JRPGs with the Best Action Combat

Key Takeaways

Final Fantasy’s first Action JRPG entry, Mana, started with a Zelda-like combat style.
Ni No Kuni successfully blended real-time and turn-based gameplay elements for an excellent experience.
Kingdom Hearts combines Disney and Square Enix properties, impressing with new combat features.

As a seasoned gamer who’s traversed countless virtual realms and battled hordes of digital foes, I must say that the Action JRPG genre has been a constant source of joy and adventure for me. Over the years, I’ve found myself drawn to games that offer unique combat systems, immersive stories, and a dash of whimsy – much like the titles I’m about to share with you.

In the realm of Action Role-Playing Games (ARPGs), you’ll find numerous established series worth delving into, along with some fresh, contemporary choices. Some games initially began as traditional role-playing games and later incorporated action elements. A key feature of JRPGs is having a group of characters to control, which explains why certain Action RPGs that gamers appreciate aren’t listed here because they focus on controlling just one character.

Each franchise is examined comprehensively, taking into account its fan base size, overall ratings across various installments, and how it has progressed over time. Regrettably, there are some exceptional Action RPGs in the JRPG genre that only have one game to their name, like Rogue Galaxy.

8 Mana

Final Fantasy’s First Action JRPG

First Release: Final Fantasy Adventure (June 28, 1991)
Latest Release: Visions of Mana (August 29, 2024)
Developers: Square, Square Enix
Platforms: Game Boy, Super NES, PlayStation, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, Android, iOS, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S

Initially titled “Final Fantasy Adventure” in the US, the first Mana game introduced a unique combat system that resembled “The Legend of Zelda”. Unlike later installments, this initial game only allowed players to control a single character. Over time and throughout the franchise’s development, it evolved into the Mana series, eventually featuring multiple characters with distinct roles.

This series provides ample side activities for players, ensuring they’re not just following the main storylines. For those seeking a series to immerse themselves in, there are more than a dozen games available that could win their affection for this franchise. However, despite its merits, it may not match up to some other entries within the same series.

7 Ni No Kuni

Blended Real-Time and Turn-Based

First Release: Ni no Kuni: Dominion of the Dark Djinn (December 9, 2010)
Latest Release: Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds (June 10, 2021)
Developers: Square, Square Enix
Platforms: Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Android, iOs

As a devoted fan of turn-based games, I’ve often felt that real-time gameplay diminishes the strategic aspect because it requires swift thinking and reactions instead of well-considered decisions based on complete information. Conversely, real-time enthusiasts might argue that turn-based gaming lacks the immersive engagement and fun factor compared to real-time. However, Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch masterfully combines these two styles into a breathtaking experience, evoking the captivating atmosphere of a Studio Ghibli anime film.

In “Ni No Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom,” the turn-based combat was abandoned for a more action-oriented gameplay style, yet it continues to deliver an engaging narrative. If you’ve never dabbled in either of these Action JRPGs, I highly recommend giving them a try. They remain impressive across all categories even today. Additionally, there are other non-Action RPG games within this franchise as well.

6 Final Fantasy 7 Remake

Remade for a New Generation of Gamers

First Release: Final Fantasy 7 Remake (April 10, 2020)
Latest Release: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth (February 29, 2024)
Developers: Square Enix
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC

Many fans grew up playing Final Fantasy as a series that followed a turn-based approach. Over time, though, the franchise has veered away from this model to adopt quicker, real-time combat systems. Final Fantasy 15 was one of the titles that marked a shift towards an Action RPG style, and this trend continued in all games within the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series.

These games enriched numerous storyline aspects and offered a more cinematic portrayal of the initial game using cutting-edge gaming tech. When things become challenging for players, they can delve into exploration and level up by grinding, all while enjoying non-combative sections that prepare them to confront tougher adversaries later on.

5 Star Ocean

A Space Age Fantasy Epic

First Release: Star Ocean (July 19, 1996)
Latest Release: Star Ocean: The Divine Force (October 27, 2022)
Developers: tri-Ace
Platforms: Super Famicom, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Game Boy Color, PSP, PS Vita, PC, iOS, Android

In the 80s, games such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest initially offered turn-based gameplay. However, Star Ocean, which debuted in 1996, introduced a more interactive and action-focused combat style. This trend has persisted and evolved over time into a popular and long-lasting series.

