Best Triple-A JRPGs

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Summary

  • Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin showcases gripping turn-based combat within the Monster Hunter universe.
  • Super Mario RPG is a visually enhanced remake that modernizes the classic RPG while maintaining its original charm.
  • Tales of Arise by Bandai Namco Studios offers an award-winning narrative, branching stories, and captivating JRPG combat.

Over time, numerous Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) have emerged, developed by a diverse range of companies – from large corporations to smaller independent studios. Though countless fantastic JRPGs have originated from indie or double-A companies, those seeking games that have received substantial financial backing and used it wisely should focus on the triple-A titles.

In the world of gaming, franchises like Final Fantasy are renowned giants in the AAA category of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs). However, it might come as a shock to players that top-tier JRPGs are not abundant, with these particular games standing out among the best, being highly appreciated by their fanbase. For this article, the selection of titles has been made extremely selective, focusing solely on Triple-A releases. This means that series such as Persona, despite being excellent games, were not considered due to them typically having a smaller budget compared to the widely discussed Triple-A games.

8. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

An Epic Adventure In A Spin-Off Title

It’s no surprise that the Monster Hunter series is often categorized as a triple-A title. Contrary to what some players might think, focusing solely on the action-packed main series, Capcom has devoted significant resources and immense detail into their spin-off games, like Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin.

In the delightful role-playing game known as Monster Hunter, players transform into a monster rider and forge connections with diverse creatures residing in the Monster Hunter universe. The engaging narrative of Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers an opportunity for players to engage in tactical turn-based combat, challenging them to push their monsters’ potential to its absolute maximum.

7. Super Mario RPG (2023)

Repair The Star Road Once More In An Incredible Remake

Some fantastic AAA JRPGs are modern-day reinterpretations of beloved classics like “Super Mario RPG”. These remakes have been eagerly anticipated by many gamers, particularly those who missed out on the original release because it was exclusive to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.

Given that Nintendo marketed this game and featured their renowned character, Mario, it’s not unexpected that Super Mario RPG received a substantial budget and a great deal of attention. The blend of traditional JRPG combat with improved graphics, set in the world of Super Mario, highlights that Super Mario RPG is indeed a top-tier JRPG worth considering on the Switch.

6. Yakuza: Like A Dragon

Yakuza With Incredibly Dynamic RPG Combat

Prior to “Yakuza: Like a Dragon,” the games in the series typically featured real-time brawling combat instead of the turn-based JRPG style that is now present. Some players might have thought this switch would be detrimental to the Yakuza franchise, but many fans of the series actually found “Yakuza: Like a Dragon” to be a refreshing change and enjoyed the game overall.

In a fresh twist for the series, Yakuza: Like a Dragon offered a new character to play as, along with a shift in genre, making it an innovative reinterpretation of a beloved game franchise. It’s worth noting that this game had a more limited budget compared to other top-tier games in the industry. Yet, its exceptional gameplay, captivating story, stellar voice acting, and engaging animations have earned it the title of a triple-A game, demonstrating its high caliber despite budget constraints.

5. Tales Of Arise

One Of The Best Modern JRPGs Created

In more recent times, a large number of top-tier AAA JRPGs that bring feelings of nostalgia upon replay have been around. While there have been numerous AA JRPGs since then, AAA ones have been less prevalent. However, the renowned Bandai Namco Studios successfully ventured into the JRPG genre with a completely new AAA game titled “ Tales of Arise “.

The game “Tales of Arise” stands out, earning The Best RPG Game of 2021 at the Game Awards, due to its unique feature of offering two distinct storylines dependent on the player’s chosen protagonist. This game not only excels in this aspect but also captivates players with its compelling characters and thrilling combat within the realm of JRPG. It’s remarkable that such a high-quality product was made possible by the dedication, investment, and hard work of Bandai Namco, resulting in one of the finest modern AAA JRPGs available today.

4. Kingdom Hearts 2

A JRPG Filled With Much-Loved Disney Characters

Previously mentioned, top-tier triple-A JRPGs often fall into the category of classic games. Some of these, initially released in the early 2000s, stand out as exceptional examples. Although remakes such as Super Mario RPG cater well to contemporary audiences, timeless gems like Kingdom Hearts 2 continue to shine even as gaming evolves.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but express my admiration for the entire Kingdom Hearts franchise, masterfully crafted by Square Enix. Among all the jaw-dropping Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) this series has produced, Kingdom Hearts 2 stands head and shoulders above the rest. The game’s captivating storyline alone has left an indelible mark on players, a tale that continues to resonate even years after its release. In fact, I can confidently say that it’s a game worth revisiting time and again.

3. Pokemon HeartGold & SoulSilver

Pokemon Continues To Rule JRPGs As A Franchise

Nintendo consistently produces some of today’s most recognized AAA games, including the beloved Pokémon series. Given its turn-based combat system involving these charming pocket creatures, Pokémon can also be classified as a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG). Many titles within this franchise have earned their place among the top-tier AAA JRPGs that have been developed.

It’s generally agreed by many fans of the Pokemon franchise that Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver stand out as some of the best games in the series, even though not all Pokemon games can be mentioned. These games are remakes of the original Pokemon Gold and Silver, and they introduced the second generation of Pokemon into the fourth generation. With a wealth of content and exceptional quality, these games have been highly praised.

2. Final Fantasy 6

The Most Loved Game In The Final Fantasy Franchise

One highly influential series within the realm of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) that has consistently impressed both critics and fans as top-tier AAA productions is none other than the acclaimed Final Fantasy franchise. Despite decades having passed since its initial inception, this legendary series continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with a vast following of dedicated players eagerly anticipating not just new installments but also reimagined versions of their beloved classics.

For the sake of brevity, it’s impossible to mention every single “Final Fantasy” game, but “Final Fantasy 6” stands out as a triple-A JRPG that truly shines among the franchise’s best. Players can relish in this classic on PC or mobile devices, with updated 2D graphics and enhanced audio, while still experiencing a strong sense of nostalgia for the original game. This is one of the finest JRPGs ever created, in my opinion.

1. Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

A Modern Take On A Classic With A Lot Invested In It

It’s clear that Square Enix stands out as a top-tier company when it comes to producing Japanese Role Playing Games (JRPGs). Their titles are often backed by substantial budgets, large teams, and an impressive amount of work, which results in numerous premium franchises. Among these, the latest addition to the venerable Dragon Quest series, specifically Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes of an Elusive Age, has received high praise since its release for continuing the legacy set by its predecessors in the Dragon Quest franchise.

As a gaming enthusiast, diving into the captivating tale of Dragon Quest 11 is nothing short of exhilarating. The game’s stunning visuals, coupled with an exceptional soundtrack, offer a truly immersive experience that keeps me hooked. And, if you’re lucky enough to play the Definitive versions, it’s clear that Square Enix has poured an incredible amount of effort and dedication into this JRPG masterpiece, Dragon Quest. In fact, when compared to other AAA games, it’s hard not to see why Dragon Quest stands out as one of the greatest games ever created.

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2025-09-05 07:35