This list brings together a ranking of the best JRPGs you can play right now in 2026.
The JRPG as a genre is one that's been the subject of much debate over the years, and what it constitutes has also changed over time, too. While it used to simply be applied to RPGs made by Japanese developers, it's more often applied to RPGs that are distinctly Japanese in their design, meaning that they tend to focus on storytelling and are more complex.
With some of the best RPGs and the best story-driven RPGs being influenced by some classic JRPGs in terms of design, we've put our heads together to bring you a ranking we think captures the highlights of the genre today. From some of the latest new games, to influential classics that still hold up, we've also included the kind of vibe you can expect from each (with you can learn more about in our FAQ section). So, if you're ready to explore our ranking, read on to discover the 15 best JRPGs to play in 2026
The best JRPGs of all time, starting with...
15. Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter
Release date: September 19, 2025
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch 2
Vibe: Story-driven
In 2025, we got a remake of the first Trails game, and boy, is it a stunner. The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky first came out in 2004 and is a sprawling adventure centered around siblings Estelle and Joshua Bright as they work to track down a missing Cassius Bright and solve a whole host of problems along the way. While the original game had a top-down, isometric perspective, the remake modernizes everything, giving the title a 3D Genshin Impact-like experience instead. And, it works beautifully.
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remake makes the game more accessible than ever and really does feel like a love letter to fans. It's also one I'd recommend to newcomers. Sure, Trails may seem intimidating, but it really is worth your time, and if you are worried about jumping in, we've also made a handy Trails beginners' guide to help you on your way with this amazing series.
14. Skies of Arcadia
Release date: November 14, 2000
Platform(s): Dreamcast, GameCube
Vibe: Story-driven
Alongside a motley crew, you sail through the air as a skypirate, battling an evil empire with swashbuckling special moves, manning the cannons in ship battles, and unravelling an ancient conspiracy that could shake the foundations of your skyborne existence. What's not to love?
Sure, there's some awkward auto-positioning in battles that can see your party line themselves up to get mushed by a boss' ultimate attack at the worst moment, but it's a sign of the sheer sense of adventure that despite that, this sequelless JRPG locked to Dreamcast and Gamecube remains in the hearts of so many (seriously, it'd be one of the best Switch 2 virtual console game additions they could make). Spanning colorful, vibrant islands with different cultures, these skies come to vivid life each time I replay.
13. Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Release date: June 14, 2024
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is the perfect title for JRPG fans looking for a challenge. Let's just get this fact out of the way first: combat in this game is tough, even for turn-based veterans. However, the difficultly makes sense considering how grand the story is. Basically, Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance takes place during a war between angels and demons in Tokyo, and you'll have to embark on a journey to become a demigod and forge your own fate.
Enemies can stack extra turns if they land a critical hit or hit a weakness; you can lose turns as well, and basically, each encounter is intense and can go wrong very quickly. But, this difficulty spike works perfectly as the game pushes you to try and recruit the hundreds of demons to assist you and your team, and is also uber satisfying as a result.
12. Nier Automata
Release date: March 17, 2017
Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One
Vibe: Story-driven
Nier Automata isn't just one of the best JRPGs of all time, but it's also the perfect blend of the hack-n-slash and shoot-em-up genres as well, all wrapped up in an interesting sci-fi narrative. The story is set during a proxy war between human-made androids and alien-crafted machines. You'll step into the shoes of combat androids, have to play through it multiple times, and witness some surprisingly deep and existential writing in the process.
In our Nier: Automata review, we mentioned how this game will "stay with you long after you've set the controller down". That statement still holds true today, and if you haven't played it yet, it's definitely one to check out. The good news is that it often goes on sale on Steam, so if you are a PC player looking to pick it up, I recommend keeping an eye on Valve's platform for deals.
11. Digimon Story: Time Stranger
Release date: October 2, 2025
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Story-driven
Digimon Story: Time Stranger is the newest entry to the iconic creature collector JRPG, and not only did it grab the top spot in our best Digimon games list when it came out, but it's also managed to beat out Pokemon (for now) for a place on this ranking. While the game doesn't hold your hand with detailing certain mechanics, it evolves the monster battling, raising, and collecting mechanics from the earlier Story games beautifully. The story is also very entertaining and really does make you feel like you're a lead in an anime series.
You take on the role of an agent of ADAMAS, an organization who investigate strange happenings such as cryptid sightings. But, while on a case, you're thrown into a series of events that threaten to bring about the end of the world. It's pretty intense and paired with raising a team that really feels like family by the end of the game, Time Stranger is the easiest Digimon game to get into for newbies and a joy for long-time fans as well. Read more about it with our Digimon Story: Time Stranger review!
10. Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition
Release date: May 29, 2020
Platform(s): Switch
Vibe: Story-driven
The epic JRPG from Monolith made a comeback in a big way on Switch thanks to the Definitive Edition. As well as enhanced visuals, Xenoblade Chronicles got improved battle and inventory UI, along with an all new epilogue chapter. Following the origins of Shulk as he goes up against the mechanical Mechon.
With a sprawling world to explore, plenty of side quests outside of its main story, and its own blend of real-time combat with a party of companions, Xenoblade Chronicles was an impressively modern JRPG for its time that continues to stand the test of time as one of the best action games in the genre with its revamped release. Want to know more? Head over to our Xenoblade Chronicles review.
9. Unicorn Overlord
Release date: March 8, 2024
Platform(s): PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Story-driven
Unicorn Overlord comes from the creators behind 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, and sees you take on the role of Alain as you set out to liberate kingdoms across of Cornia. With in-depth battles that let you put your strategy prowess to the test, you can customize your own party of units, and raise up an army of over 60 unique characters.
With a stunning visual style that brings the world and its characters to life in charming detail, Unicorn Overlord was one of the best games of 2024. In fact, if you need more reasons to consider giving this one a go, you can see why it quickly become a major highlight in 2024 for one of our writers.
8. Metaphor: ReFantazio
Release date: October 10, 2024
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
From the developers of the Persona games, Metaphor: ReFantazio is easily one of the most stunning entries on our list and is also one of the best games of 2024. Taking place in a politically charged world, you're thrown into a story where the king has been assassinated, and the battle for power is in full swing. You are best friends with the crown prince (who has been cursed) and must take part in the competition for the throne via an in-depth election process that evolves as you continue through the 80-hour main story. The storytelling here is mature, unpacking themes of inequality and corruption.
You get a full look at the world as you travel around, meeting and interacting with companions and more. A lot of the gameplay in Metaphor: ReFantazio feels like classic Persona, as you work on a calendar-based system, where you must choose how to spend your days in the runup towards the decision of who gets the throne. You'll make meaningful connections with other characters and have a balance between socializing with dungeon crawling. Basically, this is the perfect JRPG package. Read our Metaphor ReFantazio review for more on this 2024 must-play!
7. Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
Release date: September 27, 20219
Platform(s): PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One
Vibe: Story-driven
The Definitive Edition of Dragon Quest 11 is unquestionably the best way to experience one of the best JRPGs from creator Yuji Horii. You can even switch between 2D and 3D graphics to get a retro taste of the experience and enjoy the colorful world and character designs from Dragon Ball artist Akira Toriyama.
As a traditional JRPG that's easy to jump into without any prior knowledge of the Dragon Quest series, the 11th entry takes you to a beautiful, lavish world filled with a vast variety of different foes that let you make the most of the polished turn-based combat. With a cast of memorable characters and a satisfying level of challenge, Dragon Quest 11 really is packed with charm. For more information on this top-notch JRPG, read our Dragon Quest 11 S – Definitive Edition review.
6. Yakuza: Like A Dragon
Release date: November 10, 2020
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduced one of the best protagonists in recent memory in Ichiban Kasuga (which is no small feat when other entries in the series brought the legend that is Kiryu). As a big fan of Dragon Quest, we see the world through Ichi's RPG-loving heart, which transforms this Yakuza adventure into a JRPG of its very own. Packed full of humor and loving homages to traditional JRPGs, Ichiban's quests make a departure from the beat-'em up style action that's a mainstay feature in previous Yakuza games with turn-based combat.
It's hard not to be utterly charmed by Like A Dragon's take on turn-based combat, with a cast of loveable and eccentric characters. It plays on the idea of having a party so spectacularly well and really makes it so easy to bond with those you fight alongside. This isn't just one of the best JRPGs around; it's one of the best Yakuza games you can play - so read more about it in our Yakuza: Like a Dragon review.
5. Earthbound
Release date: August 27, 1994
Platform(s): SNES, Switch
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
Also known as Mother 2, EarthBound is a JRPG full of surprises that has earned itself a passionate following over the years. Now with the release of EarthBound Beginnings and EarthBound on Switch, we can once again relive the wonderfully unique and memorable adventure all over again. Following the story of a young boy called Ness, you set out to save the world from the alien threat known as the Giygas.
Along with a group of friends, you face a host of unusual, imaginative enemies through various locales. The 2D look of EarthBound still holds up to this day as one of the best video game stories ever made, and its writing has lots of heart and humor that's worth experiencing for yourself.
4. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Release date: July 26, 2019
Platform(s): Switch
Vibe: Story-driven
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is an exemplary entry in the long-running JRPG strategy series that just begs to be replayed thanks to the various paths you can follow. Set in Fodlan, you take on the role of a professor who can choose to teach one of three different houses. Each house is led differently by a group of students who all have their unique personalities and stories to tell. Using its grid-based combat system, you're challenged to use all of your students tactically to emerge victorious from each conflict.
