IGN has released its definitive list of the 25 greatest JRPGs of all time, and Chrono Trigger has claimed the top spot.
The list celebrates a wide variety of titles across multiple platforms and generations, with a strict rule: only one game per major franchise was allowed, ensuring diversity in the rankings.
The list appears to be inspired by the recent buzz around Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which has reignited interest in the JRPG genre.
IGN’s selections reflect a mix of nostalgic classics and modern masterpieces, highlighting the evolution and enduring appeal of Japanese role-playing games.
Rounding out the top five are Persona 5 Royal, Final Fantasy X, Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3. Other notable entries include Pokémon Gold/Silver at No. 9, Suikoden II at No. 8, and Dragon Quest XI at No. 6.
Here’s a look at IGN’s full top 25 JRPGs list:
- Chrono Trigger
- Persona 5 Royal
- Final Fantasy X
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Xenoblade Chronicles 3
- Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
- Earthbound
- Suikoden II
- Pokémon Gold/Silver
- The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky
- Octopath Traveler 2
- Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
- Xenogears
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
- Grandia II
- Kingdom Hearts II
- Tales of Vesperia
- Live A Live
- Bravely Default II
- Star Ocean: The Second Story
- Lost Odyssey
- Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch
- Golden Sun
- Breath of Fire III
- Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne