10 Best JRPGs for PS4 in the UK (Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest and More)
Our buying guide is here to help newbies know where to start and showcase some excellent titles JRPG veterans may have missed. From Final Fantasy to Dragon Quest, in this article, we share with you our ranking of the top 10 JRPGs for the PS4. Read on for tips on what you should look for when shopping online on Amazon, Argos and eBay.
Quick List - Top JRPGs for PS4
Square Enix
Best Choice for a Contemporary Take on the Traditional JRPG Experience
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What Is a JRPG?
JRPGs have been around since the 1980s and have become somewhat synonymous with a particular type of game design that involves going on quests, level grinding and item collecting in order to navigate your party members through a series of turn-based battles.
Of course, not all JRPGs follow this format and there are many varied and unique games available to play, whether you are looking for a traditional JRPG or something more contemporary!
How to Choose a JRPG for PS4 in the UK ― Buying Guide
With so many JRPGs available, it can be difficult to know where to start when looking for games online, even if you are an avid gamer already. In our buying guide, we run down some of our top tips for the things you should consider when comparing JRPGs.
The Type of Battle System Influences Gameplay
The type of battle system a game uses is important when deciding what type of gameplay you might prefer. Consider whether you would like a slow paced tactical approach, or a bit more hack and slash when playing a JRPG.
Try Turn-based Battles for the Traditional JRPG Experience
Turn-based battle systems are generally considered to be the classic or traditional standard when it comes to JRPGs. Popularised in part by titles in series such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, battles progress via a series of turns in which the player controls their character(s) actions via commands, usually from a drop-down menu.
Turn-based JRPGs tend to appeal to those who like having time to strategise and prefer slower paced battles. It’s specifically because of this type of gameplay that many choose JRPGs, as it can be easy to grasp for newcomers and older fans alike.
Real-time Combat Provides Fast-paced Action
Gamers who enjoy fast-paced action, or wish to quickly bypass battles in favour of storyline progression, may find turn-based gameplay a little bit too slow. Many JRPGs, such as the Tales and Monster Hunter Series, have chosen to forego the traditional route in favour of action based game dynamics.
Real-time combat battle systems allow users to control their character’s actions directly using button commands without waiting turns. This style can allow players to feel more immediacy and excitement in battles, although it often limits commands to one character rather than having the option to influence the actions of each individual party member.
Linear Storylines Takes You On a Journey, While Open World Games Let You Explore
Games with a linear narrative take the lead, guiding players through a series of in-game events to progress the story. While many provide optional side quests and alternate endings, there is a pre-determined order of events one must complete.
For players who want a more independent experience, open world games let you explore at your own pace. These games typically have a non-linear narrative and instead allow players to roam freely within the world of the game.
Check For Online Content to Extend Gameplay
Be aware that games with online multiplayer modes generally require a subscription to PlayStation Plus which can be purchased as an extension of your PSN (PlayStation Network) account.
Games From Franchises Often Have a Familiar Design, Style and Gameplay
Many top JRPG titles belong to already established games series or come from renowned developers such as Square Enix or Atlus. Franchise series tend to stick to a specific formula, perhaps taking place in the same world, or having a similar design aesthetic or gameplay style.
Having previously played other games in the same franchise can be good indicator of whether or not you will likely enjoy a particular JRPG. So, you might want to pick a game from a series, developer or franchise you are already a fan of.
New gamers to a particular franchise should not necessarily be put off from trying a title from a pre-existing series. Although some will rely on familiarity, many primarily function as standalone games with new characters, stories and settings.
Make Sure the JRPG You Pick Is Age Appropriate
When shopping for games online you will notice a small rectangular box coloured green, orange or red with a number. The number denotes the minimum age deemed appropriate to play a particular game. For example; PEGI 12 games are suitable for players age 12 and older, whereas PEGI 18 games should only be played by adults over the age of 18.
For those who may be sensitive or have an aversion to certain themes, all PEGI rated games use a series of icons to make gamers aware of the inclusion of violence, substance abuse, offensive language and depictions of nudity or sexual references among others.
