Best 2D RPGs

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Summary

  • 2D RPGs have a rich history in video games, using limited hardware to create unique experiences.
  • Square’s HD-2D technology in games like Triangle Strategy showcases stunning visuals blending 2D sprites and 3D geometry.
  • Classic RPGs like Final Fantasy 4 and EarthBound continue to influence the genre with innovative gameplay and storytelling.

As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours exploring various worlds and embarking on epic quests, I can confidently say that these four games stand out as some of the most memorable experiences of my gaming life. From the timeless charm of “Mother 3” to the grandeur of “Final Fantasy 6,” each of these titles left a lasting impression on me and continues to hold a special place in my heart.

The emotional journey that unfolds in “Mother 3” is unparalleled, as it masterfully weaves together themes of innocence, corruption, and the delicate balance between nature and technology. The game’s poignant storytelling resonated with me on a deeply personal level, making it one of my all-time favorite RPGs.

“Final Fantasy 6,” on the other hand, showcases the pinnacle of what can be achieved in the realm of 2D gaming, offering a rich and engaging storyline that spans across multiple characters and locations. The game’s refined combat system, memorable soundtrack, and stunning visuals are still unmatched to this day.

“Mother 3” and “Final Fantasy 6” may be my top picks, but the other two games on this list are equally deserving of recognition. “EarthBound Beginnings,” better known as “Mother,” introduced me to a unique blend of humor, adventure, and heart that I had never encountered before in an RPG. Its quirky characters and innovative combat system set the stage for the masterpiece that is “Mother 3.”

Lastly, “EarthBound” took the series in a new direction with its quirky sense of humor and off-kilter world design. The game’s memorable cast of characters, including the iconic Paula and the enigmatic Giygas, left an indelible mark on me and cemented EarthBound as a cult classic that continues to captivate fans to this day.

Of course, no discussion of these games would be complete without mentioning the incredible fan translations that made it possible for English-speaking audiences to experience the full glory of “EarthBound Beginnings” and “Mother 3.” These passionate individuals worked tirelessly to bring these hidden gems to a wider audience, ensuring that their stories could be shared with the world.

In closing, I must share a little joke to lighten the mood: Why was Mother 3 always so emotional? Because it had too many feels! These games have touched my heart in ways few others have, and I eagerly await the day when “Mother 3” finally receives an official Western release. Until then, I will cherish these memories and continue to share my love for these extraordinary RPGs with fellow fans.

Over the decades, Role-Playing Games (RPGs) have undergone significant transformations, starting from their initial form in tabletop games such as Dungeons and Dragons and text-based computer games. This venerable type of gaming has experienced a lot of development and adaptation. A pivotal moment for the RPG was its transition to video games, where artistry and role-playing intersected, with early versions leveraging limited technology to generate unique gaming experiences.

2D Role-Playing Games (RPGs) have established themselves as a mainstay within the gaming industry, expanding beyond 8-bit and 16-bit platforms. The classic 2D RPG style has persisted into modern times, ensuring its ongoing presence in video games. These games have been highly acclaimed for their graphics, soundtracks, design, and impact on the genre, each one adding something unique to the industry.

12. Triangle Strategy

HD-2D Strategy Game Features Complex World Of Intrigue

Initially showcased in Octopath Traveler (in the year 2018), Square Enix’s HD-2D technology has been instrumental in creating some of their most visually stunning games. This unique approach, which blends 2D characters with 3D environments and advanced, realistic lighting effects, is truly awe-inspiring. Notably, this style was also employed for the release of Triangle Strategy (in 2022), a tactical strategy RPG that drew inspiration from Square Enix’s own Final Fantasy Tactics.

In the realm of Norzelia, I find myself immersed in the tumultuous world of “Triangle Strategy.” It’s a place where three nations wage war over resources, and political intrigue runs deep. The combat system, with its strategic turn-based mechanics, keeps me hooked, and the battles cleverly incorporate environmental hazards for an added challenge.

The characters are remarkable, each with their unique personalities that make the story even more captivating. To top it off, the music from Square is simply brilliant, arguably some of their best work in recent years. All these elements combine to make “Triangle Strategy” one of the finest strategy RPGs available today.

11. Secret Of Mana

Spectacular Action RPG Is One Of The SNES’ Best Games

The “Mana” series originated from a spin-off titled “Final Fantasy Adventure,” which was released for the Game Boy in 1991 and had a style similar to Zelda. Leveraging the basis laid by this game, Square developed a sequel, named “Secret of Mana,” in 1993. This game stands out as an exceptional action RPG due to its emphasis on intense battle sequences.

