After the huge success of the PS1, developers around the world wanted to bring games and sequels to the PS2. The JRPG industry was no exception. Sony’s second console saw a safe haven for innovation and a decisive leap into 3D graphics.
Many JRPGs were born on the PS2, but other JRPGs continued to evolve in technology. Some of these games introduced new features that inspire the industry for years to come, and while some have tried, they have not been able to fully adapt to the new reality.
This work will introduce many JRPG hits on PS2. There are games from the series that are still strong today, games that peaked on this console, and some of them saw the final entry here before they became obscured.
Without further ado, enjoy this list of the 10 best PS2 JRPGs ranked in my personal preferences.
Include only one game per series.
10
Rogue Galaxy
Try it a bit for my taste, but a great game
I know I’ll start this list with a contradictory note, but I have to say: I don’t think Rogue Galaxy Is that okay? I like the game (I platinumed it after 80 hours), but in the end I still found it very much Try Hardif that makes sense. Its beautiful cinematography and fantastic cutscenes are distracted by the bloated gameplay system.
Rogue Galaxy Kick off with the van. Our main character, Jaster Rogue, is one of many who is enslaved to the planet Rosa. One day, after being mistaken for the Galaxy Top Hunter, he joins a pirate crew and sets out on an interplanetary journey that involves saving the entire universe, as this is a JRPG.
At first, the plot unfolds in an incredible way, honoring the halt of our disbelief. But then it becomes excessive and throws into Deus Ex Machina, giving too many giants to our heroes, not necessary. It’s just…too much.
It also defines a gameplay system. What was thought to be a simple action RPG driven by an infinite weapon fusion system has continued to grow into factory manufacturers, bug catching mini-games, collections, and many other features you don’t. I have it They’re there so they get involved, but still feel forced. For all its praise, Rogue Galaxy Less certainly shows more.
9
sigaea: dark time
Timing of the key comedy
Megalomaniac’s protagonist, comedy story beats, increasing damage count, strategic gameplay? Check, check, check, check. I was able to explain something essentially sigaea It’s a game, but it was the first to put the series on the map for tactical RPG fans.
For those who don’t know, sigaea It is known as a series that can hit astronomical levels and damage counts. For consciousness, that’s exactly why they love it. Personally, I’m not too interested because it usually means Grindfest. However, there is no denying that diving into battle or steaming enemies with over-the-top AX skills is extremely satisfying.
If you’re a casual player like me, it’s still fun to enjoy sigaea: dark time Thanks to that hilarious plot. In the game, we chase after Lahar when he rises to become the best overlord of the Netherworld after his father’s death. We meet a very unusual cast of characters whose God Knows horses are perfectly tied to the story.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind it, your only goal is to take your characters to level 9999, regenerate them, rinse and repeat, turn them into the most powerful pudding in history. You will also enjoy hours of sigaea: time… good times.
8
Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter
Whether you love it or hate it, it’s still a breath of fire
Yeah, yeah, probably killed entry Breath of fire The series stole the entire identity and introduced a mechanism that makes no sense in JRPGs. I’ve heard it all, but it doesn’t take away my gratitude Dragon Quarter.
If you’ve seen my best PS1 JRPG list, you know Breath of Fire III It’s my favorite game. So I should have an insane hatred Dragon Quarter To end the blind worship simply because it is possible to end the series, or because it is part of it. Breath of fire. But either way, trust me. I’m becoming more professional, so I can judge the game by its own merits.
Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter It’s atypical. Its combat system is easy to learn, but it is extremely difficult to master. It’s a real-time and turn-based mix. Then comes the controversial D-counter. The more you turn into a dragon, the higher the counter will climb. If it’s 100% hit, it’s game over and probably playthrough hard rock.
But that’s fine Dragon Quarter The story features a Logelite-style system. With each reset of the game, the D-ratio increases, opening previously locked doors to allow you to see more of the story through the scenario overlay system. in short, Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter I’m hoping to reset the game, but even if it rubs the conservative fans of the franchise the wrong way, it sets the stage.
7
Shadow Hearts: Contract
Most non-Japanese JRPGs
Some say that JRPGs are RPGs made in Japan. I disagree. I think JRPGs are a subgenre that includes elements of Japanese culture, but developers can create them from anywhere. Don’t agree with me? Second, what happens when Japan creates RPGs that are not based on Japanese culture? Shadow Hearts? Will it just be… an RPG?
The first game in the series and Shadow Hearts: Contract It takes place in Europe, Russia, China, and yes, Japan, but they honestly have little to consider it a “JRPG” beyond timing input and turn-based combat with some demonic creatures inspired by Japanese folklore.
Perhaps that’s what makes it so unique and interesting. Unlike many colorful and optimistic JRPGs with an anime aesthetic, Shadow Hearts Even being bound by historical events like World War I was covered in more fear. And yet, it has its originality, predictably comedic, and of course, a story packed with supernatural elements.
If you’re looking for a game unlike anything you’ve seen before, check it out Shadow Hearts series. It’s started coachalthough I would not recommend it. I’ll go soon Shadow Heartsthoroughly enjoy the second game, Shadow Hearts: Contractand if you really love it, give it From the new world shot.
6
Star Ocean: Until the end of time
The best in the series
Once I heard it all Star Ocean The game was 7, but it was the best 7 you’ve ever played. This sounds like a sleazy statement, but it’s oddly accurate. I love Star Oceanand I am one of the few champions in the series. If Square Enix releases its 7th main entry, it will jump to Joy. On the other hand, I fully understand whether the company will let the series collect dust.
every Star Ocean Mixing sci-fi with medieval fantasy, that’s no different Star Ocean: Until the end of time. Here, after a family vacation is so badly wrong, Fate finds himself caught up in intergalactic conspiracy that involves party members from various planets and rich backstory. Despite the controversial ending, the story is intriguing through.
