Let’s face it, the Xbox consoles are about as synonymous with JRPGs as Nintendo machines are for violent FPS titles—in other words, they’re few and far between, to say the least. It stands to reason that this genre would be pretty scarce on this front, given Microsoft’s lack of success in breaking into the Japanese market. Still, there is hope for Xbox fans who happen to enjoy this typically more colorful and charming brand of role-playing games.
This list will draw from the pool of JRPGs on Xbox systems—albeit a small pool—and highlight the 10 best. Exclusives will be the focus, though nods will be given to remasters and multiplatform entries that are strong enough.
10 Resonance Of Fate (Xbox 360)
Though it’s not without its flaws and oddities, this JRPG “resonates” for its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, along with its flashy, inventive combat. Despite being overshadowed by heavy-hitters like Final Fantasy, this thrilling romp shines with a fun balance of action and strategy, coupled with an atmospheric steampunk setting.
The imaginative, gritty sci-fi themes, along with some enjoyable gun-laced combat, make Resonance of Fate an underrated gem worth checking out.
9 Blue Dragon (Xbox 360)
Given that this was one of the rare exclusive JRPGs for Microsoft’s consoles and that it was helmed by Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, RPG fans on Xbox were intrigued upon hearing about it. Though it didn’t quite live up to the expectations for many, Mistwalker’s Blue Dragon proved a joyous journey overall.
The game fuses modern sensibilities with a more classic turn-based battle system that’s both deep and accessible. The Final Fantasy influence can certainly be sensed when it comes to the combat, as well as the rich fantasy settings. Those seeking to break from the darker, grittier WRPGs that tend to populate Xbox would do well to give this epic, lighthearted romp a look.
8 Ys Origin (Xbox One)
Similar to how the Xbox never quite broke through in Japan, this long-running JRPG series hasn’t found much of an audience in Western markets. It’s surprising, as those who have discovered this hidden gem have regarded it for its depth, fun combat, and colorful settings. This ARPG is also a great starting point for those unfamiliar with the Ys universe, as it stands as a prequel taking place centuries before Ys 1: Ancient Ys Vanished.
This captivating origin story proves tough to put down, with its real-time battles and sprawling dungeons.
7 Eternal Sonata (Xbox 360)
As one might have guessed from the title, this tri-Crescendo RPG leans on the concepts of musical melodies and lavish fantasy. The game takes a unique approach both in terms of mechanics and its musical themes revolving around a real musician, the Polish romantic pianist named Chopin.
Eternal Sonata draws in viewers with its vibrant visuals and rich settings and refuses to let go with its thrilling combat that blends action with turn-based tactics. This is as much an enjoyable RPG as it is a cerebral, dream-like journey of music. There is much action, imagination, and fun-packed into this 20-hour adventure.
6 Tales Of Vesperia: Definitive Edition (Xbox One)
Bandai Namco’s Tales series has quietly become a renowned JRPG staple with a pretty consistent track record of quality. Though the series looks to veer into a darker, more Western-inspired direction with Tales of Arise, this lesser-known entry is a reminder of its more lighthearted roots.
In classic Tales form, the game tells its story through a delightful visual style that feels akin to playing an anime. Meanwhile, the combat takes on the feel of an exciting fighter, with satisfying real-time mechanics. Its plot, centered around a vital energy source called Blastia, is particularly memorable, as is its diverse cast of characters. While the original 09 classic was robust as is, this remaster crams even more content—including new party members—while enhancing the visuals.
5 Final Fantasy XV (Xbox One)
Square Enix’s RPG phenom has seen a plethora of renditions over the decades, each being largely distinct in its themes, premise, and gameplay. This latest fantasy epic marks a particularly unique shift in style the likes of which hasn’t been seen since FFVII. The game blends modern themes and settings with sci-fi and fantasy elements, enticing players with its intense, grandiose combat.
Sure, the odd style and seemingly out-of-character vehicular travel may have turned off some purists. Overall, though, FFXV manages to shine with some truly dynamic, open-world gameplay and majestic concepts.
4 Phantasy Star Online: Episodes 1 & 2 (Xbox)
Though it may seem a bit dated now, this Sonic Team epic was ahead of its time with its vast scope and online elements that are somewhat “proto-MMO.” This type of social RPG was fairly unheard of when it came to home consoles at the time, and it’s a formula that’s since been popularized and fleshed out by many studios.
This expanded port of the Dreamcast classic still shines after nearly two decades thanks to its addictive grind-it-out gameplay, in-depth combat, and its fun blend of sci-fi and magic. This sprawling saga, which can span dozens of hours, is a joy to embark on, especially when teaming up with a friend.
3 Final Fantasy X + X2 HD (Xbox One)
When it comes to remasters, this classic is scarcely matched, offering not one, but two memorable adventures starring the charismatic Tidus. FFX particularly lends itself to the HD enhancements, with some engaging cutscenes and epic landscapes. The game balances an enthralling cinematic plot with satisfying gameplay via streamlined combat.
Though the sequel X-2 didn’t prove as strong for many fans, the sheer breadth of the content included in this budget title is impressive, to say the least. Really, it’s worth it just to experience the remastered version of the classic FFX in all its high-res glory—not to mention the ever-addictive Blitzball.
2 Lost Odyssey (Xbox 360)
This hidden gem from Mistwalker shines as yet another interesting and unique take on the genre by Sakaguchi. Unlike his more lighthearted project in Blue Dragon, though, Lost Odyssey targets something of an older audience with its darker themes and emotional storytelling.
The combat excites with a solid turn-based system and a slew of satisfying powers shown off via dazzling visual effects. Rough load times aside, this is a memorable odyssey that melds modern flashiness with classic JRPG elements.
1 Shenmue II (Xbox)
Sega surprised many Dreamcast players with an inventive RPG called Shenmue, which tossed flowery fantasy aside in favor of grittier themes and realism. This even more dynamic sequel made for a terrific fit for the Xbox, which generally favors darker, open-world titles.
Shenmue II takes players on an atmospheric, cinematic journey, letting the plot, character interactions, and worldbuilding reside over more traditional gameplay elements. This RPG adventure was really ahead of its time, and it’s a reason this cult-classic that holds up well today.
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