Best JRPGs Without Turn-Based Combat

Highlights

JRPGs, once mainly associated with turn-based combat, have evolved into action-packed gameplay experiences like Scarlet Nexus.
Titles like Ys: The Oath In Felghana and Tales Of Arise showcase fast-paced combat, breaking away from tradition.
Games like Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and NieR: Automata offer complex yet rewarding combat systems in the world of JRPGs.

As a seasoned JRPG enthusiast who has traversed countless worlds, vanquished countless foes, and formed bonds with countless Blades (and Bladettes), I must say that these games truly take the cake!

Video games in the JRPG (Japanese Role-Playing Game) category are highly cherished across the gaming world, particularly during the 90s. Notable series like Final Fantasy, Chrono Trigger, and Shin Megami Tensei dominated this era. These games’ triumph led to the genre being largely recognized for its turn-based combat system.

Although they are often linked with traditional turn-based gameplay, numerous JRPGs available today choose alternative styles, emphasizing action-packed, fast-paced gameplay. Even well-known series like Final Fantasy have adapted over time and launched games that abandon the conventional turn-based combat system. Furthermore, many titles stand out by providing engaging experiences while deviating from the genre’s traditional foundations.

10 Scarlet Nexus

Lightweight Action Combat

While both games were created by the same development team as Code Vein, Scarlet Nexus departs significantly from the soulslike genre. Instead, it offers a faster and more action-oriented combat system that sets it apart among similar Japanese RPGs. The game is noteworthy for its characters who possess psychokinetic abilities, enabling players to manipulate certain items within the game environment.

For those seeking a rich gaming experience, Scarlet Nexus delivers well by providing two separate campaigns, each centered around one of the game’s protagonist siblings. Although the stories share some common elements, they also boast essential differences that are crucial for comprehending the overall storyline. This duality makes for a satisfying journey, particularly for JRPG enthusiasts who crave a departure from traditional turn-based combat.

9 Ys: The Oath In Felghana

A High Point In Action JRPG Excellence

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation Portable
Released: June 30, 2005
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Genre: RPG

The Ys series is recognized for its exhilarating fights and sophisticated battle systems. Specifically, Ys: The Oath in Felghana distinguishes itself by abandoning the conventional turn-based combat style, instead delivering a swift and accurate action-packed gaming experience. In this game, players engage in real-time battles alongside Adol Christin as he confronts swarms of enemies and formidable bosses, with the gameplay being seamless and responsive.

The game titled “Ys: The Oath in Felghana” modernizes its 16-bit predecessor with swift, action-packed combat that resembles hack-and-slash games. It focuses on accurate control and precise timing of attacks, presenting tough boss fights that demand player skill and tactical thinking. Furthermore, it offers a wealth of content, such as six levels of difficulty, hidden modes, and an admired soundtrack, earning praise for its exceptional contribution to the “Ys” series.

8 Tales Of Arise

A Franchise That Never Featured Turn-Based Combat

Although less famous than other genre franchises, Tales consistently offers quality JRPGs with a steady stream of games for players to enjoy. One standout aspect of this series is its use of real-time combat, and in Tales of Arise, the fighting mechanics have been significantly improved compared to previous versions.

1. This feature is great for those who love stringing together combos and attacking enemies rapidly, leaving no room for them to retaliate. Plus, the music, influenced by genres such as rock, complements the gameplay beautifully, adding an element of freshness to the series.

7 NEO: The World Ends With You

Excellent Combat And An Even Better Soundtrack

As a passionate gamer, I’ve got to say that NEO: The World Ends With You isn’t just a sequel but more of a fresh start, a reboot that Square Enix unleashed. This underrated JRPG offers a unique visual style and a captivating soundtrack that sets it apart from the crowd. But what truly makes it shine is its lively, chaotic combat system.

In the game “NEO: The World Ends With You“, you get to command three characters all at once. Each character has distinct abilities that are activated using different control keys. This gameplay style mirrors the original disorder from the Nintendo DS version, pushing players to juggle multiple tasks at once without feeling overwhelmed, thereby offering a one-of-a-kind JRPG adventure.

6 Ni No Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom

Inspired By Studio Ghibli’s Art And Focuses On Real-Time Combat

In Ni no Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom, while it didn’t renew its collaboration with Studio Ghibli as in the first game, the visual style of the game still has a strong resemblance to their animation work. Players can anticipate vibrant environments, expressive characters, and charming creatures in this game.

