Best JRPGs That Let You Play A Merchant Class

Key Takeaways

Unique class systems in JRPGs like merchants offer players diverse and enjoyable gameplay experiences.
Playing as a merchant in games like Octopath Traveler and Bravely Second allows for resource management and utility skills.
The merchant class in various JRPGs excels in earning money, aiding allies, and providing tactical advantages in battle.

As a seasoned RPG enthusiast with decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that the merchant class in JRPGs has always been a hidden gem for me. These characters may not have the flashy spells or brute strength of other classes, but their unique abilities and quirks make them an absolute joy to play.

In simpler terms, Role-Playing Games (RPGs), particularly classic ones like Computer RPGs (CRPGs) or Japanese RPGs (JRPGs), are recognized for their intricate class systems. These class systems highlight the unique abilities and limitations of each character within a team. The classes provide a distinct identity to the characters in the game’s mechanics, and in games where classes can be customized, they also offer an element of personalization for players who have invested time to mold their character into a specific role or type.

In many Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) featuring a more flexible class system, the classes that truly shine are those that deviate from the traditional warrior, rogue, wizard, and healer archetypes. A notable example of such a class is the merchant. The merchant has been present in various JRPGs, each with its unique role within the party. While it may not always possess the highest power level, playing as a merchant class in these games offers an enjoyable, distinct experience.

1 Octopath Traveler

Sail On The Winds Of Commerce

In the initial installment of “Octopath Traveler”, the merchant class is prominently depicted through the character of Tressa Coizione, a spirited and ambitious individual with dreams of circumnavigating the globe to boost trade and wealth for her family. Since Tressa stands out as a key figure within the game’s cast, her merchant class offers more diversity compared to that of other games.

Choosing Tressa at the beginning is often considered a good decision due to her skills in negotiating with Non-Player Characters (NPCs) and finding extra coins. This proves beneficial during the initial stages of the game, where resources are scarce.

2 Bravely Second

This Unique Job System Showcases The Merchant Well

In the game ‘Bravely Second’, the Merchant class can be accessed via its asterisk, just like all other classes in this renowned job system that the Bravely series is known for. This job primarily focuses on self-preservation and support, trading gold for party advantages, and earning additional money as battle rewards.

As a devoted player, I can’t help but appreciate the advantage this character brings to our team: they multiply our gold earnings by 1.5 after every task completed! This divine boon is particularly beneficial during the mid to late game, significantly accelerating our resource gathering pace, regardless of the jobs held by my comrades. It truly feels like a heaven-sent aid in our quest for victory!

3 Dragon Quest 6

Balances Low Stats With A Knack For Money

Platform(s): SNES, Nintendo DS, Mobile
Released: December 9, 1995
Developer(s): Heartbeat
Genre(s): JRPG

In the Dragon Quest collection, there are quite a few games, and although the merchant has cropped up in several, his role in Dragon Quest 6 stands out distinctly. This character reduces the stats of its user, but to balance things out, it lets them make more money, evaluate items more effortlessly, and eventually summons potent mercenaries to join in combat.

In this game’s context, the merchant character class possesses an unusual blend of skills, extending beyond combat. They can perform tasks like digging, apply debuffs to adversaries, summon allies, and launch aggressive physical attacks. Essentially, they are a versatile individual who excels in various areas, backed by substantial wealth.

4 Octopath Traveler 2

Gain Money, Help Allies, And Hinder Foes

In the game Octopath Traveler 2, the merchant role stands out as significantly different from its counterpart in the original game. Unlike the first game which offered a broader take on the merchant class, the second installment emphasizes and expands upon the merchant’s unique abilities.

In the current setup, it’s not as effective as a support or damage per second (DPS) character, however, it boasts one of the most potent abilities in the game – Hired Help – and an array of money-making skills that distinguish it from other classes within this game.

5 Fire Emblem: Fates

A Defensive Class That Utilizes Gold Bars

In the game “Fire Emblem: Fates,” the role of the merchant is relatively scarce. Depending on the player’s chosen path, they might not come across a merchant, be it as an adversary or an ally, at any point. When the merchant does show up, they possess a variety of intricate skills that revolve around gold bars.

Merchants have the ability to significantly harm enemies with these gold bars, causing more damage compared to their own attributes. Moreover, during the beginning of their first turns, they create these gold bars that hold considerable value because, in essence, they are obtained without any direct cost. These can later be sold for a hefty sum.

6 Triangle Strategy

Few Merchants Are As Shrewd As Lionel

In the game “Triangle Strategy,” Lionel becomes accessible as an optional character for the player when their convictions reach a specific threshold. He’s a shrewd merchant who perceives the potential profits associated with House Wolfort and views his readiness to collaborate with Serenoa as a demonstration of loyalty.

From a cunning storyteller’s perspective, I, as Lionel, have the knack for goading and undermining my adversaries, or even momentarily winning over their allegiance. My unique abilities synergize wonderfully with Jens, the blacksmith character, who crafts intricate traps that I can manipulate my enemies into activating through taunts.

2024-11-01 02:36