The 10 Greatest JRPGs Ever Made: A New Player Ready Crew Ranking

Ranking the greatest JRPGs of all time was bound to destroy whatever harmony existed amongst the members of the New Player Ready crew. Joe immediately started saying that Final Fantasy VII needed to be at the top of the list due to the fact that it “altered everything regarding mainstream gaming”. Samuel then presented several passionate defences of 16-bit era design philosophies and stated that sprite-based graphics and traditional gameplay mechanics were the peak of the genre. Then there was Timothy, who found out almost all of these games years after their initial releases; and he continued to present numerous observations regarding how many of these games “remain better for modern players” which drove everyone else crazy. Next, John argued that Super Mario RPG should be at the number-one spot since it provided proof that JRPGs could succeed with Western audiences whilst also not turning off anyone, although he complained that we were not discussing enough European computer RPGs within our discussion.

So heated were the arguments that we had to agree upon a set of ground rules. We would focus strictly on games that established what JRPGs could be, games that affected generations of developers, and games that continue to enthrall gamers decades after their release. We discussed such factors as innovative narrative structures, mechanical sophistication, cultural impact, and if these games still functioned well for gamers discovering them for the first time. In addition, we ignored sales figures whenever they conflicted with the quality of the game, however, commercial success was taken into consideration when discussing cultural influence.

These are the JRPGs that demonstrated that video games can create meaningful stories, produce advanced mechanical systems, and create experiences that rival those of any other form of entertainment. These games demonstrate the evolutionary process of the genre from simple fantasy adventures to complex interactive narratives that address themes of identity, mortality, and human connections. Some were pioneers technologically, whilst others improved upon existing formulas to perfection, and a few accomplished both whilst enhancing the medium as a whole.

Quick Rankings

Rank	Game Title
1	Chrono Trigger – The JRPG that perfected everything
2	Final Fantasy VI – The ensemble cast masterpiece that proved JRPGs could be serious drama
3	Final Fantasy VII – The game that brought JRPGs to mainstream Western audiences
4	Baldur’s Gate II – The Western RPG that showed what depth truly means
5	Knights of the Old Republic – The RPG that proved licensed games could be masterpieces
6	Chrono Cross – The ambitious sequel that dared to be completely different
7	Secret of Mana – The action RPG that made cooperative play work flawlessly
8	Phantasy Star IV – Sega’s ambitious response to Nintendo’s RPG domination
9	Super Mario RPG – The collaborative effort that produced the perfect introductory JRPG
10	EarthBound – The quirky, charming game that proved JRPGs can be uniquely American

1. Chrono Trigger (1995)

Metacritic Score	95/100
Development Team	Dream Team (Hironobu Sakaguchi, Yuji Horii, Akira Toriyama)
Multiple Endings	13 different endings
Cultural Impact	Continuously ranks as the number one JRPG of all time

Timothy’s fresh perspective on Chrono Trigger clearly illustrated something that the rest of us had been debating for years. Whilst Chrono Trigger is more than simply the greatest JRPG ever made, it is the prototype that all other JRPGs use to measure themselves. Chrono Trigger exemplifies the apex of what 16-bit technology could accomplish and it solidified design principles that modern developers continue to adhere to.

What Makes It Unbeatable

Time travel mechanics that affect both the story and gameplay to create a narrative in which your decisions across different time periods will have significant effects. Combat that eradicates random encounters whilst maintaining high levels of strategic depth through positioning and combination attacks. Multiple endings that give players incentive to replay the game without giving the impression that you’re padding the content. A soundtrack composed by Yasunori Mitsuda that illustrates what video game music can achieve. Development of each character that creates emotional investment in each member of your party as well as combat effectiveness. New Game Plus that allows you to experience the story from entirely new viewpoints whilst keeping all of your previously earned progress.

Does It Still Hold Up?

Yes, and in ways that surpass most modern JRPGs. The pacing is never slow, the combat is always fun and engaging, and the story does not waste time on superfluous content or overly complicated concepts. The sprite work and animations remain visually appealing, the user interface is intuitive, and the mechanical systems are sophisticated without being overwhelming. This is the model for designing a JRPG that appeals to both beginners and veterans alike.

