As a gamer, I can’t help but get lost in the intricate details of the vast open worlds found in many video games. These expansive landscapes are more than just backdrops; they’re living, breathing environments that pull you deep into their world, engaging you with their gameplay and characters.
Although that feature has frequently propelled the game to a dominant position in the gaming industry, as demonstrated by The Witcher 3 and Elden Ring, there’s a significant group of players who prefer their RPG games with a more linear narrative rather than requiring a vast map for exploration.
Today, let’s delve into a fascinating conversation about some lesser-known but equally captivating Role Playing Games (RPGs) that depart from the open-world format. Instead, these games prefer a more confined setting or a strictly linear gameplay structure. Rest assured, they are just as engaging and worthy of your time as their open-world counterparts.
10.
Bravely Default
The Best from the 3DS Library
If you’re a fan of Japanese Role-Playing Games or seeking your next fix in this genre, Bravely Default is an outstanding choice. This game has been warmly embraced as one of the most acclaimed titles on the Nintendo 3DS console since its debut, featuring a linear main storyline that you can comfortably immerse yourself in and marathon play.
This game offers captivating turn-based battles that revolve around the Brave/Normal system. You can execute actions and spend Brave Points, or switch to Normal mode to restore BP while lowering enemy attack strength. Although it may seem straightforward, it gradually introduces a tactical element to the gameplay as it progresses.
What makes this game particularly fascinating is that unlike many JRPGs, it doesn’t offer a vast open world. Instead, it focuses on a well-structured world layout, consisting of various towns, villages, main dungeons, and overworld locations to traverse.
In comparison to its acclaimed follow-up, I felt that the storytelling and characters stood out more in this game. If you’re willing to overlook some minor gameplay issues that were eventually addressed in the sequel, then I would highly recommend giving Bravely Default a try.
9.
Scarlet Nexus
Brain Punk Action Extravaganza
To put it simply: Scarlet Nexus might appear like an ordinary anime-themed game nowadays, but don’t let that fool you. What truly captivated me (and many others), drawing us in, were its exhilarating combat system and straightforward storyline progression.
Rather than following a standard action-adventure battle format, Scarlet Nexus offers a tailor-made combat system that boasts its own distinctive features, while still preserving key elements like intricate combos, swift encounters, and the integration of characters’ special SAS skills.
Furthermore, what makes this game unique is its dual protagonist system featuring Yuito and Kasane, as well as an architectural design that interlinks various zones and features a hub-world. This approach aims to minimize unnecessary content and maximize action, making it more engaging when not engaged in storyline activities or conversing with key non-player characters.
8.
Pokémon Platinum
The Series’ Evolution
As I was pondering over this list, Pokémon Platinum popped up as it stands out as a significant evolution for the franchise, elevating it to new peaks, particularly given that these advancements were achieved using the capabilities of the Nintendo DS system.
This game stood out as the most fascinating addition to the series because it featured Team Galactic prominently in your adventure, and the debut of the Distortion World created truly mesmerizing scenes where 3D elements seamlessly integrated with the classic 2D aesthetic.
Furthermore, since investigation is a significant aspect, the whole Sinnoh area was intricately linked by cleverly concealed paths and brimming with mysteries that enticed you to revisit it during your journey.
For the spectators, it was an impressive spectacle as it solidified this Pokémon game significantly surpassing its earlier versions.
7.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
A Strategy RPG For Everyone
As a game enthusiast who’s not typically drawn to strategy subgenres in RPG video games, I must admit that Fire Emblem: Three Houses on the Nintendo Switch was an exceptional find for me – a standout gem among non-open-world RPG titles.
In the game, the tactical fights set on a grid are its most intricate part because you need to train your soldiers, equip them appropriately before combat, and designate their primary roles. Moreover, due to how lengthy these battles can become, you have the option to save a bookmark between rounds, allowing you to resume play exactly where you left off.
As a gamer, I can tell you that the game’s life-sim section offers a variety of activities within the Monastery, my central hub for adventures beyond combat. From casting a line to catch some fish or tending to a garden, to strengthening relationships with students representing the three primary factions and forming deeper connections with them.
If you enjoy tactical games with a moderate level of complexity, or role-playing games that offer a compelling storyline due to their well-structured plot progression, then Fire Emblem: Three Houses could be perfect for you.
6.
Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
A Long Time Ago
For those who are fans of the Star Wars universe, you might find it intriguing to know that Knights of the Republic (KOTOR) served as my initial introduction to the franchise. At that time, I hadn’t watched any of the movies or had any prior knowledge about Star Wars, but let me tell you, KOTOR turned out to be an ideal starting point.
