JP 3DS | Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker 3 | 2016 | More monsters to scout, synthesize, and ride around the various worlds; turn-based combat with in-depth skill trees.
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JP 3DS | Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry's Wonderland 3D | 2012 | A remake of Dragon Warrior Monsters, with more monsters to train/breed, a larger party size, and a 3D world to explore |
JP 3DS | E.X. Troopers | 2012 | See JP PS3, with some bonus AR features |
JP 3DS | Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy | 2013 | |
JP 3DS | Labyrinth no Kanata | 2012 | An almost Ico-like presentation of an isekai dungeon crawler, with rock-paper-scissors-like combat and juggling healing to prevent enemies from doing so |
JP 3DS | Puyo Puyo Chronicle | 2016 | Arle (from Madou Monogatari- a deep cut) has to find a way home in an RPG mode complete with leveling, where combat is conducted via Puyo |
JP 3DS | Slime Mori Mori Dragon Quest 3: Daikaizoku to Shippo Dan | 2011 | |
JP 3DS | Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters Saikyo Card Battle (DL only) | 2016 | Speed duels only here, where you wander the streets and take on fellow unknown and famous duelists alike to increase your rank and earn cards to level your preconstructed decks up |
JP Dreamcast | RUN=DIM as Black Soul | 2001 | Hexagonal turn-based strategy with giant robots fighting |
JP Dreamcast | Rent-A-Hero No. 1 | 2000 | A remake that adds a female counterpart to the main character and 3D as opposed to 2D fighting; itself fully translated and intended for Western shores it never reached |
JP DS | Ore ga Omae o Mamoru | 2009 | A Metroidvania made to entice women to play, but quite difficult in practice; no XP to speak of but stats can be increased through equipment and story events |
JP DS | Zoids Saga DS: Legend of Arcadia | 2005 | Retells the story of the first Zoids Saga game, with updates to gameplay from throughout the series and incorporation of the 2nd/3rd games' protagonists |
JP DS | Tales of the Tempest | 2006 | A short spinoff title from the mainline series, but plays as you've come to expect; a very polarizing game |
JP DS | Tales of Innocence | 2007 | You know what to expect here at this point - in addition, doing sidequests for guilds levels them up |
JP DS | Super Robot Wars W | 2007 | Generally speaking same gameplay as always, splits the story into 2 timelines (not all storylines are present in both) |
JP DS | SaGa 3: Jikuu no Hasha - Shadow or Light | 2011 | Given the same treatment as its predecessor from Final Fantasy Legend III |
JP DS | SaGa 2: Hihou Densetsu - Goddess of Destiny | 2009 | A ground-up remake of Final Fantasy Legend II, with more sidequests and the removal of random battles |
JP DS | Rockman.EXE: Operate Shooting Star | 2009 | A port of Mega Man Battle Network with some additional Star Force content thrown in |
JP DS | Soma Bringer | 2008 | Top-down ARPG, widely acclaimed; lots of text to read and lots of character customization to do |
JP DS | Nora to Toki no Koubou: Kiri no Mori no Majo | 2011 | Atlus' attempt at an Atelier-styled game, with anticipatedly adorable results |
JP DS | Fire Emblem: Shin Monshou no Nazo - Hikari to Kage no Eiyuu | 2010 | Unlocalized updated version of book 2 of Mystery of the Emblem, adds an avatar character, hard as ever |
JP DS | Ni no Kuni: Shikkoku no Madoushi | 2010 | Same general story as Wrath of the White Witch, but vastly different gameplay - a literal spellbook is a necessity to draw the required runes |
JP DS | 7th Dragon | 2009 | Slay some dragons in a traditional turn-based style! |
JP DS | Digimon Story: Lost Evolution | 2010 | Third game in the Digimon Story sub-series, where you can choose your character's gender for the first time, and work to restore Digivolution via archaeology |
JP DS | Blood of Bahamut | 2009 | Giant monster-slaying ARPG with mission-based structure |
JP DS | Luminous Arc 3: Eyes | 2009 | Shenanigans at a magic school with both SRPG gameplay and dating sim elements |
JP DS | Metal Max 2: Reloaded | 2011 | Takes gameplay improvements from later entries and applies them to the second game- with an optional female protagonist and free-roaming |
JP DS | Metal Max 3 | 2010 | Return to the wasteland with tanks in tow; non-linear story progression |
JP DS | Mugen no Frontier EXCEED: Super Robot Taisen OG Saga | 2010 | Sequel to SRTOGS: Endless Frontier, plays in the same way, with crossover elements |
JP FC | Niji no Silkroad | 1991 | Increase your rank as a trader by going out and procuring goods (which you can also buy to raise your stats) |
JP FC | Mirai Senshi: Lios | 1989 | A mech-based SRPG, equipment upgrades improve units and are earned in battles |
JP FC | Nakayoshi to Issho | 1993 | Precious simplistic RPG ft. Kodansha characters (inc. Sailor Moon!) that may give you diabetes |
JP FC | Musashi no Bōken | 1990 | Standard DQ clone, but corn can be an enemy so that's pretty funny |
JP FC | Mouryou Senki Madara | 1990 | Dark and challenging! Autonomous combat! Anime-based! |
JP FC | Mother | 1989 | Modern-themed turn-based game starring kids with psychic powers |
JP FC | Momotarou Densetsu | 1987 | Standard gameplay, but cute all the same! |
JP FC | Mirai Shinwa Jarvas | 1987 | If it looks like a kusoge, and plays like a kusoge… |
JP FC | LaSalle Ishii's Childs Quest | 1989 | IDOL MANAGER JRPG. ENOUGH SAID. |
JP FC | Minelvaton Saga: Ragon no Fukkatsu | 1987 | First of the Silva Saga series, featuring overhead ARPG combat |
JP FC | Metal Max | 1991 | Mad Max: the JRPG! Featuring vehicle combat! |
JP FC | Mashin Eiyuuden Wataru Gaiden | 1990 | Very Zelda II vibes, based off the anime of the same name |
