5 Great Action RPGs You Cannot Buy Anymore

Key Takeaways

Xenogears is a timeless classic with turn-based combat and deep themes – it can’t be bought new anymore.
Secret of Evermore on SNES offers great adventure, humor, and an alchemy system.
Legend of Legaia features complex combos, exclusive to PlayStation, forgotten – hard to find.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of video games, I have to say that these forgotten gems from the PlayStation era are a true testament to the creativity and innovation of game developers back then. I remember playing “Legend of Legaia” on my old PS1, mesmerized by the unique combat system and captivated by the battle against the evil mist. Alas, I never got to complete it due to its elusive re-release status.

For more than two decades now, Action Role-Playing Games (ARPGs) have remained highly sought after by gamers. The allure lies in the thrill of venturing into uncharted territories teeming with allies and adversaries, while commanding a group, making tactical choices during battles, and adapting strategies for varying opponents in distinct scenarios.

Although numerous classic action RPGs remain accessible today through various platforms such as Steam, the PlayStation Store, and the Xbox Store thanks to online retailers, regrettably, some have been out of circulation for years due to assorted reasons. To keep their memory alive, here are a few outstanding action RPGs that are no longer available for purchase.

5 Xenogears (1998)

Epic Battles With Powerful Mechanic Suits

The game touches on some psychological and religious themes
Players can use mechanic suits for combat

Xenogears is a time-honored masterpiece from the late ’90s, boasting exceptional gameplay mechanics such as turn-based combat. Created by Square Enix, this game stands out due to its intricate narrative centered on mechanized suits, an innovative battle system, and potent combos that players can utilize for a strategic advantage in battle. The tale unfolds around the central character, Fei Fong Wong, immersing players in a struggle between warring nations.

Back in the day, I got my hands on this epic game called Xenogears. Besides its awesome battles and intricate storyline, it delved deep into psychological and religious themes, giving the game a rich, thought-provoking dimension. Unfortunately, this masterpiece is hard to come by nowadays as it’s no longer available on current consoles – it was designed exclusively for the original PlayStation, PlayStation 3, and PSP.

4 Secret of Evermore (1995)

A Great Adventure Game That Never Left The SNES

Exclusive to the SNES
The combat system is very similar to that in Secret of Mana

Originally designed for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), “Secret of Evermore” introduced a boy and his transformable canine companion as the main characters in an intriguing narrative packed with engaging real-time strategy elements. Throughout their journey through various dimensions, players are given opportunities to utilize the game’s Alchemy system, which enables them to gather ingredients during exploration and cast spells.

In essence, Secret of Evermore offers an exciting journey with challenging elements, not to mention a delightful dose of humor that enhances the gaming experience wonderfully. If you’ve already conquered Secret of Mana and found it enjoyable, chances are, you’ll relish playing Secret of Evermore, as its combat system shares many similarities with it.

Similar to the other games mentioned here, this particular game is rarely remembered now and is no longer available for purchase as a brand new copy because it was never distributed on any platform aside from its original one.

3 Legend of Legaia (1998)

Complex Combos And Powerful Summons Make This Game A Masterpiece

Players can use different moves and summon powerful creatures
The game was never re-released for modern platforms, remaining an exclusive for the original PlayStation

In a made-up universe where mankind is perpetually at odds with a malevolent fog that transforms gentle beings into ferocious beasts, the game Legend of Legaia centers around the protagonist, Vahn, embarking on a perilous journey. This title is notable for numerous aspects, such as an inventive battle system where players can enter different commands to perform various martial arts techniques and summon potent creatures called Ra-Seru.

Regrettably, though the game seems intriguing, it’s become largely overlooked by many gamers because it hasn’t been remastered for contemporary platforms. As such, it remains stuck in the time of the original PlayStation. If you have a well-maintained PS1 and can find a used copy, you might be able to play this classic; however, the cost could be steep. Emulators are another option worth considering.

2 Alundra (1997)

Great Concept That Touches On Dreamwalking

Often compared to The Legend of Zelda
The game remains exclusive to a few obsolete PlayStation platforms

Originating on the original PlayStation console, Alundra is frequently likened to The Legend of Zelda, due to their shared characteristics. However, at times it can feel a bit too similar, giving rise to a somewhat uncomfortable comparison. Featuring a top-down perspective that navigates players through various dungeons and intricate puzzles, Alundra provides an enjoyable and thrilling experience. The main character in the game is also named Alundra, who, as a dreamwalker, can save people from their nightmares by penetrating their dreams and vanquishing the monsters they confront. Initially, this premise of the game may appear quite heartwarming and charming.

Despite Alundra’s actions being admirable, the game tends to adopt a darker atmosphere compared to other games within its series, which are generally more cheerful. This is reminiscent of other games on this list, as Alundra didn’t manage to expand to other platforms and remained exclusive to the original PlayStation, PSP, and PS Vita. It’s now quite challenging to find a physical copy of the game in pristine condition.

1 Drakengard (2003)

A Prince’s Quest For Revenge

Intense aerial combat with dragons
Released for many platforms, but rare to come by in modern times

Originated by the same developers behind the Nier franchise, emerges Drakengard, an engaging action RPG that blends ground-based combat with thrilling aerial dragon fights. The narrative revolves around the main character, Prince Caim, who forged a bond with a dragon as he embarked on his quest for vengeance. Players quickly became captivated by the game’s intense and dynamic storyline. Drakengard, in addition to offering multiple endings, was noteworthy due to this concept being less prevalent during its release time.

As someone who’s been gaming for a while, I can tell you that this game has been available on various platforms like PlayStation 2-4, Xbox 360, and even PC. However, finding a physical copy of it nowadays feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. And even online versions are becoming as elusive as the Holy Grail.

2024-10-06 18:33