Thanks for the video. Your sum up of Ar Tonelico was pretty good. It's so so good to see people still remember the saga after all these years and even better if they remember it with good eyes!!
Ar Tonelico basically was my gateway to visual novels with how the story was structured. Played it when I was like 8-9 and then the sequels when they came out. Third entry I even had pre-ordered. Waiting for another Ar Tonelico game indefinitely. Star Ocean 2 remake is a gold standard. The demo got rid of any doubts I had instantly and I've finally gotten around to playing through it right now. Octopath Traveler 2 is like crack for a turn-based enjoyer. OST definitely best of the year hands down.
My choice is Chained Echoes. It will show you how utterly superb writing can elevate a game to God tier without reinventing the wheel. But the gameplay is all great on top of that.
A game that I checked out last year that I absolutely loved was Tokyo Xanadu. I’ve never played a game where literally every ending was satisfying to me. Gameplay was a bit rough at first but everything else was great. The connection between the X.R.C was way more satisfying than the early iteration of class 7 and that soundtrack still gets plays till this day. Genuinely hoping we get a sequel at some point
In the middle (65hrs in) of playing Octopath Traveler 2 and it’s wonderful! I have a bunch of backlog to get through after…(Chain of Memories, Sea of Stars, my first Atelier game, and I want to get into Trails as well)
Hawt dam, did not expect to see Ar Tonelico! The Ar Tonelico series lives rent free in my head as one of the most unique series I've played in my life to date in it's music and story direction. The 2nd game is the best in the trilogy. Ar Nosurge is a nice extra credit game prequal series game. Solid list you were able to finish through overall.
Great list. Both Trails to Zero and Trails to Azure were my games since it was my first playthrough this past year. I got OP 1&2 on my backlog since I'm in Cold Steel 3 and 4 right now. Also, was able to complete Super Mario RPG in the middle as a pallet cleanser.
Does Azure have better pacing than Zero? I played Zero last year and was expecting to love it because it's hyped up so much; but I found it very slow so I'm hesitant to start Azure. I did enjoy Zero overall but not as much as I thought I would.
Great list! I am not a fan of Blue Reflection, and I haven't gotten to Octopath 2 yet, but the rest are just gems. Xenosaga and Baten Kaitos are some of my favorite RPGs of all time, so I'm glad you enjoyed them. And this year is looking to be even crazier with good games.
I'm with you on Octopath Traveler 2, it was my easy choice for Game of the Year 2023. Exactly as you said, masterful gameplay and narrative. What a wonderful game, not to mention a challenge to platinum.
Oh, I LOVE Ar Tonelico!!! Sadly, I never finished the other games because my save file for Ar Tonelico II Melody of Metafalica got corrupted about 3/4 of my way into the game, and I was too upset to start over again. Maybe one day I'll go back and playthrough it again. 😃
Oh hell yeah, I played Baten Kaitos back on the gamecube and it was an amazing game. One of my intro games into JRPG's in my youth. I've replayed it at least 3 more times via emulators.
been playing through the legend of heroes franchise, so far 44 hours in trails in the sky FC and finished it, 60 hours in SC and just begun my journey in trails in the sky the 3rd cant wait till i can play trails from zero and beyond.
Gonna agree with you here. Octopath 2 was my fav of the year, playing it was just such an enjoyable experience. The story, gameplay, visuals and sound it just nailed it all. Question - what system, did you play Xenosaga 3 on? Still have a PS2? I'd love to replay it but don't think I have as way too currently.
Finally getting to Octopath Traveler 2 and man I'm glad I stuck with it. I think my advice to anyone going through the game is that the Chapter 1's of each story can feel really slow. But I promise that most of the Chapter 2's crank the story and feels up to 11. Please stick with it until then!
Couldn’t agree more. Once the game hits chapter 3, it takes off like crazy! The first time I played through I stuck with it for the music alone but was just going through the motions. Once chapter 3 hit, the story hooked me.
The same thing happened to me with OT2 and over leveling lol. i think by the time I finished my 1st party's stories they were all in their 60s lol. Idec tho, it was so fun exporing everywhere, especially the high seas!
Sea of stars was a decent game. My onlynissue with it really was a level cap and the reason for it made it worse. Chained echoes wasn't bad either I disliked the leveling system but everything else about the game was solid.
Does this mean that Octopath 2 addresses the issue of the main characters not interacting with each other? I've yet to find another game like Treasure of the Rudras, which features three main characters, each with their own story and team. However, in this game, their paths intersect at various points of the story, allowing us to see, from the perspective of the current group, what the other group is achieving.
Thanks for talking about Blue Reflection. I just love this series so much. It has a lovable and cute cast of characters, beautiful background scenery, beautiful music. And an overall beautiful and engaging storyline. Gameplay is pretty good as well. Such a beautiful gem of a series.