One of the third important points Star Ocean It’s a way that the game doubles the item creation mechanic, and like our work and its combat system, we can even patent our creations and earn royalties. The transition to 3D greatly improves combat, and even quirky features like dying if MP hits can be ignored in favor of more refined action.
Star Ocean: Until the end of time It’s my favorite series, warts, etc. I know the remake Star Ocean Second Story r Most mechanically refined and modern adapted, but if you like the saga and have never played the third game, give it a shot.
5
The Story of Abyss
Symphonia is still excellent
To be honest, I like it Symphony of the story. But since then Symphony Only the PS2 in Japan was released, reaching international audiences only with the PS3 collection. I want to be fair and include only entries that are available worldwide on the PS2. therefore, The Story of Abyss.
I haven’t said it The Story of Abyss Despite its drawbacks, it doesn’t deserve a spot on the list. God knows how much I want to slap Luke on the head for most of the game. But he’s so annoying and there’s a very good reason. In fact, the whole story abyss Its theme includes elements and a seventh discovery, and is pretty solid.
Like everything story Games, Spotlights are sent to the characters. It’s a joy to see the party together and especially the mesh through the features of Skits. When there is a good story to rely on, and, fortunately, even better The Story of Abyss We offer one of the best in the franchise.
The combat system follows the traditional linear motion battle system, but this is where the freerun debuts, allowing characters to move freely in 3D. There is also a field of FONONS mechanics. In this field, using Arte or Spell while standing in FOF will change the effect of your skill.
4
Persona 3
Death has charm
The birth of social links in JRPGs. Some vague games probably already included relationship mechanics in the past, but that was the case Persona 3 It really popularized it, and started to engage players with NPCs and discover their deepest, most intimate backstory.
I get the discussion of people I like Persona 4But I went with Persona 3 Tartarus is uncomfortably boring, but because of its cultural relevance. Still, the dungeon’s gameplay loop was essential to showcase countless persona variations and what could be pulled out with another turn system.
Let’s be real, no one will play Persona Technically, it is always tackled for combat gameplay, rather its suffocating story and heavy themes. Persona 3 I chose to focus on the theme of death.
From the beginning, the story pushes away the mystery after our mystery. Why do we wake up in the middle of the night, all humans turn to co, and why do we have the power to summon Persona? The results are heartbreaking and to this day, it is one of the best JRPGs.
3
Kingdom Hearts II
Strongest Friendship Power to date
I’m not a gambler, but I’ll never bet, even if I was the most dangerous Kingdom Hearts. Disney Universe mashup and Final Fantasy? It’s not going well. But somehow, it was and it worked.
first Kingdom Hearts It was full of charm, but the gameplay was a bit shaky. Sora’s movements and camera were stiff, AI was more angry than he helped you, and his progress was pretty basic. That has completely changed Kingdom Hearts IIThis has been considered with many people, including the best games in the series.
Plot, well…it’s complicated. I love the lore built around friendship, light and darkness, and how they interacted with Donald and Squall without sounding strange. Still, I admit that at some point I lost the plot, and today I am just enjoying the power of my keyblade, and I am just together for a ride.
Gameplay continues to improve in many ways, always throwing out eccentric and clever innovations. Kingdom Hearts II We have introduced a response command that is modified based on the enemy you are fighting for. This is a major upgrade to the Action RPG formula. There are also systems, world explorations, collectibles, and things I love to watch in JRPGs.
2
Dragon Quest VIII: The Cursed King’s Journey
Natural evolution of JRPGs
in front Dragon Quest VIIII was playing Dragon Quest Series in a scattered way. I dabbled in the 7th entry on PS1 and tried a few. Dragon Quest Monster For Game Boy. But for some reason, only my younger self can explain, but I didn’t like the first person perspective on fighting. I wanted to see the characters.
So when I played Dragon Quest VIII On PS2, I was really involved in the game. Watching characters move during combat was as easy as it would get, but I was hyped. It was adorned by the character’s various weapons and talents that were developed and new skills were learned accordingly.
But what made me crazy Dragon Quest VIII That was the story. Our main character is as quiet as ever, and is an ordinary soldier. However, once he was cursed, he was forced to go on an adventure to save himself and the world, along with the members of the beautiful party.
Until today, I don’t know Dragon Quest VIII or Dragon Quest XI It’s my favorite of the series. Ultimately, that doesn’t matter as it’s a great game and a must-see for JRPG fans.
1
Final Fantasy X
Turnbase is still working, Final Fantasy
My favourite Final Fantasy teeth Final Fantasy XIVbut I’ll always say it officially, as it took some expansion before that shift happened. Final Fantasy X It’s my choice. That was before Final Fantasy IXtake care, I know there are soft spots for more medieval and magical FFS.
There’s a catharsis about seeing Square produce one of the most amazing entertainment in the gaming world. I know that’s not, but that’s how it feels.
Since Final Fantasy IVthey leaned against the ATB, a more dynamic turn-based combat. Strangely enough, they have returned to almost classic turn-based Final Fantasy XCTB (conditional turn-based) still had gimmicks.
But aside the gameplay, what attracted me Final Fantasy X It was the story and how the story was told. We are always in Tidus’s perspective. Tidus’s perspective was created from the player’s perspective. He is just as alien to Spara’s events and habits. Together, this game introduces us to this universe and together we fall in love with it.
I was able to write the entire article Final Fantasy X. This is a game I really love with, with all my heart. Like many years of family that we only watched on holidays, every moment we spent together was unforgettable.
I don’t like turn-based or more action-oriented orientation Final Fantasy future. I want R&D to innovate ourselves, take risks and make us gifts without worrying about what gamers today want, or the graphics they present to shareholders at financial meetings.
