The genres of hack-and-slash games and JRPGs are both widely popular and successful in their fields. We here at Spiel Times thought, “Why not combine both?”. So now, we present you the 10 Best Hack and Slash JRPGs to Try Out in 2022!
Before we start, let’s give some quick definitions of the JRPG and Hack-and-Slash game genres.
The JRPG genre is essentially a subclass of the RPG genre, which focuses on games that focus on your character’s development and a storyline that is essential to the experience of the game. What makes a JRPG stand out from other RPGs is a recurring pattern of linear storylines and traditional party-based systems.
On the other hand, the Hack-and-Slash genre is a much more simple genre to describe. It refers to a game that involves real-time inputs to hack and slash at enemies with melee weapons mainly. It is the exact opposite play-wise of a turn-based game which has a delay between actions.
With these two genres, you can now see that it is possible to have a combination of both. Now that both of those definitions are cleared, let’s get straight into our top ten list!
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THE LIST
Dragon Quest Heroes II
First for our recommendations is a title from an all-time classic franchise for JRPGs, Dragon Quest. This game, titled Dragon Quest Heroes II, is a hack-and-slash action RPG game that is a spinoff game of the main series.
Unlike its other title that shares its name, this game does not have a turn-based combat system and instead features a real-time combat system. It also features the classic RPG elements such as a party as well as skills and stats.
While exploring the world in the game, you can experience different weather that affects your party and can even cause ailments. It will also reflect in the battle with the enemies.
Overall if you’re looking for a simple and easy to get into hack-and-slash JRPG, this one might be for you!
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NieR Automata
One of the most successful and highly-rated games in the past decade, this is an RPG game considered by many a modern classic. It is also the latest part of the Drakengard franchise of Square Enix.
NieR Automata features classic hack-and-slash gameplay that is very refined and sure to make you feel entertained. Here you control several androids, 2B, A2, and 9S, in a plot that involves you going against other machines.
The game features a unique way for you to progress through the story: you need to beat the game which will unlock more choices and scenarios.
Furthermore, it contains multiple genres of gameplay such as a bullet-hell game and even a platformer section. Keep note that these parts aren’t just a one-off minigame but also relevant to the plot!
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God Eater 3
The latest game of the God Eater series, God Eater 3, further improves the features of the previous releases. This game can be considered an action RPG, but also has some very distinct JRPG elements to it. Playstyle-wise, it is most similar to Monster Hunter.
This game features a varied selection of weapons, each with its own strengths. Mastery of each weapon is heavily rewarded with its mission-based single-player mode.
There are many weapons and skills that can be crafted and upgraded but will require some resources like blueprints. While it may be a bit of a grind, this game will reward you heavily in return for your efforts.
Lastly, some quality of life improvements, as well as changes, have been added. The inclusion of new mechanics like Burst Arts, Engage, and even Skills Install for weapons provides a whole world of new content for any fan of the game.
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Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin
This new title for the Final Fantasy series is set as an alternate universe prequel to the very first Final Fantasy game. Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin follows Jack, a man consumed by a need to destroy Chaos, going on a journey alongside his companions.
Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin is an action RPG that features a hack-and-slash real-time combat system, unlike the majority of the Final Fantasy game line. The RPG elements featured are in the form of Job Classes as well as an array of weapons to fit your playstyle.
Explore the environment and meet familiar enemy faces as you travel! During battles, you can switch between jobs to inflict both magical;y and physically damaging attacks when needed.
This game can be played on different levels of complexity and is good for gamers of all levels of skill and intensity.
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Scarlet Nexus
Made by Bandai Namco, Scarlet Nexus is a unique gem among its modern titles. It is one of the first games that were confirmed and announced for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S at the time.
The game is primarily a sci-fi action-adventure RPG that takes place in a world that is under threat from enemies called the Others. You are part of the OSF (Others Suppression Force) and tasked with taking down foes with your team of psychokinetic soldiers. Use them wisely for deadly team attacks!
