Best Turn-Based RPGs From The 90s

Summary

Suikoden 2 stands out as a top JRPG for its engaging storytelling and unique characters.
Xenogears is praised for its exceptional turn-based battle system, despite its flaws in realizing the game’s full potential.
Final Fantasy 7 revolutionized JRPGs with its epic story, dynamic combat system, and iconic characters like Cloud.

In the 90s, Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) shone brightly, but noteworthy role-playing games from Western creators also had their moment in the limelight. This surge resulted in numerous RPGs that made a deep impact on gaming enthusiasts.

Developing gratifying real-time battle mechanics in these games proved to be tough, leading many ’90s role-playing games to adopt captivating turn-based combat systems instead. These games are renowned for their enjoyable turn-based combat dynamics that players find hard to resist.

Suikoden 2

Arguably The Best Entry In The Series

Numerous individuals often highlight “Suikoden 2” when discussing the top games in the underappreciated JRPG series. The game’s expansive world on the brink of a significant war, combined with the ability to recruit over a hundred playable characters, significantly enhances its distinct appeal.

Luca Bright stands out as one of the most impressive JRPG villains ever, eliciting feelings of both wonder and fear whenever he takes center stage. Together with a streamlined and gratifying turn-based battle system, it’s no surprise that so many players can’t help but sing praises for Suikoden 2.

Xenogears

If This Game Had Achieved Its Vision, It Could’ve Been Something Truly Special

Xenogears is renowned as one of the best turn-based role-playing games ever made, yet it might have been even more outstanding if its development had received more attention. Unfortunately, due to pressing deadlines and a dwindling budget, the game didn’t fully realize its potential. Consequently, a significant part of the storyline ended up being akin to a lengthy presentation, leaving players feeling underwhelmed.

Without a doubt, the initial part of Xenogears ranks among the finest JRPGs available for the PS1, offering an unforgettable gaming experience. Despite falling short in its conclusion, the game’s turn-based combat system emphasizing combos, coupled with its intricate world-building and captivating lore, make Xenogears one of the most remarkable video games ever produced.

Final Fantasy 7

Cloud’s Legendary Adventure Speaks For Itself

One of the most remarkable role-playing games ever created is Final Fantasy 7, which singlehandedly ignited the JRPG craze on the PlayStation 1. The thrilling escapades of Cloud and his team were the pioneering AAA game that convincingly justified its marketing expenses, ultimately solidifying itself as a groundbreaking masterpiece in gaming history.

Despite some flaws becoming apparent to players, the extraordinary quality of this game is tough to refute, largely due to its captivating narrative and numerous surprises. Moreover, the inclusion of materia enhances the strategic turn-based combat experience by enabling players to choose which spells and abilities each character can utilize.

EarthBound

An Amazing Anti-JRPG That Needs No Introduction

It’s clear why EarthBound is considered a significant game in the history of video games, as it paved the way for indie games to challenge the traditional Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) format. The character Ness’ journeys are mostly based on real-world experiences, and the unique combat system adds to the game’s eccentricity.

In this game, it’s surprisingly enjoyable to defeat the recurring hostile opponents, with the combat system amplifying the game’s allure. Moreover, the moving health bar encourages players to act swiftly and restore characters before their health depletes entirely, contributing to the fast-paced dynamics of the turn-based battles.

Final Fantasy Tactics

A Final Fantasy Spin-Off That’s Arguably Better Than The Numbered Entries

The remarkable achievement of a spin-off becoming one of the greatest “Final Fantasy” games is a clear demonstration of the exceptional quality within “Final Fantasy Tactics”. It stands out as possibly the finest game in the Ivalice universe, and it excels at fostering intrigue for its world.

In Ramza’s journey, he strives to maintain his family’s reputation, transforming himself into a noble hero, inspiring numerous individuals to align with him as he confronts multiple invasions. The game mechanics, particularly the job system, boost the strategic combats during turn-based battles, making them more challenging compared to other mainline Final Fantasy games of that time.

Fallout 2

Established The Series’ Iconic Dark Humor Along With A Compelling Narrative Of Its Own

Initially, Fallout set the foundation for the franchise’s universe. However, it was Fallout 2 that truly shaped this widely recognized series and carved out its unique identity. The incorporation of dark humor, along with the captivating character of Frank Horrigan, made the Fallout world intriguing to many, fostering a view of it as a compelling setting.

The combat, which was both engaging and difficult, continued to keep players hooked, provided they remained patient. Progressing by leveling up multiple times and acquiring essential gear to battle formidable Radscorpions and Deathclaws offers a gratifying sense of advancement, demonstrating the player’s remarkable growth throughout their journey.

Final Fantasy 6

Many People Consider This Title To Be The Best Mainline Final Fantasy Game

Final Fantasy 6″ is a cherished installment within the “Final Fantasy” series, distinguished by its large cast of characters, captivating villain, and ambitious storyline. The game’s turn-based combat is enjoyable due to the diverse selection of unique characters that players can control.

Nearly every character you can play in the game has an intriguing past, and the arrival of the World of Ruin is a jaw-dropping event that continues to captivate many fans even today. The emergence of the Pixel Remaster gives players the chance to explore this game’s ultimate version as well.

Chrono Trigger

Set The Standard For JRPGs When It Came Out

Chrono Trigger is widely recognized as one of the greatest JRPGs ever created, thanks to the collaborative genius of Yuji Horii, Hironobu Sakaguchi, and the late, legendary Akira Toriyama. This game set itself apart when it was initially launched, standing out as an innovative role-playing game.

Back in the day, diving into Chrono Trigger felt like stepping into a future of gaming mastery. The seamless flow between battles, the various endings, and the New Game+ options were all signs that this game was leaps and bounds ahead of its contemporaries.

Landing those perfectly timed double and triple tech attacks on enemies is a thrill that never fades. It’s a significant part of what makes Chrono Trigger such an enduring gem among the finest turn-based JRPGs ever created.

2025-08-04 10:35