20 Best PlayStation 1 JRPG Games

The original PlayStation was one of the leading platforms that enjoyed an array of excellent JRPGs while it reigned. Its prosperous era witnessed the release of revolutionary titles such as Square’s storied Final Fantasy. Such a title went on to establish the fundamental elements that would later be adopted by several JRPGs that would follow afterwards.

From tactical RPGs that see players putting their strategic expertise on the battlefield to excellent story-driven turn-based JRPGs, the PlayStation is the perfect home for any JRPG enthusiast.

The list will take various titles worth your time. The list is diverse and full of titles you may not have heard. Or, perhaps titles you’ve played during your childhood.

Parasite Eve 1998 パラサイト・イヴ (Parasaito Ivu)

About
	Release Date March 29, 1998
	Developer Square
	Publisher Square
	Franchise Parasite Eve
	Genre Action RPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-03-29
1998-09-09

Parasite Eve enjoyed a time when it was regarded as one of the best experiments by Square at the time. It’s a unique blend of Resident Evil meets Final Fantasy. It is one of the games that include Role-playing with survival horror elements albeit it doesn’t incorporate the traditional turn-based system in the past Final Fantasy series.

The overall story puts you in the shoes of Aya Brea, a New York police officer. Her mission is to stop Eve, a parasite woman who has plans to wipe the human race from the face of the earth.

The gameplay is similar to Final Fantasy 7, but there is no traditional battle system. Instead, when a battle occurs, Aya Brea can move freely to avoid attacks and shoot enemies using either her guns or her parasite powers. Additionally, the game uses a pausable real-time combat system with an Active Time Bar. Once the player attacks, they have to wait a little bit until they can perform an attack.

There are various elements taken from the Final Fantasy series and other Square Soft games to be experienced here, but the game’s highlights shine in its unique blend between the survival-horror and role-playing genre

Koudelka 1999

About
	Release Date December 19, 1999
	Developer Sacnoth
	Publisher Atari SA
	Franchise Shadow Hearts
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-12-19
2000-06-29
2000-09-27

Koudelka’s may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this is arguably one of the most criminally underrated games from the PS1. Similar to Parasite Eve, Koudelka attempted to blend horror with a role-playing system, consequently crafting an unparalleled game on the PS1. The game’s CGI is jaw-dropping and ahead of its time, and that’s what makes it worth mentioning on the list.

The plot sees three characters: Koudelka, Bishop James, and Edward Plunkett all attempting to uncover the secrets of Nemeton castle. Amidst their perilous venture, they’ll confront voracious monsters ready to devour their prey at any moment. Monsters in Koudelka are challenging, with each encounter nudging the player to constantly experiment with magic and learn the core mechanics of the game.

Fun fact, Koudelka was directed by Hiroki Kikuta, a former employee of Square who founded Sacnoth with other members back in 1997. The gameplay may have taken several bites of inspiration from Final Fantasy, but Koudelka’s gameplay is surprisingly unique. Its gameplay blends exploration and puzzle elements with turn-based battles waged on a grid. You’ll be enjoying your time exploring the castle and learning more about the secrets of Nemeton.

Koudelka is one of the best-hidden gem JRPGs that you will ever experience though it suffers from certain issues. One of the game’s flaws is its high difficulty, especially against potent bosses who cannot be defeated unless the player manages to discover their weak spot. Additionally, the high encounter rate and the slow-paced gameplay may not appease everyone. However, if you’re here for the best JRPGs, then Koudelka won’t disappoint.

Brave Fencer Musashi 1998 ブレイヴフェンサー 武蔵伝 (Bureivu Fensā Musashiden, Brave Fencer: The Legend of Musashi)

About
	Release Date July 16, 1998
	Developer Square
	Publisher Square
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-07-16
1998-10-31

Brave Fencer Musashi is a charming action RPG, and it recounts the tale of a young swordsman who will stop at nothing until he finds what he’s looking for. Square may have developed revolutionary outings like Final Fantasy and Xenogears, but they’ve also made an array of genuine titles which are forgotten today. Brave Fencer Musashi is one that comes to mind.

