The PlayStation 5 has become a home for some amazing Japanese RPGs since its launch. With a mix of new releases and enhanced versions of older games, there’s plenty to choose from for fans of the genre. The best JRPGs on PS5 include critically acclaimed titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Persona 5 Royal, and Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, offering players rich stories and engaging gameplay.
These games let players dive into unique worlds with deep characters and strategic combat systems. Whether you enjoy turn-based battles or action-packed fights, there’s a JRPG that matches your style. The stunning graphics of the PS5 make these adventures even more impressive than they were on older systems.
1. Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal stands out as one of the finest JRPGs available on PS5. This enhanced version of the original Persona 5 adds new characters, story elements, and gameplay features that make it even more compelling.
The game brilliantly combines high school life simulation with dungeon-crawling adventures. During the day, you attend classes, build friendships, and develop skills. At night, you explore mysterious realms called Palaces to steal the corrupted desires of evil adults.
What makes Persona 5 Royal special is its stylish presentation. The bold red and black color scheme, jazzy soundtrack, and fluid animations give the game a unique identity that stands out among other RPGs.
Combat in Persona 5 Royal uses a turn-based system that never feels slow or boring. You can summon Personas—powerful beings representing your inner self—to fight enemies and exploit their weaknesses.
Many players who don’t typically enjoy JRPGs find themselves drawn to Persona 5 Royal. Its accessible gameplay and engaging story make it easy to sink over 100 hours into this world without feeling bored.
The Royal edition adds a substantial new semester to the game, along with a new party member named Kasumi. These additions provide fresh content even for those who played the original version.
Some fans consider it not just a great game, but possibly the best JRPG ever made. The combination of social links, strategic combat, and memorable characters creates a package that’s hard to match.
The PS5 version runs smoothly with improved loading times compared to earlier releases. While not a native PS5 game, it takes advantage of the system’s power to deliver the definitive Persona 5 experience.
For newcomers to the series, Persona 5 Royal offers a perfect entry point. The tutorials are helpful without being intrusive, and the story gradually introduces game mechanics at a comfortable pace.
The game has been praised for its mature handling of difficult topics like abuse, corruption, and personal growth. Despite these heavy themes, it maintains a sense of hope and empowerment throughout its story.
2. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has quickly established itself as one of the best JRPGs on PlayStation 5. As the second installment in Square Enix’s ambitious remake trilogy, it continues Cloud and his companions’ journey with impressive style.
The game expands on its predecessor by offering a vast open world to explore. Players can wander across varied landscapes, complete side quests, and discover hidden treasures at their own pace.
Combat maintains the hybrid real-time and command-based system from the first remake, but adds new team-up attacks and materia combinations. These additions keep battles fresh and strategic throughout the adventure.
Many fans consider Rebirth to be a standout title in recent years. Some even call it the greatest JRPG since Final Fantasy X, which speaks volumes about its quality and impact.
The story both honors the original while taking bold new directions. This balance keeps longtime fans engaged while surprising them with unexpected twists and character development.
Visually, the game pushes the PS5 hardware with stunning environments and character models. From snowy mountains to lush forests, each location feels distinct and alive with activity.
The soundtrack blends remixed classics with new compositions. These musical pieces enhance emotional moments and intense battles throughout the journey.
Side content is plentiful and meaningful. Mini-games, optional bosses, and character-specific quests add dozens of hours without feeling like filler.
Some players have logged over 130 hours completing everything the game offers. The depth of content rivals much larger RPG franchises while maintaining consistent quality.
Critics have praised Rebirth for its expansive, detailed, and loving adaptation of the middle portion of the original Final Fantasy VII. It successfully modernizes classic moments while adding meaningful new content.
For both newcomers and veterans of the series, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth offers an unforgettable adventure. Its combination of storytelling, gameplay, and production values makes it an essential experience for any JRPG fan with a PlayStation 5.
3. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Dragon Quest XI stands as one of the best traditional JRPGs available on PS5. This classic turn-based adventure brings together everything fans love about the genre without complicated gimmicks.
The game follows a silent protagonist known as the Luminary, a chosen hero destined to save the world from darkness. While this might sound like a typical JRPG setup, the execution is what makes it special.
Combat in Dragon Quest XI shines with its straightforward yet engaging turn-based system. You control a party of distinct characters, each with unique abilities and personalities that add depth to your journey.
The PS5 version includes all content from the original release plus several improvements. Players can switch between modern 3D graphics and a charming 2D mode that resembles older Dragon Quest games.
What makes this game stand out is its well-developed characters and world. The colorful cast joins you on an adventure across a vast map filled with towns, dungeons, and secrets to discover.
The Definitive Edition adds character-specific scenarios that weren’t in the original release. These stories give you more insight into your companions’ backgrounds and motivations.
Music options let you choose between the original soundtrack or a fully orchestrated version. This small but meaningful choice helps players customize their experience.
A Japanese voice acting option was added to the Definitive Edition as well. For purists who prefer the original audio, this feature is a welcome addition.
Some fans consider Dragon Quest XI to be one of the greatest JRPGs ever made. The game strikes a perfect balance between honoring traditions and adding just enough modern touches to feel fresh.
The story takes around 60-80 hours to complete, but the excellent post-game content adds many more hours of gameplay. This extra content isn’t just filler—it adds meaningful story elements and challenging battles.
Graphics on PS5 look crisp and vibrant, with the colorful art style holding up beautifully. The game runs smoothly with quick loading times, making exploration a joy.
Dragon Quest XI is perfect for both newcomers and longtime JRPG fans. Its straightforward approach and charming presentation make it accessible while still offering depth for experienced players.
4. Tales of Arise
Tales of Arise has earned its place as one of the best JRPGs on PS5. Released as part of the long-running “Tales of” series, this game brings fresh ideas while honoring what fans love about the franchise.
The combat system shines especially bright. It’s well thought out and more refined than earlier games in the series. Players can chain together attacks, dodge enemy strikes, and use special abilities that feel satisfying to execute.
Character development stands out too. The game features six diverse party members with distinct personalities and fighting styles. The two main characters have a compelling relationship that grows throughout the story.
Graphics take a big leap forward compared to older Tales games. The environments are stunning, from lush forests to barren wastelands. Character models look fantastic during both gameplay and cutscenes.
The story tackles themes of oppression and liberation. Two worlds—one technologically advanced and one more traditional—exist in conflict. This backdrop creates tension that drives the narrative forward in interesting ways.
While some fans debate whether it reaches the heights of classics like Vesperia or Abyss, many agree it’s a solid installment that brings new energy to the series.
The music deserves special mention. The soundtrack combines orchestral pieces with more modern sounds, enhancing emotional moments and battle sequences alike.
Tales of Arise balances accessibility for newcomers with depth for longtime fans. The learning curve feels just right—challenging without becoming frustrating.
PlayStation 5 owners looking for a JRPG with action-packed combat should give this game serious consideration. It stands proudly among the best Japanese RPGs available on current PlayStation consoles.
5. Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon marks a bold change for the series. It switches from beat-em-up action to turn-based combat, bringing the series into the JRPG genre. This shift might seem risky, but it pays off wonderfully.
The game introduces Ichiban Kasuga, a lovable new protagonist with wild hair and an even wilder personality. After spending 18 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Ichiban finds himself homeless and searching for answers in Yokohama.
What makes this game special is its perfect blend of serious drama and silly humor. One minute you’re dealing with heavy themes like homelessness and corruption, the next you’re fighting diaper-wearing gangsters with giant crayfish.
The combat system imagines battles through Ichiban’s RPG-loving mind. Enemies appear as weird versions of themselves – from angry chefs to hungry crows. Your party can choose from various jobs (classes) like bodyguard, musician, or even a host/hostess.
