2024 has been nothing short of incredible for the gaming world as a whole, with a staggering number of releases hitting the market so far. Across every genre, we’ve seen a level of abundance like never before, especially when it comes to indie games.
Today, however, we’re focusing on one of my favorite genres: JRPGs. Now, when I say “JRPG,” I’m not just referring to the geographical origin of a game (so please, spare me the “Hey Marcello, this game isn’t from Japan, so it’s not a JRPG” comment). Instead, I’m talking about the mechanics that define the genre, particularly the combat systems that we’ve come to expect. Let’s be honest: when we see the “JRPG” label these days, we know exactly what kind of experience we’re signing up for.
So far, it’s been an amazing year for JRPGs—whether you’re into action-heavy titles (though personally, I don’t consider those true JRPGs) or, more importantly for me, the games with turn-based combat systems. We’ve already had a flood of releases, and even more, are on the way before the year wraps up.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best turn-based JRPGs available right now, as well as a few upcoming titles that you definitely won’t want to miss. JRPG fans, buckle up—this is going to be a wild ride!
Top 2024 Turn-Based JPRG Released So Far
As I mentioned earlier, there’s no shortage of standout titles released in recent months that we can confidently label as JRPGs—even if not all of them hail from Japan.
Let’s kick things off with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, marking the return of one of the most beloved and charismatic characters in gaming. This iconic series made a bold pivot toward a turn-based combat system, a move that has more than paid off. It continues to elevate the series to even greater heights, proving that the genre can evolve while still maintaining its core appeal.
A title that aims to strike a slightly different chord is Terra Memoria. This stylish JRPG blends pixel art with 3D environments, introducing town-building mechanics alongside exploration and a well-crafted combat system. Available on PC and all next-gen consoles.
Next up, we have Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes, developed by a team that includes veterans from the Suikoden series. This new JRPG draws heavy inspiration from Suikoden, and while I’ll admit I put it on hold early on because the combat system didn’t grab me right away, it’s definitely a title I’ll be returning to. Launched off the back of a successful Kickstarter campaign, it’s a must-play for any true JRPG fan, even if it takes some patience to fully appreciate.
Another AAA title worth mentioning is Saga Emerald Beyond. It’s the latest installment in the beloved SaGa series, offering that classic SaGa experience with a unique, freeform scenario system. This mechanic lets players shape the story through their choices, and with six protagonists, each with their own arcs, players get to explore 17 distinct worlds. The variety here is stunning, from mystical cities to lands ruled by witches and vampires, giving each playthrough a fresh feel.
One of the most significant video game series of all time is undoubtedly The Legend of Heroes, with numerous high-quality entries under its belt. In 2024, we saw the release of The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak, a port of the 2021 title that originally launched in Japan and is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. This installment introduces a brand-new storyline and character, making it a great entry point for newcomers looking to dive into this long-running and beloved series.
Then we have a slew of remakes and remasters, which I’m usually not a big fan of, but in some cases, they’ve allowed previously console-only titles to reach new audiences on PC. Take The Legend of Legacy HD, for instance—originally released on the Nintendo 3DS, this remaster brought a visually enhanced version to PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Another heavy hitter is Persona 3 Reload, a fully revamped remake of the 2006 PlayStation 2 classic (ah, those were the days…), with a DLC set to drop soon.
For lucky Nintendo Switch owners, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is definitely worth checking out. This is a remake of the beloved title originally released on the GameCube in 2004, featuring enhanced graphics and some tweaks here and there. If you’re a fan of turn-based combat with a charming RPG twist, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Among the remakes, we also have Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance. Originally a 2021 Nintendo exclusive, this expanded version has now made its way to PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, offering improvements and a brand-new storyline path for players to explore. And let’s not forget Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince, which is set to debut on PC and mobile in a few hours while I’m writing this article. Initially launched for the Nintendo Switch in 2023, it’s a gem that fans of the Dragon Quest series won’t want to miss.