JP FC | Majou Densetsu II: Dimashikyou Gailous | 1987 | A sidescrolling ARPG with 2 playable characters, XP gain refills life; life bar can be extended via items |
JP FC | Last Armageddon | 1990 | A post-apocalyptic attempt at subverting the traditional fantasy themes of the time- playing as a cast of highly detailed monsters |
JP FC | Lagrange Point | 1991 | Banger soundtrack, sci-fi themed |
JP FC | Kouryuu Densetsu Villgust Gaiden | 1993 | It's got a catgirl. Strange battle system! Side-story to the SNES game |
JP FC | Kawa no Nushi Tsuri | 1990 | It's a fishing JRPG! |
JP FC | Otaku no Seiza: Adventure in the Otaku Galaxy | 1991 | Unbalanced and cheeky |
JP FC | Ninja Ra Hoi! | 1990 | A parody game of sorts that takes place in feudal Japan |
JP FC | Ys | 1988 | Adol bumps into the enemies to slay them |
JP FC | Radia Senki: Reiemeihen | 1991 | 4 AI characters + 1 controllable = fun auto tactics |
JP FC | Toujin Makyou Den: Heracles no Eikou | 1987 | First in a long Greek-themed series that Nintendo never bothered to localize (except that one time) |
JP FC | Zombie Hunter | 1987 | Not the greatest side-scrolling ARPG, but it does have synthesized voices |
JP FC | Zoids: Chuuou Tairiku no Tatakai | 1987 | Standard non-combat exploration with shooter-style combat and experience gain behind the scenes |
JP FC | Ys III: Wanderers From Ys | 1991 | Changes the battles to be side-scrolling rather than top-down and allows Adol to swing his sword/jump |
JP FC | Ys II | 1990 | Adds magic to Adol's repertoire |
JP FC | Kaijuu Monogatari | 1988 | Pretty standard, but also super-hard at the beginning |
JP FC | Valkyrie no Bouken: Toki no Kagi Densetsu | 1986 | Minimal text, starring Namco's famous valkyrie |
JP FC | Ushio to Tora: Shin'en no Daiyou | 1993 | Based on a manga of a similar name, turn-based combat with super-dramatic cutaways; top-down in exploration, first-person in houses and dungeons |
JP FC | Tenchi o Kurau II: Shokatsu Koumei Den | 1991 | Plays just like the first, just never localized |
JP FC | RPG Jinsei Game | 1993 | Make the correct life choices to increase your stats and achieve your career dreams! |
JP FC | Tao | 1989 | Heavily religious-themed, bizarre af (you ride a dinosaur to Moscow), likely kusoge |
JP FC | Sweet Home | 1989 | Without this, Resident Evil doesn't exist; a horror turn-based game with character permadeath |
JP FC | Sukeban Deka III | 1988 | Manga-based ARPG |
JP FC | STED: Iseki Wakusei no Yabou | 1990 | Very Phantasy Star-like |
JP FC | Silva Saga | 1992 | Nice graphics for the time |
JP FC | Shinsenden | 1989 | Another day, another eastern-themed DQ clone |
JP FC | Shadow Brain | 1991 | Futuristic 1st-person dungeon crawler |
JP FC | SD Keiji Blader | 1991 | DQ clone set in the far distant future |
JP FC | Karakuri Kengou Den Musashi Lord: Karakuri Jin Hashiru! | 1991 | ARPG based on the robot anime |
JP FC | Outlanders | 1987 | Kooky sci-fi with wonky ARPG combat |
JP FC | Juvei Quest | 1991 | Plot divided into chapters, protagonist can recruit helpers to make adventuring easier |
JP FC | Deep Dungeon IV: Kuro no Youjutsushi | 1990 | 1st-person dunegon crawl |
JP FC | Dragon Ball: Dai Maou Fukkatsu | 1988 | Plays kinda like a card-based board game |
JP FC | Dragon Ball Z: Kyoushuu! Saiya Jin | 1993 | CARDS |
JP FC | Dragon Ball Z III: Ressen Jinzou Ningen | 1992 | More card-based combat |
JP FC | Dragon Ball Z II: Gekishin Freeza!! | 1991 | Card-based combat |
JP FC | Downtown Special: Kunio-kun no Jidaigeki Dayo Zen'in Shuugou! | 1991 | Kunio and the bois act out a period play the only way they know how, stats now increase upon defeating certain amounts of enemies |
JP FC | Double Moon Densetsu | 1992 | Multiple endings, multiple classes to choose from, pulls some nasty punches on the player |
JP FC | Doraemon: Giga Zombie no Gyakushuu | 1990 | Featuring playable Doraemon! |
JP FC | Digital Devil Story: Megami Tensei | 1987 | The series had to start somewhere… |
JP FC | Deep Dungeon III: Yuushi e no Tabi | 1988 | 1st-person dunegon crawl |
JP FC | Bloody Warriors: Shan-Go no Gyakushuu | 1990 | Even translated, the health counter for enemies makes no sense. Pretty short too. |
JP FC | Dark Lord | 1991 | Mix of overhead and turn-based combat |
JP FC | Dai-2-Ji Super Robot Taisen | 1991 | Features original design robots that would become the cornerstone of the Original Generation series |
JP FC | Cosmo Police Galivan | 1988 | Platformer ARPG - Metroidvania before metroidvanias were a thing |
JP FC | Columbus: Ougon no Yoake | 1992 | Naval combat and quasi-historical themes! Sketch af! |
JP FC | Chester Field: Ankoku Shin e no Chousen | 1987 | Light on text, hilarious walking animation, very platformy |
JP FC | Chaos World | 1991 | Neat auto-battle system |
JP FC | Captain Tsubasa Vol. II: Super Striker | 1990 | More in-depth plot, more visible players on screen, but otherwise similar gameplay/leveling |
JP FC | Just Breed | 1992 | A very detailed SRPG for the time |
JP FC | Dragon Scroll: Yomigaerishi Maryuu | 1987 | *Epilepsy Warning* Otherwise a solid ARPG |
JP FC | Digital Devil Monogatari: Megami Tensei II | 1990 | Considered to be the origin of the series' heavy-handed order vs chaos theme, good old-fashioned demon negotiation and recruitment |
JP FC | Dream Master | 1992 | Not Little Nemo! More puzzle-based than most games of the era, cool concept |
JP FC | Ganbare Goemon Gaiden: Kieta Ougon Kiseru | 1990 | Humorous turn-based game set in medieval Japan |
JP FC | Elysion | 1988 | A bit bland of an ARPG, but it has multiple playable characters, so that's neat |
JP FC | Jajamaru Gekimaden: Maboroshi no Kinmajou | 1990 | Very close to the first Zelda game, but with yoyos for weapons! |
JP FC | Indra no Hikari | 1987 | Enemies are visible on the overworld, but otherwise appears to be yet another Dragon Warrior clone |
JP FC | Hydlide 3: Yami Kara no Houmonsha | 1989 | There is no such thing as a good Hydlide game. |
JP FC | Hyaku no Sekai no Monogatari: The Tales on a Watery Wilderness | 1991 | A multiplayer board game JRPG? On my Famicom? Lots of randomness involved |
JP FC | Hoshi wo Miru Hito | 1987 | Kusoge of legend, incomplete translation but left up here for lulz |
JP FC | Heracles no Eikou II: Titan no Metsubo | 1989 | Dragon Warrior-styled gameplay with Greek mythological flair |
JP FC | GeGeGe no Kitarou 2: Youkai Gundan no Chousen | 1987 | Based off the spooky anime of the same name |
JP FC | Grand Master | 1991 | Features multiple branching paths, ARPG gameplay, and anime cutscenes between stages |
JP FC | Jajamaru Ninpou Chou | 1989 | Almost came out in the States, but alas… Another DW clone where you can only fight one enemy at a time |
JP FC | Ganbare Goemon Gaiden 2: Tenka no Zaihou | 1992 | Changes the battle perspective to show party members on-screen, has lots of side activities |
JP FC | Fushigi no Umi no Nadia | 1991 | SRPG based on the anime of the same name, plays vastly different to the Mega Drive version |
JP FC | Fire Emblem: Ankoku Ryu to Hikari no Tsurugi | 1990 | Origins of boy-king Marth, an SRPG featuring permadeath of units |
JP FC | Fire Emblem Gaiden | 1992 | Introduced elements like a navigable overworld that were then unused for a long time |
JP FC | Final Fantasy III | 1990 | First Final Fantasy to feature the job-change system |
JP FC | Final Fantasy II | 1988 | Leveling is done via utilizing skills rather than experience- a drastic and much-maligned design choice |
JP FC | Famicom Jump: Eiyuu Retsuden | 1989 | Get isekai'd into a world where heroes and villains from the Jump magazine series converge, XP gain is represented by "effort" |
JP FC | Esper Dream 2: Aratanaru Tatakai | 1992 | Cute pastel sprite work and ARPG gameplay |
JP Game Gear | Megami Tensei Gaiden: Last Bible Special | 1995 | Biblical-themed first-person dungeon crawl, with gameplay otherwise similar to the other Last Bibles |
JP Game Gear | Shining Force Gaiden: Final Conflict | 1995 | Typical Shining Force gameplay, takes place after SFCD but before SFII, links SFI and II together |
JP Game Gear | SD Gundam: Winner's History | 1995 | Turn-based SRPG in unit placement, but real-time battles between individual units- with Gundams! |
JP Game Gear | Royal Stone | 1995 | Sequel to Crystal Warriors - this is a standard but pretty SRPG all about revenge |
JP Game Gear | Phantasy Star Gaiden | 1992 | Spinoff story set between Phantasy Star I and II, similar gameplay |
JP Game Gear | Moldorian: Hikari to Yami no Sister | 1994 | Really good artwork, a turn-based battle system that gives you only seconds to input commands |
JP Game Gear | Lunar: Sanposuru Gakuen | 1996 | The actual prequel to The Silver Star, sadly never localized - very girl-power friendly |
JP Game Gear | Megami Tensei Gaiden: Last Bible | 1994 | Monster collecting with a bit of kiddie MegaTen flair |
JP Game Gear | Mahou Kishi Rayearth | 1994 | A different game than the Saturn and SFC ones - but also turn-based |
JP Game Gear | Madou Monogatari III: Kyuukyoku Joou-sama | 1994 | Did you know that these games have Puyos in them? And that Arle features in the Puyo Puyo series? |
JP Game Gear | Madou Monogatari II: Arle 16-Sai | 1994 | More Arle doing Arle stuff, but she's 16 now! |
JP Game Gear | Madou Monogatari I: Mitsu no Madouryoku | 1993 | Arle doing Arle stuff - just first-person dungeon crawling with the same unorthodox display of stats |
JP Game Gear | Madou Monogatari A: Doki Doki Vacation | 1995 | Arle stops the bad man from cutting down the forest to build an amusement park! In first-person! |
JP Game Gear | Eternal Legend | 1991 | One of the first Game Gear JRPGs, plays very standard |
JP GB+GBC | Sylvania Families: Otogi no Kuni no Pendant | 1999 | More of a life-sim featuring overly cutesy characters based on a series of animal figurines |
JP GB+GBC | Mahou Kishi Rayearth | 1995 | Another Magic Knight Rayearth-themed Dragon Quest clone, but this one features separate scenarios for each heroine |
JP GB+GBC | Super Robot Taisen | 1991 | Origin of the long-running SRPG series |
JP GB+GBC | Shin Megami Tensei Devil Children: Kuro no Sho | 2000 | First game in the Devil Children series (the accompanying other version is untranslated), a monster-collector where demon partners can be used to help traverse the overworld |
JP GB+GBC | Pocket Monsters: Green Version | 1996 | If you've played Red/Blue, do you really need this one? |
JP GB+GBC | Nushi Tsuri Adventure: Kite no Bouken | 2000 | Catch fishies and fight thingies! |
JP GB+GBC | Megami Tensei Gaiden: Last Bible II | 1993 | Pretty much just like the first, but now you can give your monsters accessories |
JP GB+GBC | Medarot Kabuto/Kuwagata Version | 1997 | First games in the Medarot/bot series, with the standard building and fighting robots |
JP GB+GBC | Arle no Bouken: Mahou no Jewel | 2000 | A monster-training game; monster-summoning cards can be enhanced |
JP GB+GBC | Little Master: Raikuban no Densetsu | 1991 | SRPG with some elements of unit fusion |
JP GB+GBC | Kaeru no Tame ni Kane wa Naru | 1992 | Sort of like Link's Awakening, but with frogs and more stats! |
JP GB+GBC | Heracles no Eikou: Ugokidashita Kamigami - The Snap-Story | 1992 | Series spinoff, can be assisted in combat by borrowing gods from Olympus |
JP GB+GBC | Grandia: Parallel Trippers | 2000 | Spinoff of Grandia featuring its characters and an attempt at using the same battle system |
JP GB+GBC | God Medicine: Fantasy Sekai no Tanjou | 1993 | It's a standard JRPG that makes fun of standard JRPGs! |
