Best RPGs Only Available On The PS1, Ranked

Summary

The PS1 library of RPGs was crucial to its success.
Titles like Beyond the Beyond, Brave Prove, and Thousand Arms remain trapped on the PS1.
Alundra 2 & Koudelka are examples of great sequels but were not re-released, missing modern platforms.

As a seasoned gamer who has been around since the days of the Super Nintendo, I can confidently say that these obscure PS1 RPGs are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by a new generation of players. Having spent countless hours hunched over my television screen, controller in hand, immersing myself in the rich worlds and engaging stories of these games, I have developed a deep appreciation for their unique qualities.

The first game on the list that stands out to me is “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past.” As someone who has played every Dragon Quest game released in North America, I can attest to the fact that this entry is truly special. With its innovative time-travel mechanics and captivating storyline, it offers a fresh take on the classic JRPG formula that is both challenging and rewarding.

Next up, we have “Koudelka.” As someone who has a soft spot for horror RPGs, I found this game to be a breath of fresh air. The grid-based battle system and atmospheric setting transport players to a chilling mansion filled with secrets and danger. The game’s connection to the “Shadow Hearts” series only adds to its allure.

Another standout on the list is “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past.” As someone who has played through it multiple times, I can attest to the fact that this game offers a unique and immersive experience that is unlike any other in the series. From sailing the open seas to exploring dungeons filled with danger, this game offers a rich and varied world for players to explore.

Last but not least, we have “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past.” As someone who has played it multiple times on different platforms, I can confidently say that this is one of the best games in the series. The time-travel mechanics and engaging storyline make it a must-play for any RPG fan.

In conclusion, these obscure PS1 RPGs are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by a new generation of players. If you’re looking for a challenge and a unique gaming experience, I highly recommend giving them a try. And as a final note, I can’t help but chuckle at the fact that despite their relative obscurity, these games have left an indelible mark on my life and countless others. After all, who doesn’t love a good RPG adventure?

As a follower, I’d say: The success of the PS1 might not have been as monumental without a robust collection of RPGs. One of Sony’s shrewdest moves was re-releasing PS1 games digitally on PSN, making it possible for us to enjoy them on both the PS3 and PSP. The realization that we could play games like Final Fantasy 7 on-the-go must have been quite enlightening.

Many popular role-playing games, including Final Fantasy 7 by Square Enix and numerous others, have been released beyond the PlayStation 1 through digital ports and various versions. However, several other games remain confined to the PlayStation 1, with options for playing them limited to emulation, physical copies, or the original console itself.

6. Beyond The Beyond

Sony’s First Sun

Developer: Camelot Software Planning
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Platform: PS1
Released: September 11, 1996 (NA)

Beyond the Beyond” was among the initial role-playing games (RPGs) launched for the PlayStation 1. This game was developed by Camelot, a relatively unknown studio back then. However, their fame grew significantly due to their association with Nintendo. They’re the creators behind games like Golden Sun and numerous sports titles featuring Mario, which can be considered as borderline RPGs.

As a passionate film buff diving into the realm of gaming, I must say that the combat in “Beyond the Beyond” bears a striking resemblance to the engaging battles found in “Golden Sun”. The game features large, expressive sprites and vibrant animations that are reminiscent of a classic movie scene.

Recently, Sony has been generously bestowing upon us modern versions of PlayStation 1 games on both the PS4 and PS5, with just enough enhancements to make them shine like never before. I can only hope that one day, “Beyond the Beyond” will follow suit, making a triumphant return similar to the resurgence of “The Legend of Dragoon”.

For now, however, it remains confined within the walls of the PS1. It’s high time for Sony to engage in some productive discussions with Nintendo and work out a deal that would bring this gem into the hands of eager gamers once more.

5. Brave Prove

Go West Young Man

Developer: Data West
Publisher: Data West
Released: April 16, 1998 (Japan)
Platform: PS1

In 1998, the action RPG game “Brave Prove” was exclusively launched in Japan when the PlayStation 1 was at its peak performance. This game was developed by Data West, a company that gamers should not mix up with Data East, renowned for creating games like “BurgerTime” and “Joe & Mac”. Despite having larger, chunky-looking sprites, they are intricately detailed when compared to the more polygonal backdrops of the game.