Yokohama offers a vibrant playground filled with activities. You can manage a company, race go-karts, sing karaoke, or play classic SEGA arcade games. These side activities provide a fun break from the main story.
The story itself is compelling and emotional. It tackles tough social issues while keeping the heart and soul that fans expect from Yakuza games. Character development shines throughout the 40+ hour adventure.
The game looks fantastic on PS5 with improved loading times and visual performance. The city feels alive with detailed streets, shops, and crowds of people going about their business.
Many consider it one of the greatest JRPGs in recent years. It even surprised many by outshining Final Fantasy 7 Remake in 2020.
For PS5 owners wanting a JRPG with heart, humor, and depth, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a must-play. Its combination of anime-style graphics with vibrant gameplay creates an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
6. Star Ocean The Divine Force
Star Ocean The Divine Force brings a fresh take on the JRPG genre to the PS5. Released by Square Enix, this game offers players a choice between two main protagonists whose stories intertwine throughout the adventure.
The game stands out with its terrific battle system that many fans consider a high point of the experience. Combat feels fast and responsive, giving players plenty of options during fights.
One unique feature is the focus on vertical mobility during exploration. Players can fly and reach high places, making the world feel more open and enjoyable to traverse.
The cast of characters has been praised as solid and charming, helping to drive the story forward. These personalities add depth to the sci-fi meets fantasy narrative that the Star Ocean series is known for.
Some players have even called it the best JRPG in years, particularly highlighting how fun the exploration mechanics feel. The sense of discovery keeps the gameplay loop engaging throughout.
The game isn’t without its critics, though. Some reviews point to issues with pacing and certain story elements that don’t quite hit the mark. Technical performance on PS5 is generally good but not flawless.
Visually, The Divine Force offers colorful environments and decent character models. While not pushing the PS5 to its limits, the art style works well for the space-fantasy setting the game creates.
Side quests and character development systems give players plenty to do beyond the main story. The private action system returns, allowing for deeper character interactions and relationship building.
For JRPG fans looking for an action RPG experience on PS5, Star Ocean The Divine Force offers something different from the typical turn-based fare. Its mix of sci-fi elements with fantasy tropes creates an interesting world to explore.
Despite not being perfect, the game has found its audience among those who appreciate its fast combat, interesting exploration mechanics, and character-driven storytelling. It serves as a solid entry in the long-running Star Ocean series.
7. Chained Echoes
Chained Echoes stands out as a remarkable indie JRPG that’s earned high praise from players. This game brings together classic JRPG elements with modern quality-of-life features that make it accessible and fun.
Created primarily by a small team led by Mattias, this game is extremely impressive in scope and execution. Many players consider it one of the best examples of what can be done with the retro JRPG formula in modern times.
The story shines with memorable characters and solid writing. While you might recognize some familiar themes, the way they’re presented feels fresh and engaging. The narrative keeps players invested from start to finish.
Gameplay is another strong point for Chained Echoes. It strikes a nice balance between challenging and accessible. The combat system is thoughtful and rewards strategic planning without becoming frustrating.
One thing many players appreciate is how the game respects your time. Gone are the tedious grinding sessions often associated with classic JRPGs. Instead, you get a streamlined experience that keeps the action moving forward.
The art style captures the essence of 16-bit era games while adding its own unique flair. Detailed pixel art brings the world and characters to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The soundtrack complements the game perfectly, with tunes that enhance the atmosphere of each area and situation. Music has always been important in JRPGs, and Chained Echoes doesn’t disappoint in this department.
Some fans even consider it the best JRPG of the last 10-15 years, which is high praise given the competition. While that’s subjective, it speaks to how much this game resonates with JRPG enthusiasts.
For PS5 owners looking for an experience that captures the magic of classic JRPGs while eliminating many of their frustrations, Chained Echoes is an excellent choice. It proves that sometimes smaller studios can deliver experiences that rival much bigger productions.