Read Timothy’s take on why this 1995 JRPG is the pinnacle of gaming achievements →

2. Final Fantasy VI (1994)

Metacritic Score	92/100
Playable Characters	14 unique characters with individual storylines
Critical Acclaim	Recognised as one of the best games of all time by multiple outlets
Localisation	Released as Final Fantasy III in North America

Samuel fought for Final Fantasy VI more passionately than any of the other games listed here, and ultimately convinced the rest of us that this is the epitome of traditional JRPG storytelling. This is the game that proved that JRPGs can portray serious dramatic themes and maintain the same level of mechanical complexity as the genre demands. Final Fantasy VI doesn’t merely tell a great epic story; it tells fourteen connected character stories that create a cohesive, emotionally impactful experience.

What Makes It Unbeatable

An ensemble cast of characters that develop individualised mechanical abilities and character motivations to create a narrative in which no single protagonist dominates the experience. Kefka as a villain that actually manages to destroy the world halfway through the game, effectively altering the fundamental structure of the story and mechanical systems. The opera sequence that illustrates what video games can do when they incorporate theatrical storytelling. A magic system that ties character growth to the player’s meaningful choices regarding which abilities are important. The World of Ruin that transforms recognisable locations into hauntingly unfamiliar settings whilst maintaining coherent mechanical systems. Nobuo Uematsu’s soundtrack that includes some of the most recognisable themes in gaming history.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The mechanical systems are still as deep and engaging, the thematic elements of loss, redemption, and hope remain as relevant as ever, and the sprite work is the culmination of 16-bit artistic endeavours. The localisation has aged a bit, but the emotional core of the story remains unaffected by the translation issues. This is a piece of gaming history that continues to provide powerful experiences.

Read Samuel’s defence of why this JRPG made a dedicated Sega fan envious →

3. Final Fantasy VII (1997)

Sales Figures	14+ million units sold worldwide
Development Costs	$40 million (a massive amount for 1997)
Metacritic Score	92/100
Cultural Impact	Established JRPGs in mainstream Western markets

Joe’s argument for Final Fantasy VII centred around the cultural impact as opposed to mechanical innovations; and he was correct in stating that this game fundamentally altered how Western audiences viewed JRPGs. Prior to Final Fantasy VII, JRPGs were a niche genre outside of Japan. After Final Fantasy VII, every major publisher wanted their own epic fantasy adventure with compelling characters and cinematic presentation.

What Makes It Unbeatable

The moment when Aerith dies and proves that JRPGs can have actual emotional stakes in which beloved characters face lasting consequences. The Materia system that offers meaningful customisation options without overwhelming complexity, providing players the ability to experiment with various character builds whilst maintaining strategic depth. Midgar as a setting that showcases what science fantasy can do when it commits to both technological dystopia and magical elements. Cloud’s unreliable narration that creates a more complex narrative on repeat playthroughs. The Limit Break system that makes every character feel powerful and makes each battle have strategic implications. Production values that proved JRPGs could compete with any other entertainment medium for spectacle and emotional impact.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The core story and mechanical systems are still compelling, although the graphics have deteriorated significantly over time and some story elements have become outdated. Additionally, the translation, although iconic, has errors and awkward wording that modern translations handle better. Nonetheless, the emotional core of the experience transcends technical limitations and the mechanical depth ensures that battles remain engaging throughout the lengthy campaign.

Read Joe’s analysis of how this game defined PlayStation and changed gaming forever →

4. Baldur’s Gate II (2000)

Metacritic Score	95/100
Campaign Length	54+ hours of primary story
Awards	Won numerous Game of the Year Awards
Based on D&D Rules System	Based Upon Advanced D&D 2nd Edition

Joe argued that Baldur’s Gate II belonged on this list because it is a Western RPG as opposed to a traditional JRPG; and we agreed because it shows what can be accomplished mechanically and narratively by developers when there are no restrictions based upon console limitations. This is the RPG that demonstrated that computer games can create experiences that rival the best tabletop campaigns whilst providing the accessibility that video games offer.

