JRPG to Look Out For in 2026 – Sequels, Reimaginings, and Bold New Worlds

2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for JRPG. From ambitious sequels and bold reimaginings to long-awaited revivals and experimental worlds, fans can expect a rich variety of adventures across every major platform.

Whether you love dark fantasy action, turn-based strategy, or nostalgic remasters, the year’s lineup has something worth watching. For clarity, this list includes games inspired by traditional Japanese RPGs, even if developed outside Japan or featuring non-turn-based combat

Here are all the JRPG you should look out for in 2026.

Code Vein II

Code Vein II builds on the foundation of the original Code Vein, which served as Bandai Namco’s anime-styled Souls-like spin-off inspired by the God Eater universe. The first game introduced the post-apocalyptic world of the Revenants, and its success created a dedicated fanbase that embraced its companion system and blood-code customization. The sequel continues this lineage by expanding the lore and refining the hybrid action-RPG identity that set the series apart.

Code Vein II returns with deeper blood-code customization, expanded companion systems, and larger, interconnected regions. In addition, Bandai Namco has refined the Souls-like combat loop, making battles more strategic while retaining the anime-inspired style fans loved.

Moreover, the sequel introduces new story arcs that explore the consequences of player choices. With enhanced visuals and more challenging enemies, it promises an intense experience for both newcomers and returning players.

The expanded companion system allows players to coordinate attacks and skills in real time, creating dynamic strategies during combat. Its unique blood-code customization lets each player tailor abilities, ensuring no two builds feel the same, which encourages experimentation and replayability.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined revisits the 2000 PlayStation classic, one of the most content-rich entries in the franchise and known for its extensive job system and time-travel narrative. The original game received a 3DS remake in 2016, but this 2026 version serves as a full modern reimagining. It honors the legacy of one of the most ambitious Dragon Quest titles while updating it for a new era of players.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined brings cinematic storytelling and modernized gameplay to the classic time-travel adventure. Additionally, updated job balancing and improved quality-of-life features make the game more accessible to new players.

Fans can also expect expanded cutscenes and enhanced exploration, which enrich the narrative experience. Overall, this remake aims to honor the original while introducing fresh mechanics and visuals for 2026 audiences.

Players can enjoy a modernized job system that offers greater flexibility in combat roles, making party building more strategic. Enhanced exploration mechanics and interactive environments add a sense of discovery, making even familiar locations feel fresh and rewarding.

Lost Hellden

Lost Hellden is the latest project from Artisan Studios, known for Astria Ascending, and continues the studio’s focus on painterly visuals and narrative-driven JRPG. While not part of an existing franchise, it reflects the team’s evolution toward richer combat systems and multi-protagonist storytelling. The game represents a step forward for the studio’s signature style, blending hand-crafted artistry with more mature themes.

Lost Hellden emphasizes hand-painted environments, multi-protagonist storytelling, and dynamic action-combat systems. Furthermore, the game mixes mature narrative themes with approachable mechanics, appealing to both casual and hardcore players.

In addition, Lost Hellden offers unique character progression options that encourage experimentation. As a result, every player’s journey feels distinct, enhancing replay value and engagement across multiple playthroughs.

The multi-protagonist system gives each character distinct combat styles and abilities, letting players approach battles creatively. Its hand-painted environments and responsive action combat combine visual charm with fluid gameplay, making encounters feel both cinematic and personal.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon continues the long-running Trails series, part of Falcom’s expansive The Legend of Heroes saga that began in the late ’80s. The Trails subseries is famed for its interconnected storytelling and consistent world-building across multiple arcs. This new installment carries forward the narrative threads built over nearly two decades, making it a major milestone for long-time fans of the Kiseki universe.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon expands Falcom’s epic saga with new regions, returning characters, and hybrid action/turn-based combat. Meanwhile, multiple protagonists allow for varied perspectives on the story, enriching the overarching narrative.

Moreover, the game delves into political intrigue, making choices more meaningful than ever. Players will find themselves navigating complex relationships while enjoying the series’ signature world-building.

Hybrid action/turn-based combat keeps battles tactical yet fast-paced, while multiple character perspectives enrich decision-making. Political and relationship mechanics affect outcomes, adding layers of strategy beyond standard combat and making every choice impactful.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection

Monster Hunter Stories 3 Twisted Reflection follows the turn-based spin-off series that began in 2016 as a more narrative-driven and monster-bonding-focused alternative to the mainline Monster Hunter hunts. The series carved out its identity with collectible monsties, emotional storytelling, and strategic combat. This third installment expands the Stories legacy while exploring darker themes and deeper world mechanics than its predecessors.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection introduces corrupted monsters, dual-world exploration, and revamped turn-based combat. Additionally, it adds emotionally engaging storylines that elevate the traditional Monster Hunter experience.

Furthermore, new monster bonding mechanics give players more strategic depth. Combined with improved visuals and cinematic presentation, the game promises a fresh yet familiar experience for fans.