For me it was the much anticipated Lostbelt 6 in Fate Grand Order. Nasu crafter a 30 plus hour script for this masterpiece. Ignore the fact that it’s a mobile game. Losbelt 6 is a story up there with Berserk and Xenogears imo as far as just mind blowing pinocle of fiction.
It's actually me problem, but damn, I wish I didn't already know some of the mystery they refer in Rain Code. If I could played it completely "blind" it gets 10/10 easily. Like it's cool to see their spin of a mystery but at the same time it also gives unwanted clues.
I had a weird thing with ruza ganes which was the difficulty spikes 1 was the main bosses I had to lower to easy 2 I increased diffulry to hard so I could do good combos before killing them and 3 I think was dame I think
They have difficulty spikes, but it's basically all on the crafting, Ryza 1 taught me that very early. Once I had crafted good items, it became a joke.
Nice list and yeah it’s actually crazy how xenosaga 3 ended considering the amount of content cut. As for SO2 the problems you had with it are the same as mine but with me I played the psp version just a year ago so I’m not giving the remake a chance anytime soon which is a shame considering that it looks real nice. For me personally I didn’t play much jrpgs last year as I spent the first half playing all the soulsborne + sekiro. However from what I played I’d rank em as so: 1. Trails into reverie 2. Fate extra 3. Ff7 4. Ff7R Trails into reverie actually rekindled my internet in trails as the whole cold steel arc has been somewhat lacking. Ff7R being quite low is probably due to me recently playing the OG and disliking some of the changes as well as some parts of the game that felt like a slog where you’re suddenly forced to walk slow, go through tight alleys, the whole section from after sleeping in aeriths house towards sector 7, mostly gameplay issues. However the DLC made me really like it though it was genuinely enjoyable and I liked it better than the base game. Fate extra is actually good or maybe I’m biased towards fate but I found the gameplay while difficult at times was actually fun and the story was pretty good but I think it’s more of the characters that made me like it, specifically our servant (I only played with saber, I plan on playing caster route later on)
A great list. I don't really remember anymore which games I played in 2023. But I did play Trails up to Cold Steel 2 and even replayed Zero on my Switch. I played Ys Origin and Ys 4. I also started and have since finished Ys 3. I finished Xenoblade 3 and Fire Emblem Engage. I think out of all these games I played, Ys Origin and Zero were the best. Fire Emblem was also amazing, but the DLC chapters broke me mentally. The Xenologue. I did love most of the characters though and really enjoyed Alear as a Protagonist. But Zero and Origin were the best games I played in 2023. I liked all of the characters you play as in the tower and they all have great stories. And I really liked how the canon route of Origin ties back into Ys 1 and 2. Trails from Zero is still an amazing game even though I played it before it came west. I also played a bit of FE 13 for my spotpass grind. And btw, I realized that you can finish this game in under 5 hours if you really just power through. Probably even less. I will play all the Ys games this year. Maybe I can even get to Tokyo Xanadu this year too. And then continue my Trails journey. I hope cou have a wonderful time and survive carneval next month. No idea if that stuff is even celebrated in England. I am escaping to my dads place. I hope everyone is doing well.
I am going to say it and be that guy, does octopath traveler actually benefit from being semi open world at all? Other than the opening acts of the characters, I feel like it could be a completely linear game with a main character and an awesome overall story plus the good individual character stories. I feel like the way it's set up, just feels like they took a normal RPG and cut it to pieces, removing key features like a good overall plot and balancing for no payoff at all. It's not like if it was linear, they would have to remove a single thing that's already in the game. It would only solve all its weaknesses and make it more cohesive overall.
I vastly prefer the first Blue Reflection to its sequel. Sure, 2nd Light has "more shit" but I don't actually think a lot of it really added to the experience insomuch as it just made progressing through it a little more of a slog. As you said, these games are about the journey, and 2nd Light's (unnecessary) added systems and doodads just slowed that journey way too much, imo. Also, I really preferred how the zones of the first were just representations of pure emotional values, rather than warped memories. The Love zone in particular was both aesthetically and musically one of the most beautiful environments I've ever seen in a game. While I do think the original was a little bit lean on content, I really loved what it went for and the approach it used. I don't dislike 2nd Light at all, but that's just my 2 cents.
We all have different opinions, so there's no issue in airing it. I think Second Light is just stronger in every area. combat, OST, characters, and overall gameplay. I think the zones were better in that game too, they were still representations of those inner emotions, but more succinctly done. I'll never forget the star field with the lighthouse in the background. The original has highlights too, but I much preferred the sequel.