JP GB+GBC | Cave Noire | 1991 | Roguelike - higher level quests start you off with better stats |
JP GB+GBC | Ayakashi no Shiro | 1990 | First-person dungeon crawler, nothing to write home about |
JP GB+GBC | Another Bible | 1995 | Cute little SRPG, spinoff of the Last Bible series |
JP GB+GBC | Kininkou Maroku Oni | 1990 | First game in a long untranslated series, very grindy |
JP GBA | Mother 3 | 2006 | (LOCALIZE IT NINTENDO) Musical combo system in combat, still as offbeat as ever |
JP GBA | Tomato Adventure | 2002 | You say "tomato," I say "a silly RPG with toy-based gimmicks in combat, humor throughout, and lots of lycopene!" |
JP GBA | Super Robot Taisen J | 2005 | Contains licensed mechs, which is why localization didn't otherwise occur |
JP GBA | Shin Megami Tensei | 2003 | Keeps the visuals from the Playstation version, makes a few balance changes and adds some unlockable story scenes |
JP GBA | Rockman EXE 4.5: Real Operation | 2004 | Not part of the MMBN story, gives you the ability to control multiple Navis |
JP GBA | Oriental Blue: Ao no Tengai | 2003 | A gaiden of the Tengai Makyo series, has a free scenario system influenced by real-time passage |
JP GBA | Napoleon | 2001 | RTSRPG starring Napoleon Bonaparte doing some very not-historically-accurate things |
JP GBA | Klonoa Heroes: Densetsu no Star Medal | 2002 | Top-down ARPG gameplay, and cute to boot! |
JP GBA | Mother 1 + 2 | 2003 | Ports of Mother 1 and 2, with an extended ending for the former |
JP GBA | Magical Vacation | 2001 | Turn-based combat, gorgeous sprites; love/heart isn't just an element in Captain Planet anymore! |
JP GBA | Keitai Denjuu Telefang 2: Power | 2002 | One version of a Pokemon-like clone that features sharing your phone number with monsters to befriend them |
JP GBA | Hagane no Renkinjutsushi: Omoide no Sonata | 2004 | Original story, sequel to Stray Rondo, adds a leveling system but otherwise similar mechanics |
JP GBA | Hagane no Renkinjutsushi: Meisou no Rinbukyoku | 2004 | Based on the anime, no real levels to gain, but turn-based combat utilizing alchemy combinations |
JP GBA | Fire Emblem: The Binding Blade | 2002 | AKA FE6 - Roy's our boy, and here's where you play as him! |
JP GBA | Dragon Quest Monsters: Caravan Heart | 2003 | Stars a young Prince Keifer from DQVII, where you recruit humans and monsters for your growing caravan |
JP Mega Drive | Rent-A-Hero | 1991 | Do errands for the local populace to upgrade your super suit! Fighting game-like battles, very tongue-in-cheek |
JP Mega Drive | Vixen 357 | 1992 | Mechy SRPG with permadeath, an official localization was planned in 2019 but abandoned |
JP Mega Drive | Tougi-Ou: King Colossus | 1992 | Another Ys wannabe |
JP Mega Drive | Surging Aura | 1995 | Each action in combat takes time to do - and can be interrupted! It's also really pretty too |
JP Mega Drive | Bahamut Senki | 1991 | A fantasy war simulator with 8 different armies to choose from; units can rank up and become stronger, combat is both turn-based and real-time |
JP Mega Drive | Rent a Hero | 1991 | Perform various tasks for townsfolk as a superhero-for-hire; no XP but the cash from your jobs can be used to upgrade your armor and weapons, used in fighting game-esque combat |
JP Mega Drive | Madou Monogatari I | 1996 | ADORABLE AF, monster capturing mechanic, non-traditional stats/xp gain |
JP Mega Drive | Langrisser II | 1994 | SRPG that plays very similarly to its predecessor, albeit with some class rebalancing |
JP Mega Drive | Battle Golfer Yui | 1991 | Tee off against other battle golfers, raise your level to make more trick shots, and stop a mad scientist from destroying the world! With golf! |
JP Mega Drive | Monster World IV | 1994 | A far different protagonist from the rest of the series and toned-down RPG elements (purchasing equipment is still possible), but enhanced platforming |
JP N64 | Custom Robo | 1999 | First game in the robot customizing (hah) and fighting series; upgrades to robots are bought rather than earned |
JP N64 | Fushigi no Dungeon: Fuurai no Shiren 2 - Oni Shuurai! Shiren Jou! | 2000 | Shiren's second roguelike dungeon-delving adventure, with monster collecting and castle building as major gameplay mechanics |
JP PC Engine | Out Live | 1989 | First-person dungeon crawler, but in a mech! |
JP PC Engine | Ys IV: The Dawn of Ys (CD) | 1993 | Technically different from the Ys IV on SFC/other consoles |
JP PC Engine | The Tower of Druaga | 1992 | Plays a lot like the classic arcade dungeon crawler, but stats can be increased between floors or after finding items |
JP PC Engine | Shiryou Sensen: War of the Dead | 1989 | Badass cover art, plays a lot like Zelda II |
JP PC Engine | Madou Monogatari I: Honoo no Sotsuenji | 1996 | Cute af first-person dungeon crawl; unconventional experience counter, adds voice acting, new monsters and cutscenes/events to the original |
JP PC Engine | Makai Hakkenden: Shada | 1989 | Run-of-the-mill Ys clone |
JP PC Engine | Lady Sword: Ryakudatsu Sareta 10 Nin no Otome | 1992 | First-person dungeon crawler with no visible XP and monsters that attack in your sleep |
JP PC Engine | Hisou Kaihei X-SERD | 1990 | A mech-based SRPG with separate XP bars for attack and evasion |
JP PC Engine | Gai Flame | 1990 | Sci-fi turn-based strategy said to be an inspiration for the Langrisser series with giant robots! |
JP PS2 | Shadow Tower: Abyss | 2003 | Another first-person FromSoft jam and sequel to Shadow Tower, this one features soul harvesting and independent NPC schedules |
JP PS2 | Zill O'll Infinite | 2005 | A remake of the JP PSX-only Zill O'll, featuring character creation, major plot-altering decisions (that can even result in NPS permadeath), and 48 endings |