More modern video games feature extensive battles on a grander scale, where players may even soar through the skies and violently re-enter combat alongside their comrades. While both the games “Star Ocean” and “Xenoblade Chronicles” share a comparable concept, they implement it in unique manners entirely.

4 Tales

Stylish Anime Action RPG Visuals

First Release: Tales of Phantasia (December 15, 1995)
Latest Release: Tales of Arise (September 10, 2021)
Developers: Bandai Namco Studios
Platforms: Android, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy Color, GameCube, iOS, Windows, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita, Super Famicom, Web Browser, Wii, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

It’s absolutely fascinating to observe how various Action RPGs from the past, initially launched on classic gaming consoles, evolved their distinct styles and offered unique gameplay experiences. For instance, the original Tales game incorporated side-scrolling for a strategic approach towards enemies during combat, while maintaining all the conventional JRPG elements – even stats were displayed beneath each encounter. The games also boast of a vibrant and lively visual design.

As a gamer, I’ve noticed that the games are gradually transforming into immersive 3D battlegrounds, with a significant focus on self-defense against incoming attacks. Over time, these games have even incorporated grandiose, cinematic-style attacks. Modern Tales games, often referred to as Tales of, maintain their distinctive battle scenes that are activated by approaching enemies. However, unlike some Action JRPGs, battles in the overworld of these games aren’t self-triggered; you have to engage the enemies first.

3 Ys

A Gem That Needs More Attention

First Release: Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished (June 21, 1987)
Latest Release: Ys X: Nordics (September 28, 2023)
Developers: Nihon Falcom
Platforms: NEC PC-8801, Sharp X1, MSX2, FM-7, NEC PC-9801, Sharp X68000, Master System, Sega Genesis, Sega Saturn, NES, Super NES, Nintendo DS, Windows, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, TurboGrafx-CD, Apple IIGS, mobile phones, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Google Stadia, PlayStation 5

The Ys series, initially a single character game without a party, is another example of an Action RPG. Over time, the game has undergone various aesthetic transformations, shifting from top-down views to side-scrolling perspectives. However, it has now adopted a more conventional style for an Action JRPG, featuring party members as well.

For those seeking an Action JRPG series for a marathon playthrough, “Ys 9: Monstrum Nox” and “Ys 10: Nordics” might not be the first choices to start with. However, these games are undeniably top-tier in the genre, making them must-haves for any fan who hasn’t yet discovered this franchise, even if they aren’t initially familiar with it.

2 Kingdom Hearts

If Disney Were an Anime

First Release: Kingdom Hearts (March 28, 2002)
Latest Release: Star Ocean: Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory (November 11, 2020)
Developers: Square, Square Enix, Jupiterh, h. a.n.d, BitGroove Inc, Success, indieszero
Platforms: PlayStation 2, Game Boy Advance, Mobile phone, Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation 3, Web browser, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Windows, Nintendo Switch.

Kingdom Hearts initially appeared on the PlayStation 2 and has been released on numerous platforms since then. Most of these games are now available in remastered editions. This game blends elements from Square Enix series with popular characters from Disney and Pixar.

Kingdom Hearts, much like Final Fantasy, boasts a dedicated fanbase. However, it stands out by firmly establishing itself within the Action RPG genre instead of adhering strictly to traditional rules. The series possesses a unique combat style, and each installment endeavors to innovate, driving the franchise forward while maintaining a rich narrative steeped in intricate lore.

1 Xenoblade Chronicles

The Sci-Fi Experience AJRPG Fans Need

First Release: Xenoblade Chronicles (June 10, 2010)
Latest Release: Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition (March 20, 2025)
Developers: Monolith Soft
Platforms: Wii, New Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, Nintendo Switch

The Xenoblade Chronicles series consistently delivers unique and captivating gameplay, thanks to a variety of its distinctive elements. While maintaining the classic JRPG ambiance, it infuses elements of science fiction and mecha, resulting in an expansive fantasy world that’s also futuristic. Players can anticipate encounters with colossal creatures, epic space combat sequences, and soaring through the skies in mechanized suits, all seamlessly incorporated into their gaming journey.

In the 2020s, both the initial version of the game and Xenoblade Chronicles X underwent upgrades, allowing players to enjoy nearly all games with high-quality visuals alongside an enjoyable gaming experience.

2024-11-07 12:34