For me it's: Atelier Ryza 2 Dragon Quest Builders 2 Trails to Azure Trails into Reverie Tales of Arise Utawarerumono: Prelude to the Fallen Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth Sea of Stars The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild In no particular order. =p
I recommand you a lot the "Mario and Luigi RPG game series" because you liked a lot Mario RPG Remake. Mario and Luigi Superstar Saga (GBA, Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack) Mario and Luigi Partner in Time (DS) Mario and Luigi Bowser Inside Story (DS) Mario and Luigi Dream Team (3DS) Mario and Luigi Paper Jam (3DS, don't play this one, it's really bad ahah) Mario and Luigi Superstar + Bowser Minions (3DS, it's a remake) Mario and Luigi Bowser Inside Story + Bowser Jr Journey (3DS, it's a remake) PS: You can easily emulate them. :)
The amount of people that I've heard say that Octopath 2 was their favourite JRPG of the year makes me regret skipping out on it. The first game just didnt hook me and I got bored about half way through and never finished it. I only really liked a few characters and the fact that the stories didnt cross over made most parts of the story not interest me. The second game is definitely on top of my list of games to get once I have the spare funds to do so though.
I ended up dropping Eternights after about halfway through, i did not find it interesting or fun to play. But i do still applaud the developer, just because i didn’t like doesn’t mean the game sucks overall. Octopath Traveler 2 would have been my goty if not for Reverie and Baldur’s Gate 3. Amazing game with a soundtrack that reaches heavens. I will stan Agnea forever. Song of Hope is the best song released in a video game last year and i will die on that hill.
Oof that honorable mention. Love this game. Ofc it is made by the creators of danganrompa so my expectation were high. But they delivered none the less.
I really wanted to like eternights but the animation and ui felt so clunky it was like something made in roblox. The dev said the studio is making a 2nd game and hes not solo anymore so hopefully it comes out more polished. Id easily put rain code over it but overall good list. 2024 gonna be crazy for jrpgs
Not sure if you have said this and even I forget to mention in my own review of both Ar Toenlico games but despite Gust working in the game it's, the code eloped Bandai Namco that owns the IP from what I've been told. So as far as I know it's up tot hem if they want to revive these awesome ps2 jrpgs
Can't agree more on octopath 2...when I beat that game and defeat that super hard secret boss I feel really happy and sad at the same time because I need to end it,but I know I'm gonna replay the game years to come...I'm hoping square enix will continue to support the franchise...
I'm not sure how well it performed, but last I checked it had sold over 1 mil come half way through 2023. That's decent for what is essentially a new franchise.
@@TheKisekiNut yes...I think it takes 3 or 4 months to hit 1 mil if I'm not mistaken?i hope more people play it in the future coz it doesn't even mentioned in game awards last year.. here's hoping good for the future of this franchise 🎉
As for octopath. I was really let down by the first game because of its story and story structure. So still very hesitant to pick this up. But if its that much better, it might be worth it this time.
About the story it's not so much better (in the structure). If you don't like the first, the second are the same. Just the little chat is not gone if you miss it. It's hard to recommend, maybe if you find low price. It's not the 4 5 mission with 2 character who change the "problem"
I gave star ocean the second story r a 9/10 because it got the most important aspects right being the combat, progression and exploration, and while it fell ever so slightly short in terms of its story, characters and world building, i consider those minor aspects of JRPG design so I'm not going to dock it that much, especially considering it got the most important elements completely right, gameplay is what pushes the story forward, if the gameplay is bad it doesn't matter how good the story is, your not going to be motivated to continue to play If your not having fun, I mean why do you think coders and artists get paid more than writers? Their jobs are just more important and more in demand, it doesn't matter how good your writers are, if your coders and artists are bad then your game will still fail
Last I checked it had sold 1 million units come half way through 2023, I don't think that's a failure overall, and it'll only strengthen over time especially through word of mouth. It's more that Square botched the release with poor marketing, plus the release window didn't help it either.
@@TheKisekiNut the lack of marketing was a big problem for sure I tried telling friends to play it but most of them had never heard of it because of the lack of marketing and I hope they see that as enough for more games it really deserves more love
I remember when I first saw baten katos back then. I thought it looked amazing but the card aspect was an immediate turn off. Having gone through the trails series recently, and seeing some of these cards, is this combat basically blade master? I'm gonna have to add this game to a Neverending backlog, dammit (in a good way)
Great list overall Excellent overview of Blue Reflection. I didn't love the game as I did Second Light, but it isn't a bad game at all. I bounced off Ryza 3 hard after really enjoying Ryza 1 & 2. Xenosaga was such a seriously flawed masterpiece of a trilogy. I seem to be very unusual in that I thought Xenosaga 3 was the weakest of the games, but all are worth playing. Eternights was okay. I didn't hate it but didn't greatly enjoy it either. I do think it's a good sign of things to come from the studio. Ar tonelico was sooo good! I want to find time to replay them and I wish they would get a modern release and maybe even a continuation. I did enjoy Star Ocean 2 back in the day, but haven't played the remake. Not sure it's worth it. Ditto for Mario.
