You Won’t Believe These RPGs With Amazing Ensemble Casts!

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Summary

  • Great characters are crucial for RPG success.
  • Some RPGs prioritize ensemble casts over a central character.
  • Games like Octopath Traveler showcase the power of ensemble storytelling.

Among various elements, compelling characters are what truly elevate an RPG to greatness. Some RPGs even prioritize character development above everything else, resulting in extraordinary ensemble games that place more emphasis on a dynamic group of characters rather than just one main protagonist.

Regardless if an RPG features separate segments for each character or a narrative where the player’s main character shares the limelight with a team, there are numerous exceptional ensemble RPGs available. This list ranks these games based on two factors: the skillful utilization of the multi-character cast and the overall quality of the game itself.

1. Octopath Traveler

The Adventure Begins

During the mid to late 2010s, fans of traditional Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG) experienced a period of disappointment. Many JRPGs started following mainstream trends, which left the die-hard fans yearning for the good old days of the 90s. Unfortunately, there were not many high-budget RPGs that catered to this niche. However, everything changed with the arrival of Octopath Traveler.

Debuting in 2018 as a heartfelt tribute to the golden age of Japanese Role-Playing Games, “Octopath Traveler” focuses on the unique journeys of eight characters within the party, emphasizing collaborative and traditional JRPG narrative structures above everything else. Interestingly, players are given the freedom to select their preferred character as the starting point (although Cyrus is generally considered the ideal choice). Despite certain issues, “Octopath Traveler” remains a captivating experience due to its rich storytelling diversity.

2. SaGa Frontier

Saga Breaks Through

The golden age of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) is challenging to pinpoint, but the late 1990s stands out as a strong contender. During that time, Square Enix was at its peak, consistently producing timeless JRPGs that continue to captivate audiences, such as the unconquerable Final Fantasy 7.

Unfortunately, it’s a pity that SaGa Frontier tends to be overlooked during this era. The game boasted a unique “Free Scenario System” which allowed players to command any character from the diverse party at will, traveling anywhere and exploring separate storylines for each character. This was an exceptional degree of freedom compared to other games at that time, and it still stands as one of the finest ensemble RPGs ever created.

3. Divinity: Original Sin 2

Straight From The Source

Nowadays, CRPGs (Computer Role-Playing Games) have seen a revival in popularity, largely due to the massive success of Baldur’s Gate 3. However, it’s important to note that Larian Studios had been working towards CRPG mastery well before their breakout hit. One of their notable creations was Divinity: Original Sin 2, a game that garnered quite a following but is sometimes underappreciated.

While users have the option to design personalized characters, the primary focus of this game lies in assembling a dynamic team of adventurers that the player can switch between whenever desired. Each character offers distinct dialogue options, adding depth to the storyline. Interestingly, players can select these pre-existing characters from the start, as they all play significant roles within the game’s intricate narrative. The essence of this game revolves around freedom, and it’s the ensemble party that brings the captivating world to life.

4. Wild Arms 2

Six-Shooters

Back in the ’90s, role-playing games (RPGs) were everywhere, but for me as a gamer, they started to blend together, especially in global markets. However, the developers of the Wild Arms series knew they had to make their mark, and they did it by blending Western, steampunk, and sci-fi flavors into their worlds. This unique mix set it apart from the more traditional fantasy games out there.

Instead of having a single main character, what set Wild Arms 2 apart was its emphasis on a diverse group of characters. Unlike many games where there is just one protagonist, this game features six characters who all have significant roles in the party and their stories are generally equally important. The game places more focus on creating a team rather than following a solitary hero. This highlights the strength of a well-balanced ensemble cast.

5. Suikoden 2

The Star Party

Among numerous games that were overshadowed during the fierce competition of JRPGs in the late 1990s, Suikoden 2 stands out as an underrated masterpiece. Despite being one of the franchise’s finest works, it was often eclipsed by Square Enix’s releases. However, each passing year sees more and more modern gamers rediscovering this timeless gem.

Despite the central character being silent and controlled by the player, the game centers around the 108 Stars of Destiny, an eclectic group of characters with distinct personalities and roles. These stars significantly shape the player’s party and adversaries. The mechanism, where the focus is on a diverse cast, was quite innovative and ambitious for its time, yet it hasn’t received the recognition it deserved for how daringly forward-thinking it was.

6. Persona 5 Royal

Steal Your Heart

Establishing the most beloved JRPG ever made can be quite challenging, but it’s safe to say that “Persona 5” puts up a convincing argument for the crown. The latest iteration in the main series of “Persona” radiates style from every angle and maintains enough traditional JRPG elements to keep veteran fans engaged, while also offering an accessible experience to attract a wave of newcomers.

In terms of brilliance, although the graphics are captivating in Persona 5, it’s the ensemble of characters and their development that truly sets this game apart. Each character from the Phantom Thieves is intricately portrayed, making them remarkably memorable and one of the most engaging groups of friends ever brought to life through pixels.

7. Baldur’s Gate 3

Infected Together

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a remarkable milestone. Not only did it defy expectations by resurrecting a CRPG sequel that was absent for over two decades, but it also excelled in translating the mechanics of the Dungeons & Dragons tabletop game to the digital realm like no other before it. It’s challenging to envision any future translation of the D&D 5e system surpassing this one.

In this game, the main character does hold significant influence, but what truly sets it apart is its focus on robust and impactful player companions. Each companion appears authentic, with their own ambitions, aspirations, and complex personal histories that can be delved into. They serve as the pulse of the game, and without them, the game would lack its unique charm and depth.

8. Octopath Traveler 2

Old-School RPG Perfection

Initially, Octopath Traveler was seen as a heartfelt tribute to the golden age of JRPGs, but some questioned its structural and gameplay authenticity, viewing it as more of a novelty than a fully-formed game. Fortunately, Square Enix’s team took another swing at it and produced an exceptional sequel that outshines the original in nearly every aspect.

As a devoted fan, I can confidently say that this game has taken its combat system to new heights, boosting its graphical quality and restructuring it for a more welcoming experience for beginners. But what truly sets it apart is the renewed emphasis on character dynamics within the ensemble and the core cast, making it an embodiment of perfection for the eight-fold formula in RPGs. Simply put, this game has solidified its status as the pinnacle of ensemble role-playing games.

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2025-05-25 21:08