8. Persona 3 Reload
Persona 3 Reload brings a fresh coat of paint to a beloved JRPG classic. This remake updates the 2006 original with modern graphics and gameplay improvements while keeping the core story intact.
The game follows high school students who discover the “Dark Hour,” a hidden time between one day and the next. Players balance school life with dungeon crawling in a tower called Tartarus.
Combat in Reload is turn-based but fast-paced. You’ll exploit enemy weaknesses and unleash powerful combo attacks with your teammates. The battle system feels smooth and responsive compared to the original.
What makes Persona 3 special is its social simulation elements. During daytime, you attend classes, join clubs, and build friendships. These social links directly strengthen your combat abilities, creating a rewarding gameplay loop.
Many fans consider Persona 3 Reload the best version of the game in almost every aspect. The updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements make it more accessible than ever.
The story tackles mature themes like grief and purpose. Characters face their inner demons both literally and figuratively. The narrative remains powerful even years after the original release.
For PS5 owners, Reload offers stunning visuals and quick loading times. The art style pops with vibrant colors and stylish animations that bring the world to life.
Some players even rate it higher than Persona 5, which is high praise considering P5’s popularity. The tight narrative and emotional impact help it stand out.
Persona 3 Reload works well as a first JRPG for newcomers to the genre. The clear tutorials and engaging story hook players from the start.
The game’s soundtrack deserves special mention. The jazzy tunes and vocal tracks create a distinctive atmosphere that enhances both everyday activities and intense battles.
With over 80 hours of content, Persona 3 Reload offers excellent value. The mix of dungeon crawling, social simulation, and emotional storytelling creates an experience that few other JRPGs can match on PS5.
9. Metaphor: ReFantazio
Metaphor: ReFantazio stands out as one of the finest JRPGs available on PS5. Created by the team behind Persona, this game delivers a spectacular JRPG experience with masterful design in nearly every aspect.
The game takes place in a unique fantasy world where players journey alongside a fairy companion named Gallica. Your main goal? To lift the curse from the kingdom’s lost prince. This storyline hooks players from the start and keeps them engaged throughout.
Combat in Metaphor: ReFantazio sticks to traditional turn-based mechanics, but executes them brilliantly. The system rewards strategy and careful planning, making each battle feel meaningful rather than repetitive.
The characters shine through excellent writing and development. Players connect with the cast quickly, making the journey more personal and emotionally rewarding. These relationships evolve naturally as the story progresses.
Visually, the game impresses with a distinct art style that stands out even among other high-quality PS5 titles. The environments feel alive and varied, encouraging exploration at every turn.
Music deserves special mention too. The soundtrack perfectly complements each scene, from tense battles to quiet character moments. It enhances the overall experience without ever feeling obtrusive.
For players deciding between different JRPGs, Metaphor offers great story, great characters and fun turn-based combat. These elements combine to create one of the most compelling packages on PS5.
Quest design avoids the common pitfall of tedious fetch quests. Instead, side content feels meaningful and adds genuine value to the overall experience. Each quest reveals more about the world and its inhabitants.
Metaphor: ReFantazio has quickly earned its place among the best Japanese RPGs on PS4 and PS5, standing proudly alongside titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Tales of Arise. For JRPG fans with a PS5, this game shouldn’t be missed.
10. Final Fantasy XVI
Final Fantasy XVI stands as one of the most impressive JRPGs on PS5. Released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive, this entry takes a more mature approach to storytelling than previous games in the series.
The game follows Clive Rosfield in the world of Valisthea, where powerful beings called Eikons are tied to specific individuals. The combat system moves away from turn-based battles to a more action-oriented approach, making fights fast and exciting.
What makes Final Fantasy XVI special is its focus on a dark medieval setting. The game touches on serious themes like war, politics, and revenge. This makes it feel different from other Final Fantasy games.