JP PS2 | Tear Ring Saga Series: Berwick Saga - Lazberia Chronicle Chapter 174 | 2005 | SRPG with a heavy Fire Emblem influence (made by the same creator) with a hexagonal-based battle grid |
JP PS2 | Super Robot Taisen OG: Original Generations | 2007 | Combined retcon/remake of the two GBA SRT games; additionally incorporates battle systems/bots from other games in the series |
JP PS2 | Dragon Quest V: Tenkuu no Hanayome | 2004 | A 3D remake of the Super Famicom classic with an increased party size |
JP PS2 | Rogue Hearts Dungeon | 2007 | Roguelike dungeon crawl with randomized dungeons, not part of the Mystery Dungeon series though |
JP PS2 | Monster Hunter 2 (Dos) | 2006 | Added a day/night cycle, seasons, gem slotting, and marks the first appearance of the hunting horn weapon |
JP PS2 | Marie to Elie no Atelier: Salburg no Renkinjutsushi 1-2 | 2005 | Remakes of the first games in the Atelier series, with all the expected alchemy present |
JP PS2 | Front Mission 5: Scars of the War | 2005 | More tactical Wanzer combat, largely similar to Front Mission 2, with the addition of friendly fire |
JP PS2 | Namco x Capcom | 2005 | Predecessor to Project X Zone, SRPG with combo-based gameplay |
JP PS3 | E.X. Troopers | 2012 | A manga-styled Lost Planet spinoff, with materials to gather and trecherous terrain to traverse |
JP PS3 | Nier Replicant | 2010 | The version of Nier not released in the West (until 2021), featuring Nier as a brother rather than a father |
JP PS3 | Tales of Berseria | 2016 | See PS4 - last Tales game developed for PS3 |
JP PSP | SD Gundam G Generation Overworld | 2012 | SRPG that contains Gundam designs from 35 different iterations of the series, plays like Super Robot Wars |
JP PSP | Phantasy Star Portable 2 Infinity | 2011 | An upgrade to PSP2; adds new story content, races, bosses, skills, and QoL changes/balancing |
JP PSP | Phantom Kingdom Portable | 2011 | Adds new scenarios and battles with characters from later Disgaea games |
JP PSP | R-Type Tactics II: Operation Bitter Chocolate | 2009 | Continues the same style of gameplay as the first game; three campaigns to choose from; stats can be improved with leveling |
JP PSP | Yuusha 30 Second | 2011 | All episodes play like Hero 30 of the original game, but adds more QoL features like leveling outside missions |
JP PSP | Super Robot Taisen A Portable | 2008 | It's more SRW, with branching storylines and super evasive enemies! Remake of the GBA game Super Robot Wars A |
JP PSP | Valkyria Chronicles 3 | 2011 | Runs parallel to the first game, dark in tone but very anime-like characters, plays like the other games in the series |
JP PSP | Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's Tag Force 6 | 2011 | Last of the 5D's entries in the series, also includes Xyz monsters from the successor anime, otherwise mostly the same as before |
JP PSP | Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V Tag Force Special | 2015 | Almost like a YGO All-Stars, featuring characters from throughout the various series, but takes away 3D animations- UMD unlocks are limited to Tag Force 6 only |
JP PSP | Monster Hunter Portable 3rd | 2010 | Takes elements from Freedom Unite and Tri but is its own game, now multiple Felynes can assist in combat |
JP PSP | Nayuta no Kiseki | 2012 | ARPG with platforming elements |
JP PSP | Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki: Alternative Saga | 2010 | A 3D arena fighting game- very Power Stone-like, where characters from Ys and Trails collide (and level while doing so) |
JP PSP | La Pucelle Ragnarok | 2009 | Adds characters from the Disgaea series, QoL improvements, and extra bonus episodes |
JP PSP | Digimon World Re: Digitize | 2012 | Plays like the first Digimon World game, but also has an overarching storyline to follow |
JP PSP | Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep Final Mix | 2011 | Adds new playable episodes and way more story content to the original |
JP PSP | 7th Dragon 2020-II | 2013 | Adds a few classes and links to the first game, but otherwise uses a lot of assets and is very similar to its predecessor |
JP PSP | Digimon Adventure | 2013 | Tells the story of the first anime series through 3-on-3 Digimon battles, also features a relationship system |
JP PSP | .hack//LINK | 2010 | ARPG, last game chronologically in the series, lots of characters from past series media, often regarded as the worst game |
JP PSP | 7th Dragon 2020 | 2011 | Sequel to 7th Dragon, a 3D dungeon crawler set in post-apocalyptic Tokyo, Hatsune Miku herself makes an appearance |
JP PSP | Eiyuu Densetsu: Ao no Kiseki | 2011 | Second half of the "Crossbell arc," leads into Trails of Cold Steel II, turn-based combat like other Trails games |
JP PSP | Final Fantasy Type-0 | 2011 | ARPG with mission structure like Crisis Core, some RTS battles on overworld map, a large variety of playable characters |
JP PSP | Fushigi no Dungeon: Fuurai no Shiren 3 Portable | 2010 | Mostly the same as the Wii version but with some balance adjustments |
JP PSP | Genso Suikoden Tsumugareshi Hyakunen no Toki | 2012 | A Suikoden side story outside of regular series continuity, with some time travel plot elemnets and a class system |
JP PSP | Grand Knights History | 2011 | Absolutely gorgeous Vanillaware-developed turn-based game with multiple factions to represent and customizable characters |
JP PSX | Ginga Ojousama Densetsu Yuna: Final Edition | 1998 | An enhanced port of the third Yuna game, features magical girls in tacitcal combat, with visual novel segments in-between (not unlike Sakura Wars) |
JP PSX | Tear Ring Saga: Yutona Eiyuu Senki | 2001 | It's pretty much Fire Emblem, down to the creator of the series |
JP PSX | Tales of Phantasia | 1998 | Arguably the best way to play the game, despite lack of official translation |
