Underrated JRPG Gems You Need to Discover: A Ranking

Sure, let’s dive into this whirlwind of JRPG goodness! I mean, who doesn’t get a little nostalgic thinking about those pixelated gems, right? So here’s my two cents, or maybe a buck fifty, on some epic hits and teeny hidden treasures from the JRPG universe.

First off, we all know JRPGs are as diverse as a box of assorted chocolates. From action-packed thrillers to methodical, thought-provoking tactics games, there’s a flavor for every gamer out there. You’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.

Slayers (1994) — Imagine it’s 1994 again, and you’re on the Super Famicom, diving into a world where a sorceress named Lina Inverse awakens with… zero memories of her powers. How’s that for a rough morning? She hooks up with some fellow sorceresses—a bit of a reunion tour, really—to fight a big baddie, Zelas Metallium. It’s the quirky character banter and goofy charm that really makes this one pop, more than just its turn-based combat. Big fans out there still remember it, promise.

Radiata Stories (2005) — Initially got a big ol’ "meh" from critics when it launched. Wasn’t exactly the hype-maker it was supposed to be. Still, it has since dug itself a nice little niche thanks to its unique ‘persistent world’ shenanigans. As the game progresses, so does the world; stuff evolves around you, which is kinda neat. A cozy classic on the PS2 now, even if it wasn’t love at first sight.

Energy Breaker (1996) — Never heard of it? You’re probably not alone. It’s like the shy kid who’s actually ridiculously cool once you get to know them. Released only in Japan, it threw a wrench into the usual JRPG formula by mixing tactical elements into its combats. Myra, our protagonist—one minute she’s just chilling, the next she’s time-traveling to thwart some Dark Generals. Gotta love a good time-bending adventure!

Lufia 2: Rise of the Sinistrals — Alright, so maybe it’s more underground than your usual 90s JRPG, but seriously, it deserves some praise. It’s the prequel juice to the first game’s lemonade, featuring Maxim and his battle against god-like baddies. Packed with brain-busting puzzles and a story that actually holds water, Lufia 2 found a snug spot in many hearts.

Shadow Hearts (2001) — What happens when you toss some horror into the JRPG cauldron? You get Shadow Hearts, duh. Think early 1900s: a shapeshifting Yuri snags monsters like collectibles, all to protect a friend from a wicked magician. It’s kind of standard turn-based stuff, but hey, the eerie atmosphere sets it apart. Surreal and spooky, just the way we like it.

Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber (1999) — Despite an unnecessarily long title, it didn’t quite hit the jackpot on popularity. A rare tactical style on the N64, it’s Magnus and his battalion versus civil war chaos. Tactical combat galore! Building and leading units, watching the plot twist and turn… you’d think more people would’ve noticed this gem.

Skies of Arcadia (2000) — Last but not least, Skies of Arcadia sets you up with an airship and the open skies. Vyse and crew are busy shooing away the Valuan Empire’s bad guys. Released on Dreamcast, it flew under the radar until it found its wings on Gamecube. The flying pirate theme was just the cherry on top of its adventurous cake.

There you go! Whether it’s the underdogs or the overshadowed legends, these JRPGs are worth digging into. Even if they’re a bit oddball, maybe that’s what makes them so captivating. Sort of like this rambling narrative—beautifully chaotic, if I do say so myself.