As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), I must say that the list you’ve compiled is nothing short of a nostalgic journey down memory lane. Each game on this list represents a unique, captivating experience that has left an indelible mark in the annals of gaming history.
Though Square Enix, the brand we’re familiar with, was established in 2003, its roots can be traced back to the 1970s.
Before the merge of Square and Enix, as well as afterwards, the combined brand has produced games for various console platforms spanning multiple generations.
Of course, we all remember the heavy hitters like Final Fantasy VII or Dragon Quest.
In fact, Square Enix boasts a number of other intellectual properties that might also see a revival.
These games could greatly benefit from a complete overhaul, or at minimum, a modernized version with enhanced visuals and game mechanics.
10 Parasite Eve
More And More Mitochondria
When it comes to underrated RPGs, a name that frequently comes up is 1998’s Parasite Eve.
In the spirit of continuing the narrative from its namesake sci-fi/horror book, Parasite Eve delves into the idea of living entities and the various organisms that constitute them.
The combat system was captivating, offering an encounter-based approach where you could explore a defined space while arranging assaults on enemies that were in motion.
The modern backdrop of Parasite Eve clearly calls for an updated version. If such a remake were to happen, there’s a high chance people would exchange “mitochondria” references among themselves for quite some time after its release.
9 Drakengard
It Makes NieR Easier To Understand
The NieR series, comprising Replicant and Automata, is a prominent franchise by Square Enix in the realm of action role-playing games.
However, there are actually several other games in this series, specifically the Drakengard games.
In simpler terms, the plot of the initial NieR game was inspired by an ending from the 2003 Drakengard game. By updating it for contemporary times, we can make the entire series more consistent and interconnected.
Drakengard’s unique gameplay structure, encompassing land battles, air combat, and open-world exploration, aligns remarkably well with contemporary gaming preferences.
8 Breath Of Fire
You Can Never Have Enough Dragons
It’s a common delight for many to include dragons in their role-playing games set in fantasy worlds, and Square Enix is no exception to this enthusiasm. Indeed, you won’t find a scarcity of dragons in the popular series like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest.
If you’re yearning for a touch of dragon-like adventure in your daily routine, then perhaps it’s time to revisit Breath of Fire once again. Although Capcom was the developer, Square handled its publication in the western regions, making it part of our gaming history.
As a devoted fan, I must say that, at first sight, the original 1993 Breath of Fire seems like a typical Japanese Role-Playing Game. However, upon closer inspection, it’s clear that this game boasts some unique twists.
This includes the ability to transform your protagonist into a dragon himself, as well as Personal Actions that each party member brings to the table for puzzles and exploration.
7 Threads Of Fate
A Transformative Action RPG
Action RPGs were a little simpler in the PlayStation days, but they weren’t any less fun.
One good example of this is 1999’s Threads of Fate, a dungeon-crawling action RPG made by Square.
In this particular game, you manage two characters, Rue and Mint, who both possess distinct skills for battle and exploration.
In a different phrasing, Rue has the power to morph into creatures he vanquishes and utilize their skills, whereas Mint is capable of conjuring a wide range of beneficial charms.
The game also changes its approach occasionally, moving away from traditional linear exploration to include side-scrolling platform levels for added variety.
6 Valkyrie Profile
A Different Kind Of Turn-Based Combat
In many role-playing games (RPGs), you’ll encounter turn-based battles that have been a core feature since they first appeared. While there might be minor differences across different games, the basic concept remains consistent.
One major exception to this came about in 1999’s Valkyrie Profile.
Instead of strictly alternating turns, the combat system now uses an action bar that fills up for each participant, allowing them to perform actions when it’s full.
When the bar is full, your inputs decide who gets to go next and do what.
In essence, the game you’re referring to was adapted for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) back in 2006. Later on, this version was moved to both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 in 2022. However, the transition didn’t involve many alterations or enhancements.
5 Radiata Stories
Kick It Good
An increasing number of games are experimenting with the concept of always-evolving, autonomous environments where Non-Player Characters (NPCs) carry out their activities independently from the player’s actions.
One game that made a big effort toward this design was 2006’s Radiata Stories.
Each Non-Player Character (NPC) carries out their unique activities, adhering to a daily or nightly rhythm, which often necessitates adjustments from the player.
One amusing feature is the ability to kick stuff, whether it be inanimate objects or NPCs.
You can uncover items in this way, as well as pick risk-free fights with randos for some quick EXP.
4 Brave Fencer Musashi
Square’s Own Zelda
1998’s Brave Fencer Musashi stood out among many JRPGs because it excelled in incorporating intricate puzzles and immersive exploration into its gameplay.
In this game, you’ll find several mechanisms akin to those in the Legend of Zelda franchise. These include sprawling, multi-tiered dungeons, exhilarating sword fights, and enjoyable mini-games designed for fun.
As you progress through the game, you’ll acquire additional skills for exploration, such as the ability to jump twice and scale walls.
Remarkably, this game incorporates not just a day-night cycle but also an exhaustion mechanism. This means that if you don’t take regular breaks, your character, Musashi, may suddenly become too tired and collapse right where they stand.
3 Vagrant Story
Build Your Own Experience
Have you ever pondered over the real-life terror that exploring a dungeon, with its hidden treasures and creatures lurking inside, might involve?
To understand it better, I’d recommend trying out the intricate dungeon exploration game, Vagrant Story from the 2000s.
This game stands out due to its distinct features – it lacks character-interaction and in-game stores for items.
In other words, to acquire new weapons and armor, you’ll need to create them yourself in assigned workspaces, customizing the details according to your specific preferences.
2 Infinite Undiscovery
A Game With Real Consequences
In some Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), the titles can seem a bit unusual or hard to understand, due to their unconventional names.
2008’s “Infinite Undiscovery” might sound like an odd, poetically named game at first glance, but beneath its peculiar moniker lies a rich, immersive Role-Playing Game (RPG) experience. As a gamer, I found myself drawn into its captivating world and engaging storyline.
In this game, your decisions significantly shape the course of events and influence the overall narrative, either subtly or dramatically.
Furthermore, it’s crucial that you effectively manage a group consisting of up to 18 AI-controlled characters, ensuring they collaborate harmoniously and avoiding unnecessary complications for each member.
1 Final Fantasy Tactics
Surprisingly Underutilized
It could come as a shock to label a Final Fantasy game as “forgotten”. However, it’s true that a new installment in the Final Fantasy Tactics series hasn’t been released since 2007.
Contrary to what some might think, tactical, grid-based JRPGs continue to thrive in series such as Fire Emblem.
Regardless if it’s a reboot or an entirely fresh take, Square Enix stands to gain significantly by resurrecting the Final Fantasy Tectonics series.
The game’s tactical, team-oriented playstyle, combined with the traditional Job system from Final Fantasy, offers a remarkable level of character building and fine-tuning opportunities.
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2024-11-19 17:10