Best JRPGs on Switch - Top 12 Ranked for the Love of Fantasy & Adventure

Switch is very famous for bringing several different genres and types of games to our hands. Most of the time, among many game lovers, their passion for gaming starts with a switch, and now that we have a whole different set of games to choose from, there is something for everyone. Among all these genres, today we want to bring you a list of the best JRPGs on Switch.

Download LDPlayer Emulator on PC

The JRPG category covers a range of RPGs in one game, and these are the traditional Japanese role-playing games that are loved by many. So in Switch, more than the best Nintendo Switch girl games, best Switch games for adults, and any of those other popular titles, the interest and demand for JRPG titles is rising. So, if you find it hard to find the best JRPGs on Switch, let us show you the 14 best of them today.

Astria Ascending

Let’s start our guide with Astria Ascending, one of the best JRPGs on Switch, which offers a rich and mature narrative set in the beautifully hand-drawn world of Orcanon. This game, crafted by developers from iconic titles like Final Fantasy and Nier Automata, immerses players in a story of betrayal, sacrifice, and terror. You can explore five unique cities and over 20 challenging dungeons in a world teetering on the brink of chaos.

The game also features a rewarding turn-based combat system, where players can fight over 200 monsters, summon legendary beasts, and unleash powerful Cosmo Breaks. With eight customizable characters from diverse races and skills, you can choose from 20 classes, each with unique abilities. The fate of these characters is intertwined with the world's survival, offering a deeply engaging experience.

Astria Ascending stands out with its full voice acting in both Japanese and English, dynamic weather system, and a compelling tale that promises over 50 hours of gameplay. So, this game is not just one of the best JRPGs on Switch with an adventure but an artistic journey, showcasing skill and passion in every aspect.

Ni No Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom

If there is a game with some stunning visuals and a great story to the top, it is the Ni No Kuni 2: Revenant Kingdom. As one of the best JRPGs on Switch, this game makes you embark on a remarkable journey with Evan, a young king who is ousted from his kingdom. The adventure is set in a beautifully crafted world inspired by the whimsical style of Studio Ghibli.

The game blends dynamic, real-time combat with strategic elements, offering a refreshing and engaging gameplay experience. You will build and manage your kingdom, make allies, and face enemies in a quest to restore peace. The narrative is rich and heartwarming, filled with memorable characters and emotional depth. The perfect blend of storytelling, gameplay, and artistry makes it a top-tier choice among all those JRPG fans.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

One of the best JRPGs on Switch with an amazing twist is Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, and this is a game with a unique spin on the classic series:  Monster Hunter. It blends the RPG elements with a captivating narrative perfectly and in this game, you become Monster Riders, forming bonds with iconic monsters from the Monster Hunter universe. The story unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of Rathalos worldwide, and you will find yourself at the center of an intriguing plot involving an egg that could change the fate of the world.

The game stands out with its vibrant world, where you can hatch, raise, and fight alongside their monster companions. The journey is filled with colorful characters, diverse landscapes, and an array of monsters as well to bond with. With a focus on storytelling and character development, Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers a more personal and immersive experience compared to traditional Monster Hunter titles. So yeah, it indeed becomes one of the best JRPGs on Switch ever released.

Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy

When talking about the best JRPGs on Switch, we cannot forget Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy, which is considered a gem in the JRPG world. It continues the story of Ryza, an aspiring alchemist, and set three years after her first adventure, Ryza embarks on a new journey to the royal capital, Ashra-am Baird, driven by a mysterious letter about alchemy-related ruins and a glowing stone.

This game enhances exploration with new field actions like diving, climbing, and using magic ropes, allowing you to delve deeper into diverse areas and ruins. The real-time tactics battle system is more dynamic, encouraging quick character switching and strategic skill use. As one of the best JRPGs on switch, Atelier Ryza 2 also simplifies synthesis for newcomers while offering depth for veterans, with systems like “Linkage Synthesis” and “Evolution Link” to create unique items. This sequel not only offers an engaging story of friendship and discovery but also a visually stunning and interactive world.

Persona 5 Royal

Persona 5 Royal is finally on the Nintendo Switch, and it is a JRPG fan's dream come true. As one of the best JRPGs on Switch, this game is a blend of an Inception-like plot and superhero elements, where you play as Joker, a high school student entangled in a criminal conviction. The adventure unfolds in the Metaverse, an alternate reality born from human cognition, filled with Palaces representing the distorted views of powerful individuals. As Joker, you lead the Phantom Thieves, a group of students with the power to summon Personas and to change society by altering the hearts of corrupt individuals.

This 100+ hour epic is not just about its length but its depth, with well-paced storytelling and three-dimensional characters. The gameplay is a mix of ordinary life and Metaverse adventures, balancing school life and battling Shadows. The combat system is a highlight, focusing on strategy and exploiting enemy weaknesses. Persona 5 Royal, with its stylish presentation, memorable soundtrack, and excellent voice acting, stands as a must-play title, perfectly suited for the Switch's portability.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is one of the best JRPGs on Switch that invites players into a vast, war-torn world. The story revolves around Noah and Mio, soldiers from opposing nations, Keves and Agnus, who must navigate a world filled with secrets and massive landscapes. The game features seamless real-time combat, where you can switch characters to suit their strategy, using special attacks known as Arts.

You also can customize your party with classes, arts, gems, and accessories, and even fuse characters into a powerful Ouroboros form for battle. The game's world, Aionios, is rich and diverse, with grassy plains, forests, and snowscapes, contrasting with the ongoing conflict. Settlements called Colonies will also serve in this game as bases, where you can cook, craft, and undertake quests. The game also includes an Expansion Pass with additional content, enhancing the already expansive experience. So, if you like to play one of the best JRPGs on Switch with a grand adventure, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is your path to it.

