8 Best JRPGs Where You Play A Rebel

In numerous Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), it often happens that we confront a deity at the conclusion. This motif is significantly embedded within Japanese cultural traditions and historical narratives, a topic worthy of exploration in a separate context.

Because they offer unique themes, some Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) capture interest beyond the ordinary. For instance, consider a narrative focused on politics, interwoven with mental strategies and deceptions, like the captivating Final Fantasy Tactics.

Instead of featuring a large, world-destroying villain as the main conflict, these plots often revolve around a power-hungry adversary seeking dominion over the world, while suppressing and mistreating its inhabitants.

In order to combat this evil, we can choose to embody a defiant hero character or ally ourselves with a determined, bold, and daring faction that outmatches the power of an entire administration in tenacity and spirit.

If you want to know which games are like this, check out the best JRPGs where you play as a rebel.

8. Final Fantasy II

A New Hope

During my planning process for this list of JRPGs, it became clear that many titles from the Final Fantasy series were a natural fit. However, to ensure diversity and not limit the list to one franchise, I selected the game that pioneered rebellion storylines: Final Fantasy II.

In the second role-playing game by Hironobu Sakaguchi, we control a group of four orphans who tragically lost their families during the conquest of the Palamecia Kingdom.

In the second RPG created by Hironobu Sakaguchi, you take on the role of four orphaned children, all left fatherless and motherless due to the invasion of the Palamecia Kingdom.

In pursuit of revenge, three out of the four band together to rise up against the Empire, venturing forth to grow their own power and, in the process, diminish the Empire’s military might.

In the narrative of “Final Fantasy II“, the main characters, Firion, Maria, and Guy, are involved in a series of missions or objectives that support the rebellion’s efforts to weaken the Empire.

In this game, which is primarily a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) like Final Fantasy, the story begins with conflicts and uprisings. However, as it progresses, it shifts towards themes of divine powers, mystical forces, and magic. The climax involves a battle against an enigmatic emperor who aims to destroy the world without any discernible motive.

7. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

United Against Two Nations

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is an exceptional game, but labeling it as a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) where you play as a rebel could be pushing the boundaries slightly – still, feel free to make up your own mind about it.

In the world of Aionios, an unending conflict between Keves and Agnus continues to unfold. Our tale commences with Noah, a citizen of Keves, embarking on his adventure.

Over time, Noah and his fellow soldiers meet up with Agnus’s troops and combine forces, recognizing they are merely pieces being maneuvered in an ongoing conflict. The group of six then establishes a neutral faction, working together to free colonies from both sides as they simultaneously defeat Moebius, the rulers overseeing these territories.

During their pursuit of truth, both Agnus and Keves troops initially perceive the group as adversaries. However, only when they demonstrate that they stand on the correct side of historical events do these soldiers change their perspective.

In Xenoblade Chronicles 3, the narrative unfolds as characters seek to understand the causes of the ongoing conflict and bring about its end. This struggle often pits them against powerful figures within the established order, aligning well with the overarching theme of rebellion.

6. Tales of Arise

From Slave To Hero

In the game called “Tales of Arise”, the world of Dahna and its inhabitants have been subjugated and controlled ruthlessly by Rena. As the player, you take on the role of Alphen, a slave from Dahna who is impervious to pain. During a significant event with Shionne, a woman whose touch inflicts pain, the two join forces and become part of a rebellion aimed at challenging Rena’s tyranny.

In every place that Alphen and his party travel, they consistently observe instances of injustice towards the dahnans, a large portion of whom are unaware as to why they are being suppressed.

In the course of Alphen freeing one city after another from bondage and vanquishing the nobles who perpetrated such cruelty, the narrative delves into the reasons fueling the struggle between the two realms.

The opening part of “Tales of Arise” is highly engaging due to the thought-provoking topics it explores. Regrettably, the latter half doesn’t live up to expectations, making me somewhat disappointed with this new addition to the “Tales of” series. However, if you seek a game that allows you to challenge an oppressive regime as a rebel, then this might just be what you’re looking for.

5. Unicorn Overlord

An Exiled Prince Leads The Liberation

In Vanillaware’s “Unicorn Overlord,” the game takes significant influence from Yasumi Matsuno’s “Ogre Battle.” This means we find ourselves in a scenario where we belong to a band of rebels resisting an oppressive empire. Essentially, “Unicorn Overlord” revolves around the same idea, with us joining forces with the Liberation Army.

Initially in the game, the Kingdom of Cornia gets invaded by rebels, eventually leading to its conquest and subsequent rule by the yet-to-be-recognized Zenoiran Empire.

In simpler terms, Alain, once a royal figure from the kingdom of Cornia, needs to strengthen his troops and guide the Freedom Forces to overthrow Galerius, thereby liberating the realm of Fevrith from tyrannical rule.

In the tale of “Unicorn Overlord,” you’ll find a classic struggle between good and an oppressive empire, but what truly makes it special is its abundance of secondary characters, each with their unique histories, aspirations, and connections.

