Unveiling the Ultimate Ranking: The Definitive List of Top 10 NES RPGs!

Highlights

The NES revolutionized the video game industry and brought iconic games like

Super Mario Bros

.,

The Legend of Zelda

, and

Metroid

into people's homes.

Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest introduced the concept of RPGs on the NES, providing players with immersive and intricate gameplay, enabling them to personalize their gaming experience through decision-making that directly influenced their characters' abilities and overall team dynamics.

Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest,

and

Fire Emblem

started on the NES and laid the foundation for long-lasting and beloved franchises in the JRPG genre.

The Nintendo Entertainment System marked a significant milestone in the evolution of video games, introducing arcade-quality experiences to people's homes. Not only did it revolutionize the medium, but it also paved the way for the creation of some of the most iconic games ever made. From Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda to Metroid, the NES became synonymous with unparalleled gaming experiences.

Moreover, the NES served as a platform for pioneering video game RPGs. These role-playing games offered longer and more intricate gameplay, surpassing the limitations of traditional arcade cabinets. They provided players with the ability to customize their gaming experience, assembling their own team and gaining power through their decisions. These cherished 8 RPGs on the NES continue to leave a lasting impression.

8 Glory Of Heracles 2: Titan's Downfall

The NES had numerous games based on Greek mythology, with titles like Nintendo's Kid Icarus and RPGs such as The Battle of Olympus. Among these, the Glory of Heracles series stands out, despite its limited release in Japan. However, the sequel, Glory of Heracles 2: Titan's Downfall, surpasses its predecessor in terms of strength and drama.

Glory of Heracles 2 follows a more traditional approach to modern-day RPGs by incorporating a party system and a day/night cycle. Although the game was never officially released in the West, fan translations have made it accessible to English-speaking players. It is unfortunate that this game has not yet made its way to the Nintendo Switch Online arcades.

7 Fire Emblem Gaiden

Fire Emblem took a while to gain its current worldwide popularity, but many fundamental aspects of the series were present from the start. Fire Emblem Gaiden, one of the earliest games, was released for the Famicom in 1992, just two years after the SNES's global launch. Despite initially not resonating with fans of the first game, the original NES version of Fire Emblem Gaiden eventually showcased enduring enhancements to its characters, storyline, and gameplay, cementing its significant contribution to the ongoing success of the Fire Emblem franchise.

6 Final Fantasy

The initial release of Final Fantasy on the NES in 1997 bears little resemblance to the more recent entries in the series. During that time, the game featured a top-down JRPG format with turn-based battles and random enemy encounters on the map. Interestingly, this gameplay structure shares similarities with Nintendo's later creation of the Pokemon formula on the GameBoy, a decade later.

Nevertheless, this game holds the distinction of being the catalyst for one of the longest and most renowned franchises in the realm of video games. Many of the game's defining aspects, such as its six character classes and world-building elements, continue to be iconic components within the franchise's extensive history. Furthermore, it has served as an inspiration for numerous JRPG franchises that came after, despite not being Square Enix's initial attempt.

5 Dragon Quest

Although the initial Dragon Quest game did not attract audiences like Final Fantasy, some RPG enthusiasts may argue that it is the superior JRPG. In contrast to Final Fantasy's party system, Dragon Quest allows players to control only one character. Originally titled Dragon Warrior for its Famicom launch in 1986, the game's lack of English localization until 1989 contributed to its limited interest among Western audiences. Despite its commercial failure, the Dragon Quest fanbase remains devoted and robust, ensuring the ongoing success of the series.

4 Mother

Many RPG fans would argue that the SNES sequel to Mother, known as Earthbound, is the better game in the franchise, and they would likely be correct. Mother may seem primitive compared to its more polished and expansive sequel, but it sets the groundwork for what could be considered Nintendo's finest RPG. However, upon its release, it divided opinions.

Not only was Mother released late in the NES's lifecycle, but it also presented RPG fans with a high level of difficulty, which was quite innovative considering its modern-day American setting. Interestingly, the game did not receive a Western release until the Wii U Virtual Console, where it was renamed as Earthbound Beginnings. This makes it a popular choice for fans of the sequel to experience.

3 Zelda II: The Adventure Of Link

Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is a game in the franchise known as The Legend of Zelda. It was released on December 1, 1988 and is available on various platforms including Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube, 3DS, Wii, and Wii U. The game was developed by Nintendo R&D4.

Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link stands out from other titles in Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda series as an action-adventure game with RPG elements. Released in 1987, it offered players the unique opportunity to upgrade their strengths and engage in random encounters in the expansive overworld. Despite its experimental nature, Zelda 2 maintains a strong focus on action, requiring players to navigate dungeons and defeat enemies using their swords. While it may divide hardcore Zelda fans, this game shines with its exceptional polish, charm, and offers significant replay value, setting it apart from other NES RPGs.

2 Final Fantasy 3

For years, Final Fantasy 3 was limited to a release in Japan, while its Western counterpart, Final Fantasy 6, gained popularity. Nevertheless, it remains a cherished installment in Square Enix's JRPG series and is often hailed as one of the greatest games ever created. Despite similarities to the original gameplay, Final Fantasy 3 captivates fans with its simplicity and refinement. It introduces slight complexities in its turn-based battles, offering special actions such as "Steal" or "Summon." Moreover, it presents a more engaging storyline and leaves a lasting impact.

1 Dragon Quest 3

Although Final Fantasy is beloved by JRPG fans, Dragon Quest is still considered to have a clearer vision and stronger gameplay mechanics. A prime example of this is Dragon Quest 3, which greatly enhances and expands upon the gameplay found in the first two games. It allows players to explore an open world earlier than most video games at that time.

Despite receiving multiple remakes that improve the graphics and controls, the original Dragon Quest 3 continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many RPG fans. The game's protagonist, Erdrick, has even become a playable fighter in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic JRPGs on the NES.