Welp, I'm gonna go against the grain here. I DNF Octopath Traveler 2. It didnt grab me. Its story wasnt as good as I expected. The classic battle system couldnt carry the game for me. I just dont get it. Also... Crimson Sin is weird. Not to go into spoilers, but even though it was indeed a bit underwhelming in terms of story, it did introduce SOMETHING that its probably gonna come back in the next games and I wouldnt be surprised if it was tied to a particular Sept-Terrion. The setting of the plotline seems... well, less developed than others, but I trust that Falcom will be able to manage a good plot out of it. I'm looking forward to the next saga, which is going to have a LOT going on.
It was more that they didn't feel the stories linked up at all, and thus it was just 8 characters moving around on their own separate journeys. Octopath 2 had a similar angle, but it worked much better.
Octopath 2 as the "gold standard" of jrpg's? All of my what. It's a great game, don't get me wrong. I love the Octopath games. But gold standard? Man jrpg's are in a bad state if that's the case.
Meh, I thought it was pretty average, especially in terms of its combat and progression, it was very basic and shallow, it doesn't matter how good the story is if the gameplay and mechanics are average
Huh.. i played Octopath Traveler 2 for about until I have 4 characters then got bored even while liking the first one tremendously. Hmm, may have to revisit it then
Octopath traveler, i'm ok on the gameplay and the world. But story telling is bad. You cannot tell a story where a character is beat by an antagonist and the 3 other are here to see that whithout interact. Every time it come, i was out of the story. In general, OT2 is better, but not so much.
I dunno I always kinda like how most whiny people literally die of boredom being forced to watch the entire video... it saves us from reading silly comments.
10. Blue Reflection. I'm currently played the PS Vita version. I'm really enjoying the simplicity of it. 8. Xenosaga 3. Played that sucker way back in the 2010's. Had to buy it off Ebay. Great game, but definitely needs to be flesh out. 6. Star Ocean Second Story R. On my backlog Currenlty Playing: PS Vita: Blue Reflection, followed by Utawarerumono Preldue To The Fallen PS4: Ys 9 Monstrum Nox, followed .hack//G.U. Last Recode Current backlog" Crisis Core FFVII Reunion, Dragon Quest XI, Dragon Quest Heroes I and II, Nayuta Boundless Trails, Persona 5 Strikers, Sakura Wars, Scarlet Nexus, Star Ocean Tactics Ogre Rebirth, Trials of Mana, Uncharted 1 through 4, Valkyria Chronicles, Valkyria Revolution, and Valkyire Profile Elysium.
Thanks for the video. Your sum up of Ar Tonelico was pretty good. It's so so good to see people still remember the saga after all these years and even better if they remember it with good eyes!!
Nice list! Octopath 2 was my favorite last year too. Brilliant game.
Thanks for the super chat, bud!
Octopath 2 was the GOTY for me too, and that is among not only (J)RPGs
13 sentinels was close second
Ar Tonelico basically was my gateway to visual novels with how the story was structured. Played it when I was like 8-9 and then the sequels when they came out. Third entry I even had pre-ordered. Waiting for another Ar Tonelico game indefinitely.
Star Ocean 2 remake is a gold standard. The demo got rid of any doubts I had instantly and I've finally gotten around to playing through it right now.
Octopath Traveler 2 is like crack for a turn-based enjoyer. OST definitely best of the year hands down.
My choice is Chained Echoes. It will show you how utterly superb writing can elevate a game to God tier without reinventing the wheel.
But the gameplay is all great on top of that.
Yeah but it is quite long, if it was shorter tho.
A game that I checked out last year that I absolutely loved was Tokyo Xanadu. I’ve never played a game where literally every ending was satisfying to me. Gameplay was a bit rough at first but everything else was great. The connection between the X.R.C was way more satisfying than the early iteration of class 7 and that soundtrack still gets plays till this day.
Genuinely hoping we get a sequel at some point
Hopefully not gonna have to wait too much longer. There's word that a Tokyo Xanadu sequel is on the way (unsubstantiated though).
In the middle (65hrs in) of playing Octopath Traveler 2 and it’s wonderful! I have a bunch of backlog to get through after…(Chain of Memories, Sea of Stars, my first Atelier game, and I want to get into Trails as well)
Saucy video! Octopath II also my clear winner for 2023 as well ... a masterpiece. So much fun it's hard for me to NOT go back and play again.
Hawt dam, did not expect to see Ar Tonelico! The Ar Tonelico series lives rent free in my head as one of the most unique series I've played in my life to date in it's music and story direction. The 2nd game is the best in the trilogy. Ar Nosurge is a nice extra credit game prequal series game. Solid list you were able to finish through overall.
Great list. Both Trails to Zero and Trails to Azure were my games since it was my first playthrough this past year.
I got OP 1&2 on my backlog since I'm in Cold Steel 3 and 4 right now. Also, was able to complete Super Mario RPG in the middle as a pallet cleanser.
Does Azure have better pacing than Zero? I played Zero last year and was expecting to love it because it's hyped up so much; but I found it very slow so I'm hesitant to start Azure. I did enjoy Zero overall but not as much as I thought I would.
