We already published the list of best DS games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best DS JRPGs of all time.
With amazing titles available, the DS definitely has a great library of JRPGs.
So, if you’re a fan of both the DS and JRPGs, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#25. Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2
- Release Data: TOSE/Tomy Corporation, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2 is an admirable attempt to offer a Naruto- branded video game that isn’t a fighter, or an action-adventure, or a fighter/action/adventure cross-over.
And it makes improvements over the first game by offering a greater variety of playable characters and a new story that isn’t a repeat of a plotline already seen in the anime.
#24. Black Sigil: Blade of the Exiled
- Release Data: Studio Archcraft/Graffiti Entertainment, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Black Sigil: Blade of the Exiled is an easy recommendation for old-school RPG fans who have put some time into any of the classic franchises like Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, or Chrono Trigger.
If you enjoy grinding away at random battles in the shoes of a protagonist trying to save the world, you’ll certainly have fun here.
#23. Sands of Destruction
- Release Data: Imageepoch/Sega, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
In the overall scheme of things, Sands of Destruction doesn’t tend to deviate too far from many of the traditional gameplay aspects of the Japanese RPG genre, yet somehow it still manages to introduce enough new twists into the mix to at least make the game stand out from the crowd.
#22. The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road
- Release Data: Media Vision/D3Publisher, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Ultimately, The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road is a unique take on the franchise and an enjoyable RPG experience.
If you are looking for a unique RPG and don’t mind that the game deviates from the original Wizard of Oz story, then this title is highly recommended.
#21. Magical Starsign
- Release Data: Brownie Brown/Nintendo, 2006
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
While the game is definitely a blast for hardcore RPG fans, anyone not into random battles and turn-based gameplay will want to stay away from Magical Starsign, as it is still a very traditional design.
The overall presentation is amazing though, and anyone looking for a true classic RPG should look no further.
#20. Glory of Heracles
- Release Data: Paon Corporation/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The unique Greek theme portrayed in Glory of Heracles does introduce some interesting storyline twists throughout the adventure and the many gameplay variations used in the combat system certainly give the game a deep level of playability.
At the very least, Glory of Heracles is yet another enjoyable title to add to the DS line of RPGs.
#19. Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans
- Release Data: Monolith Soft/Bandai Namco Games, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Making the transition from the traditional fighting game to a role-playing game on the DS, Attack of the Saiyans is a worthwhile attempt that actually works.
If anything, this game serves as an introduction to the Dragon Ball Z universe, so those who always wanted to jump on the Dragon Ball bandwagon will find a lot to like.
#18. Contact
- Release Data: Grasshopper Manufacture/Rising Star Games, 2006
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Contact is an amazingly interesting title, and while it isn’t necessarily for everyone, gamers who get into the design are going to find themselves rewarded with a ton of awesome content.
But if you’re looking for something unique, immersive, and unconventional, Contact is calling you.
#17. Super Robot Taisen OG Saga: Endless Frontier
- Release Data: Monolith Soft/Bandai Namco Games, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The mix of rhythmic attacks and a deep array of options lets the game break free of its routine RPG makeup and stand out.
And in spite of the nonsense history lesson disguised as a story, the writing is undeniably fantastic.
#16. Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood
- Release Data: BioWare/Sega, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
In short, if you are patient enough to overlook a few flaws and are interested in investing some time into a decent RPG with an attractive cast of characters then look no further than Sonic Chronicles on the Nintendo DS.
#15. Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light
- Release Data: Matrix Software/Square Enix, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light is certainly an interesting experience when it comes to many of its unique gameplay mechanics, but the game’s overflowing sense of charm and hardcore level of challenge make it an irresistible experience for seasoned RPG fans.
#14. Nostalgia
- Release Data: Matrix Software/Tecmo, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
While Nostalgia never strays too far from the more traditional gameplay elements that have made JRPGs so popular, it does toss in enough unique design elements to make it stand out from the many other RPG titles.
It is easily one of the more refreshing RPG releases and a game that no RPG fan will want to miss out on.
