Zack Reese
After a long period of development, this may be one of the breakout indie titles of the year.
With its incredibly likable cast of characters, polished mechanics, and grander story, this entry represents the best the series has ever been.
Yu Suzuki's magnum opus may still retain many of its core flaws, but this remains a series that is well worth experiencing for yourself.
A breathtaking adventure that takes a grim and depressing story with highly engaging combat to create a hidden gem well worth experiencing.
If you are looking for a JRPG that encapsulates the summer vacation experience, this one may very well be for you.
With its bland story and uninteresting characters, this is a series that is in a dire need of a substantive reboot.
It's pound for pound the best the series has been, illuminating all of its strong points in a more robust and better-looking package. While a few of these changes won't be everyone's cup of tea, fans will appreciate the added interactivity and quality of life improvements. I just have a hard time recommending this if you already beat the original Megadimension VII.
Thanks to its incredible soundtrack and a wonderful dose of gameplay variety to help keep everything from becoming monotonous, Ys Origin is still and will forever remain a solid action RPG well worth your time no matter the platform it winds up on.
Not only did the uninspired (and downright boring) maps dull my senses, but the glacier pacing left me fighting the urge to take multiple breaks during my coverage. I hate to say it, but you should stay far away from this one - there is very little that is redeeming about The Witch and the Hundred Knight 2.
Thanks to its heartwarming characters, whimsical soundtrack, and gorgeous visuals that are simply a treat to look at, there is much to appreciate in this sequel.
This is an example of a sequel that improves upon its predecessor in almost every possible way.
It's still one for the fans, but this may be the best adaptation of the license yet.
This transition from 2D to 3D feels clunky and uninspired, but it still has a few bright spots.
Tokyo RPG Factory plays it safe in this follow-up to I Am Setsuna, which isn't necessarily a bad thing.
If you're willing to put up with a few gameplay flaws, uneven game balancing, and an unsightly user interface, this is one RPG that belongs in your collection.
Its bleak story and strong ambiance will do a number on your emotions in this nerve-wracking adventure.
A huge graphical overhaul and a nice script helps the series keep its charm, but it doesn't solve some of the inherent issues therein.
Complemented by a strong sense of style in its gorgeous presentation, this is one of the stronger titles in Gust's library.
A gratifying love letter to fans that appeals mostly to those who also enjoy the Dynasty Warriors series.
A cool art aesthetic and interesting mechanics can't help this game from feeling like a letdown.