Summary
The modernFinal Fantasytitleshave carved a unique niche with their cinematic storytelling, ensemble casts, and jaw-dropping visuals. However, they’re also characterized by real-time combat, sprawling worlds, and stories that weave together fantasy and technology.
If players are looking for moregames that feel like modernFinal Fantasytitles, these eight games deliver that same blend of grand adventures, memorable characters, and breathtaking worlds in droves.
What started as a supposedBreath of the Wildclonehas since blossomed into one of the most expansive RPG experiences on the market.Genshin Impacthas a real-time combat system that feels both fluid and strategic, not unlike the more recentFinal Fantasygames. With elemental magic at the heart of its mechanics, it challenges players to combine abilities across its sprawling roster of characters.
The world of Teyvat is a vast, open playground, and each region brims with lore and secrets, much like Eorzea inFinal Fantasy 14. Story-wise,Genshin Impactleans into epic quests with a mysterious protagonist and an ensemble cast hailing from diverse regions, reminiscent of howFinal Fantasy 15introduced the brotherly camaraderie of Noctis and his crew. With constant updates, compelling characters, and intricate world-building,Genshin Impactfeels like a modern fantasy saga that just can’t be put down.
While its predecessor felt more like a love letter to classic JRPGs,Ni no Kuni 2takes a modern approach, blending action-packed combat with kingdom-building mechanics. The game’s vibrant,cel-shaded world, brought to life with the help of Studio Ghibli’s aesthetic influence, feels like a fairy tale that players can’t help but get lost in.
The story of young King Evan’s quest to build a new kingdom is as charming as it is grand, and the game’s real-time combat, complete with party-based synergy, echoes the dynamic battle systems ofFinal Fantasy 15and16. There’s also a focus on strategic planning when it comes to kingdom management, adding layers of depth that feel just as satisfying as plotting the next move in aFinal Fantasybattle.
If there’s any franchise that parallels modernFinal Fantasyin both its convoluted lore and emotional resonance, it’sKingdom Hearts. The third main installment,Kingdom Hearts 3,cranks up the visual splendor, blending Disney charm with the kind ofaction-RPG combatthat’s become a Square Enix staple. Sora’s journey across multiple worlds, ranging fromFrozen’s Arendelle toToy Story’s Andy’s Room, makes every chapter feel like a brand-new adventure.
Combat is fast-paced and visually spectacular, with transformations and team attacks that make every encounter feel dynamic. The crossover betweenFinal Fantasyand Disney characters feels surprisingly seamless, and while the story can be hard to follow for newcomers, its themes of friendship and sacrifice hit hard, just like some of the bestFinal Fantasyarcs.
Square Enix doesn’t just handle one legendary JRPG series.Dragon Quest 11embraces its roots while modernizing just enough to feel fresh. The colorful, whimsical world of Erdrea is a joy to explore, especially with the orchestral score giving it a grandiose feel.
Turn-based combat makes a triumphant return here, but it’s streamlined with snappy animations and a clean interface, making each battle feel impactful. WhileFinal Fantasymay have moved away from turn-based systems, the sheer narrative depth and heartfelt character arcs inDragon Quest 11will feel instantly familiar to longtimeFFfans. Plus, the game’s ability to seamlessly switch between 3D and retro 2D graphics is a brilliant nod to the series’ legacy while showcasing how far it’s come.
WhileFinal Fantasyis known for blending fantasy with futuristic elements,Persona 5 Royalleans intourban fantasy, mixing day-to-day life with supernatural heists. The Phantom Thieves’ journey to reform society’s corrupt hearts is packed with narrative depth and unexpected twists.
Combat is a turn-based affair, but the stylish presentation and the way battles flow make it feel anything but static. Much likeFinal Fantasy 15’scharacter-driven road trip, the strength ofPersona 5lies in its cast and the bonds that players form with them. Balancing school life, dungeon crawling, and unraveling conspiracies gives it a distinct flavor, but the way it handles storytelling and emotional stakes is pure JRPG gold.
When it comes to grand, sprawling RPGs, Monolith Soft knows how to craft a saga.Xenoblade Chronicles 2offers an epic journey across the titans that make up Alrest’s world, with combat that mixes real-time attacks with strategic planning. The use of Blades, sentient weapons who form bonds with their Drivers, mirrors the modernFinal Fantasyapproach to blending lore with mechanics.
Visually, the game has a vibrant,anime-inspired aesthetic, and the soundtrack hits similar emotional highs thatFinal Fantasyfans will appreciate. Story-wise, it’s a coming-of-age tale wrapped in political intrigue and ancient mysteries, making the stakes feel both personal and world-shattering.
Square Enix doesn’t shy away from experimenting with RPG formulas, andOctopath Traveler 2is proof of that. It takes the HD-2D aesthetic and turns it into something truly mesmerizing, withpixel artthat’s both nostalgic and breathtakingly modern. The combat system is deceptively deep, with the Break and Boost mechanics requiring careful planning, reminiscent of managing ATB gauges inFinal Fantasy 13.
The game’s structure lets players pick from eight protagonists, each with their own story and motivation. It’s like having eight differentFinal Fantasystorylines running parallel, each filled with heartfelt moments, unique challenges, and interconnected lore.
What setsTales of Ariseapart from its predecessors is how it takes the series' real-time combat to new heights. Players can link moves with other party members, resulting in flashy combo attacks that feel smooth and satisfying. The story, centered on breaking free from oppression, is far darker than mostTalesgames but hits the right emotional beats to feel satisfying in true JRPG fashion.
Its world is beautifully crafted, with regions that reflect the harsh realities of its divided setting. The mix of fast-paced action and heartfelt storytelling captures thatFinal Fantasyspirit without feeling derivative, making it a must-play for those who love grand, emotionally charged adventures.
