The Best JRPGs To Play As A Paladin-Style Character

Summary

RPG Paladins embody noble heroes with magic abilities like healing and defense.
Bravely Default’s Templar class focuses on boosting stats and protecting allies in battle.
In Dragon Quest 9, the Paladin class combines healing, defense, and sacrificial abilities for allies.

As a seasoned RPG enthusiast with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that this list of iconic Paladin characters has brought back a flood of nostalgia and delight. From Cecil’s redemption arc in Final Fantasy 4 to the defensive prowess of Metaphor: ReFantazio’s Paladin, each character embodies the essence of chivalry, courage, and unwavering loyalty that I always admired in these noble warriors.

In role-playing games (RPGs), you’ll find paladins in various shapes across both Eastern and Western productions. Despite their diverse appearances, they generally uphold similar principles. These characters are often knights, endowed with magical abilities that serve unique purposes, such as healing comrades or repelling the undead.

In many tales, including Japanese RPGs, these characters often embody noble heroes who unwaveringly uphold light and law. Occasionally, stories present figures who transition from darkness to light as a striking illustration. Since there are numerous Paladins across various games, let’s explore this class and determine which JRPGs gain the most advantage when players assume this role.

7. Bravely Default (Templar)

Learning Light Magic And Building Defenses

The Best JRPGs To Play As A Paladin-Style Character

In essence, “Bravely Default” follows as a spiritual heir to “Final Fantasy“, offering a throwback to the classic era of Jobs and crystals. As you progress, you can evolve into a Templar, reminiscent of a Paladin in terms of style. Throughout gameplay, players have the ability to equip numerous skills that enhance critical attacks and defense. Moreover, they can fortify their allies’ defenses during battles using abilities such as Rampart, which creates a protective shield around all party members. However, unlike healers, Templars do not possess healing abilities; instead, they can cast Light-based spells upon enemies.

6. Dragon’s Crown (Fighter)

A Stalwart Wall Of Attack And Defense

In simpler terms, “Dragon’s Crown” is a 2D action role-playing game developed by Vanillaware with significant influence from the themes and character classes of “Dungeons & Dragons“. Unlike most fighters in other games, characters in “Dragon’s Crown” resemble Paladins as they have a stronger emphasis on combat.

The Fighter’s imposing size makes it a natural shield, dominating a significant area of the battlefield. Its cover-providing skill, Distraction, draws enemy attacks towards the Fighter instead of other allies. Additionally, the Fighter has an extreme protection skill called Sacrifice, where it absorbs damage on behalf of all its allies, a more intense version of Distraction.

5. Dragon Quest 9: Sentinels Of The Starry Sky (Paladin)

A Combo Between A Priest And Martial Artist

In Dragon Quest 9: Sentinels of the Starry Sky, players will find an extensive variety of Vocations to experiment with, making it possibly the largest class system within the Dragon Quest series. To unlock some of the more exciting classes, players must invest time into others first. For instance, the Paladin can be accessed by advancing a character in both the Priest and Martial Artist vocations. These Paladins are known for their versatility in weaponry, although they have a penchant for spears. They possess healing abilities through a spell called Heal and can boost their allies’ defense using Buff. Their most powerful sacrifice spell is Kerplunk, which restores the life force of the caster to revive and heal three other combatants in battle.

4. Fantasy Life (Paladin)

A Lighthearted Take On The Job

Fantasy Life is a compact role-playing game (RPG) for Nintendo 3DS, developed by Level-5. This title has garnered significant popularity similar to that of Atlus or Square Enix games. Players embark on an action RPG adventure, starting with conventional classes such as mages and knights, and also more unusual ones like tailors. The Paladin class is specifically designed for RPG enthusiasts who seek a gaming experience akin to a Dungeons & Dragons campaign. They can acquire swords, armor, utilize some abilities, and progress through the story smoothly with minimal need for excessive grinding.

In a cooperative mode, Paladin characters can assist their teammates who may not focus on action as much, by shielding them during battles, just as a genuine Paladin would protect others.

3. Final Fantasy 4 (Paladin/Cecil)

An Iconic Rise From The Ashes

In the game “Final Fantasy 4“, Cecil serves as the central figure who undergoes significant trials. Initially, he is a Dark Knight, blindly following his kingdom’s orders without question. However, as the story unfolds, he grows aware of the rot within his own realm and discards his dark inclinations. This transformation culminates in an emotionally charged scene where he transitions into a Paladin, marking one of the most impactful moments in the game.

The narrative unfolds as a timeless tale of decline followed by a path towards redemption. He stands tall and strong, a beacon of virtue, unwavering in his resolve to rectify the errors of his past and his realm. Not only is Cecil proficient with his sword, but he’s also blessed with healing and sacred spells, allowing him to shield his comrades when they teeter on the brink of death.

2. Fire Emblem Engage (Paladin)

Horses To The Rescue

In the Fire Emblem series, Paladins appear in diverse forms. Let’s delve into their representation in the most recent game, Fire Emblem Engage. In this game, units can transform into different classes using various Seals, such as the Cavalry Seal. The weapon proficiency for the transformed Paladin depends on the type of Cavalier used, ranging from sword masters to axe bearers.

In the game, Paladins are known for their swift movement due to their mounts, allowing them to quickly reach allies for a timely rescue. Additionally, they boast strong defenses, making them capable of protecting an ally when stationed beside them in combat.

1. Metaphor: ReFantazio (Paladin)

A Defensive Knight With A High Counter

In simpler terms, “ReFantazio” is the newest Role-Playing Game (RPG) from the same group that creates “Persona” under Atlus. Each character in the game can transform into roles called Archetypes, which are initially associated with a specific character. For instance, Hulkenberg starts as a Knight and has the potential to evolve into a Magic Knight, Paladin, Dark Knight, or Royal Knight.

As a devoted admirer, I’d say each version of this Archetype, especially the valiant Paladin, is meticulously crafted around robust defense, safeguarding comrades, and retaliating with devastating force. They even acquire some healing spells and nurturing abilities to fully embody their role as a vigilant guardian.

2024-12-13 02:35