2023 could be an excellent year for gaming, especially JRPGs. The niche yet iconic genre is set to see massive releases on the AAA front. Some experimental releases can bring something new to the table, and some nostalgic ones can give us a lift from the past to the golden era of these games.
As such, names, both old and new, big and small, will appear. Many of these are from major publishers, while others are from indie teams, but have almost the same level of excitement from players. Here are some titles that fans of the genre should look out for.
Note: This article is based on the opinions of the author.
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty and 4 other exciting JRPGs coming out in 2023
5) Sea of Stars
Although not technically a “J” RPG, as it was developed by the team behind the acclaimed 2018 action platformer “The Messenger”, this game still draws inspiration from one of the best JRPGs ever made: Chrono Trigger. Sabotage Studio’s latest project, “Sea of Stars”, tells the story of the Children of Solstice. With the threat of the evil Fleshmancer looming large, this new journey is encased in a 2D, hand-drawn world with turn-based combat. It is set to arrive sometime in 2023 on PC and Nintendo Switch.
4) Disgaea 7
The latest entry in Nippon Ichi Software’s beloved Disgaea series marks the most ambitious installment yet. In the Japanese-inspired Hinomoto Netherworld Cluster, control a diverse group of heroes on a new journey to reclaim their Bushido. As a strategy RPG, players can expect more insane battles, over-the-top sequences, and a deep customization system. It will be released on January 26, 2023 in Japan, with a worldwide launch later in the year for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
3) Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes
The sequel to last year’s Eiyuden Chronicles: Rising, Hundred Heroes goes in a different direction. While the former is a 2.5D action RPG, the latter will be a traditional turn-based JRPG inspired by Konami’s Suikoden titles. Nowa and Seign Kesling, the key characters, face a new war as they meet new faces on their adventure full of excitement and surprises. Developed by Rabbit and Bear Studios, it features over 100 playable characters, each with their own unique personality. It will arrive later in 2023 for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms.
2) Octopath Traveler II
Another retro item on this list, Octopath Traveler II is a sequel to the 2018 Nintendo Switch original from Square Enix. Set in the lands of Solistia, control the journeys of eight different travelers as fate brings them together for an unforgettable adventure. The HD 2D visual style that made Square Enix famous is used again here, combining pixel art aesthetics with modern rendering techniques. Fans of the first game should find this upcoming JRPG the most appealing as everything that made it great has been retained here, including the strategic Break and Boost combat mechanics. This title will be available for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch on February 24, 2023.
1) Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty
One of the most anticipated games of 2023, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is best described as a new Nioh game in the Chinese Three Kingdoms setting. It is made by Koei Tecmo, the studio behind the previous two Nioh action RPGs. Demons run amok, so a lone militiaman must take up arms to end the reign of terror. It will feature wuxia-inspired martial arts and pit hack & slash combat against supernatural entities, such as afreets and spirits. Match 3 is set for a 2023 release on the PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S platforms.