The World Ends With You: Final Remix 

In the bustling streets of Tokyo, The World Ends With You: Final Remix emerges as one of the best JRPGs on Switch. This definitive edition revitalizes the classic with enhanced graphics and an additional chapter, immersing players in a gripping narrative. You will control Neku, who wakes up with no memories and is thrust into a life-or-death game. With just seven days to survive, Neku must forge alliances and navigate through the city's maze-like structure.

The game combines real-time battles with a unique touch control system, offering a blend of strategy and action. Its distinctive style is further enriched with remixed music tracks, adding to the game's urban vibe. This RPG not only challenges you with its compelling story but also captivates you with its artistic flair, making it a must-play title on the Switch.

Octopath Traveler 2

Octopath Traveler 2 is the next pickup for the best JRPGs on Switch guide, and it was built upon the success of its predecessor. Set in the diverse world of Solistia, the game invites you to embark on a journey with eight unique characters, each with their own backstory and motivations. The game's signature HD-2D graphics - a fusion of retro pixel art and modern 3DCG - are elevated to new heights, creating a visually stunning experience.

You, as the player, can explore this vibrant world that shifts from day to night, engaging in battles using a strategic Break and Boost system. The game offers freedom in character development and a variety of path actions, allowing you to shape your adventure. With its blend of classic and innovative mechanics, Octopath Traveler 2 delivers a rich, immersive experience, making it a standout choice among the best JRPGs on Switch.

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age 

The next is the Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age, and it is also a shining gem among the best JRPGs on Switch. In this epic adventure, you play as a hero called Luminary who has a duty to save the Erdrea land. The game is a beautiful blend of classic turn-based battles and rich storytelling. Players will gather a diverse group of adventurers, each with unique skills and stories, exploring a vast world filled with challenges and treasures.

The game also includes the new stories focused on the characters and the ability to travel to past DRAGON QUEST worlds. The game's engaging gameplay, coupled with the artistic style of Akira Toriyama, makes it a must-play for both series fans and newcomers.

Pokémon Sword and Shield 

An exciting adventure comes in the Pokémon Sword and Shield, and as one of the best JRPGs on Switch, it is marking a new chapter in the beloved Pokémon series. Set in the vibrant Galar region, you can choose from three new partner Pokémon to begin their journey as a Pokémon Trainer. The game introduces the Wild Area, a vast landscape with free camera control, and new multiplayer Max Raid Battles against gigantic Dynamax Pokémon.

You also can customize your trainer's appearance, explore the mystery behind the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta, and encounter both new and familiar Pokémon in their unique Galarian forms. With engaging gameplay, dynamic battles, and a world rich in exploration and discovery, Pokémon Sword and Shield offer an immersive experience that both new players and long-time fans will enjoy.

NEO: The World Ends With You

A unique style that has been blended with the best features comes in the NEO: The World Ends With You, and this game is also considered one of the best JRPGs on Switch. The game follows Rindo, who finds himself thrust into the dangerous "Reapers' Game" in the streets of Shibuya. You will navigate this high-stakes scenario using psychic powers in fast-paced battles against diverse opponents.

The game's narrative is compelling, filled with so many turns as well as twists that keep players more and more engaged throughout the gameplay. Its vibrant, animated art style and immersive soundtrack add depth to the bustling city setting. NEO: The World Ends With You combines action-packed gameplay with a deep story as well, making it an essential play for fans of the genre and those looking for a game with a strong narrative and visual appeal.

Live A Live

Live A Live, one of the best JRPGs on Switch offers a distinctive experience with its multiple storylines set across different eras. Each chapter in the game is like a mini-RPG, featuring its own characters, settings, and gameplay styles. From the Wild West to the distant future, you can enjoy a variety of narratives and gameplay mechanics here.

The game's innovative structure allows for a fresh take on the JRPG genre, providing diverse stories and experiences. With its charming pixel art and engaging turn-based combat, Live A Live is not just a game but a collection of compelling tales that come together to form an unforgettable adventure.

Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX, a celebrated classic in the JRPG genre, makes its mark on the best JRPGs on Switch with its enchanting story and memorable characters. Set in the magical world of Gaia, the game follows Zidane, a skilled thief, and Princess Garnet as they embark on a journey filled with discovery and adventure.

This game is renowned for its deep storytelling, charming characters like Vivi and Quina, and a beautiful world that blends fantasy and steampunk elements. With its strategic turn-based combat system, you can even explore various abilities and tactics. The Switch version enhances the experience with high-definition graphics, a new booster system, and additional features like autosave. This is a heartwarming story that resonates with players, making it a timeless addition to any RPG lover's collection.

Star Ocean: The Second Story R

The last game on the list of best JRPGs on Switch is Star Ocean: The Second Story R, and it is a masterful blend of fantasy and science fiction. This JRPG takes players on an interstellar adventure with a rich narrative and deep character development. There will be two protagonists featuring Claude and Rena, whose choices lead to different perspectives and allies.

The unique 2.5D aesthetic combines 3D environments with 2D-pixel characters in this game, creating a visually stunning experience. You can engage in thrilling, fast-paced battles, using new mechanics to defeat foes strategically. The game also offers a variety of skills and an enhanced item creation system for deep customization.

Conclusion

So, with that all, it is time to end the guide for the best JRPGs on Switch. All the games listed here are ranked at the top among the users on Switch. If you love to play these kinds of JRPG games, there should be no second thoughts; you better end up with these games, and it is time for you to go beyond the traditional RPGs.