Top RPGs on PlayStation Plus Extra & Premium - May 2023

Sony's new PlayStation Plus service has finally launched in North America, offering users access to hundreds of games across a variety of genres through its Extra and Premium subscriptions. This includes a selection of the best RPGs on PS Plus, with both Western and Japanese options available. Here is a rundown of the top RPGs available on the Premium and Extra tiers. Each entry notes whether the game is included in the Extra subscription, and Amazon listing pages have been provided for those who prefer physical copies. One of the standout options is Scarlet Nexus, a new IP from Bandai Namco Studios that offers a fast-paced, hack-and-slash action JRPG experience set in an alternate reality. Another top pick is Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age, a turn-based JRPG that harkens back to the early days of the genre and is available on the PS Plus Extra subscription.

Dragon Quest 11 S receives a few notable quality-of-life improvements and new features, such as a 16-bit mode, while maintaining its beautiful graphics, endearing characters, and enjoyable turn-based combat. With a lengthy campaign, it's no wonder that this Square Enix project is considered one of the best JRPGs available on PS Plus Extra.

Rune Factory 4 Special, the latest iteration in the series, improves upon an already successful formula with enhanced visuals and a new difficulty mode. The game offers a combination of farming simulator and dungeon-crawling RPG, allowing players to partake in diverse activities and socializing with NPCs. While the farming aspect may not be as deep as other games, such as Stardew Valley, it still provides a relaxing experience without taking up too much time. The dungeons are challenging and require the player to improve their weapons and armor through the game's crafting system. The social aspect is also among the game's strongest elements, with dates being an option for the protagonist. Rune Factory Oceans is available on PS Plus Premium.

Trials of Mana, a 2020 remake of the classic 1995 game, stays true to its roots with familiar gameplay and story progression. Players can choose from six protagonists, each with their own unique backstory and development. The real-time combat system improves as the campaign progresses, gaining momentum in the second half of the game.

Bloodborne.

Bloodborne is a dark fantasy RPG developed by FromSoftware, the studio behind the Dark Souls franchise and Elden Ring. Inspired by the works of horror authors like H.P. Lovecraft and Bram Stoker, Bloodborne is a PlayStation exclusive and is included with PS Plus Premium and Extra. With its challenging gameplay and disturbing visuals, Bloodborne has become a classic every PlayStation owner should try at some point. Demon's Souls is available on PS Plus Premium, while its remake is also on PS Plus Extra.

The Legend of Dragoon is a cult classic JRPG developed by Japan Studio for the PS1. With an approximate game length of 50 hours, this turn-based RPG features a lengthy storyline and random enemy encounters. Although difficult to find since it was never ported to other systems, The Legend of Dragoon is now widely accessible thanks to its addition to PS Plus Premium.

Neo: The World Ends With You is a game developed by Square Enix and h.a.n.d. for the PS4. With an approximate game length of

, this game promises to be an exciting addition to the PS4 library.

In March 2023, PS Plus subscribers were treated to a lineup of exciting games, including Day One release Tchia, Immortals Fenyx Rising, Street Fighter 5, Ghostwire: Tokyo, and Rage 2. Additionally, two Square Enix JRPGs were made available through PS Plus Extra - Final Fantasy Type-0 HD and the highly anticipated Neo: The World Ends with You. The latter is a sequel that retains the brilliant storytelling, presentation, and music of its predecessor, and offers a robust story with well-written characters and effective twists. Players take on the role of Rindo, fighting for their lives in the latest Reapers' Game while exploring Shibuya and leveling up their skills with pins.

In December 2022, PS Plus Extra added three lengthy single-player games for Yakuza fans - Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, Judgment, and Like a Dragon. The latter is a new beginning for the series, introducing a new protagonist, main location, and turn-based combat system inspired by Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy. The game's engrossing narrative is filled with lovable characters, shocking reveals, and emotional depth, while its side quests offer a nice change of pace and tone.

Dark Cloud 2, available on PS4, is an action JRPG from developer Level-5 with a main story length of approximately 50 hours.

