Top 10 JRPGs Your Kids Will Love: A Parent’s Guide!

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Summary

  • Pass down cherished gaming memories with kid-friendly JRPGs like the Secret of Mana remaster.
  • Ever Oasis and Yo-Kai Watch 3 offer accessible JRPG experiences for younger and older players alike.
  • Introduce kids to classic RPGs through Final Fantasy Mystic Quest and Dragon Quest 11.

As children, numerous video game enthusiasts recall playing portable devices almost touching their eyes or lying down in front of home consoles extensively. These moments are deeply treasured, particularly on gloomy days or when they managed to persuade their parents that they were ill enough to miss school. For many, Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) provided an ideal refuge. Vibrant graphics and extensive gameplay made them the epitome of time-consuming pastimes for children without adult obligations — or the discomfort from prolonged sitting.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel nostalgic when I think about the classic JRPGs from my childhood that I’d love my own kids to enjoy, before the allure of modern battle royale and first-person shooter games takes hold. Here are some top picks for younger gamers or anyone seeking an accessible introduction to this captivating genre:

1. Pokémon Red/Blue/Yellow – Catch ’em all in these original classics, where every new creature adds a thrill and adventure that’s hard to beat!
2. EarthBound Beginnings – This quirky and charming RPG is full of humor and heart, with a unique combat system that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
3. Final Fantasy VI – With an engaging storyline, memorable characters, and strategic battles, this timeless masterpiece offers a perfect introduction to the world of Final Fantasy.
4. Chrono Trigger – Travel through time, explore different eras, and save the world in this epic adventure that combines captivating gameplay with a thought-provoking narrative.
5. Dragon Quest III – Embark on a grand quest, forge friendships, and uncover secrets in this classic JRPG that set the stage for the entire series we know and love today.

10. Secret Of Mana (HD Remaster)

All Manner Of Fun

If parents who are gamers themselves wish to share one of the best JRPGs from the past with their children in a more modernized style, the remastered version of Secret of Mana could be an ideal choice. First launched in 1993, this beloved title from the Mana series receives a fresh coat of paint with its charming chibi 3D graphics upgrade.

Apart from the aesthetic upgrade, this remake offers user-friendly enhancements such as a navigational map, more frequent opportunities to save progress, and voice acting that breathes life into the narrative. Although some older gamers might not appreciate the changes, new players won’t even notice the difference – they’re in for a treat!

9. Ever Oasis

Anyway, Here’s Wonderwall

Enthusiasts of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) would undoubtedly recognize Koichi Ishii as the brain behind the popular “Mana” series and the inventor of beloved characters like Chocobo and Moogle within the “Final Fantasy” universe. In later stages of his professional journey, Ishii took charge of another endearing game for children: “Ever Oasis”.

In a nutshell, this delightful 3DS game seamlessly merges JRPG aspects with a dash of the beloved game, Animal Crossing. The story revolves around a Seedling character endowed with mystical abilities to cultivate an idyllic sanctuary on a barren desert world. A user-friendly tutorial, easy battle dynamics, and an uncomplicated interface make Ever Oasis a captivating journey for younger gamers, while its charm remains undiminished for more seasoned players.

8. Yo-Kai Watch 3

Pokeballs For The Wrist

One key point to remember from this collection is that Level-5 is a top choice for creating child-friendly JRPGs, and Yo-kai Watch 3 is one of their exceptional productions. Even if you haven’t played the earlier games, you can easily dive into this self-contained title without getting lost in complicated backstory or world development.

In this game for the Nintendo 3DS, players take on the role of two main characters who possess the Yo-kai Watch, a device that allows them to see, befriend, and summon magical creatures called Yo-kai. The game offers a variety of activities including exploration, solving puzzles, and turn-based combat. Regrettably, it was the final installment in the series released globally.

7. Final Fantasy Mystic Quest

The Most Inaccessible Accessible Game

If you’re parents who want to take their kids on a trip back to the ’90s gaming era, Final Fantasy Mystic Quest is an ideal choice to make that journey. Known as the most beginner-friendly game in the Final Fantasy series, it’s perfect for younger players.

Upon launch, the game faced criticism for being overly simple in terms of difficulty, graphics, and plot – perfect for kids who are new to the genre. However, a significant drawback is that fans who grew up with it might need to dust off an old Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) or find creative solutions to experience this delightful throwback title.

