Summary
Among its roster of amazing RPGs, the PS1 featured iconic titles likeFinal Fantasy 7andParasite Eve, as well as a host of other phenomenal experiences. But for as many amazing RPGs that made it out of Japan, a significant number of great RPGs never saw a release in the West. The PS1 import scene was rather active back in the day, as proper US releases for some of the console’s most intriguing RPGs never came to pass.
Whether it was a turn-based RPG with anime characters akin toFinal Fantasy, a compelling tactical JRPG, or some sort of unique, off-beat experience, the RPGs that never made it out of Japan are still worth checking out today. Featuring fascinating worlds, unique systems, and a sense of style that sets them apart, these Japan-exclusive PS1 RPGs were just a few of the excellent games that never made it to the West.
5Growlanser
One Of The PS1’s Most Compelling Tactical RPGs
Published by Atlus and developed by Career Soft,Growlanserisa fascinating tactical RPGset in the fantasy kingdom of Rolandia. Set during a war between old magic and new magic,Growlansertells the tale of a young warrior named Carmaine, one who finds himself thrust into the conflict upon reaching the proper age.
Growlanser’soutstanding combat system calls on players to form their party, then uses a grid-based system to align themselves for actions. The bumping, highly energetic music, and addictive nature of the combat are what really bringGrowlansertogether. It also features some gorgeous anime cutscenes and a charming cast of characters.Growlanserwould later get a port to the PSP, but that too remained sadly exclusive to Japan.
4Shin Sedai Robot Senki: Brave Saga
Anime-Influenced Strategy RPG Features Terrific Mech Combat
Mixing together elements ofGundamandFinal Fantasy,Shin Sedai Robot Senik: Brave Sagais a tactical RPG that is based on a toy line similar toTransformers. It feels like a late-80s Japanese anime sprung to life, with appropriately cornymusic and voice acting, complimentingBrave Saga’srazor-sharp combat and tactical gameplay.
Featuring a fast-paced turn-based battle system,Brave Sagafocuses on combat between mechs and the interpersonal relationships that bond together the cast in between. It is a delightful experience, which makes it even more unfortunate that it never launched outside Japan, as it would be a perfect fit for a remaster on modern consoles.
The sequel to FromSoftware’s challenging dungeon crawler did launch in the US, where it dropped the 2 andreleased simply asKing’s Field. But the first game never left Japan, leaving it as a curious part of FromSoft’s intriguing history, as it was the origin point for what would become the Soulslike genre.
King’s Fieldis a first-person dungeon crawler RPG that features the trademark FromSoft design, focusing on obtuse puzzle design, challenging combat, and a dark, dreary world. It is still a fascinating game in many ways, as its commitment to game design and otherworldly fantasy would go on to influence numerous games moving forward.
2Tear Ring Saga
Spiritual Successor To Fire Emblem Stuns On PS1
Tear Ring Sagawas developed by a team of former Intelligent Systems developers, the creators oftheFire Emblemseries. Similarly toFire Emblem,Tear Ring Sagais a tactical RPG set in a sprawling fantasy kingdom, focusing on addictive turn-based combat and an expertly crafted story of war and betrayal.
Moving units around the maps feel crisp and sharp, taking advantage of the fast speeds that the PS1 offers. Combat feels altogether brilliant, and the music is absolutely spectacular. Due to ongoing legal issues with Nintendo and its similarity toFire Emblem,Tear Ring Sagawas not translated into English and has remained in Japan since it was released in 2001.
1London Seirei Tantei-Dan
Charming RPG Set In Victorian London
Utilizing outrageously charming 2D graphics, a fantastic soundtrack, and traditional turn-based gameplay,London Seirei Tantei-danseemed like a perfect fit for US audiences. Unfortunately, this gem has been left without both an official Western release and a fan translation, leaving its fate rather dubious.
Developed by Bandai,London Seirei Tantei-dancasts players as an orphanin 19th-century Londonduring the Steam Age. It is absolutely lovely to look at, with beautiful 2D sprite art and a combat system that feels right at home on the console. Requests for Bandai to translate it to English have gone unanswered since 1999, and considering that the company has moved on to bigger and better things, it is likely to stay that way.