Dark Cloud 2, a PlayStation 2 classic, is a charming JRPG that has aged beautifully over the last two decades. As Max and Monica, players explore dungeons in search of items that allow them and their village to grow. Rather than leveling up the protagonists, Dark Cloud 2 ties progression to weapons; the more a sword or gun is used, the stronger it becomes. Level-5's portfolio is filled with great JRPGs, but even in that competitive scene, Dark Cloud 2 still manages to stand out as being something extra special. This PS2 title is one of the best RPGs on PS Plus, and nostalgia has nothing to do with it. Dark Cloud is also available on PS Plus Premium.

South Park: The Fractured But Whole, developed by Ubisoft San Francisco and South Park Digital Studios, is available on PS4. This turn-based RPG has an approximate game length of 18 hours and is available with PS Plus Extra. The sequel to The Stick of Truth, The Fractured but Whole is a parody of superheroes, particularly their domination of the film industry. The grid-based combat system is solid, while the game looks exactly like the show. Hopefully, there will be future South Park games.

Haven, developed by The Game Bakers, is a survival RPG available on both PS5 and PS4. With an approximate game length of 12 hours, Haven is available with PS Plus Extra.

Haven is a co-op RPG that can also be played in single-player mode. The game follows the story of Yu and Kay, a couple who are searching for a new home in the universe. Although they find what seems to be the perfect planet, it is not welcoming to newcomers, and the duo must work together to establish their roots. Haven stands out with its focus on the relationship between the two protagonists, who are well-developed characters with unique personalities and gameplay mechanics. The game emphasizes exploration and resource acquisition, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more relaxed RPG experience.

Vikings: Wolves of Midgard is an action RPG that takes place in a Norse mythology-inspired world. As a Viking or Shieldmaiden, players are tasked with leading a village and expanding their territory through completing missions. Although the gameplay loop mainly involves killing enemies, Wolves of Midgard manages to make this process enjoyable with its solid loot system, responsive controls, and decent customization options. While it doesn't introduce many new ideas to the hack and slash RPG formula, this game is a worthy disciple of Diablo's mayhem.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade on PS Plus offers a modern retelling of the iconic story with a lot more than just a graphical upgrade. The game features fast-paced and addictive combat across a plethora of playable characters, utilizing an action-based battle system with a couple of turn-based options. The PS5 version includes Yuffie's "Intermission" DLC, a substantial addition that features unique bosses and mechanics. However, the PS4 vanilla version of the game is also available on PS Plus Premium and Extra. As Square Enix has announced the second part of the remake initiative, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, this is the perfect time for newcomers to jump into the first game. Other Final Fantasy titles available on PS Plus Premium and Extra include Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 8 Remastered, Final Fantasy 9, Final Fantasy 10/10-2 HD Remaster, Final Fantasy 12: The Zodiac Age, Final Fantasy 15: Royal Edition, and Final Fantasy Type-0 HD.

Nioh on PS Plus is a dark fantasy RPG that takes inspiration from Sengoku-era Japan, creating a visually satisfying and patience-challenging world. The game blends reality and fantasy to the point that the line between actual historical fact and mythological inspiration becomes blurred. Comparable to games like Dark Souls and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Nioh is like a more colorful, more mystical Sekiro with slightly easier gameplay but a much more comprehensive narrative.

Disgaea 5: Alliance Of Vengeance is available on PS4 with PS Plus Extra.

One of the less common sub-genres of RPGs is tactical JRPGs, but PS Plus has got that area covered with Disgaea. The franchise's fifth entry, Disgaea 5, boasts the best gameplay in the series with its accessible yet deep grid-based combat system and awesome class system. In addition to Disgaea 5, PS Plus Premium also offers Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice, Disgaea 4: A Promise Unforgotten, and Disgaea D2: A Brighter Darkness.

Conan Exiles is a survival game with RPG elements and offers players a decent amount of flexibility in how they choose to play the game. While the base loop revolves around survival mechanics and base building, players can also treat it as a traditional open-world RPG with a serviceable story and a degree of customization in the progression system. Exploration is a big draw for Conan Exiles.

Wild Arms 3 is another RPG available on PS4.

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Borderlands 3 is a looter-shooter RPG that is available with PS Plus Extra. The game has a main story length of approximately 25 hours and is developed by Gearbox. It is available on both PS5 and PS4.