The graphics are stunning, showing off what the PS5 can do. From detailed character models to vast landscapes, everything looks incredible. The game runs smoothly even during the most chaotic battle sequences.
Music has always been important in Final Fantasy games, and XVI continues this tradition. The soundtrack perfectly matches the game’s tone, with powerful orchestral pieces during epic moments.
Side quests add depth to the world and its characters. While the main story keeps things moving forward, these optional adventures let players explore Valisthea at their own pace.
The game offers about 35-40 hours of gameplay for the main story. Players looking to complete everything will spend much more time with it. The pacing feels right, never dragging or rushing through important story beats.
For PS5 owners wanting an epic fantasy adventure, Final Fantasy XVI delivers. It combines great gameplay with a compelling story, making it a standout in the JRPG genre and one of the best games in the Final Fantasy series.
Defining Characteristics of JRPGs
JRPGs have unique elements that set them apart from other RPG genres. These games blend distinctive combat mechanics, character-driven narratives, and Japanese cultural themes to create immersive gaming experiences.
Turn-Based Combat
Most traditional JRPGs feature turn-based combat systems where players select actions from menus. This approach focuses on strategy rather than quick reflexes.
Popular PS5 JRPGs like Persona 5 Royal use this combat style to great effect. Players plan attacks, spells, and items during their turn without time pressure.
Some newer titles mix turn-based elements with real-time features. For example, Final Fantasy 7 Remake uses an Active Time Battle system that blends both styles.
These combat systems often include:
- Party management (3-4 characters)
- Elemental weaknesses and resistances
- Special abilities and limit breaks
- Status effects (poison, sleep, etc.)
Many JRPG fans prefer turn-based combat for its thoughtful pacing and tactical depth.
Character Development and Storytelling
JRPGs typically offer pre-defined characters with strong personalities and growth arcs. Unlike Western RPGs that often focus on player-created avatars, JRPGs tell specific character stories.
These games usually feature:
- Character-driven narratives
- Coming-of-age themes
- Party dynamics and relationships
- Emotional story beats
The storytelling often unfolds through a mix of cutscenes, in-game dialogue, and optional conversations. Characters develop through both the main story and side quests designed to reveal their backstories.
JRPGs like Persona 5 Royal excel at creating deep bonds between players and characters through social sim elements alongside traditional RPG gameplay.
Cultural Influence and Themes
JRPGs are heavily influenced by Japanese aesthetics, storytelling traditions, and cultural values. These games offer players glimpses into another cultural perspective.
Common JRPG themes include:
- The power of friendship and teamwork
- Environmental concerns
- Questioning authority and institutions
- Finding one’s place in the world
Art styles range from realistic to anime-inspired visuals. Many JRPGs incorporate Japanese mythology, folklore, and modern cultural references that create a unique atmosphere.
Music plays a crucial role too, with distinctive soundtracks that blend traditional instruments with modern compositions. These scores help establish the game’s emotional tone and cultural identity.
JRPGs represent entertaining escapism with uniquely Japanese perspectives, even when set in fantasy worlds.
Technological Advancements in PS5 JRPGs
PS5 JRPGs have taken a major leap forward thanks to the console’s powerful hardware. These games now offer stunning visuals and faster gameplay that truly enhance the player experience.
Enhanced Graphics and Visuals
Modern PS5 JRPGs showcase incredible visual improvements that weren’t possible on older consoles. Games like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth feature highly detailed character models and environments that bring their worlds to life.
The key visual improvements include:
- 4K resolution with HDR support
- Ray tracing for realistic lighting and reflections
- More detailed textures on characters and environments
- Fluid animations that make combat and cutscenes more impressive
Games like Persona and Dragon Quest now have a distinct visual style that feels more vibrant and engaging on PS5. Even titles with stylized art benefit from the extra processing power.
Particle effects during magic spells and special attacks are now more impressive, creating a sense of power and impact during battles.
