In the realm of JRPGs, while the core elements often revolve around engaging combat and immersive narratives, player movement shouldn’t be limited to mere walking. For expansive, open-world maps common in many JRPGs, alternative methods of traversal can significantly enhance the gaming experience, providing both speed and variety during exploration. These diverse mechanics not only accelerate travel but also keep players engaged during quieter moments in the game.
JRPGs have introduced a multitude of inventive traversal mechanisms, ranging from hoverboards and mountable creatures to impressive mechs. Using these unique means of movement can transform a tedious trek across vast landscapes into a thrilling journey.
10 Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
Magic Parkour
The Kingdom Hearts series has continually innovated its traversal mechanics, evolving from simple gliding to complex movement systems.Kingdom Hearts 3D introduced Flowmotion, a captivating subsystem that enables Sora and Riku to navigate their environment with fluidity, allowing for jumps, slides, and impressive acrobatics. This mechanic not only enhances exploration but also integrates into combat strategy, enabling players to chain these movements into devastating area-of-effect attacks.
9 Tales of Berseria
Geoboardin’
In contrast to earlier Tales installments that featured vehicles like boats and airships for traversal, Tales of Berseria revolutionized movement with the Geoboard. This unique tool, resembling a surfboard, utilizes the Earthpulse to propel Velvet and her companions forward at high speeds. Beyond quick travel, the Geoboard also allows players to defeat weaker enemies on contact, merging efficiency with entertainment.
8 Dragon Quest XI
Finders Keepers
The iconic monster designs of the Dragon Quest series extend into its traversal mechanics. In Dragon Quest XI, players can capture monster mounts after defeating them, enhancing exploration with various creatures, including grotesque mounts like the Skullrider’s six-legged beast. Each mount boasts unique skills such as jumping or climbing, adding an exciting layer of depth to the gameplay as players search for hidden treasures.
7 Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Supernatural Rail Grinding
Initial maps in Shin Megami Tensei V offered a decent traversal experience, but Vengeance significantly improved this with the addition of Magatsu Rails. These demonic rails allow players to grind their way across vast landscapes, connecting locations efficiently while also unveiling hidden areas that would otherwise be difficult to access. Relying on these rails not only quickens travel but also enriches the overall adventure.
6 Pokemon Sun & Moon
Every Possible Way To Ride A Pokémon
Throughout the Pokémon series, players have utilized various Pokémon for travel. In Sun & Moon, the introduction of the Ride Pokémon system revolutionized this experience. Players can summon specially-trained Pokémon for transport, each adept at overcoming specific terrain challenges. From Lapras navigating water to a jet-propelled Sharpedo, these rides enhance exploration and engagement with the game world.
5 Metaphor: ReFantasy
“He’s Riding A Sword, Mom!”
In Metaphor: ReFantazio, the protagonist discovers that he can ride a magical sword, enhancing the whimsical nature of the game. While this option isn’t available in dungeons, it proves invaluable for traversing larger city areas. The amusing twist lies in NPC reactions; townsfolk express a blend of awe and confusion as they witness this spectacle, adding a layer of charm and humor to the gameplay.
4 Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Surf Those Streets
As personal transportation grows more accessible across the globe, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth introduces the Street Surfer, an amusing electric vehicle that players can utilize for faster travel. Beyond simple movement, this vehicle features an auto-cruise function that can guide players to selected map points, adding a level of convenience while exploring. The customization options further enhance its appeal, albeit at a cost.
3 Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
You Can Already Hear The Song
Chocobos have long been a beloved feature in the Final Fantasy franchise, offering a beloved means of traversing vast landscapes. In Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, players can summon Chocobos after taming wild ones, allowing for more strategic movement across the open world. Each region’s Chocobos also possesses unique capabilities, such as climbing steep cliffs or gliding, further enhancing the gameplay experience.
2 Rune Factory 4
Hitch A Ride On Your Monsters
Rune Factory 4 hinges on the concept of taming and befriending monsters, allowing players to ride their loyal companions across varied terrains. Larger monsters serve as reliable transportation, offering both speed and unique combat abilities. The delightful paradox of riding monsters adds an element of humor and creativity to the gameplay experience, as players navigate through the enchanting world.
1 Xenoblade Chronicles X
Everything’s Better With Transforming Robots
Xenoblade Chronicles X takes traversal to the next level with the inclusion of transforming giant robots, known as Skells. These mechanical marvels can change into various vehicle forms, greatly improving on-field mobility. From speedy motorcycles to robust tanks, the dynamic transformations provide not only a functional advantage but also a thrilling expansion of gameplay possibilities.
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