Great JRPGs That Are Too Short

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Great JRPGs That Are Too Short

As a seasoned gamer with decades of gaming under my belt, I can confidently say that brevity is not always the enemy in JRPGs. Sometimes, a shorter playtime can be just as satisfying, if not more so, than a marathon session through a lengthy game.

Generally speaking, embarking on a JRPG means strapping oneself in for a long and immersive ride. This genre is known for its epic games that can be incredibly time-consuming. The journey takes players from simple beginnings, leading them eventually to fight a deity, often accompanied by a motley crew of characters who have formed deep connections throughout the game. It’s clear why these games are so extensive and intersperse serious moments with lighter ones as they progress towards their next thrilling scene.

While it might seem like all JRPGs demand numerous hours of gameplay, many actually capture the essence of this genre without stretching the story unnecessarily far. Some gamers even claim these titles are too brief, but brevity isn’t always a downside, especially if it suits what players seek.

5 The World Ends With You: Final Remix

Main Story Time: 17 Hours

“The World Ends with You” is one of the trendiest role-playing games (JRPG) you can play, featuring the character Neku who suffers from amnesia and is thrust into a complex game where he forms alliances with various characters to unravel the mystery. The game’s setting in contemporary Shibuya offers an exciting environment to discover, making this journey a one-of-a-kind and engaging experience brimming with style.

Those deeply engrossed in the narrative of “The World Ends with You” might find themselves feeling let down as the game winds down in approximately twenty hours. However, it’s important to note that the original game was longer, and the “Final Remix” version offers quality-of-life improvements and additional content that allows players to complete the game more quickly without compromising on enjoyment due to these added features.

4 Phantasy Star

Main Story Time: 16 Hours

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but sing the praises of Phantasy Star, an often overlooked gem in the realm of JRPGs. While the original game might seem like a challenge due to its vintage charm, gamers who appreciate the retro vibe or are willing to overlook some outdated elements will find themselves immersed in a sci-fi fantasy adventure that’s far more revolutionary than people give it credit for. The visuals are still breathtaking today and played a significant role in making this title a smash hit on the Master System. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I strongly recommend giving Phantasy Star a spin!

It’s unfortunate that the launch of one of the greatest JRPG franchises ever, Phantasy Star, was overshadowed by another legendary series. However, those who take a chance on this game will discover numerous reasons to appreciate its first installment. In truth, the game is so enjoyable that players might regret finishing it too quickly, suggesting they should make the most of their time with it by delving into all the additional content it provides.

3 Final Fantasy

Main Story Time: 16 Hours

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that “Final Fantasy” is a legendary franchise that requires no introduction. It consistently pushes boundaries with each new title, earning it a revered status within Square Enix. Titles like “Final Fantasy 14” and the upcoming “Final Fantasy 16” are clear evidence of its enduring influence in today’s gaming landscape. The journey started way back in 1987 when Square took a daring leap with the launch of the first “Final Fantasy” game, which was an instant success across the board.

Watching the traditional D&D mechanics being reimagined in the style of a JRPG is truly delightful. The straightforward narrative sets four champions of light on a mission to vanquish archfiends and shield innocents from Garland’s menace. This game introduces several series-specific tropes, but one aspect that may surprise fans is its relatively shorter length compared to most games in the Final Fantasy series. Being the inaugural installment, it’s not hard to understand why the first Final Fantasy might feel a touch too brief. Nevertheless, this classic JRPG remains an engaging experience that avid players will appreciate revisiting.

2 Super Mario RPG

Main Story Time: 12 Hours

The remake of Super Mario RPG was a source of joy for fans who loved Square and Nintendo’s collaboration. This game features enough content to pack a forty or fifty-hour experience, with every new zone boasting new music, stimulating puzzles, unique enemy encounters, creative boss mechanics, and everything else along the same lines. However, everyone knows how Nintendo loves to cut out the fluff from their games, turning Super Mario RPG into a short and riveting ride that takes even less time to complete if players check out the remake.

As a dedicated gamer who adores JRPGs, I can appreciate both perspectives about the game’s length. Some players argue that it strikes the perfect balance and doesn’t require more time, but true JRPG enthusiasts like myself yearn for an extended journey through its captivating exploration and combat scenes. Regrettably, we have to content ourselves with a concise experience that will linger in our memories as one of the finest JRPGs on the Nintendo Switch, even long after we’ve bid farewell to this incredible game.

1 Parasite Eve

Main Story Time: 9.5 Hours

“Parasite Eve” differed significantly from most other JRPGs available at the time, as it was set in contemporary New York City rather than the traditional high fantasy worlds. The game’s protagonist, Aya Brea, is a captivating character who manages to keep players engaged despite her stoic demeanor. What makes this even more appealing is that “Parasite Eve” is one of the shortest JRPGs ever made, with a playtime under ten hours unless you choose to explore additional post-game content.”

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), I can confidently say that this particular game stands out from the rest due to its captivating narrative and frequent body horror elements. It’s so engaging, in fact, that it feels like a rollercoaster ride that you don’t want to get off. The game is so concise yet packed with content that even the briefest of playtimes leave you feeling satisfied.

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2024-08-21 01:34