@@mewichigo3410 My opinion no. Some clean up / loose ends at the beginning but It's kind of its own slow cooker as well. Endings great. It's worth it
@@Eagleknight815 Ah okay, that's good to know. I still want to play it so I can continue the series but I'll keep it on the back burner for now.
Great list! I am not a fan of Blue Reflection, and I haven't gotten to Octopath 2 yet, but the rest are just gems. Xenosaga and Baten Kaitos are some of my favorite RPGs of all time, so I'm glad you enjoyed them. And this year is looking to be even crazier with good games.
I'm with you on Octopath Traveler 2, it was my easy choice for Game of the Year 2023. Exactly as you said, masterful gameplay and narrative. What a wonderful game, not to mention a challenge to platinum.
Oh, I LOVE Ar Tonelico!!! Sadly, I never finished the other games because my save file for Ar Tonelico II Melody of Metafalica got corrupted about 3/4 of my way into the game, and I was too upset to start over again. Maybe one day I'll go back and playthrough it again. 😃
Octopath Traveler 2 is such a masterpiece, it's the only RPG I played last year & it was a blast.
Thanks!
Oh hell yeah, I played Baten Kaitos back on the gamecube and it was an amazing game. One of my intro games into JRPG's in my youth. I've replayed it at least 3 more times via emulators.
I've still got to play Origin, but I'll make time for it somehow.
My favorite JRPG last year was Noora and the Time Studio, which I found out about thanks to your video about the game, so thanks!
Great list! Not all are my personal cup of tea, but many have caught my attention, and this is a diverse list that we can all find something to enjoy.
Star ocean 2 wad my goty last year but I'll finish watching to see what else you got
Thanks for the video! Nothing that surprising for someone that's watched most of your videos over the past year, but a nice summary.
been playing through the legend of heroes franchise, so far 44 hours in trails in the sky FC and finished it, 60 hours in SC and just begun my journey in trails in the sky the 3rd cant wait till i can play trails from zero and beyond.
Gonna agree with you here. Octopath 2 was my fav of the year, playing it was just such an enjoyable experience. The story, gameplay, visuals and sound it just nailed it all. Question - what system, did you play Xenosaga 3 on? Still have a PS2? I'd love to replay it but don't think I have as way too currently.
Finally getting to Octopath Traveler 2 and man I'm glad I stuck with it. I think my advice to anyone going through the game is that the Chapter 1's of each story can feel really slow. But I promise that most of the Chapter 2's crank the story and feels up to 11. Please stick with it until then!
I’m playing OT2 as my “side game”. I’ll take my time and come and do one or two characters chapter at a time when I need a break from other games.
Couldn’t agree more. Once the game hits chapter 3, it takes off like crazy! The first time I played through I stuck with it for the music alone but was just going through the motions. Once chapter 3 hit, the story hooked me.
Amazing list man, I barely got many JRPGs played myself last year. Future Redeemed was my absolute favourite though, love me some Xenoblade!
Octopath Travler 2 is one of the best games I've ever played. It quickly made it's way into my top 3 of all time.
Great list of games. 2023 was a great year!
The same thing happened to me with OT2 and over leveling lol. i think by the time I finished my 1st party's stories they were all in their 60s lol. Idec tho, it was so fun exporing everywhere, especially the high seas!
I'm glad u enjoyed it but i tried so hard to like blue reflection but i just couldnt
I feel you on Rain Code! Such a good story
Sea of Stars, it's a jrpg made in the west, a throwback to the snes Squaresoft days. It's really good
If you liked Sea of Stars, try Chained Echoes.
Sea of stars was a decent game. My onlynissue with it really was a level cap and the reason for it made it worse.
Chained echoes wasn't bad either I disliked the leveling system but everything else about the game was solid.
Does this mean that Octopath 2 addresses the issue of the main characters not interacting with each other? I've yet to find another game like Treasure of the Rudras, which features three main characters, each with their own story and team. However, in this game, their paths intersect at various points of the story, allowing us to see, from the perspective of the current group, what the other group is achieving.
Thanks for talking about Blue Reflection. I just love this series so much. It has a lovable and cute cast of characters, beautiful background scenery, beautiful music. And an overall beautiful and engaging storyline. Gameplay is pretty good as well. Such a beautiful gem of a series.
For me it was the much anticipated Lostbelt 6 in Fate Grand Order. Nasu crafter a 30 plus hour script for this masterpiece. Ignore the fact that it’s a mobile game. Losbelt 6 is a story up there with Berserk and Xenogears imo as far as just mind blowing pinocle of fiction.
Have you played Ar Nosurge Plus? It was the first Gust game I played, and it got me hooked!
@FlxT53 I played it on the vita as well. I loved the character interactions and the music. And, if memory serves, a fun platinum as well!
It's actually me problem, but damn, I wish I didn't already know some of the mystery they refer in Rain Code. If I could played it completely "blind" it gets 10/10 easily.