In contrast to contemporary Star Wars games such as Jedi Survivor, which offer expansive open-world landscapes to traverse, KOTOR adopts a style similar to Mass Effect’s approach, featuring exploration on hub-based maps of iconic planets from the franchise, including Tatooine, Kashyyyk, and Manaan.
Despite the fact that the gameplay might not hold up as well now, if you’re willing to tolerate it and employ modifications such as Console Commands, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the most stunning plot twists in the world of video games.
5.
Disco Elysium
Martinaise’s Finest Pair of Detectives
Occasionally, open-world games are enriched by a massive map comprising multiple sub-regions and cultures, fostering intricate world-building. However, Disco Elysium stands out by achieving this with a tiny map confined to the Martinaise district, serving as the backdrop for you to untangle its complex and poetic narrative puzzle.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but immerse myself deeply into the intricate web of Martinaise, unraveling its somber nuances and interacting with its captivating inhabitants. A substantial part of my time is dedicated to this endeavor.
Despite Martinaise appearing small at first glance during your initial playthrough, the game strongly encourages you to delve into every hidden corner, narrow street, and secret spot within the district. This is because it offers a rich tapestry of intricate storytelling, making it a miniature powerhouse that rewards exploration.
4.
Monster Hunter Rise
Tons of Content & Replayability
Rather than discussing the newest Wilds, I opted to focus on Monster Hunter Rise because of its divided map layout and gameplay structure reminiscent of an arcade, which facilitates swift progression throughout the game, at least until the first Rampage quest slows things down a bit.
Despite finding it less enjoyable than Wilds and World while playing with friends, the Wirebug system is worth acknowledging as it significantly speeds up combat and exploration during quests. Some people might find this feature appealing or off-putting, but in my case, I fall into the latter group because I’m more fond of World’s grounded combat style.
Moreover, with Sunbreak expansion integrated, you’re in store for an endless amount of gameplay, and what makes it even more appealing is that it offers a flawless harmony between difficulty and user-friendliness, placing it just behind the Wilds for novice players.
3.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Way Down in Midgar
As a passionate gamer, I can’t help but reminisce about my journey with Final Fantasy 7 Remake, one of the initial installments in the remake trilogy. Later, this masterpiece was enhanced as Intergrade for PlayStation 5 and PC. Before the series ventured into a full-blown open world in Rebirth, the first chapter predominantly unfolded within Midgar, making it an excellent starting point for newcomers and a perfectly linear role-playing game experience.
In this reimagining, every distinct area of the city – from the slums to Aerith’s home, and including the bustling Wall Market – is meticulously recreated, offering a fresh perspective. The added bonus of Chocobo Carriages makes it easy to zip around each individually designed map quickly.
Some people might complain about the excess story padding, slowdowns due to loading screens concealed within wall crawlspaces, but the game remains enjoyable primarily because of its captivating characters. With their endearing and nuanced portrayal in Rebirth, it’s hard not to be drawn into picking up the game after finishing Remake.
2.
Yakuza 0
Long Live the 1980s
In simple terms, Yakuza 0 marked the beginning of the turbulent journeys of characters Kiryu Kazuma and Goro Majima. It has become a favorite among fans and often serves as the starting point for newcomers. The game’s unique dual setting is meticulously woven into a well-structured narrative, making it the most straightforward game in the series.
This game appears to be open-world similar to Kamurucho and Sotenbori maps initially, but upon comparison with games like LAD Infinite Wealth or Pirate Yakuza’s latest version, it seems to be the most straightforward and casual-friendly Yakuza game in the series preceding Kiwami.
This game is incredibly affordable during the sale, boasting an abundance of engaging features: captivating mini-games, intricate combat techniques, a vibrant and catchy soundtrack, and top-notch dual protagonist narratives that intertwine beautifully. If you haven’t experienced Yakuza 0 yet, you’re missing out on something special.
1.
Persona 3 Reload
Full Moon, Full Life
In terms of style, you might find Persona not quite your preferred taste, or perhaps the turn-based combat could seem a bit tedious. But if you approach it with patience and dedication, Persona games can prove to be among the finest role-playing games for relaxed play that aren’t open-world.
I opted for Persona 3 Reload because it features a unique location, Tatsumi Port Island, which is not expansive like modern-day Tokyo in Persona 5. Moreover, the game offers flexible story progression with Full Moon Boss Battles and allowing players to manage the Tartarus dungeon simultaneously.
As a passionate fan, I can’t help but express my admiration for this masterpiece. Its characters are superbly crafted, evolving gradually through their social interactions, and the writing is nothing short of remarkable – it strikes a perfect balance between maturity and raw emotion that sets it apart in the JRPG genre. The post-game ending, especially, leaves an indelible mark, resonating deeply even for those who’ve experienced the original storyline. It’s a testament to the game’s emotional depth and lasting impact.
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2025-05-15 21:14