Summary
Most JRPGs try to follow a template that ensures their success within the genre, even if most gamers would tend to remember titles that innovate on the genre’s cliches. This is especially true in the case of sequels that try to help players enjoy a sense of familiarity.
However, this isn’t a universal truth. SomeJRPG sequels go in completely different directions, and that can end up being riveting in its own way. These titles are often hard to forget, especially when one considers just how different they are when compared to the previous installment.
The melancholic vibes ofFinal Fantasy 10were altered in the game’s direct sequel, with the threat of Sin finally being dealt with at the end. While it was obvious that a sequel wouldn’t feature the same tone given that Spira’s struggles were finally at an end, fans were still taken aback by how differentFinal Fantasy 10-2was.
It’s clear from the idol performance at the start of the game thatFinal Fantasy 10-2is aiming for something completely different. The new combat system also offers a unique take on a job system in the form of dresspheres, which marks another major shift from the first game that most fans will grow to appreciate after adjusting to how it works.
7Chrono Cross
Scrapped A Lot Of Chrono Trigger’s Unique Aspects With Mixed Results
Chrono Crossis one of thebest JRPGs on the PlayStation, even if some players felt that it was far from an appropriate sequel forChrono Trigger. Unlike the relatively understandable story and the small yet cozy cast of the first game,Chrono Cross' narrative is pretty complicated, and the cast of characters is ridiculously large.
The innovative approach to leveling, coupled with something as simple as integrating battle screen transitions, results in it wildly different fromChrono Trigger. It’s easy to see why this title disappointed fans of one of the greatest JRPG ever made, but those willing to look past these issues will have a great time enjoyingChrono Cross' strengths.
Parasite Eveis a short,dark, and engaging JRPGthat is unlike any other game in the genre. The sequel could’ve offered more of the same, butResident Evilhad become such a major hit on the console that SquareSoft couldn’t stop themselves from hopping on the bandwagon.
As a result,Parasite Eve 2features tank controlsand a greater focus on tense combat. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but fans of the first game have to go through a major adjustment period if they want to get into this title.
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13is one of the most unique JRPG sequels around, and many gamers appreciate it for its novelty. The combat and setting ofFinal Fantasy 13andFinal Fantasy 13-2were pretty engaging, but many fans enjoyed the changes made to this formula inLightning Returns.
The combat system integrates elements of the dresspheresfromFinal Fantasy 10-2, and the game is driven by a time-limit mechanic that further adds to the tension. Players can complete main and side quests to prevent the world’s annihilation, but doing so is easier said than done.
Kingdom Heartsis known for featuring a history of odd sequels and spin-offs, with358/2 Daysbeing a notable mention here. However, nothing comes close to the bizarre nature ofKingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory, which takes on the guise of a rhythm-action game thatcontinues the story ofKingdom Hearts 3.
Players who checked out theRe MindDLC and are invested in the plot should definitely giveMelody of Memorya chance. As long as they are open-minded, they’ll have a great time with the experimental nature of this title.
Many argue thatFinal Fantasy 4is a game that doesn’t need a sequel, which is a justifiable statement. However, anyone who wants to explore this world and check out familiar locations will like whatThe After Yearsbrings to the table.
Controlling Cecil and Rosa’s son, along with some other familiar characters, and taking them across several different scenarios is an interesting way to experience the narrative, with the Moon Phases governing what to prioritize in combat. It may be notably different fromFinal Fantasy 4in some ways, but the core gameplay itself shouldn’t be too hard to get into as long as players know what they’re doing.
Breath of Fireis a classic JRPG seriesthat many gamers love. However, almost every fan hatesDragon Quarterfor completely scrapping what made the series unique and turning it into a sequel that was way too different for its own good.
While players can still have a great time withDragon Quarter, the complaints are justified to an extent. The fact that this game actively punishes players for using the power of a Dragon shows why most fans can’t gel with this title no matter how hard they try.
TheYakuzaseries was doing well as a real-time action franchise that featured hard-hitting combat, so many fans wondered whyLike a Dragondecided to implement a whole new combat system. It felt unnecessary, but this game silenced doubters in no time with its innovative changes, which were accompanied by one of thebest stories told in aYakuzagame.
The party-based approach to combat augments the story and establishes Ichiban as a unique protagonist who is joyful in his own way.Like a Dragonwas a massive shift that attracted new players, kept existing fans happy, and ushered in a brand-new era for theYakuzaseries.