Each student's fighting style can also be changed and improved off the battlefield as you take to teaching classes. The sweeping story is set over the course of many years, but the characters are undoubtedly the game's beating heart. Fire Emblem: Three Houses will pull you right in and surprise you with its depth and satisfying sense of progression. It's also one of the best Switch games that you can play right now, so definitely check it out. And if this doesn't convince you, our glowing Fire Emblem: Three Houses review surely will.
3. Persona 5 Royal
Release date: March 31, 2020
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X/S
Vibe: Story-driven
Persona 5 has all of the classic makings of a JRPG with turn-based combat, dungeons, a party of characters that fight alongside you, and different fighting styles. But it also succeeds at feeling very modern thanks to its story and setting, which follows a group of teenagers that confront various social issues as the Phantom Thieves.
Following a calendar year structure, you'll spend your days and weeks going to school, taking on classes, getting to know your fellow students and companions, and even develop a romantic relationship should you choose to. With an utterly slick soundtrack, engaging combat, and all of the social sim aspects, it's all too easy to lose hours of your time getting caught up in this satisfying JRPG that may just be the best Persona game yet. Read our Persona 5 review for more details on this JRPG gem!
2. Final Fantasy 7
Release date: January 31, 1997
Platform(s): PS1, PS4
Vibe: Story-driven
The Final Fantasy series is full of excellent JRPG experiences, but Final Fantasy 7 is arguably one of the most influential among them. The cast of memorable characters have found their way into popular culture time and again, and it's still very much in the collective consciousness of players today thanks to the release of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series.
When the game first released in 1997, it introduced a whole new generation to JRPGs on the PS1 and became a huge success. Delivering an in-depth story with many twists and turns, Cloud's journey leaves a lasting impression, and its signature blend of turn-based combat and leading protagonists still captures the hearts of players all these years later.
1. Chrono Trigger
Release date: March 11, 1995
Platform(s): SNES, PC
Vibe: Story-driven
This classic '90s JPRGs still stands as one of the very best you can play today and is easily one of the best SNES games in history. The epic adventure was brought to life and developed through the collaboration of some very notable creators - With Dragon Quest's Yuji Hori, Final Fantasy's Hironobu Sakaguchi, and Dragon Ball's Akira Toriyama all bringing their talents to create the world and story of Chrono Trigger.
Following a story of time travel that unfolds across many different eras, there's plenty of humor and charm to be found in what becomes an unforgettable journey with real-time turn-based combat. While the graphics may be slightly dated by today's standards, the 2D look still holds up well today.
Best JRPGs FAQs
How do we decide on our ranking of the best JRPGs?
Working together with fellow fans and veteran players on the team here at GamesRadar+, I've carefully considered what JRPGs should be included in this best list ranking. Alongside games we've personally enjoyed and personally recommend, we've also paid mind to releases in the genre that made a significant impact or brought something unique to the table. From some of the latest new games that stand out for one reason or another, to older JRPGs that helped to shape the genre, or had a lasting impact, we've made sure to include picks across different decades and console generations to really celebrate all that we've seen over the years.
Our RPG "Vibes" explained
Our RPG vibes are used in our best RPG lists to give a short descriptor that captures the kind of experience you can expect from each pick in our ranking at a glance. While more than one vibe can often apply to any given game, I've picked the one I think best reflects the experience within the list it's in. You can find a breakdown of our RPG vibes below:
- Story-driven: RPGs where the story propels your journey forward, with unforgettable companions and impactful choices and consequences.
- Better with Friends: RPGs that can be played solo but thrive with others. These offer the possibility for shared experiences, be that online or locally.
- Quick Play: RPGs that aren't hard to pick up and play whenever you have the spare time. The perfect choice for busy folks after quick gaming sessions.
- Chill Out: RPGs that let you take things at your own pace, explore, and venture on side-quests if you choose. For those looking for a less demanding and more stress-free time.
- Expect the Unexpected: RPGs where you can get silly and find yourself in novel and very unusual situations. Things can go wrong quickly, but also in very funny directions.
Why do we update our best JRPGs ranking?
Here at GamesRadar+, we always want to ensure our best lists reflect the best games currently available within the genre. As such, we like to take into account any new games that have been released since the list was last updated or created, and also consult with one another on the team to ensure we still stand by our current ranking.
How frequently do we update our best lists?
We tend to update our best lists on at least a monthly basis. This to make sure we're taking any new games into consideration within the genre that may deserve a place in our list. Sometimes, we may also update a page if there's an upcoming release we think is worth highlighting, or we feel that a recent game update or change affects the position of one our current picks. Of course, sometimes we are happy with our existing ranking, in which case, it won't change.
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