Unforgettable JRPGs from the 90s: A Nostalgic Ranking

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Summary

  • The 90s saw a rise in innovative JRPG gameplay and storytelling.
  • Classic 90s JRPGs like EarthBound and Final Fantasy 7 have lasting appeal.
  • Games like Chrono Trigger and Star Ocean combined fantasy with sci-fi elements effectively.

Many believe that the 90s represented the golden era for Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs), and it’s not difficult to understand why. During this time, there were numerous gaming consoles available, such as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Game Boy, Sega Saturn, and PlayStation 1, to mention a few of the most popular ones. It’s hard to envision a scenario without these seminal games gracing the screens of this diverse array of platforms.

The ’90s marked a significant acceleration in the fusion of innovative gameplay and compelling storylines within the gaming industry, and we’ve yet to look back since. Here are some outstanding JRPGs from the 1990s. To maintain balance and diversity, only one game per series will be featured. That being said, let’s dive into the rankings.

8. Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete

A Forward-Thinking RPG

In North America, the game titled Lunar: The Silver Star was unveiled a year after its Japanese premiere in 1992, exclusively on the Sega CD. For an RPG from the ’90s, it was remarkably progressive, featuring animated cutscenes and voice acting among the first of its kind. Later releases on the Sega Saturn and PS1, titled Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete, enhanced the experience even more by incorporating monster icons in dungeons and eliminating random battles on the world map.

Although the plot and combat may seem basic compared to modern games, they remain timeless classics that you can still appreciate today, thanks to the Lunar Remastered Collection, which not only offers the original game but also its successor, another cherished 90s classic.

7. EarthBound

Weird Doesn’t Even Begin To Describe It

EarthBound didn’t achieve the explosive success on the SNES that Nintendo might have anticipated. Nevertheless, with time, this eccentric role-playing game has garnered recognition and eventually paved the way for a subcategory of turn-based RPGs, leading to sensational titles such as Undertale.

EarthBound” holds significant value, yet it stands on its own merits as well. Its narrative and setting may be quirky, but they are captivating all the same. The combat system is enjoyable due to its peculiar adversaries, ranging from mystifying Cries to zealous Religious Zealots.

6. Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

The Franchise Levels Up

Prior to “Castlevania: Symphony of the Night”, the series primarily consisted of level-based action games. However, this sequel drew inspiration from the interconnected map system and exploratory power-ups of “Super Metroid” and incorporated Role-Playing Game (RPG) elements to take things a step further.

In a unique twist on the traditional role-playing game (JRPG), the character Alucard, Dracula’s son, enhances his abilities and collects gear by brutally defeating nightly ghouls. Although this might not be the first association with JRPGs, it doesn’t make it any less worthy of recognition – it’s one of the finest Metroidvania games ever created.

5. Star Ocean: The Second Story

Fantasy And Sci-Fi Come Together

Star Ocean: The Second Story was the initial game in the series that North American gamers had access to, serving as an engaging introduction to the franchise which originated on the SNES. The plot skillfully merged science fiction and fantasy elements, with a spaceship reminiscent of “Star Trek” experiencing a crash landing on a primitive world rich in magical resources, setting the stage for an action-packed storyline.

Rather than the traditional turn-based fights that were common in role-playing games of its era, combat was instead fast-paced and action-oriented. For an optimal experience, I’d recommend checking out the HD-2D remake, Star Ocean: The Second Story R, but all versions demonstrate just how exceptional this action RPG really is.

4. Super Mario RPG: Legend Of The Seven Stars

Geno Awakens

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but marvel at how Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars catapulted Mario from a stalwart in the platforming world to a beacon in the realm of Role-Playing Games (RPG). With groundbreaking pseudo 3D graphics that graced the SNES, this game offered an immersive experience where I could engage in some light platforming adventures while delving deeper into the expansive Mushroom Kingdom.

Mario might bring in well-known partners such as Peach, along with fan favorites like Geno, who are greatly loved online. These battles were turn-based yet active, allowing players to time their attacks and blocks using button presses – a significant advancement for the genre. Fans of the Nintendo Switch can relish the remake, titled “Super Mario RPG“, and each version offers unique value.

3. Chrono Trigger

It’s A Punny Name

Back in the day, prior to their merger, several renowned creators from both Squaresoft and Enix collaborated on a cherished dream project known as Chrono Trigger. Notably, the mastermind behind Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama, was brought on board to design the characters for this game.

The assortment of elements combined to form a role-playing game (RPG) on the SNES, known as Chrono Trigger, which is still considered a benchmark in its genre, despite not spawning a franchise. Its intricate time-travel narrative, swift gameplay sequences, innovative combo-based combat system, and more contributed to Chrono Trigger becoming a game that Square Enix has struggled to surpass. It stands as an unparalleled achievement, akin to a perfect storm or a dream team’s performance.

2. Pokemon Blue & Red

A Social RPG

The iconic games, Pokemon Blue and Pokemon Red, stand among the greatest of all time, with their sequels, Pokemon Gold and Pokemon Silver, being the only ones to surpass them. On the playground, these games were the subject of many legends as children eagerly swapped Pokemon between the two versions.

These games weren’t just dual role-playing titles; they offered an unprecedented social interaction unlike anything else. The combat systems, Pokemon classifications, and multiplayer elements progressively improved, but there’s no arguing about the joy of being a child and experiencing these games for the first time in North America on the original Game Boy.

1. Final Fantasy 7

The Identity Of Square Enix

Final Fantasy 7 consistently ranks high among Role-Playing Games (RPG), and it’s a title that Square Enix continues to be associated with, even after many years. For a long time, they chose not to engage with it, but eventually gave in and initiated the remake project. However, this isn’t the only mark that this game has left; it also spawned tie-in novels, an animated movie, a CG short, spin-off video games, and much more.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reflect on how influential Final Fantasy 7 was in shaping my love for RPGs and solidifying the PlayStation 1 as a formidable force among its rivals. The game’s groundbreaking CG cutscenes, thought-provoking narrative, unique Materia combat system, engaging mini-games, and more are what catapulted this installment into legendary status. To this very day, it stands as an undisputed benchmark for anyone embarking on their journey through the expansive universe of Final Fantasy.

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2025-04-24 03:40