#13. Suikoden Tierkreis
- Release Data: Konami, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
As you come to grips with whatever small grievances you start out with, there’s a good chance you’ll have a great experience by the time you complete its 40-hour-plus adventure.
With a brisk pace that almost guarantees you will never get bogged down and wonderful aesthetics, Suikoden Tierkreis is a great introduction to the franchise for DS owners.
#12. Final Fantasy III
- Release Data: Matrix Software/Square Enix, 2006
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy fans should particularly enjoy tracing some of the roots of their favorite games from the series back to this installment, while taking in all of its sights and sounds.
But just about anyone looking for a traditional role-playing game to take with them on the go should find a lot to like in Final Fantasy III.
#11. Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon
- Release Data: Neverland/Natsume, 2007
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
For fans of Harvest Moon and RPGs, it’ll be some sort of dream game, and those who find regular RPGs dull will be comatose during most of Rune Factory.
If you have enjoyed previous Harvest Moons for their longevity and aren’t particularly bothered about the reduced cuteness, then you will love Rune Factory.
#10. Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen
- Release Data: ArtePiazza/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is still a lengthy game, and will provide hours of joy—but there is little to inspire replays.
But still, Chapters of the Chosen is a charming, absorbing, and addictive fun role-playing game that offers the best chance most people have ever had to experience Dragon Quest IV.
#9. Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation
- Release Data: ArtePiazza/Square Enix, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
If you’re one of those RPG fans who can still appreciate a good old-fashioned turn-based role-playing adventure that doesn’t deviate too far from the classic formula, Realms of Revelation should prove to be right up your alley and yet another fantastic addition to the impressive DS RPG library.
#8. Golden Sun: Dark Dawn
- Release Data: Camelot Software Planning/Nintendo, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Golden Sun: Dark Dawn is the third title in the franchise, so there are many returning elements to the game.
With the new gameplay element, in addition to the returning mechanics and a brand new story, make this game a must for RPG enthusiasts.
#7. Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride
- Release Data: ArtePiazza/Square Enix, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
While the gameplay is what you’d expect from a Dragon Quest game, it does add a unique take on the traditional hero’s journey.
The game gives you a chance to pick one of three lucky ladies as your bride and have a family of your own.
In short, if you like Dragon Quest, you have to check it out.
#6. Final Fantasy IV
- Release Data: Matrix Software/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy IV is a classic, and the remake takes that classic and not only improves the graphics but also adds elements that couldn’t be included in the original SNES version.
This is probably the most complete version of Final Fantasy IV available.
#5. Radiant Historia
- Release Data: Atlus, 2011
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The story is compelling, and the timeline changing is a big part of why the game is so fascinating.
The battle system is also an interesting take on grid-based movement, giving you the chance to push enemies into prepared traps among other things.
It’s a wonderfully odd game, and well worth checking out.
#4. Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time
- Release Data: Alphadream Corporation/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time carry on the wonderful tradition of Mario RPGs.
It’s a blend of traditional RPG elements and puzzle-solving in an isometric overworld.
In conclusion, if you enjoyed any of the Mario RPGs, this one will be just as enjoyable.
#3. Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies
- Release Data: Level 5/Square Enix, 2010
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies allows an unprecedented amount of character customization than previous entries.
Furthermore, the Dragon Quest franchise always brings a satisfying story and traditional RPG combat so it has something for any RPG fan to enjoy.
#2. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story
- Release Data: Alphadream Corporation/Nintendo, 2009
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The DS screen is used well, having one screen showing Mario and Luigi’s perspective from inside Bowser, while the other shows the effect of their actions on Bowser himself.
With the unique take on the usual tropes of Mario games, funny dialogue, and interesting gameplay, this is a Mario game that you shouldn’t miss.
#1. Chrono Trigger
- Release Data: TOSE/Square Enix, 2008
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
The DS remake of Chrono Trigger makes its own mark in a few different ways.
One is the touchscreen elements, but what really makes this version stands out is the extra content.
All in all, Chrono Trigger is easily one of the best RPGs of all time, and being able to experience it anywhere is the cherry on top.
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See also: Best GameCube Games & Best Wii Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which DS JRPG is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!