The Best Japanese Games

 "cURL error 3:  (see https://curl.haxx.se/libcurl/c/libcurl-errors.html)"
 "cURL error 6: Could not resolve host: ncom (see https://curl.haxx.se/libcurl/c/libcurl-errors.html) for ncom/software/switch/70070000018036/1b132925579c8f942a37e9ab55f1d40eba5bbfc7e250955d07e1c7a3a18d7024"
 "cURL error 6: Could not resolve host: ncom (see https://curl.haxx.se/libcurl/c/libcurl-errors.html) for ncom/software/switch/70070000018036/Video/Switch_Pikmin12_LaunchTRL_Web_H264"
Update : DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake added at rank #25.
1

Cyberdimension Neptunia: 4 Goddesses Online (2017)

View Similar Games
100
Review score
Logo of Cyberdimension Neptunia: 4 Goddesses Online Screenshot of Cyberdimension Neptunia: 4 Goddesses Online Screenshot of Cyberdimension Neptunia: 4 Goddesses Online Screenshot of Cyberdimension Neptunia: 4 Goddesses Online

Playstation 4 PC Windows

In this hack 'n' slash adventure co-developed with Tamsoft and Compile Heart, the 4 Goddesses enter an online fantasy game inspired by... themselves! Choose from 12 characters with unique playstyles and skills to fight in realtime brawls, customize with accessories, and play online with others!


  • japanese
  • rpg
  • jrpg
  • mmo
  • multiplayer
  • anime
  • dungeon
  • turn-based

2

Persona 5 Royal (2019)

View Similar Games
96
Review score
Logo of Persona 5 Royal Screenshot of Persona 5 Royal Screenshot of Persona 5 Royal Screenshot of Persona 5 Royal

Playstation 4 Xbox Series X Xbox One Playstation 5 PC Windows Nintendo Switch

Persona 5 Royal is a JRPG that mixes turn-based combat with stealth and puzzles, creating an unbelievably cool and unique gaming experience. You play as a high schooler fighting supernatural forces while balancing everyday activities and relationships. The game features excellent visuals, an outstanding soundtrack, and a well-realized story that deals with some serious teenage issues. With refined mechanics and new additions, Persona 5 Royal is undoubtedly worth playing.


What we like:
  • Well-realized story
  • Unique gameplay loop
  • Top-notch combat system
  • Outstanding soundtrack
  • Multiple meaningful additions
What could be improved:
  • Heavy on dialogue and story
  • Slow start
  • Can be overwhelming

  • japanese
  • rpg
  • dungeon
  • jrpg
  • turn-based
  • battle
  • combat
  • fight

3

Persona 4 Golden (2020)

View Similar Games
96
Review score
Logo of Persona 4 Golden Screenshot of Persona 4 Golden Screenshot of Persona 4 Golden Screenshot of Persona 4 Golden

vita PC Windows

A coming of age story that sets the protagonist and his friends on a journey kickstarted by a chain of serial murders.


  • japanese
  • rpg
  • dungeon
  • jrpg
  • turn-based
  • battle
  • combat
  • fight

4

Rakuen (2017)

View Similar Games
95
Review score
Logo of Rakuen Screenshot of Rakuen Screenshot of Rakuen Screenshot of Rakuen

Nintendo Switch PC Windows Mac OS Linux

Step into the heartwarming world of Rakuen and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Play as a young Boy on a mission to grant his deepest wish, while uncovering the secrets and struggles of his neighbors in a mysterious hospital. Solve whimsical puzzles, explore eerie dungeons, and build friendships in this unique non-combat adventure. Let Rakuen captivate you with its rich story, delightful characters, and enchanting soundtrack.


What we like:
  • Amazing and emotional story that brings back nostalgic feelings
What could be improved:
  • Initial part is a little tedious

  • japanese
  • rpg
  • jrpg
  • puzzle
  • rpgmaker
  • emotional
  • horror
  • fantasy
  • funny
  • story
  • adventure
  • point-and-click
  • anime
  • cute
  • pixel

5

Ethereal Enigma (2023)

View Similar Games
95
Review score
Logo of Ethereal Enigma Screenshot of Ethereal Enigma Screenshot of Ethereal Enigma Screenshot of Ethereal Enigma

early access PC Windows IOS iPhone Android

¿Are you ready to take ghostbusting into your own hands? Find the elements to complete the ritual, and escape the room.


  • japanese
  • choices
  • romance
  • visual-novel
  • dating-sim
  • rpg
  • vr
  • jrpg
  • mystery
  • multiple-endings
  • romantic
  • dark
  • story
  • relaxing
  • horror

6

METAL GEAR SOLID 2: Sons of Liberty - Master Collection V... (2023)

View Similar Games
94
Review score
Logo of METAL GEAR SOLID 2: Sons of Liberty - Master Collection V...