Like it's cool to see their spin of a mystery but at the same time it also gives unwanted clues.
I had a weird thing with ruza ganes which was the difficulty spikes 1 was the main bosses I had to lower to easy 2 I increased diffulry to hard so I could do good combos before killing them and 3 I think was dame I think
They have difficulty spikes, but it's basically all on the crafting, Ryza 1 taught me that very early. Once I had crafted good items, it became a joke.
Nice list and yeah it’s actually crazy how xenosaga 3 ended considering the amount of content cut. As for SO2 the problems you had with it are the same as mine but with me I played the psp version just a year ago so I’m not giving the remake a chance anytime soon which is a shame considering that it looks real nice.
For me personally I didn’t play much jrpgs last year as I spent the first half playing all the soulsborne + sekiro. However from what I played I’d rank em as so:
1. Trails into reverie
2. Fate extra
3. Ff7
4. Ff7R
Trails into reverie actually rekindled my internet in trails as the whole cold steel arc has been somewhat lacking. Ff7R being quite low is probably due to me recently playing the OG and disliking some of the changes as well as some parts of the game that felt like a slog where you’re suddenly forced to walk slow, go through tight alleys, the whole section from after sleeping in aeriths house towards sector 7, mostly gameplay issues. However the DLC made me really like it though it was genuinely enjoyable and I liked it better than the base game. Fate extra is actually good or maybe I’m biased towards fate but I found the gameplay while difficult at times was actually fun and the story was pretty good but I think it’s more of the characters that made me like it, specifically our servant (I only played with saber, I plan on playing caster route later on)
A great list. I don't really remember anymore which games I played in 2023. But I did play Trails up to Cold Steel 2 and even replayed Zero on my Switch. I played Ys Origin and Ys 4. I also started and have since finished Ys 3. I finished Xenoblade 3 and Fire Emblem Engage. I think out of all these games I played, Ys Origin and Zero were the best. Fire Emblem was also amazing, but the DLC chapters broke me mentally. The Xenologue. I did love most of the characters though and really enjoyed Alear as a Protagonist. But Zero and Origin were the best games I played in 2023. I liked all of the characters you play as in the tower and they all have great stories. And I really liked how the canon route of Origin ties back into Ys 1 and 2. Trails from Zero is still an amazing game even though I played it before it came west. I also played a bit of FE 13 for my spotpass grind. And btw, I realized that you can finish this game in under 5 hours if you really just power through. Probably even less. I will play all the Ys games this year. Maybe I can even get to Tokyo Xanadu this year too. And then continue my Trails journey. I hope cou have a wonderful time and survive carneval next month. No idea if that stuff is even celebrated in England. I am escaping to my dads place. I hope everyone is doing well.
Master detective raincode is awesome and I usually only play action games also , loving fire emblem warriors and engage
I am going to say it and be that guy, does octopath traveler actually benefit from being semi open world at all? Other than the opening acts of the characters, I feel like it could be a completely linear game with a main character and an awesome overall story plus the good individual character stories. I feel like the way it's set up, just feels like they took a normal RPG and cut it to pieces, removing key features like a good overall plot and balancing for no payoff at all. It's not like if it was linear, they would have to remove a single thing that's already in the game. It would only solve all its weaknesses and make it more cohesive overall.
RPG GOTY was Chained Echoes for me
I vastly prefer the first Blue Reflection to its sequel. Sure, 2nd Light has "more shit" but I don't actually think a lot of it really added to the experience insomuch as it just made progressing through it a little more of a slog. As you said, these games are about the journey, and 2nd Light's (unnecessary) added systems and doodads just slowed that journey way too much, imo.
Also, I really preferred how the zones of the first were just representations of pure emotional values, rather than warped memories. The Love zone in particular was both aesthetically and musically one of the most beautiful environments I've ever seen in a game. While I do think the original was a little bit lean on content, I really loved what it went for and the approach it used. I don't dislike 2nd Light at all, but that's just my 2 cents.
We all have different opinions, so there's no issue in airing it. I think Second Light is just stronger in every area. combat, OST, characters, and overall gameplay. I think the zones were better in that game too, they were still representations of those inner emotions, but more succinctly done. I'll never forget the star field with the lighthouse in the background. The original has highlights too, but I much preferred the sequel.
The Xenosaga games are amazing!
For me it's:
Atelier Ryza 2
Dragon Quest Builders 2
Trails to Azure
Trails into Reverie
Tales of Arise
Utawarerumono: Prelude to the Fallen
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception
Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth
Sea of Stars
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
In no particular order. =p
I recommand you a lot the "Mario and Luigi RPG game series" because you liked a lot Mario RPG Remake.
