PS4 owners who are connoisseurs of JRPGS are in for a treat today. We’ll briefly discuss the fantastic offerings of Japanese role-playing games and list our top 4 absolute favorites. While it’s clear that the golden age of JRPGS isn’t returning any time soon, we can still make do with the current lineup. The PlayStation 4 is home to a number of fan-favorite hits on the JRPG front.
Why do PS4 Fans Still Love Playing JRPGS?
Right, so the question about the longevity of JRPGS on the PlayStation 4 is valid. Each iteration of Sony’s home consoles have always had JRPGS throughout the generations, and PS4 is no different. The major reason for their existence is that they’re super fun and memorable games, and there’s an audience for them. Western gamers are just as enthusiastic about JRPGS as Japanese ones.
The unique nature and bizarreness that JRPGS bring is a wacky brand of flavor that’s unavailable in other types of games. The PlayStation 4 is fulfilling its commitment to bring the most diverse and inclusive roster of titles to its player base. Since gamers have a strong demand for JRPGS, the PS4 is only giving the players what they want.
How to Pick the Best PS4 JRPGS?
Obviously, personal bias and preferences will always play a critical role in selecting any game for a list. The same is true for JRPGS on the PS4. Having said that, let’s look at the factors that will serve as the benchmarks for shortlisting games. After all, we can’t have every game we like when there are only 4 slots to fill.
Prepare for stiff competition; even the ones we pick will vie for the top spot. Here’s what we’re after in JRPGS for selecting them on today’s list.
- The JRPGS must be available on the PS4. Obviously, this point is a given, but there are times when a JRPG is on a rival console but not on the PS4. The biggest JRPG rival for Sony is the Nintendo Switch; it’s got a fierce lineup of exclusives as well, including games for adults. So if any of the JRPGS aren’t on PlayStation 4, we won’t consider them.
- Next, the JRPGS must have originality and uniqueness to them. We won’t stand for bland, generic, and lifeless titles already in droves. There must be a hook to the games that makes them stand out.
- Finally, the JRPGS must have captivating narratives that add to the gameplay fun. No one wants to play a dull and tedious story with bland characters. So there should be an exciting mix of story and game mechanics.
Which 4 PS4 JRPGS are the Best Ones?
Okay, now that we’ve got all the basis for selection down, let’s focus on the meat of the issue, the games. Here are the top 4 JRPGS on the PS4 that stand out from every other title in the genre. Keep in mind; this list is only for the PS4 console only. We have quite a few fan favorites today to keep the masses happy and some gems that will pleasantly surprise. Let’s not waste more time. Here we go!
4. Final Fantasy VII Remake – The Classic JRPG King Returns to PS4 in Grand Fashion With its Charm Intact
Kicking things off for our list, we’re going old-school but not entirely. It’s a reimagining of the timeless classic, Final Fantasy VII Remake. This game was a long time coming, and we’re happy to say it delivers on all fronts. New fans will immediately take to the game because of the modernity in its visuals and mechanics.
The concern about the remake’s deviation from the original is addressed masterfully. Sure, there are changes, but they’re organic and do not hamper enjoyment. In fact, Final Fantasy VII Remake accentuates and highlights the overlooked aspects of the original PS1 game. Many of the side characters get more time to shine.
Final Fantasy VII Remake is a chance for new players to experience the story with themes that are still relevant today. Plus, the game reignites the best-girl feud between Tifa and Aerith. Personally, we feel like it’s Jessie.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Balances the Fine Line of Homaging the Original and Adding a Fresh Take on the Classic JRPG
Final Fantasy VII Remake doesn’t play it safe. The game takes liberties with the game’s level design, and splitting the game into a trilogy means there will be further changes. However, this is actually a good thing and will make players play the guessing game. The gameplay style is in line with more current standards of JRPGS on the PS4, and there’s more open-world exploration than the original.
Active time combat allows players to build up to limit breaks and unleash devastating attacks on enemies. The Shinra corporation is more menacing than ever in the lore of Final Fantasy VII Remake. There’s even the threat of the series antagonist, Sephiroth, looming large like a predator, striking when players least expect it.
Well, be honest, Final Fantasy VII Remake is nostalgia bait, but there’s enough new content to hook us. If you like retro games, you’ll really have a blast reading about our top 32 Game Gear Games.
3. Scarlet Nexus – A recent PS4 JRPG that Delivers Impressive Visuals and an Intriguing World to Discover
Moving on to the next entry on our list of top PS4 JRPGS, we’ve got Scarlet Nexus. A relatively newer game, but in no way any less fun than the other popular games in the genre. Scarlet Nexus offers plenty of ways to keep players invested in the story, as the premise is very unique. Players have the choice of playing as one of the two protagonists, each one with a new perspective.
Scarlet Nexus depicts a grim version of the Earth with plenty of in-fighting between factions. A contrasting narrative bleeds out between the journeys of the dual protagonists, Yuito and Kasane. The typical flashy anime-style aesthetic goes well with the futuristic level of technology in the game world.