What Makes It Unbeatable

Companion relationships that evolve based on player choices and lead to a narrative that extends far beyond simple dialogue trees. Combat that successfully translates complex tabletop mechanics into real-time action without reducing the strategic depth of the combat. Side quests that include more narrative complexity and varied mechanical opportunities than most games’ primary storylines. The stronghold system that provides players with meaningful long-term objectives beyond character development. Multiple solution paths for nearly every encounter, allowing players to utilise various character builds and play styles in equal measure. Writing that portrays players as intelligent adults able to comprehend complex moral dilemmas without clear-cut right or wrong answers.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The Enhanced Edition adds to the game’s UI and provides numerous Quality of Life upgrades that allow this to be played entirely by modern gamers. The mechanical systems remain complex, the writing remains relevant, and the tactical combat provides challenges that few modern RPGs can match. This is essential gaming for anyone seeking to understand what RPGs can accomplish when they choose to emphasise complexity as opposed to simplicity.

Read Joe’s argument for why this PC RPG set the standard for Western RPGs →

5. Knights of the Old Republic (2003)

Metacritic Score	93/100
Setting Period	4,000 years before the films
Character Count	300+ characters
Developer	BioWare (pre-Mass Effect era)

The New Player Ready crew reviewed and determined that the Knights of the Old Republic game represents the pinnacle of what can be achieved by licensed games when developers are granted the necessary creative freedom and resources. This is not merely a good Star Wars game; it is an exemplary example of a game utilising the Star Wars universe to address themes and gameplay elements that the films themselves were unable to adequately convey.

What Makes It So Unique and Unassailable

The plot twist that fundamentally alters the way the entire narrative unfolds whilst also remaining consistent upon subsequent playthroughs, demonstrating that interactive storytelling can achieve aspects of storytelling that static media cannot. The Light Side and Dark Side progression system that allows for players to make meaningful moral decisions that produce tangible mechanical consequences in addition to affecting the player’s character development. Companion characters that possess their own intricate motivations and storylines that converge with the primary narrative in meaningful ways. Real-time action combat that effectively combines real-time action with deep tactics, allowing players to pause and strategically plan without disrupting the flow of encounters. A richly detailed world that expands the Star Wars universe in manners that feel both familiar yet genuine and surprising.

Does It Still Stand the Test of Time?

Whilst the graphics have degraded and some of the user interface elements appear somewhat antiquated, the fundamental aspects of the story and characters continue to be compelling, the mechanical systems continue to provide players with strategic depth, and the exploration of Star Wars themes continues to be more nuanced and sophisticated than most of the films.

This is exactly what occurs when skilled developers are provided a revered licence and informed that they are capable of producing something meaningful instead of merely financially viable.

Read New Player Ready’s defence of how this RPG made Star Wars matter →

6. Chrono Cross (1999)

Metacritic Score	94/100
Playable Characters	45 unique party members
Game Length	41+ hours main story
Composer	Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger)

Joe argued passionately for Chrono Cross, focusing primarily on the ambitions rather than the execution of the game, stating that this is an illustration of what occurs when developers prioritise creative vision over financial viability. Chrono Cross deliberately deviates from what fans of Chrono Trigger would expect a Chrono Trigger sequel to be and instead produces something that is vastly distinct whilst continuing to draw thematic parallels with the precursor.

What Makes It Unassailable

The parallel world concept that enables players to create meaningful repercussions from their decisions whilst also exploring themes of identity and possibility that relatively few games tackle. The Element system that supplants the conventional magic systems with a colour-coded grid that necessitates strategic consideration regarding resource utilisation and timing. Forty-five playable characters each having unique attributes and perspectives, resulting in a replay value that few JRPGs can match. Yasunori Mitsuda’s soundtrack that develops upon his Chrono Trigger work whilst creating a unique sonic identity. The complex narratives that explore philosophical questions concerning destiny, free will, and the nature of reality without offering facile solutions.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The mechanical systems continue to be sophisticated and enjoyable, the music is timeless, and the themes of the narrative continue to be relevant today. Nevertheless, the complexity of the narrative can be confounding, many of the characters seem underdeveloped despite the large number of characters, and there are some areas where knowledge of Chrono Trigger is required to fully understand the plot. This is a masterpiece designed for gamers seeking JRPGs that challenge them intellectually as well as mechanically.

