
Rather than focusing solely on the hero, the game lets players control the supporting characters in their own quests before they join the hero’s party. Dragon Quest IV masterfully breaks from tradition, though, and brought innovations that either became cornerstones of the gaming medium or are to this day rarely attempted. The Dragon Quest franchise revels in beloved JRPG tropes more than perhaps any other series in the genre. It’s also pretty heartwarming to watch Palom and Porom grow up, Rydia move on from her trauma, and Kain finally gain a sense of redemption. While this story structure has flaws both in this title and Octopath, it’s still refreshing to play a JRPG that isn’t afraid to deviate from a more traditional narrative structure. In the final chapter, there are 20+ playable characters, creating endless party combinations. Switching between different characters in each chapter of the game, The After Years focuses on multiple characters journeying through their own story with some overlap with the other protagonists. Admittedly, this sequel isn’t a must-play unless you’re a fan of the original, but it still offers an entertaining experience while capitalizing on nostalgia.

For example, Cecil and Rosa are married and have a headstrong teen, Ceodore.

Final Fantasy IV: The After Years – which initially released as a phone game seventeen years after the original – takes place fifteen years after the main game and episodically follows some of the main characters from the original game in their new circumstances in life. Final Fantasy IV: The After Years An interesting, if flawed, follow up.įinal Fantasy IV is one of the most celebrated games in the series due to its achievement in combining an epic narrative, fleshed out characters, and the active time battle system. Thankfully, these five classic JRPGs manage to satisfy even the most robust strategic, narratively grand, turn-based cravings. While it may have its shortcomings ( read FANDOM’s review here), it’s fair to say that Octopath Traveler is likely to be at the top of many gamers’ favorites list this year.Īll good things must come to an end, though, and eventually, your appetite for delightful JRPGs will return within weeks of completing gem of a game. Old school JRPG fans rejoice! Octopath Traveler is a smash hit and a terrific way to spend dozens of hours if you like strategic combat, dramatic characters, and fantasy adventures.
