Best HD-2D JRPGs

As a veteran gamer with decades spent traversing countless digital landscapes, I must say that the current resurgence of JRPGs, particularly those employing the HD-2D visual style, has been nothing short of breathtaking. I’ve always had a soft spot for these games, and their comeback has brought back memories of my youth spent exploring fantastical worlds.

Over the past few years, Square Enix has been producing and distributing remakes of beloved old games along with new Japanese Role Playing Games (JRPGs) featuring HD-2D graphics, which they themselves develop and own. This style was introduced when Square released Octopath Traveler on Nintendo Switch in 2018, blending 2D characters interacting with high-definition backgrounds as a homage to classic pixel art games.

However, the visual style is not exclusive to the company, and various games have been and are being developed with this graphic style to the delight of fans of one of the greatest video game genres. For players looking to check out some great HD-2D JRPGs, here are some options to consider.

10 Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent

HD-2D In The Palm Of Hand

Best HD-2D JRPGs

“The game titled ‘Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent,’ available on Android and iOS devices, is a free-to-play role-playing game (RPG) that mimics the play mechanics and graphics of its original version, ‘Octopath Traveler.’ This mobile adaptation offers in-app purchases and touchscreen controls for an optimized smartphone experience.”

In the game titled “Champions of the Continent“, we find a prequel story that takes place on the continent of Osterra, which is also home to the original “Octopath Traveler“. Here, three captivating tales interweave, inviting players to join Herminia, a character known as the “Witch of Greed”, Tytos, the “Hero”, and Auguste, the “Playwright” on their extraordinary journeys.

9 Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

More Than 100 Heroes With Amazing Visuals

The first game not created by Square Enix on our list, yet possessing a visual style reminiscent of their HD-2D games, is “Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes.” Produced by Rabbit & Bear Studios, this game aspires to deliver a fresh take on the traditional JRPG experience and holds the title as the highest-funded game on Kickstarter in 2020.

In this game, you have the power to manage more than a hundred characters who are playable, set in a world torn apart by conflict. As their individual journeys unfold, they influence and reshape the destiny of the world.

8 Wandering Sword

A High-Quality Chinese HD-2D

The Wandering Sword isn’t a game crafted by Square Enix, and it doesn’t fit neatly into the JRPG genre as it originates from China. Yet, fans who appreciated the gaming journey in titles such as Octopath Traveler and Live A Live might find themselves drawn to this production by The Swordman Studio.

As a seasoned gamer with years of gaming under my belt, I can confidently say that this game is something truly special. With its stunning visuals and immersive storyline, it takes the player on an unforgettable journey across breathtaking landscapes. The protagonist’s struggle for survival and quest to become a hero resonates deeply with me, as I too have faced adversity in my own life.

7 Octopath Traveler

The Game That Inaugurated A New Era Of JRPGs

The groundbreaking role-playing game that ushered in the HD-2D JRPG era is known as “Octopath Traveler.” Since its initial announcement, its graphics have garnered significant attention, and it has become a commercial triumph, selling more than 3 million copies. This success has paved the way for future RPGs that draw inspiration from classic games while incorporating updated mechanics.

Adventurers explore a massive game universe, switching between eight different characters, each with unique backstories, skills, and trajectories. The game’s praised turn-based battle mechanism, combined with an engaging storyline, has won accolades from players and reviewers alike.

6 Tactics Ogre: Reborn

A Classic With Enhanced Visuals

Despite being created by Square Enix, Tactics Ogre: Reborn doesn’t follow the high-definition 2D JRPG aesthetic that Square Enix is known for. Yet, it boasts a distinctive visual style that could appeal significantly to players who enjoy classic gaming experiences with updated graphics.

The game is a strategic role-playing title initially launched in 2010, serving as a spinoff from the Ogre Battle series. It unfolds the tale of an archipelago named Valeria, plunged into conflict after the demise of King Dolgare, who had no successors to the throne, leading to a power struggle among three factions.

5 Star Ocean: The Second Story R

The HD-2D Style In Different Worlds

The updated version of “Star Ocean: The Second Story R” is a remake created by Square Enix, revisiting the original PlayStation action role-playing game. It includes numerous enhancements for user convenience and sports visuals that align with the modern HD-2D aesthetic, though it may not utilize the same technology as games such as “Octopath Traveler”.

The narrative of this game revolves around Claude and Rena, a pair of young individuals hailing from distinct realms. After an unexpected trip lands Claude on the underdeveloped world of Expel, he crosses paths with Rena. Together they set out to explore the mysteries behind occurrences that pose a danger to every civilization.

4 Unicorn Overlord

Save The World With Many Allies

Hailing from the same creative team as 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, Unicorn Overlord is another captivating game featuring 2D characters against stunning high-definition backdrops, reminiscent of the latest generation of HD-2D Japanese role-playing games.

In simpler terms, “Unicorn Overlord” is a strategic role-playing game set in a medieval fantasy world. As the crown prince of a fallen kingdom, you’ll work to unite forces from various regions to take back territories from an oppressive empire. This game offers more than 60 distinct characters, ranging from humans to elves, and its intricate and engaging gameplay will keep you hooked.

3 Live A Live

Live Different Lives In Live A Live

The classic game Live A Live, initially launched on the Super Nintendo, has been re-released by Square Enix featuring an updated HD-2D visual style. This timeless RPG offers seven distinct characters, each with unique skills, allowing players to explore their individual stories in various historical epochs and settings.

In various settings such as the American Frontier, ancient Imperial China, medieval Japan, and far-off futuristic landscapes, players embark on remarkable journeys that have earned this game a reputation as one of the greatest role-playing games ever made.

2 Triangle Strategy

All Choices Matter

Originating from the same creative minds behind Octopath Traveler, Triangle Strategy was unexpectedly introduced during a Nintendo Direct broadcast. This upcoming title showcases HD-2D graphics, combining elements of tactical Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) with an emphasis on in-game actions and choices that will shape your journey through the narrative and determine which allies will support your cause.

In the tale, three dominant forces are at odds over the landmass of Norzelia after a happening upset the power equilibrium. As the protagonist, you’ll have to amass troops for combat and seize territories, making strategic use of the landscape.

1 Octopath Traveler 2

The Pinnacle Of HD-2D Enhances What Was Already Good

Regarded as one of the top HD-2D JRPGs, “Octopath Traveler 2” builds on the achievements of its original version while refining areas that received constructive feedback when it initially came out.

Hailing from Square Enix, this game takes place in Solistia – a dual-continent realm flourishing on the brink of a significant industrial revolution. New technologies are on the horizon, promising an exciting era. Similar to its forerunner, players will embark on a journey alongside eight voyagers, their interwoven tales determining the destiny of this world.

2024-08-11 08:04