6. Super Mario RPG

Iconic Turn-Based Plumbing

The Super Mario RPG game is ideal for children who adore Mario but find other platformers too challenging. Essentially, it’s like a traditional Final Fantasy game, but with a Mario-inspired twist. This marks the first time that the famous plumber has been introduced into the Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) genre. Thanks to the 2023 remake, younger players now have an excellent opportunity to enjoy this unique blend of worlds.

This updated version showcases vivid 3D graphics, allowing players to manage characters like Mario, Bowser, Peach (previously known as Princess Toadstool), as well as fresh additions Mallow and Geno. It’s a straightforward Role-Playing Game that doesn’t overburden young minds, but it delivers lots of fun and happiness throughout the gameplay.

5. Ni No Kuni: Wrath Of The White Witch

All Kids Want A Welsh Sidekick

It’s important that every child encounters the enchantment of a Studio Ghibli movie. Although certain movies might be too intense (it’s best not to show them the tragic film, Grave of the Fireflies), the lighter ones can have a profound impact on young viewers. Fortunately, gamers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this magical world thanks to Level-5 collaborating with Studio Ghibli to create Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch.

In a role-playing game reminiscent of Pokémon, you’ll encounter breathtakingly hand-drawn sequences and one of the most engaging stories in the genre. The game offers an abundance of enjoyable gameplay, a generous helping of whimsy, and a charming Welsh fairy companion that aids you on your adventure. Could anything else be needed?

4. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Remake)

Perfect For 5-Year-Olds, Not Thousand-Year-Olds

Initially launched on the GameCube in 2004, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door was widely acclaimed as one of the finest Mario games ever developed and considered a masterpiece among video games. What set it apart was its exceptional skill at merging enchanting storytelling with classic Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) mechanics, thereby enthralling gamers of all ages.

Upon hearing Nintendo’s announcement of a remake, there was a collective pause as everyone waited anxiously, keeping their fingers crossed, praying they wouldn’t botch it up. Luckily, it turned out to be a success! This updated version not only maintained the essence of the original but also made it easier for newcomers with enhanced graphics and user-friendly adjustments.

3. Dragon Quest 11: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

Dragon Ball Lite

It’s a bit unfortunate for enthusiastic parents who can’t wait, as they are fans of the series, that Dragon Ball Z is aimed at the older side of a PG rating. Yet, there are alternative ways to introduce their children to the fascinating works of Akira Toriyama – and that’s through the colorful universe of Dragon Quest, another creation by this talented artist.

Without a doubt, Dragon Quest stands as a remarkable sensation in Japan, and it deserves every bit of praise. It merges the captivating character creation skills of Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, with the classic JRPG gameplay that fans adore. With numerous titles to explore, newcomers and veterans alike will find themselves drawn to Dragon Quest XI. This latest installment boasts delightful characters, a straightforward storyline, and one of the finest translations the series has ever had.

2. Kingdom Hearts (Series)

Young Hearts Be Free Tonight

Children adore Disney, as evidenced by the countless times parents have heard “Let it Go.” A fantastic way to acquaint them with JRPGs is through the game “Kingdom Hearts.” This extensive series combines numerous popular Disney franchises such as Aladdin, The Lion King, and Frozen, along with a generous helping of Final Fantasy elements.

The games boast an aesthetically pleasing design and action-packed battles that children can easily understand. Additionally, the emotional narrative focusing on friendship and loyalty makes it a suitable pick for younger audiences as they journey through this world. It’s an exciting journey filled with magic, enchantment, and extraordinary encounters between Disney and Final Fantasy characters.

1. Pokemon (Series)

No Surprises Here

Hardly anyone didn’t enjoy playing Pokémon games during their childhood. It’s almost like a tradition for those who weren’t isolated from the world. The series continues to thrive, and enthusiasts can select virtually any installment without hesitation and still have a great time.

As a gamer myself, I can’t help but get hooked on this game series with its irresistible gameplay loops, engaging collect-and-battle mechanics, and sheer fun factor. It’s only natural that my kids remember more Pokémon names than chemical elements from the periodic table! After all, who needs chemistry when you can catch ’em all?

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2025-02-09 08:46