Classic '90s JRPGs That Still Hold Up Today

Key Takeaways

The unique features and storylines in older games like Legend of Legaia still shine today.
Final Fantasy 7 enduring legacy is validated by its remake; the game’s Materia system and engaging endgame side quests provide a timeless experience.
Classics like Suikoden and Tactics Ogre stand out with unique mechanics and darker storylines, proving their enduring value in modern JRPG gaming.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of video games, I can confidently say that these timeless classics continue to captivate gamers even today. Each one offers a unique blend of storytelling, gameplay mechanics, and artistic design that stands the test of time.

Most RPGs are fortunate because their turn-based systems help them avoid issues with aging controls, making them more welcoming for new players. Nevertheless, they can grow outdated in various aspects. For instance, older JRPGs from the 1990s often lack contemporary comfort features or require excessive grinding to build up character strength, which is necessary to advance through the narrative.

It’s fortunate that the role-playing games (RPGs) listed below continue to provide great gaming experiences today, despite lacking the high-end graphics found in contemporary titles. These classic games can sometimes evoke a unique charm that modern games may have lost.

8 Legend of Legaia

A Unique Battle System No Other Game Uses

The unique selling point of Legend of Legaia revolves around its combat system, which bears a striking similarity to fighting games. Unlike regular attacks, each character’s turn involves a sequence of punch and kick commands. If executed correctly, players can perform powerful special attacks. What sets this system apart is that it hasn’t been replicated in any other game, making it an intriguing reason to play it even today.

The tale also presents an original spin on the classic heroic voyage across a perilous realm to vanquish wickedness. A menacing fog shrouds the land, transforming creatures into monstrosities and tainting humans. Initially, adventurers traverse a town plagued by the fog, witnessing the distress of its inhabitants. However, upon reviving a Genesis Tree nearby, they observe the townspeople regaining their human form as the fog lifts.

7 Final Fantasy 7

A Legend That Lives Up To Its Reputation

There’s plenty of discussion about why Final Fantasy 7 is considered one of the best games ever made. The remake trilogy doesn’t disprove this fact; instead, it underscores its enduring legacy. Unlike many other JRPGs, Final Fantasy 7 uniquely combines science fiction elements with themes that resonate with real-world environmentalism and corporate exploitation.

The gameplay progresses smoothly unless players opt out of battles. The Materia system lends a personalized touch to the team by allowing each character to utilize the same abilities, which are obtained through Materia that can be attached to their weapons. Unlike many Western RPGs, customization was less common in JRPGs during the mid-1990s, but this game takes a different approach.

The final battle could turn out to be quite challenging, but the post-game offers plenty of additional missions, which will keep you entertained as you work towards a higher character level, making it enjoyable.

6 Suikoden

A Massive Roster Of Characters

In a modern, conversational tone: Suikoden’s graphics aren’t something that would make you rush home to show off back in 1995. In fact, they weren’t particularly impressive even then. However, this becomes an advantage today because the game didn’t focus on stunning visuals. Instead, it captivates players with its unique mechanic of allowing you to recruit up to 108 party members, offering a gaming experience that’s more about strategy and character interaction than just eye-catching graphics.

In contrast to the usual setup of three or four party members, these battles accommodate six simultaneously. This is a departure from the traditional arrangement of party members commonly seen during that period. The parties are arranged in two rows, introducing a strategic aspect to the placement and composition of the party. The upcoming 2024 title, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, which received significant backing on Kickstarter, demonstrates that this gameplay style is still relevant in today’s gaming landscape.

5 Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together

A Dark Storyline Better Than Most Modern JRPGs

In the 1990s, role-playing games based in Japan (JRPGs) began venturing beyond their usual scope, attempting to narrate more somber tales. However, many of them still revolved around the theme of thwarting an ancient evil. The game Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together , instead, offers a grittier, realistic narrative that delves into political machinations, betrayal, and ethical dilemmas concerning how far one is willing to go for their cause.

In the course of play, players are presented with numerous decisions that significantly alter both the conclusion and various other episodes. Even though role-playing games have been adopting grimmer narratives and incorporating graphic violence, the drama in Let Us Cling Together remains significant. The scene where a pixelated character ends their life due to a lack of faith in humanity has a far greater emotional impact than most intense scenes found in contemporary high-tech games.

4 Phantasy Star 4

Science Fiction JRPG With Endless Charm

The Phantasy Star series served as an appealing alternative for Sega Genesis owners who were unable to play Final Fantasy on their consoles. Distinctive in its approach, the series explored the universe rather than a medieval-inspired setting. The gameplay was user-friendly, the characters were cheerful and formed bonds with players, while navigation was straightforward and simple to grasp. Additionally, it tended to be shorter compared to other games of the genre, ensuring it didn’t outstay its welcome.

Among the finest 16-bit role-playing games, “Phantasy Star 4” stands out as a gem, predating the newer generation’s innovative explorations of the format. Just like how the 2002 remake of Resident Evil on GameCube encapsulated the essence of survival horror before it morphed, these games are still polished and compelling enough to compete with today’s top offerings in the genre.

Upon release, a
Phantasy Star 4
cartridge cost $99 in the US.

3 Parasite Eve

Survival Horror Meets JRPG

Parasite Eve offers an unusual blend of role-playing game (JRPG) and survival horror elements, making it distinctive within its genre. Its appearance sets it apart, too. The game unfolds in the setting of New York City where players control Aya Brea, a character quite different from the typical teenagers or heroes often found in these kinds of games.

The combat system mixes real-time elements with turn-based attacks, something that would only be more standard more than a decade later in JRPGs. The environments are smaller than the average JRPG, but players are encouraged to explore every nook and cranny for items and equipment.

2 Super Mario RPG

Mario In A Whole New Genre

In some cases, team-ups between the world of Super Mario and others can only lead to success. An instance of this collaboration was the creation of “Super Mario RPG” by Nintendo in partnership with Squaresoft. This game serves as a classic example within its genre, yet the platforming aspect continues to hold significance in the grand scheme of adventure.

The isometric perspective offers players a unique view of the Mushroom Kingdom and its inhabitants, showcasing aspects they haven’t seen before. The fighting system remains recognizable yet incorporates timing-based elements to transform each strike into an exciting mini-game experience. Despite other RPGs featuring the plumber since then, none have managed to replicate the distinctive feel of Super Mario RPG.

1 Chrono Trigger

A Beautiful Time-Travel Journey

Since its debut in 1995, Chrono Trigger has left an indelible mark on gamers due to its compelling narrative. The game explores the complexities of time travel and how manipulating it could potentially destroy existence. Although the game world is compact, players navigate through various historical epochs, traversing prehistoric times and venturing into a dystopian future.

As a dedicated enthusiast, I must admit that this cosmic journey initially seemed like an exhilarating escapade through the fabric of space-time. Yet, it carries an undercurrent of melancholy that gives it a unique, refreshing twist, preventing its vintage elements and dialogue from appearing dated. The various endings and methods to unlock them are undeniably contemporary.

2024-11-20 12:34

Classic ’90s JRPGs That Still Hold Up Today