Games

Best Tales Of JRPGs For Beginners

Published

9 seconds ago

January 18, 2025

Christoph Rediske

Summary

Table of Contents

Tales Of Phantasia introduced real-time combat in JRPGs, setting new standards in the genre in 1995.
Tales Of Eternia offers a blend of captivating story and accessible combat mechanics for retro JRPG fans.
Tales Of Arise, as one of the latest entries, provides polished graphics and refined gameplay, ideal for newcomers.

The Tales Of franchise is one of the most iconic in JRPGs, pioneering by adopting real-time combat mechanics instead of the traditional turn-based systems of the time. With thrilling stories, lively battles, and visuals reminiscent of beautiful anime, through these elements, the series has always managed to deliver consistent experiences for players.

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Among so many games, some are suggested for long-time fans, but still, the best Tales Of for newcomers are those that provide user-friendly mechanics and engaging stories for those getting accustomed to the systems. Thus, these games feature immersive combat and easily relatable narratives, offering an ideal gateway for those seeking to further engage with the franchise.

10

Tales Of Phantasia

Pioneering JRPG With Action-Based Combat System

Released: December 15, 1995
Publisher(s): Namco Bandai
, Nintendo

Released in 1995 for Super Nintendo, Tales of Phantasia set new standards in the JRPG genre by introducing the Linear Motion Battle System, allowing real-time battles on a two-dimensional plane. This unique mechanic provided an engaging and lively experience, standing out from the traditional turn-based battle systems of the time.

The story follows Cress Albane and his allies on an epic quest across time to stop the sorcerer Dhaos, addressing deep themes such as friendship and sacrifice. Detailed graphics and an orchestral soundtrack that perfectly captures the emotion of the story enhance the immersion, making Tales of Phantasia a must-see reference for fans of classic JRPGs and also a starting point for those wanting to understand the series’ foundations.

9

Tales Of Eternia

Essential Experience For Retro JRPG Fans

Platform: PS1 and PSP
Released: 2001
Developer: Wolfteam and Namco Tales Studio

Tales of Eternia captures the essence of classic JRPGs from the 90s and early 2000s, establishing itself as a milestone for the Tales Of franchise. This title blends a captivating story with accessible real-time combat mechanics, defining features of the series. The experience is enhanced by a perfect balance between active combat and extensive environments, creating a nostalgic and impactful adventure.

The battle system in Tales of Eternia is intuitive, providing an ideal learning curve for newcomers, while offering strategic depth for the more experienced players. The story touches on themes like friendship and overcoming challenges, maintaining a captivating pace throughout the adventure across the regions of Inferia and Celestia. The vivid aesthetics and period-specific design elevate the game to classic must-have status.

8

Tales Of Zestiria

Open-World Approach In The Franchise’s Formula

Systems

Franchise: Advertisement

Tales
Released: October 19, 2015
OpenCritic Rating: Fair
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Although not entirely open-world like some other JRPGs, Tales of Zestiria features a semi-open structure, full of opportunities for players to traverse the map and uncover secrets. While not as expansive as other titles, the game strikes a great balance between linear progression and freedom, allowing newcomers to get accustomed to this element.

The story of Tales of Zestiria also features a simpler plot, following the classic structure of a hero-centered story, without many plot twists. This ease of following the storyline, combined with accessible and straightforward gameplay, contributes to the game’s beginner-friendly design, making it an excellent choice for players.

7

Tales Of Xillia

Beginner-Friendly Game For Those Not Yet Acquainted With Tales Of

Systems

Released: August 6, 2013
Developer(s): Namco Tales Studio
Publisher(s): Advertisement

Namco Bandai

One of the coolest aspects of Tales of Xillia is that the game allows experiencing the story from two different perspectives, either as Jude or Milla, and this choice leads to some changes depending on which character is selected as the protagonist. Jude, in particular, is better for newcomers as he introduces the setting’s foundations, while Milla provides additional details.

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Furthermore, the story of Tales of Xillia maintains a good pace, effectively incorporating action sequences, character development, and world-building, keeping the game consistently engaging for those following it. The combat is also swift and smooth, providing a progression that aligns with the player’s growth over time.

