Hey everyone! I’ve been diving into RPGs lately and wanted to share my thoughts and seek recommendations from fellow gamers. I’ve found myself resonating with Scott the Woz’s viewpoint on random encounters and grinding, but I do make an exception when the combat system is truly exceptional, like in the case of Undertale.Personally, I’m not particularly fond of random encounters and the need to grind excessively. I find it difficult to immerse myself in games that heavily rely on these mechanics. However, I’m open to exploring RPGs that strike a balance between engaging combat and a captivating narrative. While the combat system doesn’t necessarily have to be mind-blowing, it does need to offer some strategic depth.I’ve tried Pokémon games in the past, but they didn’t quite grab my attention. I’d prefer for the game to be available on steam or the switch. In terms of graphics I prefer pixel-art.That being said, I’m eager to hear your recommendations for pixelated RPGs that you think might suit my preferences. Whether it’s a lesser-known gem or a popular title, I’m open to any suggestions. Thanks in advance for your input, and I can’t wait to delve into some new RPG adventures!
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Why not try out Western CRPGs?
I gather from what you’re writing, that you’re trying to get into JRPGs.
If you want action-laden fights without random encounters, I suggest the “old” BioWare RPGs:
- Mass Effect Trilogy
- Knights of the old Republic 1 + 2
- Dragon Age Origins (never played the sequels)
They’re old but gold and still one of the best.
And there are still:
- The Witcher 3 and
- Cyberpunk 2077
I couldn’t see anyone mentioning so I would add Disco Elysium
Not your typical RPG by any measure, but one of my top favorite games of all time, more focused on exploration and talking/decisions rather than fighting. Also has a unique mechanic where “stats” are connected to mental attributes that talk with the character by offering advice, insight, or just poor suggestions depending on your level :D
I love Disco Elysium with all my heart, but suggesting it to a person who talks with emphasis about combat systems and strategic depth is sort of dangerous.
Disco Elysium is a novel masquerading as a game. If you like that and approach it as such, it can be extremely rewarding, but there isn’t much gameplay to be had.
I explain Disco Elysium as the best book I ever played.
It might not tick all your boxes but Chained Echos might be worth a try.
Super Mario RPG and Chrono Trigger, I think strike a good balance regarding random encounters.
On the other end of the spectrum would be something like the Front Mission or Final Fantasy Tactics series - where the narrative is all handled through set battles.
If you’re looking for a good JRPG, I can’t recommend the Persona series enough. I hate traditional JRPG’s but I love Persona and have dumped literally hundreds of hours into P5/ P5 Royal. I know it’s not pixel art, but the art style is very unique and fun to look at.
RPGs are such a board term nowadays that anything can be an rpg if you market it as such. But that’s not the time for it.
If you like Undertale, you might enjoy its deranged post apocalyptic cousin released near the same time, Lisa the Painful. A turn base rpg with plenty of tangible choices.
If you like more narrative stuff, play Disco Elysium or Planescape Torment.
Give the Nier series a try. Starting with Automata is probably the best way in. The Replicant remake is great too but it might take more time to grow on you because Replicant’s opening is slow and not as captivating compared to Automata. Both are great RPGs once you get into the thick of them. Both games have several chapters (aka playthroughs but that term is misleading) which can make them quite long but enjoyable all the way. I have sunk more than 100 hours into each of them.
Prey’s currently on sale and one of the most memorable gaming experiences I’ve had in recent years.
You’ll be hooked within the first 10 minutes of playing, I guarantee it:
I found Prey to be a little rough at the start, but once you pick up some upgrades the combat improves.
Took me a few hours at least to decide I liked it.
Prey is not a RPG
