We already published the list of best PS1 games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PS1 action RPGs of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PS1 definitely has a great library of action RPGs.
So, if you’re a fan of both the PS1 and action RPGs, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. Mega Man Legends
- Release Data: Capcom, 1998
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Capcom has managed to avoid the pitfalls that await most platformers making the jump from 2D to 3D by creating an action/RPG instead.
Relying less on twitch reflexes and more on exploration and storytelling, Mega Man Legends makes a graceful entry into the world of 3D, rather than the clumsy splash associated with other less-successful debuts.
#9. Threads of Fate
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 2000
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Threads of Fate‘s one glaring fault is its length: It’s too damn short.
Expert RPG fans will likely blow straight through the title without a single setback.
However, players looking to add an excellent action-RPG to their PlayStation library should check out Threads of Fate—a not too serious action-RPG that’s seriously fun.
#8. Mega Man Legends 2
- Release Data: Capcom, 2000
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
As the Legends series is further refined, it becomes obvious that the series going 3D was not merely a gimmick.
Mega Man Legends 2 fixes a lot of the flaws in the original and is a substantial improvement on the Legends formula.
Capcom has turned what began as a mere spin-off into a worthy stand-alone franchise.
#7. Parasite Eve
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1998
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Graphically, the game is hailed as cinematic RPG experience, every cutscene is well detailed and the background art of New York City has never been more appealing.
Overall, Parasite Eve is a well balanced game, not spectacular but is enough to appeal most gamer, especially RPG newbie, thanks to the simplistic gameplay.
#6. Parasite Eve II
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 2000
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Parasite Eve II upgrades the combat system, the game now delivers a real time combat mechanic allowing for fluid gameplay.
In the end, Parasite Eve II is a refreshment in the sea of turn-based RPG, with its perfectly placed between gameplay and cinematic experience, this game can be considered as a mass appealing game.
#5. Tales of Destiny II
- Release Data: Namco, 2001
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
The main plot isn’t as appealing, but what makes this game good is the character development and connection with each other.
Heart touching and life lesson are spread across your journey, embedded in the character conversation.
Tales of Destiny II is a memorable game that’ll leave you empty after you finished the game, basically your typical RPG.
#4. Star Ocean: The Second Story
- Release Data: Tri-Ace/Enix Corporation, 1999
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
For a sci-fi themed RPG, the game does a good job on the sound and voice acting.
Exploration in this game is in a whole different level than other game, each place feels distinctive and leaves a mark soon after you visit.
In short, Star Ocean: The Second Story takes you on approximately fifty hours of a marvelous journey.
#3. Brave Fencer Musashi
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1998
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
One of the main reason to play this game is the boss fight, it is challenging yet not frustrating unlike a lot of game focusing on boss battle.
Overall, Brave Fencer Musashi is a great game, simple yet intriguing story, enjoyable combat, and plenty of things to do inside the game, basically a game for everyone.
#2. Vagrant Story
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 2000
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
The battle system is unique, as timing play a significant role during your moves.
A perfectly seamless gameplay cut to the cinematic story is also a plus.
In the end, Vagrant Story takes you for a ride in the beginning and hooks you with unique battle and intriguing story.
#1. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
- Release Data: Konami, 1997
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Exploration in this game is super fun, and backtracking to the same place never been boring.
The perfect level design accompanied by gothic themed graphic is really immersive.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is a game that is so good it inspired other games to follow the mapping system and created a whole new genre for it.
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See also: Best Gaming Chairs & Best PS2 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PS1 action RPG is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!