The best turn-based JRPG franchise, ranked

Key things

• Turn-based combat in JRPGs remains popular thanks to innovative mechanics and engaging storytelling.
• JRPG franchises like Persona and Dragon Quest have maintained their relevance over time thanks to their unique gameplay and art styles.
• Suikoden's unique combat system and large roster of characters make it the pinnacle of the genre.

JRPGs are among the most popular genres for gamers in the video game industry, often home to fantastic games and major franchises that hold classic status in the industry. Although it is a broad genre with different play styles, certain mechanics are commonly associated with it.

One of them is turn-based combat, which, although much more popular a few decades ago, still surprises players today with new and well-crafted mechanics. Thus, the best turn-based JRPG franchises excel with engaging combat and stories, providing incredible experiences that capture the attention of not only fans of the genre, but also other players.

10 Saga/The Final Fantasy Legend

A franchise that has evolved and regained its identity in the West

Originally released as The Final Fantasy Legend by Square Enix for marketing reasons Saga the series quickly gained its own identity and became one of the best turn-based JRPG franchises. Known for its innovative approach to game mechanics and non-linear stories, the series offers something different than many other games in the genre.

Recently, the series has seen the revival of remakes of some of its classic titles, such as Romantic Saga 2 and Saga Frontier. These remakes not only modernized the graphics and gameplay, but also reintroduced the franchise to a new generation of players, further cementing the game's legacy. Saga series in the turn-based JRPG genre.

9 Suikoden

An epic about heroes and amazing battles

Remembered as one of the best turn-based JRPGs, Suikoden is known for its unique combat system where players and enemies first choose their actions and then attacks based on each character's speed. In addition, each new Suikoden entry is noted for having a large list of companions that can be recruited throughout the game.

In addition, the fight in Suikoden it features three different styles that are used in different story moments, giving the game a lot of variety. The characters, while sometimes differing in the depth of their individual stories, each have unique qualities that make them valuable additions to any team.

8 Paper Mario

Carrying on the legacy of Super Mario RPG

Although Mario is widely known for platform games and various other spin-offs, Paper Mario the series took the character to explore the turn-based JRPG genre. With a unique art style that simulates cut-out paper, the franchise offers compelling stories and innovative combat systems that are different from traditional character titles.

Despite Super Mario RPG as a very enjoyable game it didn't become its own franchise. So, Paper Mario filled this void with incredible games that combine humor, well-crafted stories, and unique gameplay mechanics. The series has become a highlight among the best turn-based JRPG franchises and is attracting even more fans to the games.

7 Trails/The Legend Of Heroes

JRPG with incredible world building

The Trails series, also known as Legend of Heroesstands out as one of the best turn-based JRPG franchises thanks to its rich narrative and detailed world-building. Each game connects with the other to create a cohesive universe that rewards players with an eye for detail.

in addition Trails offers a strategic and well-designed combat system, combining unique character abilities with tactical mechanics. This blend of engaging story and refined gameplay makes the series an indispensable reference for fans of the genre.

6 Shin Megami Tensei

One of the first monster taming games ever made

Even if Pokemon is known for this dynamic, one of the first games to introduce the concept of monster taming was Shin Megami Tenseiwhich allows players to capture demons and use them in battle. In addition to being a pioneer in the genre, the franchise is still one of the best turn-based JRPGs today, delivering a variety of dark fantasy stories.

In addition, Shin Megami Tensei it also has many excellent games and a number of spin-offs that use the concepts of the franchise in different settings, the most popular of which is Persona. Combining complex mechanics and deep themes, the series offers a challenging gaming experience that also serves as a major reference in the genre.

5 Persona

One of the most beloved turn-based JRPG franchises

Despite being a spin-off Shin Megami Tenseiit didn't take long Persona evolve into something of its own and become one of the best turn-based JRPG franchises ever made. Each game usually explores different and dark themes, but always delivers excellent turn-based combat and exceptional characters.

Although she is well known among dedicated fans, she was s Person 5 that this franchise was further cemented among the best in the genre, bringing a unique art style and excellent music. In addition, the combat has undergone several small adjustments to make it more dynamic and more fun for players.

4 Mother

A trilogy that entered gaming history

Produced by HAL Laboratory, Mother is a trilogy of turn-based JRPGs exclusive to Nintendo that takes players on a remarkable journey full of uniqueness. Here, players are welcomed into an environment that moves away from traditional medieval fantasy and instead embraces a modern backdrop filled with elements of fantasy and science fiction.

Each game features a gripping storyline that explores deep and emotional themes while maintaining a wry and humorous tone, creating iconic characters and memorable moments throughout the trilogy. The legacy of Mother remains highly influential in modern releases, inspiring many other games such as Undertale.

3 Dragon Quest

Turn-Based Jrpg Franchise with art by Akira Toriyama

Dragon Quest is one of the pioneering game series in the genre, is one of the best turn-based JRPG franchises that has stayed true to its roots and offers players a classic and consistent gameplay experience. Released in the mid-1980s, another highlight of the games in this series is Akira Toriyama's unique art style.

Even so long after its release, Dragon Quest continues to be a reference in the JRPG market, delivering stories of heroism and charismatic characters. Thus, the franchise remains relevant due to its ability to evolve without losing the essence that defined it, retaining all the elements that made it so iconic.

2 Final Fantasy

The origins of Final Fantasy lie in turn-based JRPGs

Likely, Final Fantasy is one of the most famous franchises in the world, and not only within the JRPG genre. The origins of the series helped define several pillars of the genre, including epic stories, extremely interesting and well-developed characters, as well as well-crafted turn-based combat that marked a generation of gamers.

Although modern records of Final Fantasy A Square production leaning more towards action combat, the early games make the series one of the best turn-based JRPG franchises ever created, with titles revered for various elements. One of them is the job system, which has become a trademark and offers a lot of freedom in character customization.

1 Pokemon

A prime example of a turn-based JRPG franchise

Since its inception in the video game market, Pokemon maintains its status as one of the best and most important turn-based JRPG franchises, despite slightly deviating from the environments players are used to in other games of the genre. In addition, the series managed to break barriers and reach different audiences.

Another point is that although new mechanics have been added or modified with the development of new games, such as the addition of Mega Evolutions or similar features, the gameplay of the franchise remains true to the roots of the series. Thus, the series continues to be relevant in the gaming market, attracting the attention of various players and expanding more and more.