6

Tales Of Graces F Remastered

An Ideal Adventure For JRPG Newcomers

Action RPG

Adventure

JRPG

Released: January 17, 2025
Developer(s): Tose
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Initially released for Wii and enhanced for other platforms through the Remastered version, Tales of Graces f stands as one of the best gateways for those looking to get acquainted with the Tales Of franchise or venture into the JRPG universe. The game blends an intriguing narrative, focused on friendship and overcoming challenges, creating an immersive and inviting experience for beginners.

The real-time combat system, based on Chain Capacity, is intuitive and offers a perfect balance between simplicity and depth. This makes learning easier for newcomers while keeping the challenges engaging for those wanting to expand their strategic approach. Combined with a remastered visual and gameplay enhancements, Tales of Graces f delivers a memorable and accessible experience for new players.

5

Tales Of The Abyss

Accessible Classic For Tales Of Beginners

Systems

Franchise: Tales
Released: October 10, 2006
Developer(s): Namco Tales Studio
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Publisher(s): Namco Bandai

The Tales Of franchise is renowned for its lively combat and engaging stories, and Tales of the Abyss is one of the best starting points for those just beginning. Through a compelling narrative and memorable characters, the game provides an experience that balances depth and accessibility, ideal for capturing the attention of new players throughout the adventure.

One of the key reasons Tales of the Abyss is so beginner-friendly is its straightforward gameplay paired with the character development of Luke fon Fabre. The real-time combat system is easy to learn, yet it features layers of strategy for more dedicated players. In addition, the gripping themes of identity and redemption ensure you’ll remain hooked from beginning to end, leaving a lasting impression on any RPG enthusiast.

4

Tales Of Berseria

A Darker Experience For Action JRPG Fans

Systems

Released: January 24, 2017
OpenCritic Rating: Strong

With its dark and emotional themes, Tales of Berseria stands out as one of the most mature entries in the series, delving into Velvet Crowe’s gripping quest for vengeance. The game tackles deep themes and moments of anguish, setting itself apart from the lighter tone of other titles in the series, but without losing balance by incorporating moments of relief.

Even with its more serious approach, Tales of Berseria maintains the accessible mechanics that are the franchise’s hallmark, combining fluid and lively combat with a story that captivates from start to finish. This title is recommended both for curious newcomers and for veterans seeking a JRPG that delivers an intense and engaging narrative without sacrificing the series’ traditional elements.

3

Tales Of Vesperia

Yuri Lowell Is One Of The Best Protagonists In Tales Of

Tales of Vesperia

Released: August 7, 2008
Developer(s): Namco Bandai

One of the main highlights that make Tales of Vesperia an excellent choice for players wanting to start in the franchise is the protagonist Yuri Lowell. In addition to the main character, the other companions who join the party also make this game one of the best Action JRPGs for those who enjoy swift combat with an equally strong narrative.

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Another major draw of the game is its real-time combat system, accessible yet with enough depth for those wanting to expand their strategies. The engaging story, full of twists and good characters, makes the experience memorable even for beginners. These elements, combined with charming graphics and an epic soundtrack, solidify Tales of Vesperia as a must-have classic.

2

Tales Of Symphonia

Considered One Of The Best Games In The Series

Systems

Released: August 29, 2003
Developer(s): Namco
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Publisher(s): Namco

Tales of Symphonia is the franchise’s best game for players wanting to see all the potential the series has to offer, blending excellent action combat for a JRPG with incredible character development. Thus, it’s possible to embark on a grand quest to not only save one’s own world but also a parallel reality.

Therefore, for those looking for a good Tales Of game to start with, this title has all the necessary elements to delight players. The combat is smooth, with mechanics that keep it engaging throughout all the encounters presented by the narrative, and players can also customize characters in various ways to make the party unique.

1

Tales Of Arise

Good Starting Point For Tales Of Newcomers

Systems

Released: September 10, 2021
OpenCritic Rating: Mighty

Being one of the most recent games in the series, Tales of Arise is also the best entry point for fans wanting to begin their experience within the franchise’s universe. Here, players take on the role of Alphen who joins Shionne to confront the oppressors dividing the peoples. This game also features scenes created by Ufotable, adding even more quality to the animations.

Furthermore, as a newer game, it boasts more polished graphics than other titles in the franchise, making it a true visual delight. Additionally, the refined gameplay, especially the combat which works very well for those who enjoy solid Action JRPGs, makes this title excellent for anyone looking to try a Tales Of game.