Read Joe’s analysis of how this RPG illustrated that sequels could be entirely dissimilar →

7. Secret of Mana (1993)

Metacritic Score	83/100
Co-op Support	Up to 3 players simultaneously
Original Name	Seiken Densetsu 2 in Japan
Legacy	2018 full remake released

Samuel argued that Secret of Mana exemplified innovation rather than perfection, showing that the developers resolved challenges that other developers continued to grapple with for decades afterwards. Secret of Mana illustrated that action RPGs could retain the depth and progression of systems found in turn-based RPGs whilst delivering the immediacy of real-time combat.

What Makes It Unassailable

The cooperative play with two additional players that allows three friends to share a complete JRPG experience together without impairing each individual player’s progression. The ring menu system that offers rapid access to items, magic, and equipment without impeding the combat experience. The multiple weapon upgrades that allow players to decide which combat styles to emphasise and therefore provide meaningful choices. The scaling magic system that encourages experimentation whilst providing tactical depth. The sprite and animation work that exhibits what could be accomplished with 16-bit hardware when the developers placed artistic vision above technical showmanship.

Does It Still Hold Up?

Cooperative play is still unique and enjoyable, the progression systems are still engaging, and the visual aesthetic is timeless. Nonetheless, the AI for computer-controlled party members is often disappointing, some of the spell-casting animations are lengthy and disrupt the flow of combat, and some boss battles require considerable grinding. This is vital for an appreciation of how action RPGs evolved, even though more recent games execute some of these mechanics with greater elegance.

Read Samuel’s case for why this action RPG showed that co-op could work in fantasy worlds →

8. Phantasy Star IV (1993)

Metacritic Score	84/100
Presentation Style	Comic panel cutscenes
Platform	Sega Genesis/Mega Drive exclusive
Series Position	Final game in original Phantasy Star saga

Samuel passionately advocated for Phantasy Star IV, emphasising that Sega’s 16-bit era is deserving of more recognition for sophisticated game design. Phantasy Star IV is Sega’s most ambitious effort to challenge Nintendo’s position in RPGs, and it does so by accomplishing things that neither Square nor Enix have ever done rather than merely duplicating their approaches.

What Makes It Unassailable

The comic book style cutscenes that create cinematic storytelling without the need for the technical means to support such storytelling that limited other 16-bit RPGs. Combination attacks that require players to consider the tactical implications of their party composition and positioning to ensure successful outcomes in every battle. The science-fantasy setting that blends technology and magic in ways that are naturalistic and not contrived. Character development that emphasises meaningful choice-making regarding skill acquisition as opposed to mere level advancement. The conclusion to a four-game-long narrative that remains accessible to new players.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The mechanical systems continue to be sophisticated and appealing, the visual style has aged well, and the themes of environmental degradation and the misuse of technology are as relevant today as they were when the game was originally published. However, the encounter frequency is excessively high, some dungeons are unnecessarily prolonged, and certain story elements are dependent on prior knowledge of the preceding games to be appreciated fully. This merits recognition as one of the most innovative JRPGs of the 16-bit era.

Read Samuel’s defence of why this was Sega’s bold response to SNES RPG domination →

9. Super Mario RPG (1996)

Metacritic Score	84/100
Collaboration	First Nintendo-Square partnership
Game Length	17 hours main story
Legacy	2023 remake for modern platforms

John argued that Super Mario RPG exemplifies accessibility, rather than complexity, and that it constitutes the ultimate entry point for players who are intimidated by the reputation of the JRPG genre for being overly convoluted and grinding-heavy. Super Mario RPG illustrates that JRPGs can preserve their intrinsic qualities whilst incorporating the polish and accessibility that Nintendo applies to every genre.

What Makes It Unassailable

Timed button presses that incorporate skill-based components to the traditional turn-based combat, creating an engaging experience for each battle rather than a passive one. Familiarity in terms of the Mario universe and its characters and settings, creating a foundation of familiarity for players new to JRPG conventions whilst preserving the traditional mechanical qualities of the genre. Yoko Shimomura’s soundtrack that seamlessly blends Mario theme music with musical conventions of JRPGs. The optimal duration that provides a complete RPG experience without becoming excessively lengthy or requiring excessive grinding. Design visually that utilises the Super Nintendo hardware to push boundaries whilst maintaining a clear and legible aesthetic that makes Mario games accessible to all ages.