The story puts you in the shoes of a young swordsman, Musashi. He has to search and collect Five Scrolls which can upgrade the power of his blade. The blade will help him to defend Allucaneet from the evil empire.

Unlike the games which were mentioned above, Brave Fencer Musashi doesn’t include a turn-based combat system. Instead, it involves real-time sword-based combat in a 2.5D environment. Additionally, the title features role-playing elements such as a day-night cycle, and the ability to sleep to restore health.

Despite the latter being an actual action RPG (ARPG), it’s still worth the shot for the graphics, the story, and the overall simplistic gameplay.

Legend of Legaia 1998 レガイア伝説 (Regaia Densetsu)

About
	Release Date October 29, 1998
	Developer Prokion
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-10-29
1999-03-16
2000-05-27

Legend of Legaia’s unique battle system and the heartwarming soundtrack gives it all the rights to earn a mention on this list. Brought to you by the same company behind Wild Arms II and Alundra 2, you’re in for a great time here.

A mysterious mist has grown aware of the fact that humans can use magical tools called Seru. Consequently, he unleashes his wrath, turning them all into freaky monsters. When all hope is lost, the three heroes emerge from the ashes, discovering strange entities called Ra-Seru that will help them to wipe out the mist and bring peace.

Featuring the crux of any JRPG, Legend of Legaia boasts a turn-based battle system where battles occur either during the world map or in dungeons. One of Legaia’s unique aspects is the attack command. Instead of the traditional attack command, players indicate the location of each attack. Players can also strike using either the left or right arm and high and low strikes. Each selected direction has its own advantage and disadvantage.

Additionally, Legend of Legaia has something known as ” Arts”. These are special combo attacks that inflict significantly more damage than the non-combo string. However, it’s up to the player to discover each character’s Art. There is an abundance of commands and features to discover in Legend of Legaia, and it’s always rewarding when they’re discovered.

Threads of Fate 1999 デュープリズム (Dyūpurizumu)

About
	Release Date October 14, 1999
	Developer Square
	Publisher Square
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-10-14
2000-07-18

Thread of Fate may not be a particularly awe-inspiring game on the PS1, but it boasts a slew of interesting ideas that makes it worth discovering. The game combines action, platforming and a modicum amount of RPG elements sprinkled on top. The game’s action sequences are tight, the visuals are lovely, and the soundtrack selection will haunt you for a while (because they’re good).

In Threads of Fate, players assume the role of one of the two characters: Rue or Mint. They are on an adventure to find a mystical object known as the Relic. The aforementioned is said to have the power to deeply change their lives as they fit.

Threads of Fate’s gameplay is nothing complicated for anyone to experience. The story is quite simple for anyone to understand. The environments feel diverse in a way, although some are pretty bland.  However, just as you think Thread of Fate is another generic action JRPG, the game introduces one interesting feature. Anytime Rue kills an enemy, a tiny symbol is left behind which can be used to transform into that creature.

Chrono Trigger 1995 クロノ・トリガ (Kurono Torigā)

About
	Release Date March 11, 1995
	Developer Square Enix
	Publisher Square Enix
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-11-02
2001-06-29

Chrono Trigger is seriously one of the best JRPGs ever, and it’s still cherished by gamers to this day. The game’s unparalleled story that sees friends venturing through timelines to alter events, battle potent foes, and share memories is worth every praise it gets.

The story revolves around Chrono and his friends travelling through time and battling fierce foes. After learning about Lavos’ plans to destroy planet earth just like he did centuries ago, Chrono, Lucca and his friends travel through time to stop him Lavos.

Chrono Trigger’s gameplay is simple yet captivating. Players control the hero Chrono and his friends as they explore the 2D world filled with various spring-tinged forests, derelict cities, and dungeons to navigate. The exploration is done through an overworld map which depicts landscapes, and other well-designed areas.

