Ten 2023 JRPGs That Still Deserve Attention in 2026

The Japanese role-playing game space has always thrived on sweeping adventures, memorable party members, and combat systems that reward patience and planning. Looking back from 2026, the 2023 release calendar stands out as a particularly strong year for the genre, blending traditional turn-based designs with bold action experiments. Several of those titles remain essential experiences for newcomers and returning fans alike. Here are ten must-play JRPGs from 2023 that continue to hold up in 2026.

Rank	Game	Combat Style
10	Wild Hearts	Action hunting
9	Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty	Soulslike action
8	Fire Emblem Engage	Tactical turn-based
7	Tales of Arise: Beyond The Dawn	Action expansion
6	Super Mario RPG	Turn-based remake
5	Atelier Ryza 3	Turn-based alchemy
4	Octopath Traveler 2	Turn-based HD-2D
3	Final Fantasy 16	Action
2	Honkai: Star Rail	Turn-based RPG
1	The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom	Action-adventure

10. Wild Hearts

Developed by Omega Force, Wild Hearts took clear inspiration from the Monster Hunter formula and translated it into an approachable action-hunting experience. Its Karakuri building mechanics gave hunts a distinct identity, and by 2026, with Monster Hunter Wilds now available, this 2023 experiment still stands as a rewarding alternative for players seeking cooperative creature battles.

9. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty

Team Ninja's Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty refined the studio's Soulslike expertise from the Nioh series, delivering faster parry-driven combat and a dramatic Three Kingdoms setting. Boss fights demand precise timing, while enemy variety keeps encounters tense. It remains a strong pick for action fans who want challenge without abandoning narrative context.

8. Fire Emblem Engage

Fire Emblem Engage may not have rewritten the series, but its tactical turn-based battles and Emblem Ring system made every skirmish feel meaningful. The story and cast hold attention, and the strategy layer offers enough depth for veterans while still welcoming first-time commanders.

7. Tales of Arise: Beyond The Dawn

The Beyond the Dawn expansion added substantial post-game content to Tales of Arise, including challenging bosses and character-focused quests. It wrapped up loose narrative threads for the party, making it worthwhile for returning players and an attractive package for those diving into the world for the first time.

6. Super Mario RPG

The Super Mario RPG remake brought a beloved Super Nintendo classic to modern hardware. Its turn-based combat, humor, and accessible design still make it one of the most inviting entry points into the genre. The 2023 remake preserved the charm while polishing visuals and quality-of-life features.

5. Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist Of The End And The Secret Key

Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End and the Secret Key closes Ryza's arc with satisfying turn-based combat, deep synthesis, and colorful exploration. It was one of the year's most underrated titles, and in 2026 it remains a vibrant, relaxing JRPG that rewards players who enjoy crafting as much as combat.

4. Octopath Traveler 2

Octopath Traveler 2 refined nearly every system from its predecessor. Its eight distinct protagonists, flexible job combinations, and HD-2D presentation create a classic yet modern adventure. The turn-based combat encourages experimentation, and the interwoven stories give the game a strong sense of momentum.

3. Final Fantasy 16

Led by the team behind Final Fantasy 14, Final Fantasy 16 shifted the series toward full action combat while retaining a sweeping, political story. Eikon battles delivered enormous spectacle, and the character writing kept the journey grounded. It remains a standout example of how the series can evolve without losing its identity.

2. Honkai: Star Rail

Although developed outside Japan, Honkai: Star Rail embraces the structure and spirit of a JRPG. Its turn-based combat, team-building depth, and rotating content updates have kept it relevant through 2026. Charming characters and a surprisingly engaging sci-fi story make it easy to recommend to genre fans.

1. The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom improved on Breath of the Wild by expanding exploration, physics-driven puzzles, and vertical mobility. Its open-ended approach lets players solve problems their own way. By 2026, it remains one of the strongest action-adventure JRPG hybrids and a high bar for player freedom.

From turn-based traditions to action-forward reinventions, these ten 2023 releases illustrate why the JRPG genre remains so compelling. Whether someone prefers tactical maps, alchemy benches, or open skies, there is a standout adventure ready to be revisited in 2026.