Top 10 Best JRPGs for PS4 in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Square Enix Dragon Quest XI ｜Echoes Of An Elusive Age | | Best Choice for a Contemporary Take on the Traditional JRPG Experience | |
2 | FromSoftware Bloodborne | | A Gripping Victorian Gothic JRPG | |
3 | Atlus Persona 5 | | The Most Stylish Turn-based JRPG | |
4 | Square Enix NieR: Automata | | A Uniquely Philosophical JRPG from Square Enix | |
5 | Capcom Monster Hunter World | | Hunt Monsters in This Exciting Action JRPG | |
6 | Square Enix World of Final Fantasy | | A Great Addition to the Final Fantasy Series for Players New and Old | |
7 | Bandai Namco Entertainment Ni No Kuni II｜Revenant Kingdom | | A Beautiful Fantasy Action JRPG | |
8 | Bandai Namco Entertainment Tales of Berseria | | A Darker Turn for the Sixteenth Iteration of the Tales Series | |
9 | Sega Yakuza 6｜The Song of Life | | A JRPG for Those Who Don’t Like JRPGs | |
10 | Square Enix Kingdom Hearts III | | A Triumphant Return to the Kingdom Hearts Series |
Square EnixDragon Quest XI ｜ Echoes Of An Elusive Age
Best Choice for a Contemporary Take on the Traditional JRPG Experience
A Blend of stylised Japanese manga-esque character designs and western Tolkien fantasy settings, the world of Erdrea is enchanting and highly immersive. We can’t recommend this one enough for traditional JRPG fans and those looking for an exciting initiation into the genre.
A Gripping Victorian Gothic JRPG
A top pick for those seeking something a bit more challenging, Bloodborne is a dense and captivating game. The often brutal difficulty makes progression through the game feel well earned. Don’t let the action fool you, players require quick wit and perseverance to beat this one!
The Most Stylish Turn-based JRPG
Live the double life of a Japanese high-schooler by day and Phantom Thief by night. The host of lovable characters and vibrant settings make navigating the various Tokyo districts as fun and engaging as infiltrating fantastical palaces to take down the bad guys.
A Uniquely Philosophical JRPG from Square Enix
Players experience the story by switching between the points of view of the game’s lead android characters. This at times bizarre and quirky game has a surprising depth, that gets you to consider philosophical questions regarding humanity and the meaning of life. With multiple endings and plenty of hidden details to uncover, you will want to replay this game over and over!
Hunt Monsters in This Exciting Action JRPG
Easy to navigate for both new players and those returning to the franchise, it expands upon the original Monster Hunter formula with 14 different weapon types and an advanced character builder that let’s you customise both your avatar and Palico companion like never before. You can even go online to recruit other players to help take down especially belligerent beasts.
A Great Addition to the Final Fantasy Series for Players New and Old
World of Final Fantasy follows the story of siblings Lann and Reynn as they traverse the land of Grymoire capturing and wielding monsters known as Mirages. This game bridges the gap between fans old and new, providing a brand new experience peppered with plenty of familiar faces as players encounter classic characters from the franchise.
Bandai Namco EntertainmentNi No Kuni II ｜ Revenant Kingdom
A Beautiful Fantasy Action JRPG
Upon completing chapter 2 this game becomes an open world adventure, allowing players to explore the various facets of the in-game environment. Roam through lush landscapes and catch Higgeldies, small elemental creatures, to buff stats and assist your party during battles. Be aware that this game is relatively combat heavy so you will be spending a fair amount of time fending off foes.
A Darker Turn for the Sixteenth Iteration of the Tales Series
This game uses a variation of the Tales series signature Linear Motion Battle System (LMBS) called Liberation-LMBS. This allows players to move freely and rotate the camera angle for smooth gameplay. While Berseria has a darker tone than other Tales games, there are still plenty of light and funny moments to prevent the game from feeling too heavy.
A JRPG for Those Who Don’t Like JRPGs
For those looking for something a bit different to the usual JRPG format, the Tekken-style real time combat system and wacky mini games keep this open world romp wildly entertaining from beginning to end. Note that this game contains adult themes so we recommend Yakuza 6 for mature audiences only.
A Triumphant Return to the Kingdom Hearts Series
Players return to follow Sora and the gang, as they jump between 7 new and exciting Disney worlds. Unfortunately, Kingdom Hearts III provides little to ease in newcomers, with a deep and complex lore that continues into the third instalment.
More for the PS4
The PS5 may have already hit the shelves, but that's no reason to retire your old console. There's still plenty of fun to be had, whether you're looking to try your hand at a new title or replay one of your old faves. Check out the articles below for more!
Summary
The best Japanese RPGs offer highly immersive, interactive experiences which have allowed the genre to endure and evolve. We hope this article has helped to pique your interest and perhaps introduced you to some fantastic JRPG titles for the PS4!
Author: Wren Mann
Top 5 JRPGs for PS4
No. 1: Square Enix｜Dragon Quest XI ｜Echoes Of An Elusive Age
No. 2: FromSoftware｜Bloodborne
No. 3: Atlus｜Persona 5
No. 4: Square Enix｜NieR: Automata
No. 5: Capcom｜Monster Hunter World
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.