As we engage in our role as a rebellious resistance force, it becomes evident that we are the righteous side because we refrain from causing unnecessary harm to innocent civilians, unlike the ruthless Zenoiran Empire.

4. Suikoden

Family Affairs

Suikoden stood out as a timeless gem in the realm of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) due to its distinctive narrative that deviated from the usual tropes. At that time, many stories were centered around fantastical elements such as magic, dragons, and conflict with villainous wizards or tyrannical rulers.

In contrast to its fantastical aspects, the main focus of Suikoden shifts towards politics, encompassing battles not only on the battlefield but also in the realm of diplomacy.

In the initial scenario, we assume the role of Tir McDohl, the youthful offspring of General Teo McDohl in the imperial army. On the brink of being drafted as an imperial soldier, Tir observes firsthand how the Empire’s leadership is riddled with corruption while the common folk endure hardships.

On a particular day, a Rune of true power, coveted by the Empire, was secretly bestowed upon him by his comrade. This act placed Tir in a precarious situation, compelling him to escape.

In his journey, he encounters Viktor, a freedom fighter against the Empire, and swiftly decides to support their rebellion. One defining aspect of the Suikoden series lies in gathering 108 allies for the cause, expanding the resistance’s stronghold, and enhancing its power to stand up against the Empire.

It’s likely no surprise that the main character ultimately encounters his own father, a man who, although not corrupt himself, unquestioningly obeys imperial commands without question.

3. Final Fantasy VI

The Empire Strikes Back

As a devout fan, I must admit that having not one, but two Final Fantasy games making the cut feels just about right! Initially, I had my heart set on including Final Fantasy VII in this list – after all, it’s hard to forget our quest with Avalanche, an eco-terrorist group we embark on a mission with at the game’s outset.

However, upon reflection, I found that when it comes to sheer scope and ambition, nothing quite compares to Final Fantasy VI. In this epic adventure, our journey transcends beyond the confines of a single organization as we take on the mighty Gestahlian Empire itself!

At the beginning of the tale, Terra is saved by Locke, who belongs to the resistance group known as the Returners, fighting against the Empire. As events progress, we gather more allies to join our team, strengthen our assaults against the oppressors, and sometimes persuade former imperial soldiers to fight alongside us.

In the story of Final Fantasy VI, the focus lies on thwarting the Gestahlian Empire’s global conquest, which relies on Magitek technology and the exploitation of Espers for power. What truly stands out is how diverse characters band together for a common goal, despite their varied origins.

2. Tales of Vesperia

A Rebel Protagonist

Many people who think that “Tales of Vesperia” is the best among the “Tales of” series often point to its main character, Yuri Lowell, as a major reason for their preference. While Yuri may not be as intense as Velvet from “Tales of Berseria,” he shares the quality of being an anti-hero, albeit in a more reserved manner. However, it’s important to note that Yuri is still subtly violent, much like Velvet.

Instead of the narrative in Tales of Arise, which centers around rebellion, Tales of Vesperia concentrates on a main character who exhibits rebellious behavior.

Once a soldier under an imperial rule, Yuri personally experienced the system’s abuse of the impoverished to enrich the wealthy. In the game Tales of Vesperia, this idea is demonstrated through Blastia, devices functioning as energy sources that often exploit the lower classes. Yuri’s adventure initiates when he attempts to mend the Blastia in his community, eventually encountering Estelle, a noblewoman, along the way.

Working together, they establish a group, or guild, to handle tasks individually. Much like in many great RPGs, the scenario intensifies and gradually pulls in multiple factions, such as the Empire and some of Yuri’s previous allies, into the conflict.

At various instances, this swordsman shows initiative, dealing with unscrupulous officials clandestinely during the cover of darkness, a move seldom seen in many JRPG heroes, as they are not usually so decisive.

1. Persona 5

Phantom Thieves Will Steal Your Heart

Atlus demonstrates a remarkable skill when creating Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), particularly those with intricate narratives that question the status quo. To put it differently, Refantazio came close to making the list, but in this game, our actions involve overthrowing the ruling authority while still abiding by their rules. However, in Persona 5, the story veers off in a completely different direction, presenting a much stronger theme of rebellion.

In the game Persona 5, our group of Phantom Thieves acquires a unique power, enabling them to invade the minds of influential figures, often corrupt adults. Their objective is to “reform their hearts,” which results in significant changes in these individuals’ behavior, transforming them from wicked to remorseful. What initially appears as a case of bullying within school expands into a confrontation that encompasses the entire Japanese government.

Amongst all Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) I’ve encountered, Persona 5 stands out as one of the finest. The game’s depiction of regular folks grappling with the oppressive influence of those in power is so intense that it feels nearly overwhelming.

In the end, despite their actions, the Phantom Thieves remain branded as lawbreakers, indicating that any form of uprising carries its own cost and demands.

Or, more colloquially: The Phantom Thieves are still seen as criminals, proving that every act of rebellion comes with a hefty price tag.

2025-01-16 20:39