On the one hand, Chrono Trigger’s gameplay is slightly different from traditional JRPGs. Rather than randomly encountering enemies, the game makes enemies visible. Hence, you can always avoid wasting time by fighting the same enemies over and over again. In the end, if you are looking for one of the best JRPG games, Chrono Trigger is the best choice.

The Granstream Saga 1997 グランストリーム伝記 (Guransutorīmu Denki)

About
	Release Date November 06, 1997
	Developer Quintet
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1997-11-06
1998-06-30
1999-02-26

The Granstream Saga is an obscure JRPG game that I don’t see many talking about. The aforementioned is a spiritual successor to Soul Blazer, Terranigma, and Illusion of Gaia. Ironically, these three games are also not that well-known.

The game’s story focuses on Eon who journeys to protect the four floating continents from falling into the ocean. Eon wears a jewel known as ” the sceptre “. This jewel grants him magical powers and the ability to restore destroyed objects to their original shape. Amidst his journey, Eon will encounter several allies who share the same interest. However, the further Eon progresses in his journey, the further he discovers his dark past. The game has two possible endings, and it all depends on your actions.

Combat in The Granstream Saga is a real-time hack and slash, and it starts once you hit the on-screen wandering enemies in dungeons. Players fight enemies in a one-on-one duel.

The gameplay is unique since the entire game is praised as one of the first fully polygonal RPGs. Also, the game features anime-style cutscenes by Production I.G known for their works such as Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass, and Blood+. The Granstream Saga isn’t mind-blowing, but if you’re looking for an overlooked title, it’s worth a shot.

The Legend of Dragoon 1999 レジェンド・オブ・ドラグーン (Rejendo Obu Doragūn)

About
	Release Date December 21, 1999
	Developer Japan Studio
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-12-21
2000-06-14
2001-01-19

The Legend of Dragoon was Sony’s answer to the Final Fantasy series. Just like Dark Cloud was the answer to The Legend of Zelda franchise. However, sadly, both of these games’ ambitious goal didn’t work out well in the end.

The plot follows Dart, a brave warrior who possesses the power of a legendary knight known as Dragoon. Dart’s sweetheart Shana has been abducted by the dictator Emperor Doel, and it’s up to our hero to free her from the clutches of the wicked emperor. Amidst his journey, Dart will meet up with other warriors who possess the same power as him, and together they’ll team up to destroy Doel.

The player controls a party of 3D character models similar to Final Fantasy games. The combat uses a blend of traditional turn-based systems and real-time commands. One unique feature of the game is the inclusion of quick-time events during each strike. Once that happens, it’ll require the player to press a button when two squares converge.

The Legend of Dragoon is a great JRPG on the PS1, and we’re hoping that with the revival of several JRPGs via the remaster treatment, Sony would consider doing the same with this forgotten game.

Suikoden II 1998

About
	Release Date December 17, 1998
	Developer Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo
	Publisher Konami
	Franchise Suikoden
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-12-17
1999-08-31
2000-07-28

Suikoden II takes place a couple of years after the events of the original game, and it follows a silent protagonist. The plot recounts the invasion by the Kingdom of Highland of the City-States of Jowston which soon turns into a conflict known as “The Dunan Unification War.” Suikoden II is one of the best JRPGs ever made on the original PlayStation selling like hot cake upon its release.

The silent protagonist and his childhood friend are both caught up in this war, but each of them gains one-half of the Rune of the Beginning, one of the 27 True Runes of the Suikoden setting. What follows is an epic tale that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat, forever.

It’s a tragedy that the series is dead these days, with Konami doing nothing about it. But we’re hoping that a remaster may be on the horizon.

