Unveiling the Ultimate Turn-Based RPGs with Unforgettable Stories!

Content has evolved significantly since the days of saving Peach from Bowser in games. However, the role-playing game genre stands out for its intricate and captivating narratives. From western RPGs like Baldur's Gate and Diablo to Japanese RPGs like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, turn-based games that gained immense popularity in the 1990s have showcased some of the most exceptional stories in the medium.

These stories vary in their approach - some stick to traditional themes, featuring a group of heroes on a quest to defeat an evil empire or a powerful enemy. Others focus on smaller, more personal tales. When executed effectively, RPGs have the ability to deliver the most extraordinary and exhilarating narratives in the entire gaming industry.

10 Yakuza: Like A Dragon

When the Yakuza franchise shifted from an action beat 'em up to a turn-based role-playing game, fans were skeptical. This marked series creator Toshihiro Nagoshi's final game with Sega, and it also meant a change in protagonist from Kazuma Kiryu to newcomer Ichiban Kasuga. This shift also introduced a new combat system, heavily influenced by Dragon Quest.

However, one aspect that remained consistent with previous Yakuza games was its engaging storyline and memorable characters. The exceptional writing and world-building that fans have come to expect from the series remained intact, as players were treated to a delightful cast of party members who accompany Ichiban on a humorous and surprisingly touching journey through the criminal underworld.

9 Persona 5 Royal

Persona 5 Royal surpasses expectations in every aspect, making it an outstanding game. One of its standout features is the captivating story, which immerses players in the world of the Phantom Thieves and their stylish costumes. Led by the enigmatic Joker, the cast of Persona 5 Royal is among the best in the genre.

This epic adventure delves into a wide range of topics, exploring issues such as teen bullying, sexual abuse, and an intriguing frame story. With the Phantom Thieves caught up in gripping events and the mystery surrounding Joker's presence in Shibuya, players are constantly kept on their toes, never knowing what to expect.

8 Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age

Dragon Quest XI boasts a remarkably traditional JRPG storyline, adhering closely to the classic formula. The tale revolves around a band of youthful and spirited heroes guided by a calm and collected leader. As they embark on their world-saving quest, each character undergoes profound self-discovery. In a gaming landscape where JRPG narratives had been inclining towards darker and more mature themes, Dragon Quest XI's refreshing commitment to honest intentions and traditional storytelling was truly invigorating upon its release in 2017.

7 Valkyria Chronicles

Despite its challenges in becoming a genre mainstay, Valkyria Chronicles has cultivated a devoted and enthusiastic fanbase through its unique combination of turn-based strategy and tactical maneuvering. However, where the game truly shines is in its captivating story. In an alternate universe with a steampunk-inspired World War II setting, Valkyria Chronicles takes place on the fictional continent of Europa, capturing the enthralling conflicts between the Imperial Alliance and the Atlantic Federation. This delightful exploration of war, love, and loyalty, presented in an anime-inspired style, is a truly rewarding experience.

6 Mother 3

After undergoing a lengthy and challenging development journey that involved transitioning from 2D to 3D and then back to 2D, Shigesato Itoi's final installment of the Mother game series proved to be worth the anticipation. Despite originally being planned for release on the Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, and ultimately the Gameboy Advance in 2006, the core essence of Mother 3's captivating narrative remained largely unchanged.

Centered around twin brothers Lucas and Klaus, Mother 3 delves into a complex struggle taking place in the appropriately named Nowhere Islands, where an invading force called the Pig Mask Army strives to seize control. With an exceptional story, intricately crafted characters, and an abundance of heart, emotion, and wit, Mother 3 overflows with captivating elements.

5 Triangle Strategy

Square-Enix's remarkable HD-2D style, showcased in recent acclaimed titles such as Octopath Traveler and the highly anticipated remake of Dragon Quest III, has resulted in the creation of some of the most thrilling games in the industry today. Drawing inspiration from the beloved Final Fantasy Tactics, Triangle Strategy fulfills the deep desire players have had for a turn-based strategy RPG of this caliber.

Although it takes place in its own unique universe, separate from the beloved Final Fantasy spin-off realm of Ivalice, the realm of Norzelia offers a captivating blend of political intrigue, formidable antagonists, and valiant protagonists. Triangle Strategy effortlessly constructs a world teetering on the brink of war, while also delivering a cast of characters that are impossible not to adore.

4 Xenogears

Despite being limited by budgetary constraints that led Squaresoft to condense the second disc into a narrated novel, Xenogears still accomplishes something truly remarkable throughout its runtime. It expertly blends elements of Star Wars and Final Fantasy, delivering an epic cosmic journey to dismantle Solaris' fascist regime.

With stunningly directed and animated cutscenes, Xenogears also boasts an impressive voice cast. The vast, immersive world and diverse ensemble of characters would ultimately serve as the foundation for the development of the Xenoblade franchise by Monolith Soft, who utilized their experience with this project.

3 Parasite Eve

Parasite Eve, a captivating creation by Squaresoft in 1998, defied expectations with its unique blend of Resident Evil's horror elements and Final Fantasy's battle mechanics. Serving as a sequel to the novel of the same name, this survival horror RPG delved into the eerie realm of motherhood and genetic corruption through the eyes of NYPD officer Aya Brea. With stunning CG cutscenes and an exquisite script, Parasite Eve showcased Squaresoft's unparalleled expertise, enhanced further by the exceptional soundtrack by Yoko Shimomura.

2 Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne

Despite being a spin-off of the Shin Megami Tensei franchise, Persona has garnered a significantly larger audience compared to Shin Megami Tensei. However, when it comes to the best story within the series, it is Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne that claims that title.

Nocturne presents a haunting and unsettling narrative centered around a young boy who undergoes a ghastly transformation into the Demi-fiend after an apocalyptic event known as Conception. The Demi-fiend's battle against a cult obsessed with bringing about the end of the world starkly contrasts with his peculiar and somewhat otherworldly interactions with non-playable characters and demons. This juxtaposition perfectly balances between dark humor and captivating melodrama.

1 Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy 7, the JRPG that sparked a 90s obsession with turn-based games featuring protagonists with spikey hair and amnesia, remains a revered example of the genre. Its incorporation of tragedy, slapstick, melodrama, cyberpunk, and science fiction seamlessly blend together, creating a cohesive and immersive world.

What starts as a mission by eco-terrorists to overthrow a villainous mega corporation transforms into a thrilling globe-trotting adventure exploring themes of identity, capitalism, and revenge. The riveting rivalry between Cloud and Sephiroth takes center stage in the latter half of the game, utilizing a single inciting incident to propel a much grander narrative. This storytelling technique adds a unique and remarkable aspect to the experience.