The Best Turn-Based Combat in Square Enix Games, Ranked

by

Summary

  • Triangle Strategy offers engaging turn-based tactical battles & a compelling story.
  • Live A Live’s HD-2D remake features unique gameplay in various timelines.
  • Bravely Default 2 is a classic JRPG entry with strategic turn-based combat.

For many years, Square Enix has been renowned for creating several captivating games that feature intriguing turn-based battles. These titles were essentially the staple of their business until they chose to explore different game genres with the growth and evolution of the gaming industry.

Despite the lapse of time, Square Enix remains faithful to its origins, consistently emphasizing turn-based combat in their contemporary games. Some titles have even garnered significant acclaim, both critically and commercially, when all aspects align perfectly.

8. Triangle Strategy

The Turn-Based Tactical Battles Are A Blast To Play Through

Besides having an unimpressive title, the game known as “Triangle Strategy” offers a fantastic experience for those who enjoy turn-based tactical games. While its narrative can be overly dramatic at times, fans who appreciate grand and lengthy storylines will find this element of “Triangle Strategy” engaging.

This game is ideal for strategy enthusiasts who enjoy arranging their troops, maximizing the advantages of each level’s terrain, and employing unique attacks to overpower opponents. As far as tactics are thoughtfully planned, most players should find it relatively straightforward to progress through the majority of the game.

7. Live A Live

The HD-2D Remake With Its Compelling Turn-Based Gameplay Is A Treat

In a somewhat unexpected move, “Live A Live” seemed an unconventional pick for a remake. However, fans quickly grasped Square Enix’s reasoning behind preserving this game’s esteemed reputation among newcomers. It boasts an innovative storyline framework and is widely regarded as the forerunner that sparked the development of “Octopath Traveler.

Characters navigate various time periods while battling a villain symbolizing wickedness itself. The climax occurs at Odio’s fortress, presenting an option for players to unite against the Dark Knight or switch sides to aid the antagonist in executing his sinister plans.

6. Bravely Default 2

A Classic Take On Turn-Based Combat That’s Engaging For Fans Of The Genre

As a fellow gamer diving into the realm of Bravely Default for the first time, let me assure you that this newest installment is an ideal starting point for this burgeoning JRPG series. It’s a self-contained adventure that refines and elevates many aspects from its predecessors, resulting in a combat system that shines brilliantly.

Players will delight in accumulating their Battle Points and employing them to launch an extraordinarily potent strike capable of significantly depleting a boss’s health gauge. This straightforward gameplay element infuses a substantial amount of tactical depth into the game’s turn-based skirmishes, thereby guaranteeing that players will enjoy customizing roles for their team members and utilizing their abilities to vanquish the numerous bosses obstructing their progress.

5. Final Fantasy Tactics

The Best Final Fantasy Spinoff With Challenging And Satisfying Turn-Based Tactical Combat

To this very moment, countless individuals consider “Final Fantasy Tactics” to be the most outstanding spin-off game ever created. The captivating realm of Ivalice is a delight to traverse, as players guide Ramza and his comrades through numerous tactical skirmishes, where one small mistake can result in a devastating loss.

Players should strive to maximize their roles and think critically during every interaction, aiming to enhance their characters’ abilities to overcome the numerous challenges they may face. Ignorance of the game’s mechanics could result in some awkward losses as players run into challenging hurdles known for causing difficulties.

4. Chrono Trigger

The Classic Turn-Based Combat Of This Game Has Aged Like A Fine Wine

Occasionally, it’s the less complex battle systems that leave the deepest impressions. That’s why games like Chrono Trigger are still influencing many contemporary Japanese RPGs, striving to make their combat feel smooth and effortless throughout gameplay.

Back then, omitting the traditional battle screen transition and displaying enemies prior to combat seemed like minor adjustments. However, these seemingly small changes revolutionized gameplay. They infused a unique flavor into every confrontation as players utilized Crono’s Double and Triple Tech moves alongside his companions, enriching each encounter significantly.

3. Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

The Most Polished And Engaging Combat System To Feature In The Series

After what seemed like forever, I finally got my hands on a Western release of Dragon Quest, specifically the eleventh mainline entry – Echoes of an Elusive Age. This game offers a grand narrative that continues to unfold and delivers a satisfying dose of classic turn-based combat. The strategy is deep enough to keep me hooked for the long run, yet it’s not so convoluted that it becomes hard for most gamers to grasp.

Playing Dragon Quest 11 is essential for enthusiasts of turn-based Japanese role-playing games, as it initially appears straightforward but delights players with its rich gameplay depth. Accompanied by the Luminary and his companions, you’ll discover new abilities during an extraordinary journey that leaves fans eagerly anticipating more.

2. Octopath Traveler 2

The Battles In This Series Are A Ton Of Fun To Experience Every Single Time

In simpler terms, “Octopath Traveler 2” is an exceptional contemporary role-playing game featuring a captivating battle system. Players will enjoy accumulating Battle Points (BP) prior to releasing a character’s powerful ultimate move, which gets significantly stronger.

The gameplay in this nearly flawless sequel has been subtly yet significantly enhanced, allowing players to incorporate powerful latent abilities for a more engaging experience. The combat system is not only visually appealing but also offers a satisfying tactile feel, which explains the widespread fascination with the attractions of Octopath Traveler 2.

1. Final Fantasy 10

Players Love The Conditional Turn-Based Battle System Of This Series

In its debut on the latest console generation, Final Fantasy X had to leave a significant mark due to being the initial release in the series. With stunning graphics and an innovative Conditional Turn-Based combat system, this game became an impressive progression of the franchise that fans eagerly devoured.

If SquareSoft hadn’t been faced with significant financial difficulties, it might have been that later iterations of the Final Fantasy series would have stuck with turn-based combat. However, as we know now, this specific mainline Final Fantasy game was the last one to feature a turn-based system before the franchise started exploring more experimental combat styles.

Read More

2025-02-06 05:34