The Longest JRPG Remakes, Ranked

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Key Takeaways

  • Older JRPGs can have shorter runtimes in modern remakes.
  • Remakes like Star Ocean and Final Fantasy enhance graphics.
  • New remakes enhance original character development.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades under my belt, I must say that the list you’ve presented is quite impressive! It takes dedication and a love for RPGs to complete these games, each offering its unique charm and challenge.

In the past, traditional JRPGs were known for extended playtimes due to the conventions prevalent during that era. When these games are remade for contemporary players, they tend to become more concise as modern features are integrated. Nevertheless, the following titles offer substantial gameplay value.

The remake demonstrates that the core narrative and gameplay mechanics of the original JRPGs retain significant importance and worth, despite the common practice in older games of requiring players to grind. In certain instances, the remake takes a distinct path and essentially offers a completely new gaming experience with an entirely revamped structure.

All times are taken from howlongtobeat.com

10. Star Ocean: The Second Story R

26 Hours

As a fan, I find that the HD 2D aesthetic used in many JRPG remakes is simply brilliant. It pays homage to the classic sprite-based art style, yet manages to modernize it by incorporating updated graphics. This balance can be seen perfectly in Star Ocean: The Second Story R, a game that still carries the nostalgic charm of 90s JRPGs but has a contemporary appeal due to its clever blend of old and new visual elements.

The adjustments made to gameplay are subtler, aiming to update the game instead of transforming it completely. However, those who loved the original game can find plenty to appreciate as they revisit it, thanks to its revamped 3D settings and stunning visual effects from the improved lighting.

9. Final Fantasy 3

30 Hours

It was quite special to get a remake of Final Fantasy 3 for the Nintendo 3DS, but it’s ironic to label this game as a “remake” since it was actually the first time North American gamers could experience this specific adventure. In certain aspects, the 3D graphics seem to make the game appear older than the original sprites did.

Despite any reservations, this revamp gains an edge by infusing the primary characters with distinct personalities and histories. A few character-defining elements can significantly foster a bond between these characters and the player.

8. Dragon Quest 3 HD

30 Hours

One might ponder why Dragon Quest 3 was remade prior to the initial two games in the sequence. In Japan, the game became an absolute sensation and played a significant role in elevating the series to its legendary standing today. Given that it is chronologically the first in the timeline, there’s some sense in introducing it first.

The HD 2D visual upgrade is commendable, yet “Dragon Quest 3” remains an RPG that reflects its era. Players should not expect a groundbreaking experience or be amazed at how such a game could have been developed so far in the past. Nevertheless, it offers a terrific JRPG adventure for enthusiasts of the genre.

7. Final Fantasy 4

31 Hours

Back in the day, I remember when Final Fantasy 4 was known as Final Fantasy 2 in the Western world. But with the arrival of the remake, the debate over its numbering was finally put to rest. The stunning 3D graphics this version boasts really make it shine among all the other re-releases and remakes of Final Fantasy 4.

This version of the game doesn’t have as much content as some others, but its graphics are captivating enough that it offers a fresh perspective on the story, even for players who are very familiar with it.

Playing Final Fantasy 4: The Complete Edition on the PSP is generally considered a superior choice due to its comprehensive gameplay experience, boasting additional features compared to other versions.

6. Final Fantasy 7 Remake

32 1/2 Hours

The remake version of Final Fantasy 7 is significantly larger in comparison to the original, as it only encompasses approximately the first third of the game and expands that section into a game lasting around thirty hours or more. This means that the remake could be anywhere from three and a half to six times bigger than the original content.

Despite its brief duration within the game, it seldom seems as if there’s unnecessary padding. This segment allows the characters to be fleshed out more thoroughly due to the extended time spent on this section of the narrative.

5. Wild Arms Alter Code F

43 Hours

  • Release: November, 2003
  • Developer: Media.Vision
  • Publisher: Sony
  • Platforms: PS2

The “Final Fantasy 7 Remake” isn’t the initial JRPG remake to extend its narrative. Previously, “Wild Arms Alter Code F” underwent a remake, which was based on the first game from the series. This revised edition significantly lengthened the main game by approximately fifteen hours. In this revamped version of the adventure, you’ll find more cutscenes and optional quests to explore.

This point isn’t always an advantage because “Wild Arms” already boasts a well-structured narrative that seldom dwells excessively before moving onto the next phase of the journey. For those who are already invested in the world, however, the extended stay and enhanced visual detail become appealing benefits.

4. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

47 1/2 Hours

In the sequel of this reimagined tale, it didn’t merely continue the traditional adventure. Instead, it expanded the playability, settings, and enriched the enigma central to the reboot series.

Despite being around fifteen hours longer to complete than Final Fantasy 7 Remake, the additional content makes Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth one of the most expansive JRPGs in recent times. It can also become quite challenging as players progress into hard mode difficulty and encounter tougher battles within the Shinra Combat Simulator.

3. Tactics Ogre: Reborn

54 Hours 1/2

Among all the games listed, Tactics Ogre: Reborn appears to be a straightforward remaster at first glance. Yet, it houses numerous changes beneath its surface that justify its inclusion on this list. The gameplay progression, skills, and battles have been significantly altered, providing an experience distinct from the original versions or even the PSP remaster.

For enthusiasts of this title, the intense narrative and challenging skirmishes remain intact. This journey is lengthy if you conquer each battle immediately. However, it becomes significantly more extended when defeat occurs, requiring careful planning for a comeback.

2. Persona 3 Reload

64 Hours

Re-creating a game as vast as “Persona 3” is no simple task. It’s not just about enhancing the graphics; “Persona 3 Reload” incorporates many advancements the series experienced in the subsequent two main games, breathing new life into this classic PS2 title. Additionally, some scenes have been altered and the dialogue has been updated.

Regrettably, this edition doesn’t include the feature to play as a female character, which was present in the PSP version. Despite that, it offers an excellent opportunity to experience this timeless JRPG.

1. Dragon Quest 7: Fragments Of The Forgotten Past

74 Hours

Remarkably compact items can house immense content, and this is strikingly demonstrated by the game “Dragon Quest 7: Fragments Of The Forgotten Past“. This Nintendo 3DS remake of the original PS1 JRPG requires a whopping 74 hours to complete, leaving even the latest iterations of the Like a Dragon series feeling somewhat modest by comparison.

The game Dragon Quest 7 is consistently strong throughout, but it demands a good deal of perseverance for its adventure. Fortunately, players can carry this game with them conveniently on the Nintendo 3DS. This latest remake, enhanced with modern graphics, also features a new translation that alters many names and phrases compared to the original PlayStation 1 release.

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2024-12-10 02:35