Polarizing JRPGs That You Should Still Try

Key Takeaways

Not all JRPGs manage to woo the entire fanbase of players due to expectations and delivery.
Some bold or controversial design choices might cater to only a specific group of players while alienating the other half.
Despite that, some of the more polarizing JRPGs like Chrono Cross and Final Fantasy 15 are still worth checking out.

As a seasoned gamer who’s seen my fair share of time-traveling tales and JRPGs, I must say these reviews have struck a chord with me. Let me tell you about my own journey through these games.

Many people hold the JRPG genre dear for multiple reasons, ranging from nostalgia to distinctive gaming mechanics. However, concerns arose among fans when Japanese role-playing games struggled to maintain mainstream appeal as the industry progressed. Fortunately, developers quickly adapted and started producing an abundance of creative JRPGs, offering diverse settings and immersive gameplay that remained captivating throughout, even with game durations stretching up to 100 hours in some cases.

With so many JRPG games around, it’s understandable why some might not quite hit their mark, resulting in either harsh fan reactions or negative reviews from critics. While these games may have flaws such as debatable plot points or design issues, those who are prepared to overlook these aspects can discover some truly underrated JRPGs that deserve more recognition and admiration than they received.

5 Final Fantasy 15

Has A Lot Of Heart Despite Some Major Problems Plaguing The Experience

For approximately ten years, the creation of Final Fantasy 15 faced numerous challenges before Hajime Tabata took charge and concluded Noctis’ journey. However, there was a caveat – many essential storyline aspects were assigned to a poorly-received film, some character relationships were moved to a surprisingly well-crafted anime series, and crucial plot points were either underdeveloped or introduced later via downloadable content. This helps explain why many players weren’t enthusiastic about Final Fantasy 15 upon its initial release.

Despite facing criticism for feeling unfinished due to its lengthy development, Final Fantasy 15 merits appreciation for offering players a deeply emotional story. Notably, the game continued to receive updates that rectified issues and responded to fan feedback, eventually leading to the release of both the Royal and Windows Editions, significant enhancements that delved deeper into the narrative and slow-paced the conclusion without rushing it. These improvements made the relationship between Noctis and his companions in this game seem more developed than in many other Final Fantasy titles, which is a considerable commendation.

4 Chrono Cross

It Would’ve Been Impossible To Live Up To The Legacy Of The Greatest JRPG Ever Made

In the shoes of a game following a highly acclaimed predecessor, Chrono Cross faced significant expectations. Fans anticipated a continuation of time-travel escapades similar to its precursor, which is often hailed as the best JRPG ever made. However, Chrono Cross chose an unconventional path by overhauling its battle system, introducing an extensive roster of party members, and abandoning a straightforward narrative for a complex plot that might leave fans disoriented.

Those hoping for a visually enhanced version of “Chrono Trigger” may have been let down, but those with more modest expectations appreciated it as a distinctive and engaging game offering a unique perspective on the effects of time travel in storytelling. The intrigue lies in Serge’s quest to unravel the sequence of events leading to his demise in an alternate timeline, with complexities unfolding gradually to prevent overwhelming fans.

3 Resonance Of Fate

The Overt Gray Tones Can Be Hard To Get Used To But Lean Into The Game’s Amazing Worldbuilding

The gloomy ambiance of the game “Resonance of Fate” can quickly become overwhelming for players. While the characters and storyline are full of allure, it’s challenging to enjoy these captivating moments when the environment is consistently shrouded in dull tones, and even the innovative navigation becomes less engaging. These issues are ones that many fans would acknowledge as challenges faced by this game. However, there’s a depth to “Resonance of Fate” that may not be immediately apparent.

The best aspect of this game is unquestionably its combat system, which swiftly penalizes players for not utilizing their turns wisely. Darting through arenas and firing off rounds in an over-the-top fashion remains consistently captivating. After surmounting the learning curve, each fight becomes something enthusiasts eagerly anticipate. Managing Bezels and transforming scratch damage into direct damage requires a deft touch, a skill that players must perfect to optimize their experience within Resonance of Fate.

2 I Am Setsuna

May Be Unable To Leave The Shadow Of Its Influences But Leaves A Lasting Impression During Its Short Runtime

Many people were incredibly excited about the release of “I Am Setsuna“, expecting it to capture the essence of “Chrono Trigger” and offer an enchanting journey. While the combat system and snowy backdrop certainly added to its appeal, some players felt a little disappointed as the game was relatively brief compared to other JRPGs. Additionally, certain story elements seemed reminiscent of “Final Fantasy 10‘s” acclaimed narrative, which left them feeling that the game didn’t quite deliver on the grand adventure they had anticipated.

It’s fortunate for some gamers who prefer quicker playthroughs that these matters can be bypassed, as the game minimizes filler content typical in this genre. While combat might become monotonous at times, players can still immerse themselves in a compact and delightful journey reminiscent of the golden age of Japanese Role-Playing Games, with a contemporary touch added to it.

1 Octopath Traveler

Worth Checking Out For Its Impressive Production Values Despite Its Predictable Story Beats And Formulaic Design

As a gamer myself, I couldn’t help but wonder if I should give the original Octopath Traveler a try after experiencing the significant enhancements in every aspect with the sequel. The adherence to a formula gave the first game a somewhat generic feel, yet the stunning HD-2D graphics and engaging turn-based battles kept me hooked. Despite some hiccups, RPG enthusiasts like myself will find plenty to appreciate in this game.

This game boasts exceptional music and visuals that captivate players, making it an experience fans will adore after investing over 100 hours into this grand journey. Each character’s story is compelling, but it’s unfortunate that the eight protagonists don’t interact more extensively as some fans may hope. Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings are easily overlooked in light of Octopath Traveler‘s numerous strengths. Despite initial criticisms regarding its formulaic nature and familiar tropes, the game has won over fans after they voiced their concerns.

2024-09-18 07:03