PC Windows Xbox One

Reintroduce yourself to the plantlike Pikmin and strategic gameplay that this charming series is rooted in. From finding a way home to collecting treasure, Olimar must partner with a parade of Pikmin to survive the harshest of conditions. Both games support optional motion controls for more options when guiding your floral friends.


  • rpg
  • japanese
  • card
  • strategy
  • turn-based
  • jrpg
  • battler
  • truck
  • trading
  • simulation2018
  • pvp
  • cover-ups
  • multiplayer
  • anime

7

Persona 5 (2016)

View Similar Games
94
Review score
Logo of Persona 5 Screenshot of Persona 5 Screenshot of Persona 5 Screenshot of Persona 5

Playstation 4 Playstation 3 PC Windows

Persona 5 Royal delivers an unparalleled RPG experience with its addictive gameplay, captivating story, and stunning visuals. As the protagonist, you lead a group of Phantom Thieves to steal the corrupt hearts of society's worst. Engage in turn-based combat, explore Tokyo, and customize your own Thieves Den. Persona 5 Royal also features alternate endings and over 40 pieces of previously released downloadable content, making it the ultimate edition of the award-winning game.


What we like:
  • Well-developed and interesting characters, engaging dungeon crawling and turn-based combat, stunning visual direction and attention to detail, phenomenal story with a new and exciting ending in the Royal version, offers an enormous amount of activities to spend time on with character development and lore
What could be improved:
  • Lack of quality of life features can be tiring
  • Lots of dialogue
  • Pacing issues and underdeveloped characters
  • Combat music can become repetitive
  • Requires a significant time commitment to fully enjoy

  • japanese
  • rpg
  • dungeon
  • jrpg
  • turn-based
  • battle
  • combat
  • fight
  • dungeon-crawler

8

Metaphor ReFantazio (2024)

View Similar Games
93
Review score
Logo of Metaphor ReFantazio Screenshot of Metaphor ReFantazio Screenshot of Metaphor ReFantazio Screenshot of Metaphor ReFantazio

PC Windows Xbox One Xbox Series X Playstation 5 Playstation 4

The throne sits empty after the king’s assassination. With no heirs, the will of the late king decrees that the next monarch will be elected by the people, & thus begins your fight for the throne..


  • turn-based
  • rpg
  • japanese
  • dungeon
  • fantasy
  • combat
  • battle
  • jrpg
  • political
  • orchestral
  • anime

9

The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero (2020)

View Similar Games
93
Review score
Logo of The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero Screenshot of The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero Screenshot of The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero Screenshot of The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero

Playstation 4 Nintendo Switch PC Windows

The Legend of Heroes: Trails From Zero is a classic Japanese JRPG that has been localized for the West. Players take control of a team of young police recruits in a major city as they strive to improve the reputation of their force by completing odd tasks for citizens. With impressive visuals and engaging characters, Trails From Zero will provide an enjoyable experience for both newcomers and veterans alike.


What we like:
  • Tactical turn-based combat
  • Dynamic shadows
  • Keyboard & mouse support on PC
What could be improved:
  • Boring side quests
  • PC offers higher frame rate but needs powerful hardware

  • japanese
  • rpg
  • jrpg
  • detective
  • battle
  • turn-based

10

Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)

View Similar Games
92
Review score
Logo of Yakuza: Like a Dragon Screenshot of Yakuza: Like a Dragon Screenshot of Yakuza: Like a Dragon Screenshot of Yakuza: Like a Dragon

Playstation 5 PC Windows Xbox Series X Xbox One Playstation 4

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is an open world brawler set in a stylized version of Japan, where you control Ichiban Kasuga, an honorable ex-yakuza who took the fall for a crime he didn't commit. As he attempts to get his life back on track, you'll have to navigate the underworld of Yokohama as you battle foes using RPG style combat and utilize environmental objects to aid you in battle. You can also take on jobs and explore side activities such as gambling or kart racing.


What we like:
  • Fast paced combat
  • Strategic use of environmental objects
  • Variety of side activities
  • Funny and touching human stories
  • RPG style battle system with summons feature
What could be improved:
  • Combat can end abruptly if protagonist is knocked out
  • Long distance travel for some tasks
  • Restrictions on summons use

  • rpg
  • japanese
  • turn-based
  • jrpg
  • crime
  • combat
  • fight
  • brawler
  • battle
  • drama
  • narrative

Not seeing your game?