Boasting stunning pixel art, a captivating soundtrack, and one of the SNES’s best combat systems, “Secret of Mana” remains one of the console’s standout games. This exceptional action RPG was given a 3D makeover in 2018, but the original version continues to be a delight to play. You can now easily enjoy this marvelous game on the Switch through the “Collection of Mana.

10. Final Fantasy 4

Fourth Mainline Final Fantasy Game Introduces The Active-Time Battle System

Following their triumphant reign over the NES with the initial three games, the Final Fantasy series capitalized on Nintendo’s upcoming generation of hardware, launching the fourth primary installment on the SNES in 1991. Known as Final Fantasy 4, this game was the first in the franchise to incorporate the active-time battle system, a mechanic that would significantly impact numerous subsequent titles within the series and even inspire similar systems in other role-playing games.

In the narrative of Cecil, Final Fantasy 4 marked one of the initial games within the series to venture into darker, intricate topics. It seems as though it laid the groundwork for what Final Fantasy would transform into in later console eras, as it began to depart from conventional storytelling patterns within the genre. The combat, music, and remarkable cast of characters continue to be a joy, and this evergreen classic is now accessible on all contemporary platforms.

9. Planescape: Torment

Unique CRPG Feels Like A Novel Come To Life

Among the numerous CRPGs launched in the 1990s, it’s possible that Planescape: Torment, created by Black Isle Studios, stands out as one of the finest. Following their completion of Fallout 1 and its sequel, they decided to explore a new direction for their next endeavor, and Planescape proved to be an ideal choice for them.

In a unique and edgy role-playing game, you find yourself navigating the realm of Sigil, controlling The Nameless One – an immortal wanderer. This game boasts some of the sharpest, intelligent writing in RPG history, making it one of the most innovative games within its genre. Lately, it has been updated for modern systems by Beamdog, and can now be enjoyed on all current-generation consoles.

8. Golden Sun

Fantasy RPG Is A Game Boy Advance Classic

Despite Camelot Software Planning primarily being recognized for their Nintendo-focused sports games, one of their finest works was “Golden Sun,” an engaging turn-based RPG designed for the Game Boy Advance. This remarkable game is set in the realm of Weyard, where a group of four young adventurers embark on a mission to prevent its ruin caused by ancient magic.

As a gamer, I’ve got to say that the sprite work and art direction in this game are nothing short of impressive – they really pop out! The music, too, makes brilliant use of the Game Boy Advance’s top-notch sound hardware. The combat is simply fantastic; it looks and feels incredible, with a battle window brimming with vibrant animation and an exhilarating sense of chaos. To this day, it remains one of the best RPGs on the GBA, offering an unforgettable experience. Thanks to Nintendo Switch Online, I can now revisit this classic gem on modern hardware – and let me tell you, it’s still well worth my time!

7. Icewind Dale

Addictive CRPG From Black Isle Studios

Black Isle Studios might not have had a more talented team when it came to creating CRPGs, as their past work on the Fallout series and Planescape: Torment were merely warm-ups for what was to become their most daring undertaking yet. The culmination of their efforts led to Icewind Dale, an exceptional CRPG set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe of the Forgotten Realms.

Icewind Dale adheres to the 2nd edition ruleset from Dungeons & Dragons, skillfully utilizing Black Isle’s Infinity Engine, which was behind all their prior games. The game’s frosty, icy ambiance is captivating, and the exceptional combat that characterized Black Isle’s past creations seems more refined than ever. Icewind Dale is a must-play CRPG masterpiece, and thanks to Beamdog, it can now be enjoyed on contemporary hardware through the 2014 remaster.

6. Pokemon FireRed And LeafGreen

Remake Of Game Boy Classic Is The Best Way To Experience Pokemon Debut

Due to the significant advancement the Game Boy Advance made over its previous model, it essentially functioned as a portable version of the Super Nintendo. This was revolutionary for its time, largely due to its impressive software library filled with excellent games, such as role-playing games (RPGs). In light of this new hardware, Game Freak decided to redevelop the initial game in their widely acclaimed monster-taming series, which became Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but marvel at the remarkable updates that came with FireRed and LeafGreen. These versions took the original game and elevated it to new heights by enhancing the character sprites and music, making them truly spectacular. One of the most significant changes was the inclusion of an option to play as a female character, a feature that was pioneered in Pokemon Crystal and has since become a staple in the series. Without a doubt, FireRed and LeafGreen are the finest editions of this timeless game, making it well worth the hunt for a Game Boy Advance to truly savor the experience.