JP PSX | Shin Megami Tensei | 2001 | Visually overhauls the SFC version, but is otherwise no different than the original |
JP PSX | Racing Lagoon | 1999 | THE street racing/JRPG hybrid, stylish and jazzy |
JP PSX | PoPoLoCrois Monogatari | 1996 | Based off an anime adaptation of a manga with super cute characters and semi-SRPG grid based combat |
JP PSX | Persona 2: Innocent Sin | 1999 | The missing half of Persona 2 in the Americas |
JP PSX | Medarot R | 1999 | It's a Medabots game! Destroy the enemy's parts to make them useless! |
JP PSX | Langrisser IV | 1999 | Mostly similar to the others, features an uneven turn system; remake of the Saturn version |
JP PSX | King's Field | 1994 | The actual King's Field I - still in first-person |
JP PSX | Choro Q Wonderful! | 1999 | A Car-PG in which you upgrade your stats (parts) via exploration and quests |
JP PSX | Ganbare Goemon: Uchuu Kaizoku Akogingu | 1996 | More Goemon ARPG action, XP serves to level weapons |
JP PSX | Front Mission 2 | 1997 | More mechs, more drama! |
JP PSX | Escaform | 1999 | Puts a spin on SRPG combat by giving the option to convert unspent action points (used to move/attack) into a sort of health shield, features a wide variety of toilets in a post-apocalyptic setting |
JP PSX | Community Pom | 1997 | The cutest Zelda clone ever, with XP and little fuzzy buddies to raise to help you |
JP PSX | Chocobo no Fushigi na Dungeon | 1997 | Chocobo's first roguelike experience with some town-building elements; spells are leveled with repeated use |
JP PSX | Brigandine: Grand Edition | 2000 | An enhanced, expanded version of Brigandine: The Legend of Forsena |
JP PSX | Brave Prove | 1998 | Generic ARPG, but anything translated is a plus |
JP PSX | Bomberman Wars | 1998 | SRPG with Bomberman flair, different types of units have different bomb-placing abilities (which can be increased) |
JP PSX | Baroque | 1999 | A port of the original Saturn version, with tank controls and a first-person perspective to explore macabre dungeons in roguelike fashion |
JP PSX | Asuncia: Matsue no Jubaku | 1997 | Randomly generated maps with a score-based objective, sort of an SRPG? |
JP Saturn | Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together | 1996 | See PSX, with improved music, more visible combat area, and some voice acting |
JP Saturn | Vandal Hearts | 1997 | A spiffed up version of the PSX game, with new maps/spells/music/items |
JP Saturn | Valhollian | 1998 | SRPG with 3D scenes to show attacking, combination attacks are possible and can lead to bonding conversations |
JP Saturn | Linkle Liver Story | 1996 | Cute ARPG, combine elemental seeds to strengthen your weapon |
JP Saturn | Sakura Taisen | 1996 | First in the long-running SPRG series, where managing your troupe of girls gives them better stats! |
JP Saturn | Dragon Force II: Kamisarishi Daichi Ni | 1998 | Pretty similar to the first |
JP Saturn | Grandia | 1997 | See PSX |
JP Saturn | Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen | 1996 | See PSX, but with five additional scenarios unique to this version |
JP SFC | Power of the Hired | 1994 | SRPG where the party can summon monsters to help in battle; monster selection determines the party's available spells |
JP SFC | Shiki Eiyuuden | 1995 | A brutally hard turn-based historical JRPG set in the Warring States period of China; puzzles and quizzes found throughout |
JP SFC | Seiken Densetsu 3 | 1995 | The character you choose at the start determines your storyline, otherwise plays like SoM |
JP SFC | Ryuuki Heidan: Danzarb | 1993 | Epic sci-fi story marred by lackluster graphical presentation |
JP SFC | Rudra no Hihou | 1996 | Create your own spells! Ultra-pretty sprites! |
JP SFC | Romancing Saga 3 | 1995 | No complete English translation on this console, sandboxy, gorgeous spritework, but difficult |
JP SFC | Romancing Saga 2 | 1993 | No complete English translation on this console, sandobxy multi-generation spanning story |
JP SFC | Romancing Saga | 1992 | A very sandboxy JRPG; multiple playable characters, non-linear in fashion |
JP SFC | Ranma 1/2: Akanekodan Teki Hihou | 1993 | Based on the anime/manga, otherwise pretty standard |
JP SFC | Princess Minerva | 1995 | GIRL POWER ANIME-BASED ROAD TRIP! |
JP SFC | Nekketsu Tairiku Burning Heroes | 1995 | 8 scenarios to beat for the true ending, characters other than the protagonist are AI in battle |
JP SFC | Neugier: Umi to Kaze no Koudou | 1993 | An almost-localized ARPG with attacks that can level up, a rather short game overall |
JP SFC | Mystic Ark | 1995 | A cousin to The 7th Saga, super grindy |
JP SFC | Monstania | 1996 | SRPG featuring puzzles, a party size of two, and a progress-based leveling system |
JP SFC | Metal Max Returns | 1995 | Remake of Metal Max, naturally much prettier but more difficult |
JP SFC | Majin Tensei II: Spiral Nemesis | 1995 | More or less the same as the first, but with an isometric battle view as opposed to top-down |
JP SFC | Majin Tensei | 1994 | SRPG SMT spinoff with (naturally) demon recruitment and fusion |
JP SFC | Mahou Kishi Rayearth | 1995 | Plays vastly differently than the Saturn version! Beginner-level JRPG, follows the OG story closely |
JP SFC | Magna Braban: Henreki no Yuusha | 1994 | Gambits and auto-combat long before FFXII was even a thing |
JP SFC | Madou Monogatari: Hanamaru Daiyouchi Enji | 1996 | Extremely unconventional attack and leveling system, but cookies are currency and it's cute! |
JP SFC | Lodoss Tou Senki | 1995 | Plot-wise is more of a side story to the main novels, tactical combat engine |
JP SFC | Live A Live | 1994 | 7 different scenarios in different time periods, shared action bar amongst party in combat |
