The Nintendo Switch is a great console for fans of JRPGs, or Japanese role-playing games. These games are known for their immersive stories, memorable characters, strategic combat, and diverse gameplay. Whether you prefer classic turn-based battles, action-packed hack-and-slash, or something in between, there is a JRPG for you on the Switch. Here are the top 5 best JRPGs on the Nintendo Switch, according to Metacritic scores and user reviews.
1. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
Metacritic score: 89/100
User score: 8.9/10
Dragon Quest XI S is the definitive edition of the critically acclaimed eleventh installment of the legendary Dragon Quest series. It follows the journey of a young hero who discovers that he is the reincarnation of the legendary Luminary, and must save the world from the dark forces of the Lord of Shadows. The game features a vast and beautiful open world, a charming cast of characters, a rich and engaging story, and a classic turn-based combat system. The definitive edition also adds new features, such as the ability to switch between 3D and 2D graphics, new story content, new characters, new music, and more. Dragon Quest XI S is a must-play for any JRPG fan, and one of the best games on the Switch.¹²
2. Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Metacritic score: 83/100
User score: 8.5/10
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is the sequel to the cult classic Xenoblade Chronicles, and the third game in the Xenoblade series. It takes place in a world where people live on the backs of giant creatures called Titans, and follows the adventure of Rex, a young salvager who forms a bond with a mysterious blade named Pyra, who holds the key to the mythical paradise of Elysium. The game features a stunning and expansive world, a complex and rewarding combat system, a deep and emotional story, and a memorable soundtrack. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a masterpiece of JRPG design, and one of the most ambitious and epic games on the Switch.³⁴
3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Metacritic score: 89/100
User score: 8.9/10
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the latest entry in the popular Fire Emblem series, and the first one on the Switch. It is set in the continent of Fódlan, where three rival nations are on the brink of war. The player takes on the role of a professor at the prestigious Garreg Mach Monastery, and must choose one of the three houses to teach and lead in battle. The game features a strategic and tactical turn-based combat system, a deep and branching story with multiple paths and endings, a rich and diverse cast of characters, and a dynamic and immersive school life. Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a game that will keep you hooked for hours, and make you care about every decision you make.⁵⁶
4. Octopath Traveler
Metacritic score: 83/100
User score: 8.5/10
Octopath Traveler is a retro-inspired JRPG that pays homage to the classics of the genre, such as Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger. It features eight unique and playable characters, each with their own story, skills, and abilities. The player can choose any character to start with, and switch between them at any time. The game features a gorgeous and distinctive pixel art style, a dynamic and innovative combat system, a rich and immersive world, and a captivating and original soundtrack. Octopath Traveler is a game that will appeal to both nostalgic and modern JRPG fans, and one of the most charming and creative games on the Switch.
5. Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition
Metacritic score: 81/100
User score: 8.4/10
Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition is the enhanced and expanded version of the acclaimed ninth installment of the Tales series. It follows the story of Yuri Lowell, a former knight who joins forces with a group of unlikely allies to stop a sinister plot that threatens the world. The game features a fast-paced and fun action-based combat system, a colorful and vibrant anime-style graphics.