In contrast to its earlier version, this game emphasizes real-time skirmishes and thrilling action sequences, enabling players to navigate the surroundings at will. Although it strays from its original foundation, these alterations have proven beneficial, delivering smooth and multifaceted combat experiences, particularly due to the assortment of adversaries available.

5 Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix

A Strange Mix With Enjoyable Combat

In the enhanced version of Kingdom Hearts 2, titled Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix, Square Enix made substantial enhancements to the combat system. The ground and aerial combos have been smoothed out, making them feel more seamless. Additionally, boss battles have been finely tuned, offering players a chance to grasp and adapt to attack patterns without experiencing undue frustration while playing. Lastly, the gameplay has become even more rewarding as the need for excessive grinding has been minimized.

The game additionally incorporated various user-friendly advancements, including Drive Forms, Limit capacities, quick access to items, and magic upgrades. These adjustments made the gameplay even more enjoyable, providing a suitable balance between the constraints of the initial game and the abundance of freedom in the third installment of the primary Kingdom Hearts series.

4 Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Complex Yet Enjoyable Combat

As a gamer immersed in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, I’ve found the combat system to be intricately woven, boasting numerous interconnected mechanisms that, at first glance, might seem daunting. However, once you grasp the fundamentals – chaining combos, pinpointing enemies’ vulnerabilities, and smartly utilizing the Party Gauge – the gameplay transforms into an exhilarating, interactive journey. Perseverance in understanding these intricacies pays off handsomely with battles that are not just dynamic but downright enjoyable.

The downloadable content (DLC) titled “Torna: The Golden Country” has significantly improved its mechanics, polishing the combat system for a more balanced player experience. Similarly, “Xenoblade Chronicles 2” offers an array of Blades, which introduces strategic customization options, ensuring that each adventure is distinct. The combination of these elements and the game’s depth makes it one of the most immersive and satisfying Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) experiences on the Nintendo Switch.

3 Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

A Remake Of A Classic Turn-Based JRPG

Back in the day, playing the original Final Fantasy 7 on my trusty PlayStation 1 was a game-changer for me. Ever since then, I’ve been yearning for a remake, and finally, my prayers have been answered! The remake is now out as a trilogy, and it doesn’t disappoint. Not only does it delve deeper into the storyline, but it also brings a fresh twist to combat mechanics, making it more akin to an action-oriented Japanese RPG.

In the face of updates, Square Enix modernized the traditional gameplay style of the franchise while preserving the core element of turn-based combat in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Players can seamlessly switch between characters to devise strategies and engage in enjoyable, well-crafted battles. This method has been refined even more in the new version, offering players an enhanced experience by combining classic elements with modern improvements.

2 NieR: Automata

A Symphony Of Action And Philosophy

Hailing from the studios of Platinum Games, NieR: Automata distinguishes itself by merging fast-paced action with a profoundly philosophical storyline. In this game, players take on the role of androids engaged in fierce combat against hostile machines in a desolate post-apocalyptic setting, all while navigating thought-provoking themes.

In this game, battles are swift and versatile, offering numerous weapons and skills that enable players to design destructive combination moves. It’s not just about close-quarter fights; it also features shoot ’em up elements, adding an intriguing twist to the gameplay experience. This game pushes the boundaries of what a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) can achieve, making it a must-try for anyone who loves this genre.

1 Dragon’s Dogma 2

The Perfect Definition Of Action JRPG

The Dragon’s Dogma series has a cherished spot among JRPG enthusiasts. Released in 2024, the second installment of this series significantly improved upon its predecessor’s combat with thrilling and engaging gameplay. Taking inspiration from games such as Monster Hunter and Shadow of the Colossus, Dragon’s Dogma 2 tasks players with battling massive enemies, requiring them to scale these behemoths for optimal attack angles, thus making each encounter more satisfying.

Under Hideaki Itsuno’s guidance, Capcom’s game delivers intense battles where strategic thinking trumps quick reactions, and customizing pawns provides an additional enjoyable aspect. While the array of adversaries may not be vast, the overall adventure proves to be incredibly fulfilling and gratifying.

2024-08-03 13:34