It would be impossible to talk about some of the greatest modern JRPGs of all time without mentioning the masterpiece that isPersona 5. Atlus truly went above and beyond when it came to offering up one of the most stylish and enjoyable games in the modern era, coupled with an excellent story, satisfying combat, and a cast that featuressome of the most memorable characters in JRPG history.
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The game was brilliant enough as is, andPersona 5 Royaldecided to improve upon this game even further by offering extra features, an extended third semester, and a bunch of quality-of-life improvements that made the game even more enjoyable, somehow.Persona 5is truly a one-of-a-kind title, and people who finish this title will undoubtedly want to play more games that feel like this masterpiece. So,to scratch the itch left behind byPersona 5, here are some JRPGs that are worth giving a shot.
Updated Jul 10, 2025, by Ritwik Mitra:Persona 5 is considered by many to beone of the greatest modern JRPGs ever made. The lovable characters, immense style, and brilliant story of this game are simply unmatched. There’s a reason why so many people find other offerings in this genre to be hollow after playing Persona 5, but the fact is, there are quite a few other JRPGs that fans of Persona 5 will have a great time with. The best recommendations of the bunch are mentioned below.
15Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age
Dragon Quest 11is one of the best entries in the genre by a country mile. It’s easily the most accessible title in a series that has spanned multiple generations and isone of the most legendary JRPG franchises of all time.
Everything from the characters to the game ofDragon Quest11is in a class of its own. Players interested in this game should ideally check outDragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age, an enhanced version of the game that serves as the definitive way to experience this masterpiece.
14Shin Megami Tensei 5
Shin Megami Tensei 5is the latest game in the main series thatPersonaspun off of. These games are known for their incredible gameplay and challenging difficulty, with thePersonaseries being more of an accessible franchise for many to experience the magic ofShin Megami Tensei.
However, players who want a more challenging experience with their JRPGs will findShin Megami Tensei 5to be right up their alley. The beautiful graphics, great story, and engaging gameplay all combine to form a delectable treat.
13Yakuza: Like A Dragon
TheYakuzaseries was known for being composed of real-time action games for the longest time. However, after an April Fools joke was taken too seriously, the main franchise shifted to turn-based gameplay instead.
Most people wondered just howYakuza: Like a Dragonwould fare with this change, but, thankfully, the game has been nothing short of a resounding success. Ichiban Kasuga is an entertaining protagonist who takes over the role of Kiryu without a hitch, with the familiar formula of theYakuzagames translating surprisingly well into the bounds of a JRPG.
12Octopath Traveler
Octopath Travelerserves as a great ode to the JRPGs of yesteryear. The classic stories, nostalgic art style, and simple-yet-fun combat present in this beautifully-presented game make it a must-play for fans of the JRPG genre.
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The boss fights and music ofOctopath Travelerare truly in a class of their own and the major highlights of this experience. This, coupled with the inclusion of a fantastic job system, serves as the cherry on top of a bountiful cake that can be eaten for hundreds of hours!
11Final Fantasy 10
TheFinal Fantasyseries is an easy recommendation for fans ofPersona 5. After all, these games are legendary in their own right and feature amazing production values that aren’t really seen in any other JRPG.
Final Fantasy 10is easily the best modern JRPG that fans can get their hands on. The story of Tidus, Yuna, and the rest of the crew as they attempt to fight back against fate itself is a captivating tale with several plot twists that are a joy to uncover.
10Tokyo Xanadu
If players really want to get into another JRPG that featuresthe same social sim mechanics asPersona 5, then look no further thanTokyo Xanadu.
The fact that the setting for this game is also the modern version of Tokyo is definitely a plus, and players of Atlus' masterpiece will feel right at home withTokyo Xanadu. The only major difference would be the combat, which is more real-time and action-heavy as opposed to its turn-based counterpart.
9The Legend Of Heroes: Trails Of Cold Steel
Another title that will definitely remind people ofthe rich goodness present inPersona 5isThe Legend Of Heroes: Trails Of Cold Steel. A game featuring a high school with social sim events would obviously fit right in with the style of thePersonaseries, after all.
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However,Trails Of Cold Steelis so much more than just a knockoffPersonatitle… in fact, it’s anything but that.The Legend Of Heroesseries boasts some excellent titles under its belt, andTrails Of Cold Steelis definitely a must-play for anyone who’s even remotely into great JRPGs.
8Tales Of Berseria
TheTalesseries isn’t as well-respected in the West as something likeFinal Fantasy, but that isn’t the case at all in Japan, where it’s one of the most beloved IPs around.
Tales of Berseriais one of the best starting points for anyone who wishes to get into this illustrious series. The game features an engrossing story and excellent real-time combat that will keep gamers on the edge of their seats for the entirety of the game’s run.
7Ys VIII: Lacrimosa Of Dana
TheYsseries is a legendary action-RPG series that has seen a multitude of titles released over the span of the last three decades. The latest entry in the series — well, the latest one to be localized, at least — isYs VIII: Lacrimosa Of Dana.
The story and combat in the series have never been better, makingYs VIIIthe perfect entry point for gamers who wish to get into this historied JRPG franchise sooner rather than later.
6Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness And The Secret Hideout
Speaking of historied JRPG franchises that have numerous titles and have a history that is decades-long, it would be impossible to not mention theAtelierseries.
Out of all the games in the series,Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness and the Secret Hideoutis the latest entry that also features all the modern nuances one might expect in a JRPG that was released just last year. The alchemy mechanic featured in this game is truly engrossing, making for a title that will keep fans captivated until the very end.
