The year 2025 is poised to be a landmark period for Japanese Role-Playing Games , with a diverse array of titles set to captivate both long-time enthusiasts and newcomers. From nostalgic remakes to innovative new entries, the upcoming releases promise to enrich the genre's rich tapestry.

One of the most anticipated titles is *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, a turn-based JRPG that pays homage to classics like *Final Fantasy VIII* and *Final Fantasy X*. Developed by Guillaume Broche, the game features photorealistic graphics and a tactical combat system incorporating active elements such as parries and manual attacks. Critics have lauded it for its blend of traditional JRPG elements with modern technical innovations, earning a Metacritic score of 93 out of 100.

Square Enix's Team Asano, renowned for titles like *Octopath Traveler* and *Triangle Strategy*, is venturing into new territory with *The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales*. Departing from their signature turn-based combat, the game embraces action RPG mechanics reminiscent of *The Legend of Zelda* series. Retaining the studio's HD-2D visual style, it emphasizes real-time combat with classic weapons like swords and arrows. Tomoya Asano, leading the project, aims to reach a broader audience while still appealing to fans of their previous works. A playable demo is available on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, with the full release scheduled for next year on multiple platforms.

Square Enix is also expanding the *Octopath Traveler* universe with *Octopath Traveler 0*, a prequel set to launch on December 4, 2025. Drawing inspiration from the mobile title *Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent*, the game introduces a reworked storyline, new narrative elements, full voice acting, and enhanced strategic combat. It aims to offer both familiarity and novelty, appealing to newcomers and returning players alike. The game will be available on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

For fans of classic JRPGs, *Starlight Legacy* offers a retro pixel art experience reminiscent of 16-bit era games. Developed by Decafesoft and published by Eastasiasoft Limited, the game follows three protagonists drawn into a devastating conflict. Players can explore a seamless kingdom, gather artifacts to restore the Eternity Tree, and engage in 3D flight sequences. Scheduled for release on May 28, 2025, it will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.

Additionally, *Guns Undarkness*, a tactical stealth JRPG led by Shoji Meguro, the composer of the *Persona* series, is set to receive a free demo on Steam on February 24, 2025. The game is planned to start Early Access in Spring 2025. Set in a dystopian 2045, players assume the role of a member of a private military company, undertaking missions with allies to uncover the world's secrets and save humanity. The game emphasizes stealth and turn-based combat, drawing inspiration from titles like *Metal Gear Solid* and *Persona*.

These upcoming JRPGs highlight the genre's evolution, blending traditional elements with innovative gameplay and storytelling. As 2025 unfolds, gamers can look forward to a rich and diverse array of experiences that honor the legacy of JRPGs while pushing the boundaries of the medium.