1998’s release might seem outdated for a global audience, but due to its retro charm, enthusiasts can find enjoyment in it today. This is largely thanks to fan translations into English that have been made available, and the hack-and-slash gameplay remains satisfying, despite potentially becoming repetitive over time.

4. Alundra 2: A New Legend Begins

The First Is Safe But Not The Sequel

A New Legend Begins was a more expansive sequel that boasted fully three-dimensional backgrounds and characters.

I found it remarkably reminiscent of the underappreciated gem, Mega Man Legends, on the PlayStation 1, but with a focus on sword combat instead of gunplay. Unlike its original counterpart, Alundra 2: A New Legend Begins never left the PS1 shores, and I can’t help but hope that this pirate-themed adventure will one day resurface on a modern console for all to enjoy.

3. Thousand Arms

Befriend Woman, Become A Master Smith

A game titled “Thousand Arms” would seamlessly blend into the collection of a fan of “Persona,” not solely due to both being published by Atlus, but also because they share similarities as turn-based RPGs incorporating romance mechanics. In this game, players assume the role of a young blacksmith named Meis whose strength grows with his hammer, but only when he finds love.

In the course of their adventure, players will encounter multiple female companions who could become more or less friendly depending on their choices in dialogue. The narrative style is light-hearted, reminiscent of humorous anime series such as Tenchi Muyo or Love Hina, but with an emphasis on combat sequences that are turn-based.

2. Koudelka

A Precursor To Shadow Hearts

Koudelka

Overview: Koudelka is a horror RPG with a turn-based system, set in the year 1898. The gameplay allows players to strategically move their party across a grid on the battlefield, resembling a miniature tactical RPG. Players take control of the main character, Koudelka, who is a psychic dispatched for an investigation at a mansion reminiscent of that seen in Resident Evil.

The game precedes Shadow Hearts, a less-known RPG set in the same universe. At different times, attempts were made to adapt Koudelka for the Neo Geo Pocket Color and Steam, but these plans failed to materialize. As a result, the game remains officially confined to the PS1.

1. Dragon Quest 7: Fragments Of The Forgotten Past

A Forgotten Past Indeed

Developer: Heartbeat
Publisher: Enix
Released: November 1, 2001 (NA)
Platform: PS1

Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten Past was a later game for the PlayStation 1, serving as a more recent addition to the Dragon Quest series. The sixth installment was released on the SNES, which dates back to 1995 in Japan. Due to its late release and what appeared to be outdated graphics, many overlooked this classic PlayStation 1 title, making it a rarity over time.

As a lifelong fan of classic JRPGs, I must admit that playing “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten” was a truly unforgettable journey for me. Having first experienced it on the PlayStation 1 in my youth, I can attest to the sheer magic and wonder it brought into my life during those formative years. When I heard that it had been remade for the Nintendo 3DS, I was overjoyed at the prospect of revisiting this beloved title with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics. The 3DS version was a delightful experience, providing me with countless hours of entertainment and nostalgia.

More recently, I discovered that there was even a mobile version based on the remake, which expanded my options for playing this gem. However, it’s important to note that while technically one can play “Dragon Quest 7” elsewhere, the original experience on the PS1 is distinct and unparalleled.

As a self-proclaimed “Dragon Quest” purist, I would wholeheartedly welcome the opportunity to relive this time-traveling adventure once more in its original form. The memories of my first playthrough are still vivid in my mind, and I believe that playing it again on my old console would bring back those feelings of awe and excitement I had as a child.

In conclusion, “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments of the Forgotten” is a must-play for any JRPG fan, especially for those who have fond memories of the original release. If Square Enix were to re-release it on modern platforms in its original form, I would be first in line to purchase it and embark on this epic journey once more.

2024-12-29 07:17