Best Action JRPG Games That Let You Play Your Own Way

Video games known as Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) boast a lengthy and vibrant legacy that extends across numerous years. Known for their vivid, creative storylines, outlandish plots, and combat that typically blends strategic gameplay with pulse-pounding action, they’ve undeniably cultivated a dedicated fanbase. Over time, JRPGs have undergone significant changes – just observe the transformation from the simple, pixel-based introduction of ‘Final Fantasy’, to its modern, visually stunning versions.

Despite following a sequential pattern, many games feature numerous consecutive events and scenes. While they are often grand, most do not allow much freedom for players to explore off the main path, even in action-packed titles. However, an increasing number of interactive, open-world, highly adaptable action RPGs have emerged, offering more dynamic gameplay experiences.

7. Resonance Of Fate

Free-Wheeling Combat And Missions

One less conventional yet engaging example of a dynamic, adaptable RPG is this underrated gem in the realm of JRPGs, available on Xbox 360 (and a few other platforms). This game skillfully blends Western and Eastern elements, offering a captivating steampunk setting. The outcome is an exceptional role-playing adventure that distinguishes itself through its tactical combat reminiscent of a fast-paced shooter.

In this game, the “Tri-Attack Battle System” combines real-time and turn-based actions, giving players the chance to strategize their next move, all while maintaining an exhilarating speed and rhythm. The extensive, fluid, and spectacular combat, along with a variety of satisfying missions, makes you feel like a dashing steampunk action hero throughout your adventure.

6. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Eastern Elder Scrolls Meets Game Of Thrones

If you’re looking for a Japanese action role-playing game that shares similarities with Bethesda’s Skyrim, Dragon’s Dogma and its sequel would be the games to consider. In this adventure, players take on the role of an “Arisen,” embarking on a quest to hunt a legendary dragon. This journey will lead you through intricate, naturally-designed environments filled with monsters, which you must defeat while managing various tasks and gathering loot. The game also features conflict between rival kingdoms, adding another layer of complexity to your journey.

In the sequel of this action role-playing game (ARPG), players can advance by choosing specialized roles called Vocations. These roles grant increased power and flexibility as you progress through the game. Two distinct companions, or “Pawns,” are also available to assist during intense, chaotic battles. The new/modified classes and a map four times larger than its predecessor’s create an especially grand adventure that is often overlooked in ARPGs.

In a more conversational tone, you could say: “Dragon’s Dogma 2 isn’t your typical Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG), but it has enough similarities that it’s worth noting.

5. Tales Of Arise

A New Style Of Tales Arises

In addition to its playful and lively style, the Tales series is particularly recognized for – and excels at – rapid real-time battles that blend elements of fighting games as much as RPG battles. However, in Arise, Bandai Namco primarily departs from this characteristic, adopting a darker, foreboding aesthetic more reminiscent of open-world Western Role-Playing Games (WRPGs).

This expansive sequel, with its free-roaming character, aligns well with the typical traits found in Western role-playing games, which often encourage exploration. Players are granted greater freedom to traverse the game world at their leisure, while still having a significant influence on the direction of their journey, although predefined cutscenes and the “Linear Motion Battle System” remain integral parts that add appeal.

4. Star Ocean 3: Till The End Of Time (Director’s Cut)

Much To Manage And Overcome In This Sci-Fi Epic

Back in the ’90s, I found myself captivated by Square Enix and tri-Ace’s Star Ocean series. It was a true pioneer, gradually amassing a devoted fanbase under the radar. What made it stand out? Its intricate branching storylines that unfolded based on in-game actions and character decisions.

Fast forward to the present, and fans often cite Till the End of Time, released for PS2/PS4, as the pinnacle of this brilliant saga.

The game offers a complex battle system that blends strategy with fast-paced action, requiring coordination and management of multiple elements. This keeps the experience engaging within the battlefields and as you explore the captivating sci-fi worlds reminiscent of Star Wars. Although it might not be overly welcoming for beginners, even after the Director’s Cut update, it generously rewards players who are willing to grasp its numerous components.

3. Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis

A New, Dynamic Era Of Phantasy Star

Sega’s flagship RPG game has roots that trace back to its early Master System era, and since then, it has evolved significantly. The original gameplay was groundbreaking for its time, and in keeping with this spirit, Phantasy Star Online offers a semi-MMO structure – a novel concept when it was launched in 2000. This sequel, more polished and colorful than ever, pushes boundaries even further, featuring numerous character customization options, various campaign paths, and an abundance of items to discover and enjoy.

In this action role-playing game (ARPG), you’ll find an immersive interface filled with various commands and shortcuts, which seamlessly guide you through expansive worlds. The game’s mobility features like Photon Dash and Glide make navigation a breeze. This ARPG bears a striking resemblance to World of Warcraft in terms of feel, making it one of the console games in the genre that feels most similar. The game’s depth and customization go beyond exciting real-time combat, extending even to user-uploadable symbols for communicating with others – adding an extra level of detail and flexibility.

2. Legend Of Mana

A Non-Linear Legend That’s Been Forgotten By Many

As a gamer, I can’t wait to dive back into the world reminiscent of Zelda’s adventure with Secret of Mana’s sequel! This game takes the series’ exhilarating action and injects it with a vibrant new flavor. Not only do we get to decide the tempo, positioning, and strategies in the fast-paced battles, but we also get to shape our own narrative using the innovative “Land Make” system. It feels like I’m not just playing a game, but crafting my very own adventure!

In this game, players can place biomes and points of interest on an empty grid map at their discretion, resulting in a gameplay experience that combines elements of choose-your-own adventure stories, the non-linear stage selections from Mega Man, and digital tabletop assembly. Unique lands are created using collectible artifacts, each offering different challenges based on various factors. This results in a one-of-a-kind, unpredictable journey where the path is malleable and ever-changing.

1. Xenoblade Chronicles X (Definitive Edition)

These Chronicles Are Sprawling And Seemingly Endless

In the spirit of the notably grandiose Xenoblade, this offshoot surpasses even the original Xeno title for the Wii in terms of appeal, despite featuring a somewhat controversial yet entertaining aspect: customizable mechs known as Skells.

Enthusiasts were thrilled to learn that one of the last noteworthy games from Wii U’s collection had been upgraded for Switch, making it even more visually stunning. Together with Zelda: Breath of the Wild,

2025-07-05 15:36