Mario and Luigi Superstar Saga (GBA, Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack)
Mario and Luigi Partner in Time (DS)
Mario and Luigi Bowser Inside Story (DS)
Mario and Luigi Dream Team (3DS)
Mario and Luigi Paper Jam (3DS, don't play this one, it's really bad ahah)
Mario and Luigi Superstar + Bowser Minions (3DS, it's a remake)
Mario and Luigi Bowser Inside Story + Bowser Jr Journey (3DS, it's a remake)
PS: You can easily emulate them. :)
*sees Aurica in the thumbnail*
oh, another influencer finds out Ar Tonelico I see
The amount of people that I've heard say that Octopath 2 was their favourite JRPG of the year makes me regret skipping out on it. The first game just didnt hook me and I got bored about half way through and never finished it. I only really liked a few characters and the fact that the stories didnt cross over made most parts of the story not interest me. The second game is definitely on top of my list of games to get once I have the spare funds to do so though.
It's not to late. I actually just got a copy last week for ps5 off Amazon. Cost me a cool 30 bucks. Well worth it so far.
I ended up dropping Eternights after about halfway through, i did not find it interesting or fun to play. But i do still applaud the developer, just because i didn’t like doesn’t mean the game sucks overall. Octopath Traveler 2 would have been my goty if not for Reverie and Baldur’s Gate 3. Amazing game with a soundtrack that reaches heavens. I will stan Agnea forever. Song of Hope is the best song released in a video game last year and i will die on that hill.
Surprised Ar Tonelico still remembered, it never was popular one. I was a big fan of 1 and 2 game, but 3 killed the series for me.
What's the game at the beginning of the video that looks like a visual novel?
Loop8
Loop 8, but don't bother.
Oof that honorable mention. Love this game. Ofc it is made by the creators of danganrompa so my expectation were high. But they delivered none the less.
Star Ocean Second Story R was my GoTY. I didn't play Octopath 2 for the very same reason I didn't play the first one.
I really wanted to like eternights but the animation and ui felt so clunky it was like something made in roblox. The dev said the studio is making a 2nd game and hes not solo anymore so hopefully it comes out more polished. Id easily put rain code over it but overall good list. 2024 gonna be crazy for jrpgs
Not sure if you have said this and even I forget to mention in my own review of both Ar Toenlico games but despite Gust working in the game it's, the code eloped Bandai Namco that owns the IP from what I've been told. So as far as I know it's up tot hem if they want to revive these awesome ps2 jrpgs
A publisher not looking after their property, who would have thought it. Thank god for actual game preservationists.
Can't agree more on octopath 2...when I beat that game and defeat that super hard secret boss I feel really happy and sad at the same time because I need to end it,but I know I'm gonna replay the game years to come...I'm hoping square enix will continue to support the franchise...
I'm not sure how well it performed, but last I checked it had sold over 1 mil come half way through 2023. That's decent for what is essentially a new franchise.
@@TheKisekiNut yes...I think it takes 3 or 4 months to hit 1 mil if I'm not mistaken?i hope more people play it in the future coz it doesn't even mentioned in game awards last year.. here's hoping good for the future of this franchise 🎉
Thoughts on Genshin Impact? Compared to other single player JRPGS does it hold up?
That's a live service game dude..
This is a casino with a similar game included
Ar Tonelico II i think is way better than I. The battle, the musics and combos.
As for octopath. I was really let down by the first game because of its story and story structure. So still very hesitant to pick this up. But if its that much better, it might be worth it this time.
About the story it's not so much better (in the structure). If you don't like the first, the second are the same. Just the little chat is not gone if you miss it. It's hard to recommend, maybe if you find low price.
It's not the 4 5 mission with 2 character who change the "problem"
I gave star ocean the second story r a 9/10 because it got the most important aspects right being the combat, progression and exploration, and while it fell ever so slightly short in terms of its story, characters and world building, i consider those minor aspects of JRPG design so I'm not going to dock it that much, especially considering it got the most important elements completely right, gameplay is what pushes the story forward, if the gameplay is bad it doesn't matter how good the story is, your not going to be motivated to continue to play If your not having fun, I mean why do you think coders and artists get paid more than writers? Their jobs are just more important and more in demand, it doesn't matter how good your writers are, if your coders and artists are bad then your game will still fail
Octopath 2 is such a masterpiece it’s sad it’s going to go down as a failure for SE I hope we see a 3rd but not likely with the bad numbers
Last I checked it had sold 1 million units come half way through 2023, I don't think that's a failure overall, and it'll only strengthen over time especially through word of mouth. It's more that Square botched the release with poor marketing, plus the release window didn't help it either.
@@TheKisekiNut the lack of marketing was a big problem for sure I tried telling friends to play it but most of them had never heard of it because of the lack of marketing and I hope they see that as enough for more games it really deserves more love
I remember when I first saw baten katos back then. I thought it looked amazing but the card aspect was an immediate turn off. Having gone through the trails series recently, and seeing some of these cards, is this combat basically blade master? I'm gonna have to add this game to a Neverending backlog, dammit (in a good way)
For me it's Yakuza like a dragon
I love Ar tonelico in ps2
Well then....now i wanna check out Ar Tonelico
Great list overall
Excellent overview of Blue Reflection. I didn't love the game as I did Second Light, but it isn't a bad game at all.