5. Undertale

Influential Indie RPG Is Still One Of The Genre’s Best

It’s fair to note that the game Undertale left a significant mark in the indie RPG world, as its eccentric cast of characters and distinctive battle system continue to inspire other creators. Drawing heavily from EarthBound, Undertale tells an engaging story about a young boy attempting to flee the Underground and survive his journey.

Similar to the games that inspired it, Undertale boasts endearing, quirky dialogue and a collection of eccentric characters such as Sans and Toriel. It’s combat system, unlike conventional ones, employs a distinctive bullet-hell style that breaks away from tradition. Despite being more than a decade old, Undertale remains just as clever and amusing as it initially was, and is accessible on all contemporary gaming platforms.

4. Chrono Trigger

Iconic SNES RPG Is A Surefire Classic

Among Super Nintendo games, perhaps none are as closely associated as Chrono Trigger, a game that emerged from the creative partnership between Hironobu Sakaguchi, Yuji Horii, and Akira Toriyama. To this day, it remains one of the most outstanding role-playing games ever made, playing a significant role in the SNES’ remarkable collection of software, thanks to its stunning pixel art, captivating music, and swift combat system.

Even though Chrono Trigger employs an evolved form of the Active Time Battle (ATB) system from Final Fantasy 4, it somehow manages to be quicker and more immersive. The battles play out swiftly, with events transpiring at a brisk tempo. This outstanding role-playing game is one of the SNES’s most thrilling journeys and can now be enjoyed on mobile devices and Steam.

3. EarthBound

Quirky SNES RPG Explores What It’s Like To Be A Kid

EarthBound stood out among other Role-Playing Games (RPGs) due to its distinct departure from the typical high-fantasy themes with swords and knights. Instead, it presented a more realistic world and centered its story around a group of children facing an impending alien invasion from deep space, making it truly exceptional in the genre.

The distinctive mix of humor, drama, and sci-fi has catapulted EarthBound into one of the most impactful role-playing games (RPGs) in history. Numerous indie RPGs have borrowed from its enchanting otherworldliness and unconventional battle system. The game’s world is a joy to traverse, leading protagonist Ness and his team on an expansive journey from the humble town of Onett to a climactic confrontation against Giygas. To this day, EarthBound remains one of the most significant and captivating RPGs ever created and can be easily accessed through Nintendo Switch Online.

2. Final Fantasy 6

Final Fantasy Bids Farewell To The SNES In Dramatic Curtain Call

In their penultimate game for Nintendo before the release of “Crystal Chronicles” seven years later, Square poured all their creative prowess into “Final Fantasy 6”. They refined and perfected everything they had learned from the first five games, as they had become skilled at delivering a distinct, immersive experience lasting over 40 hours approximately every two years. This feat remains impressive, and they saved their finest 2D game for last, as “Final Fantasy 6” remains one of the most outstanding games ever made.

Exploring the storyline of Terra Branford, who bands together with the resistance group called the Returners in Final Fantasy 6, this game offers an exciting saga of survival and exploration. Pursued by a powerful empire, Terra embarks on a perilous quest to unleash her hidden abilities, clashing with a deranged circus performer named Kefka. Enhanced by the most captivating implementation of the ATB system, stunning music composed by Nobuo Uematsu, and impressive pixel art, Final Fantasy 6 serves as a fitting capstone to the series’ 16-bit era. It can now be easily enjoyed on contemporary hardware due to the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster.

1. Mother 3

Emotional Conclusion To Nintendo’s Off-Beat RPG Series

After enduring numerous setbacks, console switches, and a development period spanning twelve years, Mother 3 ultimately reached the end of its journey when it was launched for the Game Boy Advance in 2006. The product of this prolonged effort proved more than worth the wait, as Mother 3 is not only a classic for the GBA, but also a strong contender for one of the greatest role-playing games ever created. Its compelling, emotional narrative serves as a fitting conclusion to this beloved franchise.

Located on the remote Nowhere Islands, the game titled “Mother 3” narrates the journey of twins Claus and Lucas, who embark on a vast expedition to protect their homeland from the Pigmask Army. Originally intended for the N64, the core narrative persisted through development, making this touching exploration of innocence versus the degradation of nature by advancing technology a captivating experience even today. The game boasts an engaging cast of characters and showcases the most refined combat system from the first two games in the series.

Regrettably, “Mother 3” has yet to receive a Western release. However, the exceptional fan translation is highly recommended for enthusiasts of RPGs. This heartfelt narrative is practically essential play for anyone who enjoys role-playing games.

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2025-01-04 17:35