The Best JRPGs With Inspiring Hero Journeys

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Summary

  • Fictional heroes often undergo significant change, reflecting a victory in their journey.
  • RPG heroes like Zephyr, Vashyron, & Leanne grow significantly, ranking them based on their transformation.
  • Clive from Final Fantasy 16 evolves from a broken man to a powerful figure through loss and revenge.

In fictional works, a hero’s journey generally represents the central character’s progression throughout the storyline, with introspection on personal transformations occurring along the way. When a character undergoes substantial change from their initial state to their final state, this transformation is often considered as a triumph.

Enthusiasts of books, films, and video games seek a thrilling conclusion to their journey, and a significant aspect contributing to this effect often lies in the evolution of the main character. It doesn’t necessarily mean that a work without such development is inferior, but for our current discussion, let’s concentrate on role-playing games, particularly those originating from Japan, where characters undergo substantial transformations. These games will be evaluated based on their degree of growth and how gratifying it is to observe this transformation unfold.

Spoilers Ahead For The Games Listed

7. Zephyr, Vashyron, And Leanne (Resonance Of Fate)

It’s A Threeway Tie

In the game titled “Resonance of Fate,” Zephyr, Vashyron, and Leanne serve as the primary characters. These are the only playable members within this turn-based RPG that features gunfights reminiscent of “The Matrix.” Due to their integral roles in the storyline, it’s challenging to distinguish one from another. They inhabit a dystopian world where advancement can only be achieved through laborious tasks. Initially, they appear average but lack depth; however, this group of mercenaries gradually develops like the crew in “Cowboy Bebop,” which also requires some time to grow fond of within that anime series.

Over time, as players interact more with this group, they’ll find both their flaws and endearing qualities increasingly intriguing. Despite the game being structured in episodes, you’ll notice that the three main characters will gradually exhibit less greed and more noble traits as the narrative unfolds, albeit with a dog having limited capacity to learn new tricks.

6. Will (Metaphor: ReFantazio)

From Pauper To Prince

The team at Atlus, working on Persona, typically create their main characters as silent, but that pattern was broken with Will in Metaphor: ReFantazio. This character has a more significant role in the storyline, and his objective is to eliminate the sorcerer who cast a curse upon the nation’s prince. Once this antagonist, Louis, is defeated, it can be assumed that Will’s mission will be accomplished, and presumably, the nation will be rescued from the curse.

The surprising aspect is that Will is essentially the “will” or determination of this prince, which emerged to keep going even in his near-death condition. When the prince is finally killed at the end, Will merges back into the body and regains wholeness. Therefore, Will serves as an excellent illustration of a character who undergoes a significant transformation on his hero’s journey.

5. Oliver (Ni no Kuni: Wrath Of The White Witch)

No Time For Tears

In the magical realm of Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch, our protagonist, Oliver, finds himself after hailing from another isekai story. His mother has tragically passed away, and in this whimsical world, his beloved toy companion, Mr. Drippy, hints that there could be a chance to reunite with her once more.

It’s understandable that at the start, Oliver appears quite emotional, given the circumstances – losing his mother and battling monsters. Yet, the friendships forged during their journey help him overcome his initial tears and bravely protect the world they’ve come to know from impending doom.

4. Laharl (Disgaea: Hour Of Darkness)

Letting Go

In the realm of Disgaea: Hour of Darkness, I, Laharl, stand as the prince of the underworld. Unlike Oliver, my journey is one of suppression rather than expression, as I was nurtured to suppress emotions. Instead of grief over my father’s passing, I find annoyance at the responsibility thrust upon me – to rule in his stead.

In the underworld, no one is pleased with these recent developments, as they’re attempting to seize power from him. Laharl, though a young ruler, believes he should reign, yet finds it distasteful. Gradually, he learns to rely on his companions, consider the opinions of others, and embrace emotions beyond “I dislike this” and “You must die.

3. Sora (Kingdom Hearts)

Reclaiming The Power Of Friendship

I, a lively young soul, embark on an exciting journey in the realm of Kingdom Hearts, initially known as just a charismatic kid from my humble island home. My dreams are as vast and boundless as the universe itself, yearning to adventure alongside my cherished companions Kairi and Riku. Fate, however, has other plans, as I find myself separated from them. Yet, in my darkest hour, I am not alone. The loyal duo of Donald and Goofy, who have lost their beloved king, Mickey, join me on this grand adventure. Together, we traverse a magical world filled with the enchanting tales of Disney.

Though he might appear cheerful amidst hardships, Sora harbors pain within him. His deepest desire is to rescue Kairi, who was taken, and deal with Riku’s descent into darkness. Armed with the strength of camaraderie and his towering Keyblade, Sora fights relentlessly against both literal and metaphorical darkness. Initially kind-hearted and compassionate, Sora ultimately transforms into a genuine hero, prepared to face any obstacle that comes his way.

2. Neku (The World Ends With You)

Taking Off The Headphones

Neku bears a striking resemblance to Sora, sporting stylish attire and spiked hair. Despite this physical likeness, their characters couldn’t be more distinct. In the world of “The World Ends With You”, Neku is a solitary individual who struggles with understanding people. To cope, he immerses himself in music, isolating himself from others during his daily life in Japan. Tragically, this aloofness leads to his untimely death. Upon awakening in an afterlife that mirrors a game, Neku must navigate through the complexities of his new existence.

As a devoted fan, I’d say: To bring myself back to life or grant any other wish, my character, Neku, must journey through challenges with diverse companions. Yet, even when confronted by this predicament, Neku nonchalantly brushes it aside. Over time, these trials help me learn to rely on my partners and people in general, eventually shedding the isolation of my headphones.

1. Clive (Final Fantasy 16)

Accepting His Fate As Ifrit

In the Final Fantasy series, numerous characters face hardships. The latest hero, Clive from Final Fantasy 16, experiences more than most. Tragedy strikes when he suddenly loses his home in Rosaria, his father, and his brother. To make matters worse, his mother, Anabella, was the culprit and has switched allegiances to the hostile Sanbreque Empire. Consequently, Clive finds himself enslaved by war.

Initially shattered, Clive gradually finds his strength resurfacing as an inner flame ignites. He discovers that his brother, Joshua, is still alive, and embarks on a series of revenge missions to restore order in the world. Clive, our complex hero, manages to attain most of his goals, though it’s uncertain if he meets his end or not. Regardless, he demonstrates extraordinary determination in his quest to save humanity, giving up nearly everything (or almost everything) along the way.

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2025-01-12 12:34