Improved Load Times and Performance
The PS5’s SSD has revolutionized how JRPGs perform. Many top JRPGs now load in seconds rather than minutes, eliminating a major frustration for players.
Fast travel is nearly instant in most games, making exploration more enjoyable. This is especially important in large open-world JRPGs where players frequently move between areas.
Performance improvements include:
- Stable 60 FPS in most titles
- Quick resume functionality
- Almost no loading screens between areas
- Smoother transitions between gameplay and cutscenes
The haptic feedback in the DualSense controller adds another layer to the experience. Players can feel the difference between casting fire magic versus ice spells, or the weight of different weapons.
These technical improvements make JRPGs more accessible to newcomers while giving longtime fans the smooth, responsive experience they’ve always wanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
JRPG fans looking for PlayStation 5 experiences have many excellent options across various gameplay styles and release dates. Many classic titles have received enhanced versions while new entries continue to appear.
What are the top turn-based JRPGs available on PS5?
Persona 5 Royal stands as one of the finest turn-based JRPGs on PS5. The game combines stylish visuals with deep combat mechanics and a compelling story about high school students battling corruption.
Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age offers a more traditional turn-based experience. Its charming art style and classic JRPG elements make it perfect for both newcomers and longtime fans.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon represents a successful shift to turn-based combat for the Yakuza series. The game features a fun job system and an engaging story following Ichiban Kasuga’s journey.
Can you recommend some PS5 exclusive JRPGs worth playing?
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth serves as a PS5 console exclusive that continues Cloud’s reimagined journey. The game expands on the combat system from the remake while introducing an explorable open world.
While true PS5 exclusives are currently limited in the JRPG space, many games receive performance enhancements when played on PS5.
The PS5 platform continues to grow its JRPG library, though many titles are cross-platform releases that simply run better on PS5 hardware.
Which JRPGs from the PS4 era are a must-play on the PS5?
Tales of Arise represents a visual leap for the Tales series that looks even better on PS5. Its fast-paced action combat and story addressing social inequality make it worth experiencing.
Final Fantasy VII Remake received a PS5 upgrade with Intergrade, adding visual improvements and the Yuffie DLC chapter. The enhanced version takes advantage of PS5’s faster loading and higher resolution.
Persona 5 Royal runs at 60fps on PS5, making the already smooth gameplay even better. Its 100+ hour story about rebellious teens fighting corruption feels fresh even years after release.
What are the most highly acclaimed JRPGs on PS5 to date?
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has received widespread praise for its expansion of the remake’s story and gameplay systems. Critics have particularly noted its open world and character development.
Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes has been called “the best JRPG in years” by some players. As a spiritual successor to Suikoden, it features a large cast of characters and engaging combat.
Persona 5 Royal continues to be considered one of the greatest JRPGs ever made. Its blend of dungeon crawling, social simulation, and stylish presentation remains unmatched.
Could you list the latest JRPG releases for the PS5?
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth launched in early 2024 as the second part of the remake trilogy. The game expands beyond Midgar into the wider world with new areas to explore.
Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes released in 2024, bringing a nostalgic yet fresh take on classic JRPG elements. Its large cast of characters and base-building mechanics have resonated with fans.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is set to release later in 2024 from the creators of Persona. This new fantasy RPG looks to blend elements of social simulation with traditional JRPG gameplay.
Are there any hidden gem JRPGs on the PS5 that players should know about?
The Legend of Heroes: Trails series offers deep worldbuilding and interconnected stories across multiple games. These titles don’t always get mainstream attention but feature detailed worlds and engaging turn-based combat.
Star Ocean: The Divine Force provides an action RPG experience with a sci-fi setting. While it received mixed reviews, its unique combat system and dual protagonists offer something different from typical fantasy JRPGs.
According to some players, the PS5 will become a true JRPG machine later in its lifecycle. Currently, the library continues to grow with both enhanced PS4 titles and new releases.
