Many gamers often debate the prevalence of turn-based JRPGs over action RPGs in the early days, alluding to hardware limitations. However, this notion overlooks the emergence of tactical RPGs, which are quite prevalent as well. While tactical RPGs share similar mechanics across titles, there are still a few that stand out in their execution and creativity.
This discussion focuses on the finest tactical JRPGs available on the PlayStation 2. While the PS1 is often heralded as a pinnacle for JRPGs, the PS2 deserves its own recognition for a wealth of distinctive titles. Join this exploration of the genre, albeit with exclusions for Japan-only releases.
8 Stella Deus: The Gate of Eternity
Not The Best, But Not The Worst, Either
Growing up in Brazil, I discovered numerous games that were not widely known, including Stella Deus: The Gate of Eternity. Despite its lack of mainstream recognition, this tactical RPG offers moments of enjoyment, even if it falls into repetitive gameplay patterns. The game employs standard mechanics, like grid-based combat and character progression, alongside a unique weapon fusion system that ultimately feels basic.
The story captivates with its premise of a world afflicted by a toxic fog known as Miasma. The protagonist, Spero, leads a rebellion against perceived doom, striving to open the Gate of Eternity to counter this deadly mist. Although the story is intriguing, its execution leaves much to be desired.
7 Dokapon Kingdom
Board Game In Video Game
I originally experienced Dokapon Kingdom on the Wii, yet its tactical board game nature translates well regardless of the platform. While the game’s framework seems enjoyable, its reliance on random number generation (RNG) can lead to frustrating gameplay moments. The randomness limits agency, where outcomes often feel dictated by chance rather than strategy.
Players choose from various classes and navigate a board by spinning a wheel. This RNG element drives encounters and item acquisitions, but can often detract from the tactical depth one might expect. The combat may be entertaining upon first glance, yet it falls prey to the same randomness, rendering it potentially irritating and shallow.
6 Suikoden Tactics
The legacy of Suikoden II looms large in the JRPG community. Building on its established story, Suikoden Tactics serves as a direct sequel, weaving together its narrative through tactical gameplay. This title lacks exploration, relying instead on cutscenes following the completion of levels.
With mechanics reminiscent of popular titles like Fire Emblem, it allows characters to build relationships, gain buffs from cooperation, and features a returning Rune system. However, the absence of base-building features, which defined prior entries, makes character recruitment feel somewhat less rewarding.
5 Disgaea: Hour Of Darkness
The Rise Of Level 9999
Launched by Nippon Ichi Software in 2004, Disgaea: Hour of Darkness quickly captured attention within the tactical RPG realm with its charming humor and unique design. The gameplay mechanics, featuring class systems, gear progression, and level cap enhancements, mark significant departures from standard formulas.
Players navigate Laharl’s journey to claim his title as Overlord while encountering a diverse cast of characters, full of comedic elements that lighten the tone. Moreover, a distinctive level cap of 9999 opens a realm of strategic depth unseen in many contemporary titles, encouraging players to explore beyond traditional boundaries.
4 Arc The Lad: Twilight Of The Spirits
Featuring Darc The Lad
Having enjoyed earlier Arc the Lad titles, I ventured into Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits, which impressively transitions from 2D to 3D graphics. Unlike many tactical RPGs, the exploration involves interacting with towns and characters, leading to missions that occur on separate battlefields.
This title also features character movement in a 3D landscape, complicating mechanics such as area-of-effect attacks and encouraging strategic improvisation and tactics. The storyline, centered on brothers Kharg and Darc, unfolds with intertwining narratives, addressing themes of loyalty, identity, and internal conflict within their unique world.
3 Phantom Brave
From Demons To Phantoms
Following Disgaea, Phantom Brave emerged as an innovative title that maintained similar absurdities but introduced new gameplay mechanics centered around Phantoms. Players invoke these entities by confining them to various items, creating unique strategic opportunities in combat.
The story follows Marona, an orphan with the ability to communicate with Phantoms, as she navigates her life supported by her phantom companion, Ash. The blend of quirky combat mechanics and a heartfelt narrative distinguishes this game within the genre.
2 Makai Kingdom: Chronicles of the Sacred Tome
NISA Overload
Makai Kingdom: Chronicles of the Sacred Tome further encapsulates the trademark NISA experience following Disgaea and Phantom Brave. The gameplay retains familiar tactical mechanics and introduces multifaceted battle strategies involving facility-based unit deployment.
The story features Zetta, a self-proclaimed Overlord, seeking to prevent the doom of the Netherworld. Despite some refinements to gameplay mechanics, the game feels somewhat fatigued with gameplay elements as NISA attempts to extend the humor and creativity that made its predecessors successful.
1 Front Mission 4
Big Robot Shoes To Fill
Continuing the legacy of Front Mission 3, Front Mission 4 offers dual perspectives from protagonists Elsa and Darril, immersing players in geopolitical conflicts while expanding its tactical framework. Although it may not surpass its predecessor, it maintains engaging elements from the tactical genre, such as enhanced combat strategies and intricate character customization.
This installment includes new mechanics, such as weather effects and collaborative enhancements between Wanzers, making for a compelling experience in the realm of tactical RPGs. While Front Mission 4 may not overshadow its forerunner, it certainly holds its own within the series and the broader tactical RPG landscape.
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