RPG Franchises That Have Changed The Most

Key Takeaways

Monster Hunter has evolved drastically since 2004, focusing on smoother gameplay and item usage.
Fallout transitioned from tactical to FPS gameplay, adding settlement building for an immersive experience.
Tales Of, Dragon Quest, Final Fantasy, and Pokemon have remained faithful to their core essence while evolving the gameplay.

As a longtime fan of these iconic franchises, I can wholeheartedly attest to the transformative journeys they’ve undertaken over the years. Final Fantasy, for instance, has evolved from a naif-like fantasy world to a more mature, darker realm that mirrors the growth of its audience. It’s like watching a child grow into an adult, with each iteration reflecting a different stage of life.

Certain Role-Playing Game (RPG) series could serve as fascinating chronicles of the evolving years, undergoing numerous transformations over the past few decades – not just in game development methods, but also in narrative structure.

These games range from a title that prevented a company’s collapse to an age-old favorite that evolved from 8-bit graphics to a sprawling open-world game with a dramatically transformed appearance. These popular franchises have stood the test of time, yet they have also experienced significant transformations throughout their history.

6 Monster Hunter

Its Core Essence Remains The Same, But Its Mechanics Are Constantly Evolving

First game released: Monster Hunter – March 11, 2004
Main Developer: CAPCOM
Genres: Action, Adventure, RPG, Exploration

Monster Hunter has grown significantly more than most other franchises (with Pokemon being one of the exceptions), starting humbly on the PlayStation 2 in 2004. After its worldwide release at the end of 2004/beginning of 2005, it set new standards. In those days, most games were physical, and customers had to patiently wait for their turn to buy a copy. Fast forward twenty years, and the Monster Hunter series has undergone substantial changes while maintaining its core identity. From its original version to the latest editions of the franchise, there have been numerous transformations.

As a gamer, I’ve noticed a significant shift in gameplay mechanics, particularly focusing on character mobility. Games now run more smoothly, which is a huge plus! For instance, in Monster Hunter World, the revamp of the weapon sharpening and item usage system has been a game-changer. Previously, these actions were lengthy and would often leave characters stationary, like sitting ducks drinking potions. However, this has been replaced with a more efficient sequence that seems permanent.

In more modern terms, Capcom’s leading product is now Monster Hunter, surpassing series like Resident Evil, Mega Man, and Street Fighter in terms of innovation. Notably, Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise have been battling for the top spot within the franchise for several years, garnering widespread acclaim. The upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds promises to build its own legend with an enhanced combo system and stunning visuals.

5 Fallout

A Western RPG Franchise That Has Gone Through A Lot

First game released: Fallout – October 10, 1997
Main Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Dystopian, RPG, Shooter

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been along for the thrilling journey that is Bethesda’s iconic Fallout series, from its debut in 1997 with the first game to the latest live service offering, Fallout 76. Initially, these games were strategic, isometric RPGs, but as time moved forward, they shifted entirely towards a first-person perspective. Don’t get me wrong; there’s still an option for third-person view, but the true essence of the game lies in its blend of RPG and FPS elements, with hints of looter shooter gameplay.

In Fallout 4, a feature was unveiled that further fueled fans’ affection for the series: Settlement Building. This innovative mechanic significantly transformed the game, increasing immersion within the post-apocalyptic landscape. Scavenging and collecting scrap for recycling now holds greater significance than before, making it not only practical but enjoyable. Since its initial release, the Fallout franchise has undergone extensive changes, most of which have been positive improvements.

4 Tales Of

Essentially The Same, But Intrinsically Different In Each Iteration

First game released: Tales of Phantasia – December 15, 1995
Main Developer: Wolf Team/Namco Tales Studio/Bandai Namco
Genres: Action, Adventure, RPG, High-Fantasy, Drama

The “Tales Of” series is a legendary and expansive role-playing game franchise, boasting more than forty-three games (including seventeen main titles and twenty-six spin-offs or remakes). Debuting in 1995, this series has undergone significant transformations and played a crucial part in three major gaming evolution phases. Originally an isometric exploration game with turn-based combat, it has evolved into a full-blown open-world RPG that still retains its turn-based system. Over the years, the series has significantly altered its narrative, visuals, technology, and storytelling techniques.

