Takahashi, who serves as both her creator and the director at Monolith Soft, she was conceived as a mirror image to humanity. He likened her to fragile fragments of spirit encased within an indestructible shell.

4. 9S

NieR: Automata

2B, a character from the game NieR: Automata, is arguably one of the most renowned androids in Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), or perhaps even beyond this specific genre. A significant part of her fame can be attributed to Yoko Taro, who often includes 2B in collaborations, provided there’s a financial arrangement, ranging from Stellar Blade to Soul Calibur.

It’s clear that 2B and 9S have a strong bond, as her evolution and character are deeply connected to him. If it weren’t for 9S, 2B would just be another powerful, duty-bound android. However, over time, 9S gradually uncovers the intricate aspects of 2B’s personality by exposing her emotional vulnerabilities.

For individuals who have experienced the game “Automata”, it’s clear that the storyline of character 9S is significantly more profound than that of 2B.

He grapples with two challenges: an overabundance of knowledge about YoRHa’s workings and subsequently, the burden of survivor’s remorse. The game doesn’t spare him hardships, leaving spectators to root for his favorable outcome.

3. Robo

Chrono Trigger

When discussing my favorite JRPG animal companions, I picked the Frog. Fortunately, since Chrono Trigger boasts an intriguing and expansive character roster, it’s reintroducing our compassionate and understanding Robo, often referred to as Prometheus.

In Lavos’ shattered future, Crono and his companions discover Robo disabled. Swiftly, Lucca mends him. Immediately upon activation, Robo unveils himself as an ally to humankind, keen on assisting the group with their missions.

Regrettably, other mechanical contraptions do not share the same friendly behavior, as they tend to behave in a hostile manner towards those around them.

As the match progresses, it becomes clear that at their inception, the robots were designed to assist humans. However, a malicious instruction from the corrupted Mother Brain caused them to become aggressive instead.

It’s painful to see Robo causing harm to Atropos XR, his girlfriend. However, in the end, Robo recalls his purpose: to aid humans and thwart Mother Brain.

2. Ershin

Breath of Fire IV

Ershin might not be a traditional robot, but in terms of her actions and capabilities, she fits right in with this category. She’s a character from Breath of Fire IV, and inside her dwells the essence of Deis, one of the game’s eternal entities.

The enigma that surrounds Ershin’s character and background is profound. This peculiar artifact operates effectively only when Deis occupies it, and in this state, Ershin manifests unique traits and a distinctive tone, vacillating between sage-like wisdom and quirky eccentricity.

She has a tendency to laugh during inopportune instances and frequently speaks with assertiveness, sometimes leading one to question whether it’s her opinions or those of Deis that are being expressed.

When Deis removes her armor, Ershin ceases to function, implying she doesn’t have her own power source. In simpler terms, it’s believed that Deis’ divine essence and power seep into the armor over time, resulting in this amusing yet unpredictable character we call Ershin.

1. Aigis

Persona 3

In a different phrase, the storyline about an android intermingling with humans and acquiring emotions such as empathy and love isn’t unique, but it has seldom been presented as effectively as in Aigis from Persona 3. Much of this success can be attributed to the game’s Social Link system, which enables us to cultivate our bond with Aigis gradually over time.

Originally designed to battle Shadows and holding a deep protective connection with the main character, Aigis finds it challenging to navigate social situations with others. However, as time passes, she delves deeper into understanding her own identity, emotions, and even encounters feelings that were previously unknown to her.

Her transformation unfolds slowly and convincingly, aligning seamlessly with the themes of Persona 3, heavily influenced by the progression of the Aigis Social Link.

It’s challenging not to feel connected to her since she strives to grasp human nature, given that we too struggle with self-understanding. Notably, Aigis was granted additional DLC, delving deeper into her past and revealing her sister, Metis.

Read More

2025-01-24 19:09