Dragon Valor 1999 ドラゴンヴァラー (Doragon Varā)

About
	Release Date December 02, 1999
	Developer Namco
	Publisher Namco
	Genre JRPG
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Dragon
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-12-02
2000-06-30
2000-10-16

Dragon Valor may not be a game with the deepest lore out there, but its simple hack-and-slash combat system is undeniably addictive. It doesn’t require too much effort to enjoy it.

The story of Dragon Valor revolves around legendary warriors who possess the ultimate power to slay powerful dragons. Players control a variety of warriors throughout generations and generations. The present, the past, and the future are all linked together, and the legend keeps repeating itself.

Wild Arms 1996 ワイルドアームズ (Wairudo Âmuzu)

About
	Release Date December 20, 1996
	Developer Media.Vision
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Franchise Wild Arms
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1996-12-20
1997-04-30

Wild Arms is one of the best titles on Sony’s PlayStation. One that stood tall amongst many renowned JRPGs, and managed to pump several sequels up till its last moments on the PS2.

An otherwordly threat plans to revive the dark leader and destroy the world. It’s up to Ruby and his companions who have the ability to control powerful weapons called ARMs to stop the imminent threat.

Final Fantasy VII 1997

About
	Release Date January 31, 1997
	Developer Square Enix
	Publisher Square Enix
	Franchise Final Fantasy
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1997-01-31
1997-09-07
1997-11-14

One does not simply, talk about the best JRPGs on the original PlayStation and not end up mentioning Final Fantasy VIII. After all, it’s one of the best-selling titles of all time.

The game puts you in the shoes of Cloud Strife who joins an eco-terrorist organization that strives to stop a dominative megacorporation from taking advantage of the planet’s life essence. Amidst these events, Cloud will build strong relationships with allies and other party members who share the same interest. However, one member called Sephiroth will not let their adventure go so smoothly.

Since you’re here, why not go take a look at the  All Final Fantasy Games Ever Released article we’ve made?

Breath of Fire III 1997 ブレス オブ ファイアIII (Buresu obu Faia III)

About
	Release Date September 11, 1997
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Genre JRPG
	Concept Fantasy
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1997-09-11
1998-04-30
1998-10-08

Breath of Fire III is part of the Breath of Fire series which initially debuted on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System back in 1993.

The story centres on Ryu, the last of The Brood, a race of people who can alter into tough dragons. As Ryu explores the world to uncover the mystery of his kin, his journey takes him into adulthood where he meets up with other characters who’ll help him in his quest.

Jade Cocoon: Story of the Tamamayu 1998 玉繭物語 (Tamamayu Monogatari)

About
	Release Date December 03, 1998
	Developer Genki
	Publisher Genki
	Genre JRPG
	Players Single Player
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-12-03
1999-07-27
1999-11-01

Players guide the silent protagonist on his journey to follow in his presumably deceased father’s footsteps to become a cocoon master.

Jade Cocoon combines elements from Role-Playing games and virtual pet management. These pets are called ” Minions”. Let’s just say that these minions are like pokemon. They can be used to attack or defend the protagonist.  They can also be fused with other minions and customize their abilities and appearance.
It’s a solid game that anyone seeking the best JRPGs on the PS1 should go for.

Valkyrie Profile 1999 ヴァルキリープロファイル (Varukirī Purofairu)

About
	Release Date December 22, 1999
	Developer tri-Ace
	Publisher Enix
	Franchise Valkyrie Profile
	Genre JRPG
	Graphics 2D
	Interaction Turn-Based
	Concept Fantasy
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-12-22
2000-08-29

Valkyrie Profile comes next. This one has received an enhanced port on the PSP as well, so you better go check it out as well. The game takes a lot of inspiration from Norse mythology, which is why you’ll notice a couple of references when playing the game.

The overall story revolves around Lenneth as she journeys to learn more about her past life which was removed from her memory after she became a Valkyrie. Lenneth travels through Midgard collecting the souls of dead heroes to serve as her own personal companions for Ragnarok. The battle that will decide the fate of all creation.