I bounced off Ryza 3 hard after really enjoying Ryza 1 & 2.
Xenosaga was such a seriously flawed masterpiece of a trilogy. I seem to be very unusual in that I thought Xenosaga 3 was the weakest of the games, but all are worth playing.
Eternights was okay. I didn't hate it but didn't greatly enjoy it either. I do think it's a good sign of things to come from the studio.
Ar tonelico was sooo good! I want to find time to replay them and I wish they would get a modern release and maybe even a continuation.
I did enjoy Star Ocean 2 back in the day, but haven't played the remake. Not sure it's worth it. Ditto for Mario.
Star Ocean 2r is worth it, I promise. It was my 2nd favorite game of 2023 behind only OT2. Best remake game I've ever played too.
Welp, I'm gonna go against the grain here. I DNF Octopath Traveler 2. It didnt grab me. Its story wasnt as good as I expected. The classic battle system couldnt carry the game for me. I just dont get it.
Also... Crimson Sin is weird. Not to go into spoilers, but even though it was indeed a bit underwhelming in terms of story, it did introduce SOMETHING that its probably gonna come back in the next games and I wouldnt be surprised if it was tied to a particular Sept-Terrion. The setting of the plotline seems... well, less developed than others, but I trust that Falcom will be able to manage a good plot out of it. I'm looking forward to the next saga, which is going to have a LOT going on.
People found the storytelling in Octopath 1 not good enough? 😅
It was more that they didn't feel the stories linked up at all, and thus it was just 8 characters moving around on their own separate journeys. Octopath 2 had a similar angle, but it worked much better.
Man i keep hearing good stuff about OT2 but the graphics are a huge turn off for me.
Octopath 2 as the "gold standard" of jrpg's? All of my what. It's a great game, don't get me wrong. I love the Octopath games. But gold standard? Man jrpg's are in a bad state if that's the case.
SEA OF STARS is my game of the year, best RPG I played in 2023. Can't recommend it enough for everyone to go and play RIGHT NOW.
That good huh? I've been waiting on buying it but enough rave reviews will get you suckered in I guess haha
@@yujiniki It's okay. If you go in expecting too much, you'll probably be disappointed.
@@yujiniki I didn't finish it beautiful but boring as a game
Meh, I thought it was pretty average, especially in terms of its combat and progression, it was very basic and shallow, it doesn't matter how good the story is if the gameplay and mechanics are average
@@mathewhosier9739 Honestly, the story is the weakest part.
Atelier Firis the best gaem.
If this is supposed to be a list of best jrpg games of 2023 and it's not then that is misleading the title of the video🤔
"that I've played in" - the title doesn't say anything about the games being from 2023, just that he played them in 2023.
Read the title
this is in the personal opinion market for this person everyone has their own opinion,s about what is good or not in a video game even me🤔🙏
eternights is skrpg not jrpg
Huh.. i played Octopath Traveler 2 for about until I have 4 characters then got bored even while liking the first one tremendously. Hmm, may have to revisit it then
Octopath II sweep!
Just realized ... no FF16??
Octopath traveler, i'm ok on the gameplay and the world. But story telling is bad. You cannot tell a story where a character is beat by an antagonist and the 3 other are here to see that whithout interact. Every time it come, i was out of the story.
In general, OT2 is better, but not so much.
pathetic selection
Time to get a life man.
FFS top but no names in the chapter... just give me a list so I can skip the irrelevent
I dunno I always kinda like how most whiny people literally die of boredom being forced to watch the entire video... it saves us from reading silly comments.
Oh dear, must be so difficult to use your mouse to skip to the next chapter. Let me play the world's tiniest violin for your troubles. :)
10. Blue Reflection. I'm currently played the PS Vita version. I'm really enjoying the simplicity of it.
8. Xenosaga 3. Played that sucker way back in the 2010's. Had to buy it off Ebay. Great game, but definitely needs to be flesh out.
6. Star Ocean Second Story R. On my backlog
Currenlty Playing:
PS Vita: Blue Reflection, followed by Utawarerumono Preldue To The Fallen
PS4: Ys 9 Monstrum Nox, followed .hack//G.U. Last Recode
Current backlog" Crisis Core FFVII Reunion, Dragon Quest XI, Dragon Quest Heroes I and II, Nayuta Boundless Trails, Persona 5 Strikers, Sakura Wars, Scarlet Nexus, Star Ocean Tactics Ogre Rebirth, Trials of Mana, Uncharted 1 through 4, Valkyria Chronicles, Valkyria Revolution, and Valkyire Profile Elysium.
ff16 is better than all this trash. how dare you.
Nah, Ar Tonelico much better. Clive suck, and shiva too. Cid ? maybe but ptobably not. Only redemption is the good boy, but that's not enough.
PLAY. AR. TONELICO. 2.