Initially, the early Tales games were steeped in traditional fantasy narratives, featuring heroes on a journey to save the world from an impending doom. However, as the series progressed, there have been substantial shifts in how the characters and their stories are portrayed, catering more towards an audience reminiscent of anime fans. This is reflected not only in the narrative but also in the game’s aesthetic and world-building. The developers’ decision to align with this demographic has also made it easier for them to produce anime promotions. Despite these changes, Tales has consistently adhered to its fundamental aspect: turn-based combat, which is highly valued by fans.

3 Dragon Quest

Remains Faithful To Its Core Essence, But Has Developed Quite Well

First game released: Dragon Quest – May 27, 1986
Main Developers: Chunsoft/ Heartbeat/Square Enix
Genres: Adventure, RPG, High-Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery

Over time, Dragon Quest franchise continues to improve and shine, thanks to its distinctive art style and a blend of classic fantasy narrative with the finest elements of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs). Although it has transformed significantly since its debut in ’86 for NES systems, Dragon Quest has stayed true to its roots and amassed a large fanbase over nearly four decades.

Over the course of its series, Dragon Quest has undergone numerous transformations in its world-building and storytelling. The worlds now possess a greater depth and significance, while the characters have more robust backstories and distinct personalities, even as the “silent protagonist” motif remains a constant feature. Despite these changes, the gameplay has seen significant shifts, from traditional turn-based combat to incorporating dynamic camera movement. However, the core philosophy of the hero’s journey and the unique art style of Toriyama continue to define Dragon Quest, ensuring its lasting appeal.

2 Final Fantasy

Changed With The Audiences And Grew With Them

First game released: Final Fantasy – February 18, 1987
Main Developer: Squaresoft/Square Enix
Genres: Adventure, RPG, High Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery

In any conversation about franchises undergoing significant transformations, it’s hard to overlook Final Fantasy. This series has evolved dramatically, from its initial isometric perspective to open-world exploration using a third-person camera, and from traditional turn-based combat to dynamic combat systems in subsequent releases. There have been numerous alterations, but what stands out the most is the significant shifts in vision, message, storytelling, item system, class system, and core identity of the franchise.

As a long-time gamer, I’ve journeyed through the magical realms of Final Fantasy, from the innocent and straightforward fantasy style of Final Fantasy 1 to 6, where unity was the powerful message woven into the classic hero’s journey narrative. Then came the darker, more mature stages in Final Fantasy 7 to 10, where villains became intricate parts of the plot, posing real threats that were no longer just ominous prophecies.

1 Pokemon

From 150 To 1025, A Lot Of Changes Needed To Happen

First game released: Pocket Monsters Red and Green – February 27, 1996
Main Developer: Game Freak
Genres: Adventure, RPG, Monster Collector

Speaking about transformation, Pokémon has gone through an incredible amount. It started modestly as an 8-bit game and evolved into a full 3D open-world adventure in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The quest to become the best trainer and catch them all wasn’t always as captivating as it is today. Some believe that Pokémon reached its artistic and design pinnacle during the 5th Generation (Black & White), but numerous significant updates have been made since then, enhancing the trainer’s journey across various regions in the Pokémon universe into a comprehensive experience.

Primarily, the traditional HM system, which required players to carry a Pokemon like Zigzagoon or Bidoof as if they were tools, has been eliminated, marking one of the most significant changes. Fans have also noticed the evolution of breeding, which abandoned its daycare-based payment model for a more interactive gimmick, culminating in the 9th-gen games with the Picnic mechanic. The combat, while still turn-based, has undergone a visual upgrade. Although it discarded the 2D art style three generations ago, the animations now look sleek and polished. However, bugs and other issues have sparked concerns about the quality of future versions among the community. A glimpse at Pokemon Legends: Arceus demonstrates the immense potential that awaits, just waiting for GameFreak to bring it to light. Fans will have to wait and see how Pokemon Legends: Z-A alters the game once more.

2024-09-03 04:34