Summary
Japan’s rich cultural heritage and landscapes have long been a source of inspiration for many JRPGs. These games often blendtraditional folklore with modern storytelling, creating worlds that captivate players around the globe.
From bustling cityscapes to serene countryside, the settings offer a unique backdrop that enhances the narrative and gameplay. Each game on this list stands out for its portrayal of Japanese culture, offering players an unforgettable adventure steeped in the spirit of Japan.
Produced by Nihon Falcom, the same studio behind theTrailsandYsseries,Tokyo Xanadu eX+is an action RPG that feels like a true anime. High school student Kou Tokisaka encounters a nightmare realm known as Eclipse, and his world changes forever.
Despite the game’s title,Tokyo Xanadudoesn’t actually take place in Tokyo. Instead, it is set in a fictional Japanese city called Morimiya, inspired by Tachikawa, located on the outskirts of the capital. The game features references to various real locations in the region, creating an authentic experience of being in Japan.
Platform
Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS
Inazuma Eleven 2is the sequel toInazuma Elevenfor Nintendo DS, the famous seriesthat blends JRPG elements with soccer. The game features two versions, similar to thePokémonseries, called Fire and Blizzard (Firestorm and Blizzard in Europe).
In this new adventure, aliens attack schools with soccer teams, and now Endou Mamoru and the Raimon team must travel across Japan to battle the alien threat through soccer duels that will determine the future of the nation.
For players seeking a game that showcases the beautiful landscapes of Japan,Shin Megami Tensei 3 Nocturnemay not be the ideal choice. Developed by Atlus, the game is set in Tokyoduring an ethereal apocalypse.
The rest of the world is engulfed by chaos as demons invade the remnants of the city to initiate a grand battle between gods and demons. The choices made during the journey can bring life, rebirth, or death, determining who will triumph in this war.
Pokemon Conquestis a crossover gamethat combines elements from thePokemonseries and theNobunaga’s Ambitionseries. It is set in the Ransei region, a fictional land inspired by feudal Japan divided into 17 kingdoms, each representing a different Pokemon type.
Players take on the role of a young Warlord who must ally with Pokemon to conquer these kingdoms and unite the region. Although it does not take place in real Japan, the game is heavily inspired by regions of the country to create a setting where the player will feel like they are in the Sengoku period.
Originally released for the Nintendo Wii U,Tokyo Mirage Sessions ♯FEis a crossover that combines the gameplay, narrative, and visuals of theShin Megami Tenseiseries with elements from Nintendo’sFire Emblem.
The game is set in modern-day Tokyo, where players can explore regions like Shibuya and Harajuku, battling an interdimensional evil force that invades Japan with their pop star aspirant friends.
Live A Liveis a legendary RPG directed by Takashi Tokita, known for his work onChrono Trigger, which features a collection of stories about different heroes from various periods. The legend begins with seven stories, each showcasing unique protagonists, eras, and styles.
Although the game does not entirely take place in Japan, those seeking an adventure inspired by the country will have the opportunity to experienceTwilight of Edo Japan. In this chapter, a young shinobi from the Enma clan must infiltrate a castle to extract an important prisoner.
Set in the bustling streets of Shibuya,Tokyo,NEO: The World Ends with Youfollows Rindo, who finds himself drawn into the Reapers' Game - a mysterious and dangerous competition that takes place over seven days. Participants, known as Players, must complete various missions and battle against nightmarish creatures called Noise to survive and avoid erasure.
The game immerses players in a detailed and atmospheric representation of Tokyo. The game captures the essence of Shibuya’s urban landscape, from its bustling streets and neon lights to its stylish fashion and diverse culture.
Yakuza: Like a Dragonmarks a significant shift in the Yakuza series, transforming it into a true JRPG set in a region inspired by Kabukicho in Tokyo. The game introduces a new protagonist, Ichiban Kasuga, and delves into the variousdramas of Japanese nightlife and the conflicts between organizations.
This installment immerses players in a rich map full of activities and details, offering a unique blend of turn-based combat and traditional Yakuza storytelling. Players can explore real-life inspired locations, engage in side quests, and experience the vibrant culture of Japan, all while navigating the complex world of the Yakuza.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rimis a game developed by Vanillaware, the same studio behindOdin Sphere and Unicorn Overlord, blending science fiction mysteries with JRPG and RTS elements. The game is set in Japan in 1985, where gigantic creatures known as kaijus threaten the lives of the country’s residents. Thirteen young people are chosen to pilot the mysterious Sentinels, giant robots that represent humanity’s only hope.
The story explores various science fiction concepts and theories, such as time loops and multiverse theory, set in a Japan from not-too-distant past that has been ravaged by this threat.
Persona 4 Goldenis one of the most acclaimed JRPGs of all time. Developed by Atlus and an enhanced version of the originalPersona 4, the game follows a group of high school students in the rural town of Inaba, who discover a mysterious television world where they must confront their inner demons and unravel a series of murders.
Set against the backdrop of a small Japanese town and unlike Persona 5, which is set specifically in Tokyo,Persona 4 Goldentakes place in a fictional rural city that draws references from various rural areas of Japan to create a new region that closely resembles reality.