The story unfolds brilliantly to reveal the true enemy when both characters’ campaigns reach their climax. If you like games with compelling stories and top-notch writing, we recommend our list of the best story-driven games.
Scarlet Nexus Presents A Fun Combat Style With Kinetic Powers that Feel Satisfying
Scarlet Nexus presents players with tons of enemies to slay and a plethora of powers to do it with. There is a lot of emphasis on combining special attacks to deliver a beatdown that’s not only a spectacle but also feels impactful. The gameplay offers companions for both protagonists that have unique skill sets, and they can share them with your character through an ability, brain link.
Scarlet Nexus gameplay feels satisfying and completely immersive. The combo chaining feels fluid and with an adrenaline rush that always makes the experience feel engaging. The kinesis power in Scarlet Nexus is a refreshing take on combat and blends fantastically with the traditional hack-and-slash style. For our money, Scarlet Nexus is well worth checking out; it’s one of the best PS4 JRPGS.
2. Tales Of Arise – Our Runner-up Pick For the Best PS4 JRPGS List
Next up, we’re at the runner-up entry on our list of top PS4 JRPGS, and Tales Of Arise definitely deserves this spot. The truth is, we love the Tales series, and before Tales Of Arise, there was a concern that perhaps it won’t ever enter the mainstream. With the release of Tales Of Arise, the devs alleyed all the fandom’s apprehensions and doubts about the franchise’s future directions.
Tales Of Arise adapts the core combat mechanics of the series but with more refinement and greater emphasis on dodges and parrying. The gameplay focuses on collaboration with companions to fill up the attack gauges and using powerful attacks to clear the battlefield of enemies. There is a strategic element to the combat in Tales Of Arise, and you can’t button-mash your way out of a fight.
If you like games that have a more streamline fantasy element and gameplay that isn’t super complex, we recommend Skyrim. Our friend’s piece about respecing points in Skyrim is really helpful for beginners.
Embracing its Anime Roots, Tales Of Arise Breaks the Formula of the Series and Subverts Expectations
Tales Of Arise has another highlight feature that makes it stand out. The game’s story depicts mature themes of injustice, discrimination, and cruelty in the set-up of the narrative. However, the conflict resolution isn’t as simple and straightforward as one would expect. There are plot twists, and welcome ones at that, that subvert all our expectations to deliver satisfying conclusions.
Everything comes together within the backdrop of gorgeous anime-esque visuals and beautiful soundtracks that enhance the depth of the story. There is political intrigue, and a grand epic fantsy feel to Tales Of Arise. Our picks for the top Fire Emblem Games adopt a similar style.
The main characters, Alphen and Shionne, have motivations that make them relatable. Plus, their character development only further solidifies their likeability as excellent protagonists. Tales Of Arise is a certified hit with us as our second-best pick for PS4 JRPGS.
1. Persona 5 Royal – The King of JRPGS On PS4 is Our Number 1 Pick
And here we are, the final entry and our number one pick for the list of top PS4 JRPGS. Our choice is clear and mirrors anyone who has a mild interest in JRPGS, Persona 5 Royal. Not taking anything away from its predecessors, as they’re all atmospheric and fantastic games in their own rights, but Persona 5 Royal is a different animal entirely.
From the jazz-centric and smooth-as-silk soundtrack to the rapid-fire pace of the animations, everything in Persona 5 Royal is top-tier. The game is like a cinematic experience with sinister undertones, as there is a lurking darkness that’s as tangible as it is metaphorical. The combat may be turn-based, but the brisk pace feels terrific.
Persona 5 Royal is Responsible for the Surge in Popularity of JRPGS With Its Fun Social Sim and Dungeon Crawling Combat
The dungeon crawling aspect is the main attraction of the Persona games, and with Persona 5 Royal, it feels magnified. Not only is the colorful art style eye-catching and gorgeous, but it creates an engrossing vibe that players can’t get enough of. Stealth is part of the gameplay, and there is a great incentive to approach things cautiously. Incidentally, this mechanic is in our top 4 PS4 stealth games.
Another facet of Persona 5 Royal’s gameplay that makes it stand out from other PS4 JRPGS is the social element. The time is finite in Persona 5 Royal, and each activity the players pursue as the protagonist Joker eats away at the clock. Players can use this time to foster relationships by dating that can potentially lead to romance. It’s kind of like the best dating sim games like Summertime Saga.
Final Thoughts On the Best PS4 JRPGS
Well, another list is finally complete! Today’s one is a nailbiter because lots of JRPGS on the PS4 are excellent candidates. Ultimately, we picked the ones that stood out from the pack and offered us more enjoyment in comparison to others. However, this doesn’t mean we don’t like other games, far from it. Our top 4 choices are simply more fun for us; tell us if you feel the same way.
How many of the games on today’s list have you played? How would you rate them? Let us know in the comments below. Also, tell us about your favorite JRPGS on the PlayStation 4. Which games do you feel deserve a mention on today’s list? We’re always eager to hear from our readers. For more classic roleplaying titles on Sony systems, you’ll love our favorite PS1 JRPGS. Until next time, happy gaming!