This is where the JRPG elements are introduced, with each member having their specialties and strengths. Battles will require some thought and strategy for using abilities. Attacks build up a gauge that allows for an even stronger attack!
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Ys IX: Monstrum Nox
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is an action role-playing game that’s part of the Ys series and was made by developers Nihon Falcom. Played in a third-person perspective, this game lets you control multiple main characters that can be switched whenever needed. Use this to your advantage to deal deadly combos by interweaving abilities and playstyles!
Some prominent RPG elements involved here include the multiple character parties, as well as item/weapon collecting via explorations. Furthermore, each character has unique skill attacks that consume SP, but if it lands, it restores the SP back as well.
This game encourages you to make the most of your party, as each party can traverse the in-game world differently. This ensures that teamwork isn’t only just within the battle, but out of battle as well.
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Astral Chain
Introducing Astral Chain, an action RPG that is quite unique among its peers in the genre. For this game, you control two characters at the same time during fights creating complex and frantic battle scenarios. In addition, you are provided with a variety of forms and playstyles to fit your needs in-game.
In-game, you are a member of the Neuron police force in the hopes of keeping a megacity called the Ark safe from the threats of Chimera, interdimensional monsters.
Alongside their own partnered Chimeras, you will investigate the sudden occurrences of Chimera activity in the city and take on threats along the way.
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Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise is Capcom’s latest release for their highly popular Monster Hunter franchise. Capcom had decided to shake things up for this latest game and has changed quite a significant amount to make the game’s pace faster and more exciting.
The game follows the usual RPG elements as well as a linear plot that revolves around the main character, a hunter, that takes on increasingly risky and dangerous quests. The iconic core formula that every Monster Hunter game has is back as well, the hunt-scavenge-craft gameplay.
The newest additions to the game include Monster Riding, a new skill that can benefit your hunt, Wirebugs, a new tool that provides a boost to mobility and offensive power, and Defense Missions, to help spice up the monotony of hunting quests.
Currently, Monster Hunter Rise has a DLC expansion called Sunbreak that is also available once you finish the 7-Star Hub quest “Serpent Goddess of Thunder” within the game.
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Code Vein
This next title was published and developed by none other than Bandai Namco Entertainment. Code Vein is an action RPG that is also open-world. It is set in a post-apocalyptic setting and stars a vampiric team with impressive abilities.
In the game, you are able to improve your weapons and your innate abilities, called Blood Veils. Another interesting mechanic included was the Blood Code, a separate set of powers that has its own additional stats.
It can also determine the main character’s ability to wield certain weapons and Blood Veils based on type.
Gameplay-wise, it is very much a hack-and-slash game to its core that also features heavy dungeon-crawling elements. Think of it as a Vampire-version of Dark Souls.
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Trials of Mana
Lastly is Trials of Mana, this game is a remake of the original game of the same name released back in 1995. This updated version features a beautiful set of new graphics in now 3D as well as more bonus content. Aside from that, this remake follows the plot and story faithfully.
Formerly a 2D Hack-and-Slash for Super Famicom, this updated remake brings new life and excitement to the game. Some aspects were tweaked to fit the brand new 3d space such as the inclusion of camera controls and new gameplay mechanics.
Similar to the original, it follows RPG elements, as with experience points to level up skills and powers, item collection, as well as character class skills. Some new features are the new “Ability” system, which introduces passive and battle abilities that are tied to the in-game training system.
Overall, Trials of Mana is a solid JRPG hack-and-slash that not only has stood the test of time, but is also good enough to have been released for a second time!
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Honorable Mention:
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Nioh
This action RPG features third-person hack-and-slash gameplay involving an Irish Samurai! It definitely is a must-try!
So here are Spiel Times’ 10 Best Hack and Slash JRPGs to Try Out in 2022! What do you think of our list? Comment down below your reactions!
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If you have any questions regarding our 10 Best Hack and Slash JRPGs or any upcoming JRPGs, feel free to drop them in the comments below. For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.
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