Best Urban Fantasy JRPGs

Key Takeaways

JRPGs thrive in high-fantasy or sci-fi settings, but games set in modern-day urban environments bring a unique twist.
Urban locales add depth to JRPG experiences by mixing in fantasy elements without straying from relatability.
Games like The World Ends With You, Shadow Hearts, Parasite Eve, EarthBound, and Persona 5 showcase the allure of urban fantasy.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the urban fantasy genre has always held a special place in my heart. And let me tell you, these three games are nothing short of extraordinary!

In most cases, Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) immerse players in either fantastical or futuristic landscapes, enhancing the sense of adventure they endeavor to instill. Given this, it’s understandable why such games often aim to provide an epic experience that starts from humble beginnings and eventually leads players on a quest to save the world from a being of godlike power. Contrary to expectation, though, some JRPGs deviate from this trend by taking place in contemporary settings that might initially appear quite ordinary.

In my perspective as an avid gamer, these games swiftly pull me into their worlds by blending captivating urban backdrops with the thrilling magic that I crave in role-playing games. Many might contend that employing over-the-top powers within everyday surroundings enhances the overall experience significantly. As a consequence, some of the most memorable JRPGs, as far as fans are concerned, are city-based and skillfully exploit this urban fantasy environment.

5 The World Ends With You

A Stylish Take On Tokyo With Some Engaging Gameplay To Boot

Managing a character suffering from amnesia might seem like an old trick, but don’t let that fool you. It doesn’t take long for The World Ends with You to impress players with its emphasis on both style and substance. The combat system is unlike anything most JRPG fans have seen before, providing a welcome change of pace if they’re familiar with the genre. Fashion is a key element in this game, and keeping up with the latest trends allows players to use the most powerful pins and abilities against their foes.

Enthusiasts are bound to develop an affection for Shibuya and its stylish spots as they progress through this meticulously crafted journey. Initially, combat might seem a bit tricky, but soon enough players will perfect their strategies and harmonize well with their teammates to overpower most enemies. Numerous factors have solidified the fame of “The World Ends with You“, and the urban fantasy aspects significantly contribute to its enduring appeal.

4 Shadow Hearts

A Lovecraftian JRPG Set Moments Before The Onset Of World War 1

As a devoted fan, I find myself drawn to the unique blend that is Shadow Hearts – a JRPG with Lovecraftian undertones that’s hard to come by in this genre. The game’s horror elements may not be as overtly terrifying, but they skillfully weave an atmosphere of cosmic dread. What sets it apart is the sanity meter system, which requires careful management lest I find myself spiraling into madness. Remarkably, the main character’s powers demand a toll on his mental health, transforming him into various powerful monsters at the cost of his own sanity.

“The standout feature of Shadow Hearts might just be its fascinating backdrop, which is set in 1913 and enables players to traverse iconic real-world cities such as London, Prague, and Shanghai. The narrative also shines in this adventure, catering to both newcomers unfamiliar with Koudelka, and rewarding fans of the RPG series with subtle references and more. Those who enjoy exploring urban landscapes and battling supernatural adversaries are sure to find Shadow Hearts a perfect fit.

3 Parasite Eve

1997 New York Is Racked With A Mitochondria-Manipulating Maniac

In contrast to the anticipation for SquareSoft’s extended JRPG adventures set in fantastical realms, Parasite Eve offers a more subdued experience as it allows players to traverse a snow-covered New York City over six days in 1997. The game commences with an opera sequence, reflecting the company’s affinity for such performances at the time, before introducing the main adversary, spontaneous human combustion, and the spirited, no-nonsense protagonist, Aya Brea.

Exploring the chase after Eve, who possesses the unique power to alter human mitochondria, unveils an intriguing enigma that significantly strengthens the narrative of Parasite Eve. Though the game is limited to managing a sole protagonist, it skillfully manages its storytelling pace, allowing players to conclude an engaging saga in less than eleven hours. This urban fantasy is considered one of SquareSoft’s finest creations and is recommended for fans who can handle graphic scenes involving intense body horror.

2 EarthBound

An Anti-JRPG Set In A Mundane Modern Setting With A Bunch Of Kids Going On To Save The World

A game that swiftly gained prominence as one of the best in the JRPG genre, EarthBound, is a counter-cultural choice whose impact on fans is deeply rooted. Ness and his companions initially seek leisure before returning home to their mothers and comfort, but their peaceful life is disrupted when the wicked Giygas releases a wave of darkness worldwide. This malevolence transforms gentle creatures into aggressive ones, forcing an unconventional group of heroes to embark on a journey to restore peace and save the world.

Drawing inspiration for numerous independent JRPGs due to its distinctive environment and gameplay mechanics, it’s clear why EarthBound is among the top urban fantasy games worth exploring. The battle system may appear straightforward, but it offers far more complexity than typically perceived, and the everyday setting serves to emphasize the grandeur of some of its extraordinary elements.

1 Persona 5

Modern-Day Tokyo Is A Joy To Explore As Players Engage In The Game’s Social Sim Gameplay

The Persona series, particularly in its third mainline installment, established a formula that propelled this spinoff series to one of Atlus’ most profitable intellectual properties. Many aspects, including the life simulation elements and story structure, were refined significantly in Persona 4. Instead of resting on their laurels, the developers chose to elevate the visual appeal of Persona 5 to unprecedented levels, imbuing even small details like the combat system and main menu with a unique personality.

This experience aided “Persona 5” in penetrating mainstream markets and securing its position as one of the most acclaimed Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) ever made. The allure of invading a corrupt adult’s Mind Palace to navigate meticulously designed dungeons is captivating, yet the other half of the game—strolling around Tokyo and engaging with its diverse inhabitants—is equally significant. Gamers can encounter troubled individuals who require the Phantom Thieves’ assistance, as well as numerous Confidants that allow Joker to deepen his relationships with them. These connections yield advantages within the game, enhancing Joker’s abilities during the dungeon-exploring phases.

2024-09-18 10:04