Does It Still Hold Up?

The mechanical systems are still enjoyable, the humour appeals to both children and adults, and the production values feel polished rather than old-fashioned. The game is probably too simple for experienced RPG players, and some of the story elements are simplistic compared to more developed JRPGs, however, the fundamental experience is fun. This is the manner in which you introduce individuals to a genre without condescending to them.

Read John’s account of how Nintendo and Square produced the ideal beginner RPG →

10. EarthBound (1994)

Original Title	Mother 2 in Japan
Setting	Contemporary suburban America
Cultural Status	Cult classic with ardent fan base
Availability	Nintendo Switch Online service

Joe’s inclusion of EarthBound led to the most contentious discussion amongst the crew, with many of the crew members contending that EarthBound’s cult status did not warrant its inclusion in the greatest JRPGs of all time. Nevertheless, Joe argued that EarthBound served as a model for developers in illustrating the potential of the JRPG genre that few developers have since explored.

What Makes It Unassailable

Contemporary American setting that illustrates that JRPGs do not necessarily need to rely on fantasy or science fiction to create compelling worlds and characters. Humour that is absurd and surreal in addressing serious themes, creating emotional moments that feel authentic as opposed to manipulated. Enemy designs and circumstances that span from the mundane to the bizarre whilst maintaining consistency within the game’s logical structure. Psychological horror elements that evolve gradually, transforming what initially appears to be a children’s game into something much more complex. Music by Keiichi Suzuki and Hirokazu Tanaka that perfectly capture the unique tone and ambiance of the game.

Does It Still Hold Up?

Writing and character development remain exceptional, the mechanical systems function reasonably well despite some dated graphical and UI elements, and the themes of childhood, friendships, and maturation are timeless. However, the graphics are intentionally simplistic, some of the gameplay elements require substantial grinding, and some of the narrative elements rely on cultural references that may not be transferable to all players. This is a requirement for understanding what JRPGs can accomplish when they eschew genre conventions.

Read Joe’s defence of why this unusual and wonderful JRPG demonstrated that divergent could succeed →

Almost Made the Cut

We engaged in intense debates for weeks regarding games that deserved inclusion but ultimately failed to break the top ten. Terranigma fought for Samuel due to its innovative world-building and philosophical themes; however, John indicated that Terranigma’s European release history severely diminished its cultural impact. Suikoden II was close to earning a place in the top ten solely due to its political-themed storytelling and massive cast of characters; however, the team concurred that Suikoden II requires a player’s knowledge of the initial installment to be able to fully comprehend the narrative. Radiant Historia wowed the crew with its time manipulation mechanics and strategic combat; however, the team concurred that Radiant Historia was released far too late to contribute to the evolution of the JRPG genre.

Skies of Arcadia elicited passionate debates, with Joe championing its positive outlook and focus on exploration whereas others felt that Skies of Arcadia’s high encounter frequency and uneven pacing damaged the overall experience. Xenogears came extremely close to being included in the list due to its sheer ambition in combining mecha combat with philosophical themes; however, the team felt that the rushed development of the second disc prevented Xenogears from being included. Tales of Symphonia represented the Tales series admirably; however, the team felt that Symphonia refined previously existing formulas as opposed to introducing new ones.

Dragon Quest XI prompted debates regarding whether modern JRPGs should be included in the list of greatest of all time; however, Timothy believed that the polish and accessibility of Dragon Quest XI demonstrated how the JRPG genre has evolved, whereas Joe countered that Dragon Quest XI lacked the cultural significance of older entries. Persona 4 was near earning a spot in the list due to its social simulation elements and character development; however, the team ultimately felt that including Shin Megami Tensei spin-offs would necessitate a list dedicated to those games alone.

It is possible to include another 15 to 20 games on this list and diminish no quality. Each game that almost earned a spot on this list merits recognition and has ardent proponents who could argue persuasively for their inclusion. These ten represent our collective efforts to balance innovation, influence, quality, and enduring appeal, acknowledging that rational people could reorder this list in numerous ways and create strong arguments for their selections.