Square Enix, a prominent player in the video game industry, has experienced numerous highs and lows. The company has explored both their Japanese and Western IPs, resulting in noteworthy outcomes, although not always meeting expectations. Nevertheless, there is no denying the immense size of this publisher, with an extensive library of developed games.
A significant characteristic of Square Enix titles is their considerable duration, often spanning many hours. These games offer players captivating and emotionally-driven storylines, keeping them engrossed for an extended period. While JRPGs are the most evident examples, Square Enix has also extensively ventured into various other genres.
8 Final Fantasy 10 (66 Hours)
After the arrival of the sixth generation of gaming consoles, Squaresoft realized they needed to make a significant impact with their next release. While the trilogy of games on the original PlayStation received acclaim, it was time for a notable upgrade.
Fortunately, Squaresoft heeded the call and introduced the iconic game known as Final Fantasy 10. Regarded by many as the final masterpiece of the classic Final Fantasy series, this game's brilliance is unrivaled. It marked a turning point in the evolution of the series for the better.
7 Star Ocean: Till The End Of Time (66 Hours)
Star Ocean is a lesser-known but well-established JRPG series that deserves more recognition. While it has its own imperfections, Star Ocean offers a collection of fantastic games featuring captivating turn-based gameplay.
One standout title is Star Ocean: Till the End of Time. Initially criticized by players for its numerous glitches, the game successfully addressed these problems and won over many fans. Its sci-fi elements flawlessly complement the overall experience.
6 Bravely Default (73 Hours)
Bravely Default, true to its name, embraces the nostalgic charm of old-school JRPGs. Initially appearing humble in its storyline, the stakes steadily escalate to the extraordinary extent of challenging a divine being.
With its traditional gameplay and versatile job system, Bravely Default effortlessly captures the hearts of any JRPG enthusiast. Its substantial playtime aligns seamlessly with the expectations of the genre, ensuring players remain engrossed from start to finish.
5 Octopath Traveler 2 (79 Hours)
Octopath Traveler introduced several innovative concepts and boasted stunning visuals. Unfortunately, the disjointed narratives posed a significant drawback, preventing numerous players from fully immersing themselves in the game.
As a result, fans were delighted when Octopath Traveler 2 not only acknowledged and rectified this widespread criticism but also enhanced gameplay in various other aspects. This outstanding contemporary release is a must-play for genre enthusiasts.
4 The Last Remnant (81 Hours)
The Last Remnant is an exceptionally distinct title that should be explored by players who enjoy unconventional JRPGs. Although the game's battle system may occasionally feel restrictive, it effectively portrays the immense scope of the engagements players participate in. Boasting an absorbing narrative and distinctive gameplay, The Last Remnant undeniably qualifies as a hidden gem, warranting greater recognition. The remastered edition rectifies any graphical flaws that afflicted its initial release, elevating the overall enjoyment of this game.
3 Dragon Quest 11: Echoes Of An Elusive Age (85 Hours)
Dragon Quest 11 made a huge impact with its latest installment, successfully revitalizing the series and positioning it as one of the most inclusive titles in its genre. Despite being hailed as a legendary franchise akin to Final Fantasy, it unfortunately lacked the widespread fanbase it truly deserved in the Western market.
However, with the game now available on all major platforms, players finally had the opportunity to experience and comprehend the enthusiasm surrounding this series. Echoes of an Elusive Age showcases a breathtaking world, seamless combat mechanics, and captivating storytelling, solidifying its position as one of the top JRPGs of the modern era by a significant margin.
2 Final Fantasy 12 (92.5 Hours)
Final Fantasy 12 underwent a significant transformation, drawing inspiration from the advancements made in its predecessor, the 11th installment. Departing from the traditional turn-based combat, the game now embraced an MMO-like system, effectively utilizing its single-player elements to create an immersive experience.
Although the combat may occasionally feel sluggish and the storyline may not captivate players as much as previous entries in the series, Final Fantasy 12 remains highly commendable for devoted fans. The Zodiac Age enhancement elevates the game by offering additional activities, along with various quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall gameplay experience.
1 Dragon Quest 7: Fragments Of The Forgotten Past (140 Hours)
Dragon Quest 7, a long-standing series, offers players the opportunity to enjoy an incredible game on the 3DS. The updated re-release significantly reduces the tedious grinding experienced in the original PlayStation version, making it highly recommended. With a remarkable reduction of 50 hours from the average playthrough, this remastered version showcases the game's extensive length. Although the combat system provides enjoyment, it fails to justify the overwhelming amount of grinding required in the base game.