Ahh, the classic RPGs of old. Those beloved stories of adventure, mystery, and discovery that have been gracing our living rooms since the days of the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). There have been many iconic and beloved RPGs over the years, but there are some that stand out above the rest and have earned their place as classics of the genre. Let’s take a look at the top 10 classic RPGs of old.
1. The Legendary Journey of Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is one of the most iconic and beloved franchises in the world of RPGs. It has been around since the original NES days, and continues to captivate players to this day. The original Final Fantasy was a revolutionary game, introducing a new kind of RPG experience to the world. It was also one of the first to offer a branching storyline, allowing players to make choices that changed the outcome of the game. From the epic battles to the memorable characters, Final Fantasy is one of the most beloved RPGs of all time.
2. The Golden Age of Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest is another classic RPG that has been around since the NES days. It is one of the longest running RPG franchises, and is often cited as one of the greatest. Dragon Quest’s biggest draw has always been its classic turn-based battle system and its iconic characters. It also featured a unique experience system which allowed players to customize their characters by gaining experience points through combat.
3. Shining Through: Phantasy Star
Phantasy Star was a unique RPG experience that was ahead of its time. Released on the Sega Master System in 1987, it was one of the first RPGs to feature a 3D, first-person view. It also introduced an original sci-fi setting, full of unique creatures and locations. Players could explore the world of Phantasy Star with a unique party system, in which each character had their own set of skills and abilities.
4. Breath of Fresh Air: Breath of Fire
Breath of Fire was an RPG released for the Super Nintendo in 1994. It featured a unique and colorful world filled with interesting characters and creatures. It also featured a unique take on the classic RPG battle system, allowing for more strategy and customization. Breath of Fire was praised for offering a fresh take on the genre and for its engaging story.
5. The Iconic Worlds of EarthBound
EarthBound is an RPG that was released for the Super Nintendo in 1994. It featured a unique and quirky world, full of strange characters and locations. The game also featured a unique combat system that was based on the traditional turn-based system, but with an added twist. EarthBound is also known for its wacky humor, making it an instant classic.
6. Grand Theft Auto RPG: Wild Arms
Wild Arms is an RPG released for the PlayStation in 1996. It was unique in that it featured a blend of traditional RPG elements with Grand Theft Auto-style exploration and combat. Players could explore a vast and vibrant world, full of interesting characters and locations. The game also featured a unique battle system, allowing for more strategy and customization.
7. The Timeless Story of Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger is a classic RPG released for the Super Nintendo in 1995. It is a timeless classic, with an engaging story and memorable characters. It also featured a unique battle system, allowing for more strategy and customization. The game also had a unique time travel mechanic, allowing players to explore multiple timelines.
8. Suikoden – An Epic Tale of Loyalty
Suikoden is an RPG released for the PlayStation in 1995. It was praised for its epic story and memorable characters. It also featured a unique battle system, allowing for more strategy and customization. One of its most interesting features was the ability to recruit and lead a team of characters into battle.
9. The Classic Adventures of Ultima
Ultima is a classic RPG released for the NES in 1986. It was one of the first open world RPGs, allowing players to explore a vast and vibrant world. It also featured an innovative combat system, allowing for more strategy and customization. The game also featured an interesting morality system, allowing players to choose between good and evil paths.
10. Exploring the Magical Realm of Secret of Mana
Secret of Mana is an RPG released for the Super Nintendo in 1993. It featured a vibrant world full of interesting characters and locations. The game also featured an innovative battle system, allowing for more strategy and customization. It also featured a unique magic system, allowing players to cast powerful spells.
These classic RPGs of old have been beloved by gamers for decades. Whether it’s the unique battle systems of Final Fantasy or the epic stories of Chrono Trigger, these games have left an impact on the world of gaming. They are timeless classics that will continue to captivate players for years to come.