The world of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) has been experiencing a notable revival in recent years. While they may not achieve the same level of mainstream acclaim as blockbuster titles, these enchanting games are starting to capture more attention than ever before.
Despite the reduced number of unique JRPGs from various developers compared to the golden era of the PS1, devoted fans of the genre can still find plenty to enjoy. The current gaming landscape is rich with outstanding titles, thanks in part to the creative spirit of both major studios and indie developers alike, ensuring a delightful buffet of new experiences.
This article highlights ten anticipated upcoming JRPGs that should be on every fan’s radar, spanning releases scheduled for 2025 and those with unspecified dates, but worthy of adding to your wishlist now.
10 Forge of the Fae
From Chained Echoes’ Publisher
| Developer | Datadyne LLC |
|---|---|
| Platforms | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Release Date | TBA |
Forge of the Fae embodies the essence of indie JRPGs, featuring stunning pixel art, inventive turn-based combat, and a captivating narrative interwoven with Celtic folklore. Players take on the role of Fiora, an inventive hero on a quest to unravel a series of mysterious disappearances, aided by her loyal Mechanical Faerie and the innovative Crystal System.
The Crystal System enables characters to equip spells and abilities, creating opportunities for exciting combo moves. Initially, I found myself questioning whether Forge of the Fae would offer a compelling experience, but once Deck13—a publisher known for titles like CrossCode and Chained Echoes—became involved, my interest piqued, and it certainly deserves a spot on your radar.
9 Lost Hellden
Gorgeous Hand-Painted Game
| Developer | Artisan Studios |
|---|---|
| Platforms | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Release Date | 2025 |
Lost Hellden caught my attention amidst ongoing debates about AI art, with Artisan Studios promoting this unique hand-painted JRPG. The stunning visuals create a watercolor-like aesthetic, with characters and environments brimming with life.
The game features an innovative combat system with two distinct phases: an action phase where players can attack without retaliation, followed by a reaction phase where enemies counterattack. This dynamic encourages strategy over frantic button-mashing, promising a fresh approach to action gameplay.
8 Edge Of Memories
A New Entry In The Edge Of Series
Fans of Edge of Eternity will be excited to learn about Edge of Memories, another ambitious title from Midgar Studio. This action-based JRPG features a vibrant world impacted by the mysterious Corrosion, with a protagonist named Eline, who must harness her powers to combat this corruption and save her realm.
With fluid action combat that allows players to chain skills and dodge enemy attacks, the gameplay promises to be both engaging and strategic. Given its captivating premise, this title is worthy of a spot on your wishlist.
7 Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles
Fully-Voiced Durai Report
For those intrigued by the tactical gameplay of Final Fantasy Tactics but found its difficulty daunting, the upcoming Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles is set to bring new accessibility features, including a modified Squire difficulty level.
This enhanced version introduces a variety of quality-of-life improvements along with new narrative features that will help players navigate its rich, intricate lore. If you have fond memories of the original game, this reimagining promises to reignite your passion for tactical JRPGs.
6 SacriFire
Mix And Match Of PS1’s Finest JRPGs
| Developer | Pixelated Milk |
|---|---|
| Platforms | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Release Date | Q1 2026 |
From the creators of Regalia: Of Men and Monarchs, the upcoming SacriFire invites players to immerse themselves in a world inspired by the classic PS1 JRPGs, blending elements from titles like Vagrant Story and Xenogears.
Featuring a beautiful 2.5D visual style and an engaging combat system, players will target specific enemy body parts and chain combos for maximum damage. With a rich narrative centered around protagonist Ezekiel Ridan, this game promises to explore moral dilemmas amidst thrilling gameplay.
5 Pokémon Legends: Z-A
It’s A New Era For Pokémon Battles
Pokémon Legends: Z-A takes longstanding fans back to the Kalos region, showcasing a shift in gameplay towards real-time battles reminiscent of Xenoblade Chronicles. This title challenges trainers to engage in dynamic competition that requires not just strategy but agility.
As urban redevelopment transforms Lumiose City, players will participate in the Z-A Royale competition, and the narrative promises intriguing developments alongside the evolution of battle mechanics.
4 Digimon Story: Time Stranger
Finally, A Well-Funded Digimon
Despite historically lesser budgets compared to Pokémon, Digimon Story: Time Stranger is shaping up to be the franchise’s most ambitious JRPG yet. The game follows a storyline that takes players back eight years after a catastrophic explosion.
Players will traverse between the Human World and the Digital World, with captivating cutscenes and dynamic animations setting a new standard for the series. With over 450 Digimon to collect, this title promises countless hours of exploration and adventure.
3 Octopath Traveler 0
The HD-2D Supremacy Stands
Octopath Traveler remains a defining entry in the turn-based genre, bringing back its acclaimed HD-2D graphical style. With Octopath Traveler 0, players can expect familiar combat mechanics alongside new features, including the Town Building mechanic to restore your hometown.
The game serves as a prequel and introduces a mix of fan-favorite and new characters, all while maintaining the classic structure that fans love. Anticipation is high, especially with a release set for the end of this year.
2 Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
Erdrick’s Adventure Continues
The Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake continues the beloved saga of Erdrick, updating the classic games while preserving their rich narratives. Players can expect improvements in gameplay, such as the introduction of a new playable character, the Princess of Cannock, enhancing the story’s depth.
These remakes provide an excellent opportunity for both seasoned fans and newcomers to experience the foundational elements of JRPGs, as they reintroduce classic battles with modern graphics.
1 Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter
Best Girl Estelle Is Back
JRPG enthusiasts are surely aware of the Trails series, especially the highly regarded Trails in the Sky. The upcoming remake, Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, aims to modernize the experience with stunning 3D graphics, revamped combat mechanics, and fully voiced English dialogue.
With its captivating world-building and intricate narratives, this remake should attract both long-time fans and newcomers eager to explore the series’ rich lore. As we approach its release, the excitement is palpable for what many consider one of the genre’s finest.
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