Xenogears 1998 ゼノギアス (Zenogiasu)

About
	Release Date February 11, 1998
	Developer Square
	Publisher Square
	Franchise Xeno
	Genre JRPG
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-02-11
1998-10-20

During the golden era of JRPGs, Square released some of the best titles in the genre, and one of them is Xenogears. Having one of the best plotlines in the genre and gameplay reminiscent of Square’s Final Fantasy series made Xenogears stand out the test of time. The gameplay is incredibly satisfying as players take hold of giant mechs known as Gears with a super-satisfying combo system that will leave any JRPG fan satisfied.

Although decades after its initial release, Xenogears is a blast from the past for a JRPG fan to sink their grinding time into. The soundtrack score is incredible, proving once again that Square has made a timeless classic. We can only hope that Square Enix may revive this game either through a remaster, or why not a remake.

Grandia 1997

About
	Release Date December 18, 1997
	Developer Game Arts
	Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
	Franchise Grandia
	Genre JRPG
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1999-06-24
1999-09-30
2000-03-31

Grandia is up there with one of the best JRPGs ever made. Set in a vibrant world, the game’s plot sees you take control of a young boy named Justin as you adventure the world, meet friends and uncover the mystery of the lost civilization.

The game’s gameplay is captivating on the get-go, it will only take you a couple of hours before you fall in love with it. Unlike its competitors, Grandia featured an original gameplay mechanic that allowed players to cancel enemies’ attacks, forcing them to wait longer to perform a second attack. Being able to dominate your enemies with skills, and a strong team watching over your back made Grandia a satisfying experience.

Vagrant Story 2000 ベイグラントストーリー (Beiguranto Sutōrī)

About
	Release Date February 10, 2000
	Developer Square
	Publisher Square
	Genre JRPG
	Concept Anime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
2000-02-10
2000-05-15
2000-06-21

Having been released near the end of the original PlayStation’s lifespan didn’t work out well for Vagrant Story. As a result, a huge number of players slept on this game until fans of the genre began to recommend it.

Featuring a challenging combat system, players will have their skills put to the test against some tough opponents. In addition to the challenging combat system, players can hit certain parts of an enemy, damaging the enemy severely. It’s one of those games that take a while to get used to, but once you do, you’re in for a great experience.

Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete 1996 Remake ルナ ザ・シルバースターストーリー (Runa za Shirubā Sutā Sutōrī)

About
	Release Date October 25, 1996 Initial Release: June 26, 1992
	Developer Game Arts
	Publisher Working Designs
	Franchise Lunar
	Genre JRPG
	Graphics 2D
	Interaction Turn-Based
	Concept Fantasy
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1998-05-28
1999-05-28

Lunar: Silver Star Harmony is the first remake of the original Lunar Silver Star game released on the Mega CD. It introduced several improvements with the main story remaining true to its predecessor roots.

The graphics aren’t the game’s only highlights. The well-done soundtracks play a role in improving the experience further, making each fight through the game feels incredible. The only downside to Lunar Silver Star Complete is its low-paced gameplay early on, but once you can get past that, you’ll be rewarded with a memorable game.

Vandal Hearts™ 1996

About
	Release Date October 25, 1996
	Developer Konami
	Publisher Konami
	Genre Tactical RPG
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Isometric
	Interaction Turn-Based
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

PS1 Releases
1996-10-25
1997-03-27
1997-06-01

Vandal Hearts used to be among Konami’s well-regarded tactical role-playing games, but over time, it has become a forgotten gem eagerly awaiting discovery by those who missed the opportunity to experience it during its heyday.

Vandal Hearts features gameplay mechanics reminiscent of titles like Final Fantasy Tactics, emphasizing strategic thinking as the path to success. Players command a diverse roster of characters, each belonging to distinct classes. Each class possesses its own advantages and strengths, but it is the skilful integration of these classes into a unified force that leads to victory.

Thank you for reading.