Best JRPGs Set In Tokyo

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Summary

  • Tokyo is a natural setting for video games due to a rich culture and developer presence.
  • The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series offers unique in-game city exploration.
  • Shin Megami Tensei offers up Tokyo with a twist.

As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for games that transport me to captivating virtual worlds, I must say these titles are truly something else!

Discovering a city within a video game can be an incredibly rewarding part of playing, especially when game creators have put effort into making it feel lively and vibrant. Games such as “Sleeping Dogs” with its captivating Hong Kong backdrop or the Assassin’s Creed series, which offers numerous authentic real-world locations, provide players with a plethora of engaging activities to experience.

Tokyo, along with its surrounding urban areas, often referred to as the Greater Tokyo Area, is renowned as the most populous metropolitan zone globally. Given the abundance of video game developers located within the city and the captivating allure it holds for many, it’s no surprise that some exceptional video games have been set in the vibrant Japanese capital.

10. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Crossover Appeal Set In Multiple Districts

In various districts of the capital, such as Shibuya and Harajuku, lies the video game collaboration titled “Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore“. This unique game combines elements from the Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem series. As high school students working in a talent agency, players team up with friendly entities known as “Mirages” to defeat hostile Mirages that originate from another world.

The battles unfold in a sequence where each player takes turns, reminiscent of both well-known series. The action transpires simultaneously in our world and the Idolaspheres, which are alternate dimensions inhabited by Mirages. Critics found some parts of the game overly sentimental, yet they still appreciated its settings, side missions, and character development.

9. The World Ends With You

Shibuya Roll Call

Originally launched exclusively for Nintendo DS, “The World Ends With You” unfolds in the bustling district of Shibuya. Players assume the role of Neku Sakuraba and his companions, who are all partakers in the Reapers’ Game. The objective is to accomplish tasks scattered across various areas within Shibuya.

In the bustling Tokyo district of Shibuya, known for its trendy fashion, influences the gameplay significantly. Dressing in style awards benefits to players, while neglecting fashion can pose challenges in certain scenarios. However, the battle system has been criticized for being challenging to learn, but nearly all reviewers praised the game’s setting.

8. NEO: The World Ends With You

Shibuya Roll Call, Again

The eagerly anticipated follow-up titled “Neo: The World Ends with You” revolves around a band of high school students engaging in what’s known as the “Reaper’s Game” within Shibuya. Unlike its predecessor, this installment offers a three-dimensional experience and introduces a fresh set of characters.

In battle, you can manage several characters simultaneously, and each character’s skills offer diverse gameplay options as you traverse the city. The detailed yet authentic portrayal of the district received much acclaim, and moving around the map is a delightful experience that truly captures the essence of Shibuya.

7. Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne

Post-Apocalyptic Tokyo

In Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne, players step into the shoes of a high school student once more, this time in Tokyo that has been overrun by demons following an apocalyptic incident. The protagonist, who remains silent, navigates through the post-apocalyptic version of Tokyo, now called the Vortex World, and ventures into various dungeons.

As a gamer, I dive into a world where each battle unfolds in rounds, giving me time to strategize my next move. Some fiendish foes even switch sides, joining my team in the fight against darkness. The cityscape once known as Tokyo is now unnervingly alien, transformed into a desolate wasteland. Yet, the game’s setting and ominous atmosphere have left many critics awestruck, praising its authenticity.

6. Lost Judgment

Detective In The Kabukicho District

In a follow-up to the spin-off game titled “Judgment,” the newly titled “Lost Judgment” centers around a private investigator named Takayuki Yagami. Similar to the “Yakuza” series, this game is set in Kamurocho, modeled after Tokyo’s Kabukicho district, and another location inspired by a district within Yokohama.

Although some might debate whether this game truly embodies traditional JRPG combat due to its beat ’em up style instead of turn-based mechanics, it nevertheless aligns with the genre in numerous other ways. Elements like spontaneous battles, eccentric characters, and occasionally absurd storylines can all be found here, which are characteristic of JRPGs. Moreover, the exploration within Kamurocho is quite enjoyable as well.

5. Yakuza Kiwami 2

Kamurocho Nights

Following the triumph of the initial remake, Yakuza Kiwami 2 emerged, enhancing numerous elements from the original Yakuza 2. Similar to other games in the series, a significant portion of the gameplay occurs within Kamurocho, modeled after Kabukicho and often perceived as Tokyo’s infamous red-light district.

In this updated version of the game, I find myself right smack in the heart of a pulsating city that feels more alive than ever before. It’s like stepping into another world! There are lots of fresh additions to explore too, such as the Cabaret Club – a place where I can share a meal with some lovely hostesses, even Kazuma Kiryu himself is among them. Quite the change from the original game!

4. Yakuza: Like A Dragon

Turning Turn-Based In Tokyo

In contrast to past games in the series, Yakuza: Like a Dragon primarily takes place in Yokohama, yet it also includes portions towards the end set in Tokyo. A game from this franchise without Kamurocho would simply not feel whole. This time around, you won’t be controlling Kazuma; instead, you’ll be guiding Ichiban Kasuga through the adventure.

In contrast to past versions, this entry introduces a turn-based combat system. During skirmishes, surrounding items in the city streets can serve offensive purposes. The cities also offer various activities when not engaged in a mission, like karaoke sessions or go-kart races.

3. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

From Tokyo To Hawaii

The upcoming game, titled “Yakuza: Infinite Riches“, marks the first installment in the series to be released globally. In this sequel to “Yakuza: Like a Dragon“, players will once more take control of Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu. A significant portion of gameplay will unfold in Yokohama and Hawaii, yet a much-loved location, Kamurocho, remains on the agenda for visits.

In this new installment, the combat system featuring turns is significantly improved and more immersive compared to the last one. As always, there’s a variety of activities to participate in across various settings. Some classic pastimes such as karaoke sessions and arcade gaming make a comeback. Additionally, the protagonist Kazuma embarks on side quests that allow him to reminisce about his past and resolve outstanding matters.

2. Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance

Tokyo With A Twist

In a fresh take on Shin Megami Tensei 5, we have Shin Megami Tensei 5: Retribution. The narrative splits its setting between two distinct locales. Your unnamed protagonist, a high school student in the contemporary Tokyo, gradually learns that his world is a fabricated one and that the authentic Tokyo, referred to as the Da’at, is a post-apocalyptic landscape.

In the simulated version of Tokyo beyond the primary missions, players have the freedom to roam around Da’at, an area rich with intriguing locations that are particularly appealing to fans of post-apocalyptic sceneries. Here, you can encounter numerous demons to fight and hidden treasures to discover.

1. Persona 5 Royal

A Capital City Classic

Many people consider Persona 5 one of the best games ever made. But the improved version, called Persona 5 Royal, is even more impressive. The plot unfolds over the course of a year and follows a student in contemporary Tokyo as they navigate both the real world and a mysterious dimension known as the Metaverse.

Outside of their academic life and delving into dungeons, these game characters have the freedom to wander real-life areas of Tokyo, taking on odd jobs or enjoying recreational activities. The stunning visual aesthetics and captivating storyline alone make this an exceptional game, but the genuine setting adds a touch of magic as well.

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2024-12-12 06:36