Oh, and how could I almost forget Monster Hunter Stories? This remastered version gives PC, PlayStation, and Switch players the chance to experience one of the finest JRPGs out there, making it a must-play for those who missed it the first time around.
To wrap up the series of remakes, let’s dive into another classic from the past: Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster. This collection revives two iconic JRPGs from the Nintendo GameCube era—Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean and its prequel, Baten Kaitos Origins. The remaster brings these fan favorites back with enhanced visuals and modern quality-of-life improvements. Originally released on Nintendo Switch in 2023, the remaster made its way to PC in 2024, giving a new generation of players the chance to experience these gems.
The Upcoming Most Anticipated JRPGs Of 2024
Let’s dive into some of the most promising RPGs set to debut in the coming months, starting with Keylocker. This indie JRPG, developed by Moonana (known for gems like Virgo Vs The Zodiac and Osteoblast), places you in the shoes of a singer navigating a cyberpunk world where music is banned. The game combines a rhythm-based combat system with timing mechanics and mini-games, all wrapped in delightful pixel art. Mark your calendars for its release on September 18, 2024, across PC and modern consoles.
Next on the list is Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire, a heartfelt tribute to the Dreamcast classic Skies of Arcadia (2000). With Studio Ghibli-inspired visuals, this narrative-driven RPG allows players to explore diverse regions, encounter new cultures, and recruit allies. The turn-based combat revolves around aerial dogfights, where tactical thinking and careful planning are essential. Set to release on October 10, 2024, this game promises to capture the spirit of a classic while bringing something new to the table.
Another game I have to mention is Beyond GalaxyLand, though I’m under embargo, so I can’t reveal too much. This RPG takes place in an unknown solar system, blending platforming with puzzle-solving and an intriguing monster-capture mechanic. Its combat system combines an Active Time Battle (ATB) structure with timing elements, offering a fresh twist on turn-based mechanics. Keep an eye on this one—it’s set to release on September 24, 2024, on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Now, let’s talk about what could very well be the JRPG of the year: Metaphor ReFantazio. Developed by the same team behind the Persona series, this new title has the potential to overshadow everything else. Set in a medieval fantasy world, the gameplay footage released recently has shown off the project’s high quality. It features social mechanics reminiscent of Persona, with a sprawling world so vast that it would be impossible to explore fully in just one playthrough. The game is set for release on October 11, 2024, on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
But the remakes aren’t stopping there! Coming in October, we have Romancing SaGa II: Revenge of the Seven, a complete remake of the 1993 classic. This game was one of the first to offer branching narratives based on player choices. The remake brings 3D graphics (upgraded from the original 2D) along with improvements to combat, exploration, and much more. Look for its release on October 24, 2024, across PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
November sees the arrival of another Dragon Quest game—this time, a remaster of the third entry in the series. The game will feature enhanced visuals, using the art style seen in Octopath Traveler, and several updates to the combat system, including battle tactics borrowed from more recent Dragon Quest titles. Additionally, it introduces a new vocation (classes of the game) called Monster Wrangler, allowing players to use techniques learned from monsters they’ve battled. Set to release on November 14, 2024, this upgraded classic will be available on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.
One major return to look forward to is Mario & Luigi Brothership. This is not a remake but a brand-new entry in the beloved Mario & Luigi RPG series. This time, Mario and Luigi set off to Concordia, a cluster of islands ready to be explored. The game brings back signature mechanics like Bros. Moves and Bros. Attacks, along with exploration, mini-games, puzzles, and all the elements that made the series so iconic, inspiring countless games over the years.
Lastly, there’s Bloomtown: A Different Story, a game that has me full of anticipation after trying out the demo. This complex and well-structured JRPG mixes traditional mechanics with a deep social system similar to Persona. It also features life simulation elements where you can take on jobs, hit the gym, and more. The combat system integrates monster taming, allowing you to capture and use creatures in battle. The art style and world are charming, but beneath its peaceful surface lies a dark, unsettling side that adds a horror twist to the storyline.
That’s my overview, but I’m sure I missed something—feel free to let me know on social pages or my YouTube channel. Wish you the best. Ciao
