Key Takeaways
- Recent JRPGs like
Scarlet Nexus
offer unique dual-protagonist gameplay experiences. -
World of Final Fantasy
utilizes monster stacking for gameplay variety and fun JRPG elements. -
Ys X: Nordics
showcases the best use of a 2-character combat system in an action-based JRPG.
As a seasoned gamer with over three decades under my belt, I must say that these games truly take me back to my roots. Each one offers a unique blend of action, adventure, and strategy that caters to different playstyles.
Lately, there’s been an impressive wave of fantastic Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), ranging from “Metaphor: ReFantazio” to “Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth”. This genre is experiencing a renaissance in popularity. Major developers such as Atlus and Square, along with independent studios, have been experimenting with innovative approaches to turn-based combat, while also introducing many action JRPGs that gamers have recently enjoyed.
JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games) are typically known for having groups, often consisting of four characters, which is often considered a standard within the genre. However, there are numerous games that deviate from this norm, either focusing on a solo protagonist or varying the size of the party.
In most Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), you’ll often encounter more than two playable characters, some even featuring supporting party members. However, these specific games have opted for a unique approach, focusing solely on two playable characters, either allowing you to control both simultaneously or switching between them. Here are the top JRPGs that only offer two playable characters to control.
8 Scarlet Nexus
Telekinetic Duo
In Scarlet Nexus, you embark on a captivating journey through a role-playing game (RPG) world with two main characters: Yuito Sumeragi or Kasane Randall. As the story unfolds, you’ll follow each character’s unique perspective. Alongside these protagonists, other characters join in to aid in battles, but control of your chosen hero remains during combat.
In this game, the main characters possess psychic abilities that let them move objects telekinetically, including hurling things with their minds. As a result, the action-RPG battles offer an engaging mix of close-quarters and long-range attacks due to these unique powers.
7 World Of Final Fantasy
Monster Stacking Friends
Many people may have disregarded “World of Final Fantasy” because of its unique art style or combat system. However, it’s a charming and entertaining JRPG that relies heavily on references to the “Final Fantasy” series to provide humorous spins on familiar characters and settings.
As a gamer, I find myself immersed in an exciting journey where I control the duo, Lann and Reynn. Their escapades unfold in a combat system reminiscent of classic PS1-era Final Fantasy games, but with a twist – an Active Time Battle (ATB) system that keeps things fresh yet familiar. The intriguing aspect lies in the collecting of creatures known as mirages. These mystical beings can be stacked onto my characters, granting them impressive stats and abilities during battle, adding a whole new layer to gameplay strategy.
Engaging in this activity results in enjoyable exploration and tinkering with various mirage mixes. Although the “Chibi” artistic design may not appeal to all, it’s undeniably a game that long-term Final Fantasy enthusiasts should consider playing.
6 Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga
Brothers In Arms
The game titled “Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga” initially came out on the Game Boy Advance back in 2003. This game expands upon the concepts introduced in the Super Mario RPG series, allowing players to control both Mario and Luigi concurrently across the overworld and during turn-based combat.
In my opinion, this game preserves the imaginative flair of the Mario RPG series by offering the brothers an array of talents that are useful both in the open world and during combat. What makes it even more exciting is the addition of action elements such as timed evasive maneuvers amidst turn-based battles. Essentially, it’s a thrilling Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) with two memorable main characters that I find truly captivating.
5 Final Fantasy 13-2
Time Jumping Teens
As a devoted fan, I’d like to share my thoughts about a somewhat lesser-known gem in the Final Fantasy series – Final Fantasy 13-2. While it may not be as popular as some others, it offers an intriguing evolution of the battle system from Final Fantasy 13. For those who found delight in the hybrid Active Time Battle (ATB) system of that game, they’ll find plenty to appreciate here.
The storyline revolves around Serah, Lightning’s younger sister, and her ally Noel, who are on a quest to find their missing elder sister. In combat situations, players have control over both characters, as well as a group of three creatures reminiscent of Final Fantasy 13. As the game progresses, players can gather additional creatures to contribute to the party composition.
In the thrilling world of this game, I, as a fan, have found that monsters are tailored to my personal playstyle outside of combat, and artificially intelligent beings take control during battles. Yet, the power is mine to switch between commanding Noel and Serah. Remarkably similar to Final Fantasy 13’s battle system, this game introduces an engaging twist: monster collecting!
4 Yakuza 0
Leading Separate Lives
As a gamer, diving into Yakuza 0, I found that while it maintains the brawler-style combat reminiscent of past Yakuza titles, it doesn’t shy away from embracing elements typically associated with Japanese Role Playing Games (JRPGs). The game is heavily focused on character progression and wealth accumulation, which are central aspects of my experience. In this adventure, I take on the roles of both familiar face Kiryu and recurring character Goro Majima throughout the game’s various chapters.
In the ’80s, before the main storyline of the Yakuza series, the game Yakuza 0 is centered around a conflict between rival yakuza factions over a piece of land in Kamurocho called the Empty Lot. Essentially, the characters are striving to accumulate wealth and power to combat the immense forces they’re up against.
For the player, this game offers a typical mix of fighting off street thugs and managing businesses through various mini-games, which is quite common in the pre-“Like A Dragon Yakuza” series. Despite not being your typical Japanese Role Playing Game (JRPG), it stands out as one of the more robust entries in the series.
3 Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
Dreaming Duo
The video game “Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance” for the Nintendo 3DS serves as a connecting piece between “Kingdom Hearts ReCoded/2” and “Kingdom Hearts 3”. It does this by aligning with both story and gameplay aspects. Many of the events take place at the same time as the initial two games, thanks to plot-driven time travel, thus filling in some blanks while also introducing fresh components.
In this game, players get to command both Riku and Sora. They can alternate between them using the Drop Gauge mechanism, which functions like a timer. When the gauge runs out, the control switches to the other character automatically. However, players also have the option to switch manually. Additionally, there’s a system where players can boost their next switch with Drop Points, adding an extra layer of strategy and complexity.
In addition to the Command Deck system carried over from past games, this title also utilizes out-of-combat features unique to the 3DS hardware. A revamped version of the game, titled Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD, was unveiled alongside the compilation Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue.
2 Mario & Luigi: Brothership
The Return Of The Bros
In contrast to several Mario & Luigi RPG installments that feature a variety of characters, this one emphasizes the bond between the two brothers, much like the original game. Once again, the unique blend of turn-based and action gameplay is present, with the brothers now capable of aiding each other in combat.
This latest installment in the series offers a fresh take while incorporating familiar elements from various Mario games. The game primarily centers around discovering hidden parts of Isle of Shipshape, emphasizing Luigi’s ability to devise methods for reaching previously unreachable areas.
1 Ys 10: Nordics
Dual Protagonist Energy
In the tenth installment of the Ys series, titled Ys X: Nordics , you’ll notice a change as it’s the first game where only two characters can be played. Previous games in the series had either a single character or a larger group to control. The combat system in this game is designed for action and involves using both characters together to perform combos and simultaneous attacks.
Players have the ability to command two characters: Adol Christin, a recurring hero from the Ys series, and Karja Balta, the pirate warrior. In combat, players can toggle between Solo Play, in which one character is managed by AI while the player switches on the go for combo sequences, and Dual Play, where enemies can be countered with potent synchronized attacks.
The narrative unfolds after the occurrences in Ys 2, yet it is self-contained enough that fresh players can easily immerse themselves. It’s an outstanding action Role-Playing Game and arguably the most effective implementation of a two-character battle system within a JRPG.
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2024-11-20 06:35