Borderlands 3, added to PS Plus Extra in February 2023, is the latest mainline entry in Gearbox's franchise and boasts a highly anticipated looter-shooter experience. Despite a divisive story, the game's gunplay significantly improves on previous entries in the franchise, offering a more responsive and weighty experience. With each vault hunter featuring their own nuances, roles, and powers, Borderlands 3 offers a high replayability factor that complements the game's co-op. Additionally, PS Plus Premium includes Borderlands: The Handsome Collection, which contains Borderlands 2 and Pre-Sequel.

Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning, available on PS4, is a remaster of the game originally released during the PS3 era. Despite a complicated behind-the-scenes situation leading to its obscurity, the game remains fondly remembered for its action combat system that takes inspiration from the hack and slash genre. Players are encouraged to experiment with weapon types and are rewarded with plentiful loot while exploring the vibrant world of Faelands. Although its story may not be anything special, the gameplay is still enjoyable enough to warrant a recommendation, despite its age showing in some places.

Children of Morta, available with PS Plus Extra, is a roguelike RPG developed by Dead Mage. With an approximate game length of 14 hours, players embark on an adventure with the Bergson family, who must save their homeland from corruption. The game's pixel art and narrative-driven gameplay create a unique and engaging experience that is well worth trying out.

Children of Morta offers a unique and engaging experience as players control the Bergson family, fighting their way through a corrupted Mount Morta. While the levels are randomly generated and defeat sends players back to the family's base, the story develops in between runs, making it a fun and surprising single-player experience. Co-op mode is also available, allowing players to experiment with different character traits and find the perfect party setup.

Outriders, although categorized as an RPG, focuses primarily on third-person shooter gameplay, with its RPG elements adding some additional value. The core gunplay is the game's strongest feature, making it a great choice for PS Plus subscribers searching for a looter shooter. The campaign is combat-focused, with a skill tree adding an extra layer of depth.

Moonlighter offers a more laid-back option for those looking to relax with a game. The game is split into two sections: shop management and dungeon crawling. The latter serves as a way to acquire resources and loot that can be invested in the former. The pixel art style is gorgeous, bringing the game's setting and monsters to life. The loop is addictive and rewarding, while still providing enough of a challenge to keep players engaged.

Child of Light is a unique turn-based RPG developed by Ubisoft Montreal that includes platforming sections. As Aurora, players embark on a journey through the kingdom of Lemuria to defeat the Queen of the Night with the help of a few quirky heroes. This imaginative and endearing game has an approximate game length of 12 hours and is sure to put a smile on any player's face. It's no wonder why it's considered one of the best PS Plus RPGs available.

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is another great RPG available on PS Plus. Developed by CyberConnect2, this action RPG has an approximate game length of 30 hours and offers large open areas, side activities like fishing and hunting, and an in-universe social element via the community boards. Although it still utilizes the standard 3D arena combat system of Dragon Ball Z games, it offers a nice change of pace for the franchise.

Finally, the Fallout series (Fallout 3, Fallout New Vegas, and Fallout 4) are all available on PS Plus. Developed by Bethesda, these post-apocalyptic RPGs offer hours of gameplay on their respective platforms (PS3 and PS4). With their immersive worlds and engaging gameplay, it's no surprise they have become fan favorites.

The Fallout series has experienced a slight decline in popularity since the release of Fallout 76, but fans of the franchise still hold the earlier titles in high regard. Despite their outdated graphics, both Fallout 3 and New Vegas are complex, open-world shooter RPGs that offer players a great deal of freedom to shape the game's world. Fallout 4 is also considered a solid addition to the franchise, though it didn't receive the same critical acclaim as New Vegas. If you've only played Fallout Shelter or Fallout 76, you're missing out on some of the best storytelling, environments, and combat systems of the 2010s.

Atelier Rorona Plus: The Alchemist of Arland is a turn-based JRPG that revolves around alchemy and offers a more laid-back tone and pacing than most games in the genre. Although it features a stronger sense of urgency than most other titles in the Atelier franchise, it still represents the overall experience of the series. Atelier Rorona Plus serves as a good starting point for those new to the franchise. Premium subscribers to PS Plus have access to five Atelier games, including Atelier Meruru - The Alchemist of Arland 3, Atelier Ayesha: The Alchemist of Dusk, Atelier Escha & Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky, and Atelier Shallie: Alchemists of the Dusk Sea. Atelier Rorona Plus is an ideal pick for Premium's Cloud Streaming.