JP SFC | Shin Megami Tensei | 1992 | 1st-person dungeon crawl with demon recruitment/fusion, only localized on mobile |
JP SFC | Shin Megami Tensei II | 1994 | Similar to but easier than the first game |
JP SFC | Shin Megami Tensei if… | 1994 | Like regular SMT, but in a centralized high school setting. This is Persona's daddy! |
JP SFC | Tengai Makyou Zero | 1995 | Utilized special technology to allow for a real-time clock, more dialogue |
JP SFC | Last Bible III | 1995 | Sequel to the Game Boy games, featuring monster recruitment and customization |
JP SFC | Yume Meikyuu: Kigurumi Daibouken | 1994 | First-person dungeon crawl; kill the enemies and take their costumes! |
JP SFC | Ys V: Ushinawareta Suna no Miyako Kefin | 1995 | Only game in the series to have never been localized (hopefully this will change?) |
JP SFC | Ys IV: Mask of the Sun | 1993 | Non-canonical to the Ys series after the release of Memories of Celceta |
JP SFC | Xak: The Art of Visual Stage | 1993 | Ys' cousin, but the story only covers the first half of the first game on MSX |
JP SFC | Wonder Project J: Kikai no Shounen Pino | 1994 | Raise your robo-boy to follow commands, improve his stats, and rescue his creator (Think Pac-Man 2) |
JP SFC | Treasure Hunter G | 1996 | Another forgotten Square-published game, action point-based SRPG |
JP SFC | Treasure Conflix | 1996 | A Satellaview-only game with soft RPG elements (upgrading your airship's parts to use in dogfights) where you hunt for treasure and sell it at auction |
JP SFC | Torneko no Daibouken: Fushigi no Dungeon | 1993 | First game in the Mystery Dungeon series, with a Dragon Quest coat of paint |
JP SFC | Tenshi no Uta: Shiroki Tsubasa no Inori | 1994 | Not only can you negotiate with monsters, you get special experience points for doing so! |
JP SFC | Tenchi Muyo!: Game Hen | 1995 | Isometric turn and grid-based combat, based off the anime! |
JP SFC | Shin Seikoku: La Wares | 1995 | Based off a Japanese TTRPG, featuring mech combat |
JP SFC | Tales of Phantasia | 1995 | Mind-bogglingly pretty, a technological marvel for the time |
JP SFC | Tactics Ogre | 1995 | Epic storyline, lots of important choices to make - even at the very beginning of the game! |
JP SFC | Super Robot Taisen Gaiden: Masou Kishin - The Lord of Elemental | 1996 | SRPG, focuses on one of the original characters in the series, directional damage |
JP SFC | Super Robot Taisen EX | 1994 | SRPG, branching storyline, uses the SRW3 engine |
JP SFC | Super Famicom Wars | 1998 | Technically a digital-only title (released via Satellaview), units can gather XP in combat that does not carry between maps |
JP SFC | Super Chinese World 3 - Chou Jigen Daisakusen | 1995 | Two different battle modes to choose from: ARPG or turn-based, each with their own storylines |
JP SFC | Super Chinese World 2 | 1993 | Super Ninja Boy sequel, has ARPG battles instead of its predecessor's turn-based combat |
JP SFC | Star Ocean | 1996 | Look at that spritework! |
JP SFC | Slayers | 1994 | Based on the anime of the same name, plays typically for the era |
JP SFC | Silva Saga II: The Legend of Light and Darkness | 1993 | Hire mercenaries to help in combat! |
JP SFC | Shodai Nekketsu Kouha Kunio-kun | 1992 | More or less River City Ransom 2, but you gain actual XP instead of using cash to buy stat upgrades (for better or worse) |
JP SFC | Lennus II: Fuuin no Shito | 1996 | Superior sequel to Paladin's Quest, more risque themes, loads of recruitable characters |
JP SFC | Dual Orb II | 1994 | Ultra-high encounter rate, a difficult game without grind dedication |
JP SFC | Laplace no Ma | 1995 | Lovecraftian spooky JRPG |
JP SFC | Chou-Mahou Tairiku Wozz | 1995 | 8 playable characters, branching storylines, invention systems- this game truly tries to do it all! |
JP SFC | Dragon Ball Z: Super Saiya Densetsu | 1992 | Combo of two of the FC DBZ games, still with card-based battles |
JP SFC | Dokapon Gaiden - Honoo no Audition | 1995 | Leans more heavily into comedy than previous games in the series, with greater board variety |
JP SFC | Kyuuyaku Megami Tensei | 1995 | Enhanced remake of Megami Tensei 1 and 2 |
JP SFC | Dark Law: Meaning of Death | 1997 | Super duper hard! Also featuring rudimentary 3D! |
JP SFC | Dark Half | 1996 | Item-based leveling system; also, spoiler alert (not really): You play the antagonist! |
JP SFC | Daikaijuu Monogatari | 1994 | Hidden characters and adorable sprites! |
JP SFC | Dai-3-Ji Super Robot Taisen | 1993 | First in the series to have a branching storyline |
JP SFC | Cyber Knight II: Chikyuu Teikoku no Yabou | 1994 | Similar gameplay but massive graphical leap over the first |
JP SFC | Cyber Knight | 1992 | SRPG/turn-based hybrid combat, also: SPAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACE exploration |
JP SFC | Crystal Beans: From Dungeon Explorer | 1995 | Straightforward ARPG gameplay, hidden playable characters, leveling stats through gems |
JP SFC | Chaos Seed: Fuusui Kairouki | 1996 | Lots of resource management! Multiple endings! |
JP SFC | Dragon Quest III | 1996 | Arguably the definitive version of the game |
JP SFC | Captain Tsubasa III: Koutei no Chousen | 1992 | Continues the alternate universe plot of the second game, otherwise an incremental/generational improvement over its predecessor |
JP SFC | Bushi Seiryuuden: Futari no Yuusha | 1997 | Zelda-like exploration; combat is 2D platformer-like, but still turn-based (enemies only act when you do); pretty spritework |
JP SFC | Brandish 2: The Planet Buster | 1995 | Similar top-down dungeon crawling as the first |
JP SFC | Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon: Another Story | 1995 | Adorable digitized voices, Senshi combo attacks, what's not to love? |
