Top 10 Ranked JRPGs for PS2

Following the massive success of the PlayStation 1, game developers around the globe eagerly seized the opportunity to create captivating titles for the PlayStation 2. The realm of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) was no exception, viewing Sony’s second console as a fertile ground for creative growth and a major leap towards 3D graphics.

The PlayStation 2 saw the birth of numerous beloved JRPGs, while others underwent significant technological transformations. An array of these titles introduced innovative features that would shape the industry for years to follow, while some struggled to adapt to the emerging trends.

This article will take you through a selection of iconic JRPGs for the PS2. The lineup features franchises that continue to thrive today, series that reached their peak on this console, and others that faded into obscurity following their final entries here.

Join me as I unveil my top 10 JRPG picks for the PS2, ranked according to my personal taste while prioritizing each title’s cultural and technical impact on the gaming landscape.

For clarity, I will include only one game from each series.

10 Rogue Galaxy

A Bit Tryhard For My Taste, But A Great Game

Starting this list with a somewhat controversial choice, I must confess: while I do enjoy Rogue Galaxy (having earned a platinum trophy in about 80 hours), I find it overly ambitious. Its stunning visuals and immersive cutscenes are somewhat overshadowed by a convoluted gameplay system.

The narrative begins with Jaster Rogue, an enslaved protagonist on the planet Rosa, who inadvertently joins a pirate crew mistaken for a renowned hunter. As is typical for JRPGs, this launchpad catapults him into a quest to save the universe.

Although the plot is initially believable and respects the audience’s suspension of disbelief, it soon escalates to the extreme, introducing unnecessary plot twists that place undue emphasis on the main character.

This notion of excess also applies to the gameplay. What started as a straightforward action RPG featuring an infinite weapon fusion system developed into a multifaceted experience, adding mini-games like bug-catching and extensive collection elements that feel more like obligations than options. Ultimately, Rogue Galaxy illustrates the adage that sometimes less is more.

9 Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

Comedic Timing On Point

If the hallmarks of a successful RPG include an egotistical protagonist, comedic story elements, overwhelming damage numbers, and strategic gameplay, then I could be describing any entry in the Disgaea series. Yet, it was the inaugural installment that carved out its legacy among tactical RPG enthusiasts.

Disgaea is renowned for its potential to reach astronomical levels and damage figures, a fact loved by many, though it often leads to grind-heavy gameplay—much to my chagrin.

For more casual gamers, Disgaea: Hour of Darkness offers ample entertainment thanks to its witty narrative. Players follow Laharl on his journey to succeed his father as the Overlord of the Netherworld, accompanied by a vibrant ensemble of eccentric characters.

If pure gameplay is what you’re after, you can aim to push your characters to level 9999, reincarnate them, and continuously boost their power—promising hours of enjoyment.

8 Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter

Love It Or Hate It, It’s Still A Breath of Fire

Admittedly, Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter is often viewed as the entry that led to the series’ decline, stripping it of its identity and imposing unconventional mechanics on the traditional JRPG format. Yet, my appreciation for it remains intact.

Having previously crowned Breath of Fire III as my all-time favorite RPG, I could have easily harbored intense animosity towards Dragon Quarter due to its stark departures. However, I can assess the game independently of its predecessors.

Dragon Quarter stands out with its unique battle system—simple to grasp yet challenging to master. It blends real-time and turn-based gameplay elements, all while introducing a controversial D-Counter mechanic, where excessive dragon transformation can lead to an instant game over.

The narrative cleverly incorporates a roguelite aspect, rewarding players upon reset with an increased D-Ratio to unlock additional story elements. In essence, Dragon Quarter embraces the idea of restarting, presenting it as an integral part of its experience—an aspect that might alienate long-time fans.

7 Shadow Hearts: Covenant

The Most Non-Japanese JRPG

The concept of a JRPG is often linked to games developed in Japan, but I contest that it embodies a subgenre rich with distinct elements of Japanese culture, regardless of the developer’s origin. This raises a thought-provoking point: what about a Japanese RPG that strays entirely from its cultural roots, like Shadow Hearts? Does it simply revert to an RPG?

Both initial titles in the Shadow Hearts series unfold across Europe, Russia, and China, yet they diverge significantly from typical JRPG tropes. The series incorporates turn-based combat with timing mechanics and a handful of demonic entities inspired by folklore, but beyond that, it ventures into unique territory.

Shadow Hearts distinguishes itself by embracing horror themes grounded in historical events, such as World War I. The narrative features unexpected comedic elements, infused with supernatural twists that keep it engaging.

I recommend beginning with Shadow Hearts: Covenant, bypassing its predecessor, Koudelka, to fully enjoy the depth and originality this game has to offer.

6 Star Ocean: Till The End Of Time

The Best In The Series

There’s a notion suggesting each Star Ocean title is a solid 7—perhaps the best 7 you’ll ever experience. While this may appear dismissive, it’s strikingly accurate. As an avid supporter of the series, I can’t help but hope for a new addition from Square Enix, though I understand if they choose to let the franchise be.

Star Ocean games typically intertwine sci-fi with medieval fantasy elements, and the third installment, Till The End Of Time, is no exception. The plot follows Fayt, whose vacation spirals into an intergalactic conspiracy alongside richly developed party members from various worlds. Controversially, the ending remains a topic of debate, but the story remains compelling throughout.

The game stands out for enhancing its Item Creation mechanic and integrating it with a refined battle system. The shift to 3D significantly elevated combat, while quirky gameplay details, such as dying when MP hits zero, added to the depth.

In my opinion, Star Ocean: Till The End Of Time is the pinnacle of the series, despite its flaws. I acknowledge the remake, Star Ocean The Second Story R, as a mechanically superior and modern adaptation, but if you’re a series fan and haven’t played this third installment, it’s worth exploring.

5 Tales of the Abyss

Symphony Is Still Better

While I hold a fondness for Tales of Symphonia, which only saw a limited PS2 release in Japan, I am compelled to recognize Tales of the Abyss for its global availability on the platform.

Despite its imperfections, Tales of the Abyss earns its place due to its engaging narrative. As a player, I often found myself wanting to shake Luke, the protagonist, out of frustration. However, his character arc is significant and serves an essential plot function, contributing to a rich story exploring elemental themes, including the discovery of a climactic seventh element—Sound.

True to the series’ tradition, character development takes center stage, showcasing how the party dynamics evolve and interact, particularly through the delightful skit feature. With a strong narrative backbone, Tales of the Abyss delivers an experience that stands out among its contemporaries.

The combat system employs the classic Linear Motion Battle System, introducing “Free Run”, allowing player characters to navigate freely in a 3D environment. Coupled with the innovative Field of Fonons mechanic, where the placement of characters affects the outcome of spells and skills, combat remains engaging.

4 Person 3

Death Has Its Charms

Persona 3 marked the inception of Social Links in JRPGs. While earlier titles may have featured relationship mechanics, it was this game that authentically popularized them, prompting players to engage with NPCs and uncover their layered backstories.

Though some may argue for the superiority of Persona 4, my choice leans towards Persona 3 due to its profound cultural significance, despite the sometimes-draining nature of its dungeon, Tartarus. This gameplay loop encourages players to explore the variety of Persona embodiments and their strategic applications through the One More turn system, rewarding those who can exploit enemy weaknesses.

However, players are drawn to Persona primarily for its narrative weight and complex themes, with Persona 3 delving into the concept of death. The story unfolds with layers of intrigue, revealing mysteries from the very outset—such as the reasoning behind our midnight awakenings and the capacity to summon Personas. Ultimately, the emotional journey presented is one of the most impactful in the genre.

3 Kingdom Hearts II

The Strongest Friendship Power Ever

While I don’t partake in gambling, the blending of Disney with Final Fantasy was a gamble no one anticipated would succeed—yet Kingdom Hearts did just that, impressively.

The original Kingdom Hearts was endearing but marred by gameplay issues, including clunky character movement and camera angles. Kingdom Hearts II addressed these flaws and is widely recognized, including by myself, as the finest title in the series.

The story is undeniably intricate, centering on themes of friendship, light, and darkness and delivering memorable interactions, particularly between Squall and Donald. The narrative can become convoluted, but I find joy in the ride, embracing the adventures with my Keyblade.

The gameplay mechanics see significant improvements, with fresh innovations like Reaction Commands that adapt based on the specific enemy encountered, elevating the action RPG formula. Crafting systems, world exploration, and collectibles enhance the overall gameplay experience, making it a delight for JRPG enthusiasts.

2 Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

The Natural Evolution of JRPGs

Before immersing myself in Dragon Quest VIII, my exposure to the series was sporadic. While I had attempted to play the seventh game on PS1, I couldn’t connect due to the first-person battle perspective. However, upon playing Dragon Quest VIII on the PS2, I found a newfound appreciation by witnessing my characters in action during combat, which added excitement, even with its straightforward turn-based system.

The game’s character progression system, which allowed for the development of various skills and weapon upgrades, added an engaging twist to traditional gameplay.

What truly connected me to Dragon Quest VIII was its compelling storyline. Following the journey of a silent protagonist and his cursed companions on a quest for redemption and adventure created an emotional bond that resonates even today. Both Dragon Quest VIII and its successor, Dragon Quest XI, hold a special place in my heart, making it difficult to choose a favorite.

1 Final Fantasy X

Turn-Based Still Works, Final Fantasy

While my favorite Final Fantasy title is currently Final Fantasy XIV, it took time for that preference to crystallize; thus, I often refer to Final Fantasy X as my ultimate choice. Initially, I was fond of Final Fantasy IX, showcasing my affinity for the more magical and medieval-themed entries.

There’s an undeniable pleasure in witnessing Square deliver one of the gaming industry’s finest narratives through a format they seem to have moved away from. Even though they’ve evolved their combat systems, seeing Final Fantasy X embrace a quasi-classic turn-based model (albeit with conditional turn-based elements) feels refreshingly nostalgic.

However, my enduring love for Final Fantasy X stems from its rich storytelling and the way Tidus’s perspective effectively immerses players in the vibrant world of Spira. As newcomers, we navigate this unfamiliar universe alongside him, forging connections and learning to appreciate its depth and beauty.

I could easily compose an entire article dedicated to my admiration for Final Fantasy X—a title that holds a cherished spot in my heart, akin to a beloved family member with whom I have shared unforgettable moments.

I don’t advocate for a strict return to a solely turn-based style for future Final Fantasy titles. Instead, I wish for Square to embrace risk-taking, foster innovation, and weave stories that linger in the hearts of players, without succumbing to the pressures of market trends and shareholder expectations.

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