JP SFC | Bahamut Lagoon | 1996 | Square's oft-forgotten SRPG child, divine spritework |
JP SFC | Aretha II - Ariel no Fushigi na Tabi | 1994 | Pretty similar to the first |
JP SFC | Aretha | 1993 | A sequel to the Game Boy trilogy of the same name, neat multidirectional turn-based combat |
JP SFC | Arabian Nights: Sabaku no Seirei-o | 1996 | Apparently rushed toward the end of development |
JP SFC | Ancient Magic: Bazoo! Mahou Sekai | 1993 | Generic turn-based affair with male/female protagonists with an emphasis on magic |
JP SFC | Alcahest | 1993 | ARPG featuring item-based stat growth and a password system rather than traditional saves |
JP SFC | Dragon Quest I + II | 1993 | Combined, debatably definitive version of DQ I and II |
JP SFC | Der Langrisser | 1995 | Remake of Langrisser II, with branching storylines |
JP SFC | Dragon Quest V: Tenkuu no Hanayome | 1992 | Monster capture and marriage/children ahoy! |
JP SFC | Heracles no Eikou III: Kamigami no Chinmoku | 1992 | Standard turn-based combat like the rest of the series, but also has a day/night cycle for NPCs to follow |
JP SFC | Kuusou Kagaku Sekai Gulliver Boy | 1996 | Very short ARPG with ungodly levels of hair spikiness on the protagonist |
JP SFC | Kouryuu Densetsu Villgust: Kieta Shoujo | 1992 | Based on an anime of the same name, ridiculous stat levels before Disgaea made it cool |
JP SFC | Kidou Senshi Gundam: Cross Dimension 0079 | 1995 | SRPG based on OG Mobile Suit Gundam, utilizes button combos to use attacks |
JP SFC | Jutei Senki | 1993 | SRPG with circle-limited movement and neat cutaway battle animations, high difficulty |
JP SFC | Jojo no Kimyou na Bouken | 1993 | RPG adaptation of Part 3, quite abridged; a very short game overall, point-and-click elements |
JP SFC | Hourai Gakuen no Bouken!: Tenkousei Scramble | 1996 | High school: the JRPG! Join clubs to gain abilities! |
JP SFC | Dragon Quest VI: Maboroshi no Daichi | 1995 | Third game in the Zenithian trilogy, return of the class system |
JP SFC | Hiouden: Mamonotachi to no Chikai | 1994 | Point-and-click style SRPG, made by Team Wolf of Tales of Phantasia fame |
JP SFC | Hero Senki: Project Olympus | 1992 | A bit of Gundam, a bit of Kamen Rider, a bit of Ultraman, a bit of traditional JRPG! |
JP SFC | Heracles no Eikou IV: Kamigami Kara no Okurimono | 1994 | A multitude of different avatars to play as, each with its own attributes and perspectives on storyline events |
JP SFC | Holy Umbrella: Dondera no Mubou!! | 1995 | More of a sidescrolling platformer, but does have some stat increases via items, very cheeky tone |
JP SFC | Galaxy Robo | 1994 | SRPG with mechs |
JP SFC | G.O.D.: Mezameyo to Yobu Koe ga Kikoe | 1996 | If Earthbound had a child with Phantasy Star IV's battle system, this would be it |
JP SFC | Fushigi no Dungeon 2: Fuurai no Shiren | 1995 | Follow-up to Torneko no Daibouken, a roguelike before they were cool |
JP SFC | Front Mission: Gun Hazard | 1996 | Side-scrolling ARPG with incredible graphics, separate universe from mainline series |
JP SFC | Front Mission | 1995 | Mech-focused SRPG with a ton of units and customizability |
JP SFC | Fire Emblem: Thracia 776 | 1999 | Takes place during the middle of FE4, initially distributed as a Nintendo Power ROM cartridge |
JP SFC | Fire Emblem: Seisen no Keifu | 1996 | Introduced the marriage/children mechanic that would be seen in later FE entries |
JP SFC | Fire Emblem: Monshou no Nazo | 1994 | Divided into 2 "books": Book 1 is an abridged remake of FE1, Book 2 is a direct sequel to FE1 |
JP SFC | Final Fantasy V | 1992 | So many jobs- |
JP SFC | FEDA: The Emblem of Justice | 1994 | SRPG developed by some of the Shining Force team, features a morality-based system |
JP SFC | Energy Breaker | 1996 | SRPG with town exploration and an action point-based economy for combat |
JP SFC | Emerald Dragon | 1995 | Breath of Fire's cousin with a unique battle system |
JP Vita | The Legend of Heroes: Sora no Kiseki the 3rd - Evolution | 2016 | Final game in the Liberl arc albeit with a different protagonist; plays like the previous games; Evolution version adds new artwork/scenarios |
JP Wii | Earth Seeker | 2011 | Post-apocalyptic ARPG with a mission-based structure and small minions that follow you around (can also connect to a DSiWare game for bonus items!) |
JP Wii | Pokemon Fushigi no Dungeon - Ikuzo! Arashi no Boukendan | 2009 | Stack water Pokemon in a WiiWare-exclusive Mystery Dungeon adventure! |
JP Wii | Pokemon Fushigi no Dungeon - Mezase! Hikari no Boukendan | 2009 | See above, but electric Pokemon |
JP Wii | Pokemon Fushigi no Dungeon - Susume! Honou no Boukendan | 2009 | See above, but fire Pokemon |
JP Wii | Takt of Magic | 2009 | Successor to LostMagic (DS); a ARPGRTS focused on using motion controls to cast spells |
JP Wii | Zangeki no Reginleiv | 2010 | Mission-based structure; free-running in stages and lots of emphasis on motion controls to attack, enemies drop mana that can be used to level up various weapons |
JP Wonderswan | Chocobo no Fushigi na Dungeon | 1999 | See JP PSX, but without color |
JP Wonderswan | Dicing Knight. | 2004 | A roguelike with hectic gameplay, dice literally fly out of enemies when you attack them to determine damage done |
JP Wonderswan | Digimon Adventure 02: D1 Tamers | 2000 | Direct sequel to Tag Tamers, mostly the same, but utilizes the Wonderswan Color's palette |
JP Wonderswan | Digimon Adventure 02: Tag Tamers | 2000 | Turn-based digital monster collecting, fighting, and fusing gameplay, elaborates on a very important plot point in the anime |
JP Wonderswan | Makai Toushi SaGa | 2002 | A remake of the first SaGa game (Final Fantasy Legend), upped the graphics and added features like a bestiary and the ability to re-target enemies to not waste attacks once defeated |