Monster bonding and dual-world exploration introduce new tactical options, allowing players to plan attacks and exploit enemy weaknesses. Cinematic cutscenes integrated into gameplay heighten immersion, creating an emotional connection to both story and monsters.

Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave

Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave continues the long-running tactical RPG franchise that began in 1990 and popularized grid-based, permadeath strategy gameplay. Following the success of Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Engage, this new entry builds on the series’ modern shift toward branching narratives and deeper political world-building. As part of one of Nintendo’s most influential RPG franchises, it aims to evolve its legacy through experimental mechanics.

Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave expands tactical gameplay with grid-based combat, dynamic weather effects, and branching house storylines. Moreover, these elements directly impact strategy, forcing players to adapt constantly.

Additionally, the narrative focuses on political intrigue and magical conflict, making every choice critical. Together, the gameplay and story reinforce Fire Emblem’s signature depth and replayability.

The grid-based combat and dynamic weather effects force players to constantly adjust strategies, while branching storylines ensure that choices impact both battlefield tactics and narrative outcomes. These systems combine to deliver deep, replayable tactical gameplay.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is part of Square Enix’s multi-game reimagining of the legendary 1997 RPG, expanding its world and characters with modern action combat and cinematic storytelling. Intergrade originally launched with PlayStation 5 enhancements and a Yuffie-focused side episode, serving as the definitive version of the remake’s first chapter. Its arrival on new platforms in 2026 marks the next chapter in FFVII’s ongoing revival for a new generation.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an updated edition brings visual enhancements, combat refinements, and expanded side missions. In addition, it enriches the experience for both PlayStation 5 and PC players, offering a definitive version of the iconic game. Moreover, the remake’s new content explores previously untold story angles. You will finally be able to play it on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S in 2026.

Therefore, it provides both nostalgia and fresh experiences for long-time fans and newcomers alike. Expanded side missions offer opportunities to explore hidden lore and upgrade characters, while refined combat mechanics balance action and strategy. Players can experiment with new abilities and team combinations, making each encounter feel fresh and engaging.

Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy

Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy continues the legacy of the Dissidia series on mobile, which began as a PSP arena brawler celebrating Final Fantasy’s heroes and villains. The franchise evolved into large-scale 3v3 battles in Dissidia NT, blending flashy action with strategic team roles. Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy carries forward this crossover tradition, offering a new chapter in Final Fantasy’s long history of ensemble spin-offs.

Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy reintroduces the series’ fast-paced, 3v3 combat with cinematic limit breaks. Meanwhile, the story mode unites heroes and villains from across the Final Fantasy universe, giving fans a chance to relive iconic moments. Additionally, Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy balances accessibility for newcomers with strategic depth for veterans. Consequently, the game appeals to competitive and casual players alike.

The fast-paced 3v3 combat rewards quick thinking and skillful timing, while cinematic limit breaks provide satisfying visual and strategic payoff. Its cross-era character roster allows fans to experience iconic interactions in innovative battle scenarios.

SacriFire

SacriFire is a new IP from Pixelated Milk, the studio behind Regalia: Of Men and Monarchs, and draws heavy inspiration from classic ’90s JRPG while introducing modern hybrid combat. Initially funded through Kickstarter, the game gained attention for its pixel-art style and ambitious dual-world narrative. SacriFire seeks to revive the spirit of retro JRPG storytelling while forging a fresh identity of its own.

SacriFire blends pixel-art aesthetics with real-time combat and moral-driven quests. Furthermore, its dual-world mechanic allows players to experience different outcomes based on their decisions. Additionally, the game introduces inventive combat strategies that reward experimentation. As a result, each playthrough feels unique and engaging.

Dual-world mechanics allow players to manipulate both realities to solve puzzles and approach combat creatively. Moral-driven choices influence outcomes, offering meaningful consequences that encourage multiple playthroughs.

DECAPOLICE

DECAPOLICE is Level-5’s latest attempt to blend mystery-solving with JRPG elements, following the studio’s history with narrative-driven titles like Professor Layton and Inazuma Eleven. Originally announced alongside Level-5’s revival initiative, the game was envisioned as a futuristic crime RPG with virtual simulations. Its 2026 release continues the developer’s tradition of experimental genre hybrids.

DECAPOLICE merges detective investigations with turn-based combat inside virtual crime simulations. Moreover, the futuristic setting and intriguing storylines make it stand out in 2026’s JRPG lineup. In addition, Level-5 incorporates challenging puzzles that affect the narrative. Consequently, players must think strategically to progress while enjoying the immersive world.

Strategic integration of detective work with turn-based combat sets the game apart, while environmental puzzles affect both story and battle outcomes. Players are rewarded for observation and planning, making each case feel like a tactical challenge.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales represents Square Enix’s push into lighter, storybook-style JRPG experiences. While not tied to an existing franchise, it follows the studio’s tradition of whimsical, youth-focused adventures like Secret of Mana and The World Ends With You. The game expands Square Enix’s catalog with a more approachable narrative RPG aimed at broad audiences.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is a whimsical adventure that sends Elliot across timelines with handcrafted environments and light RPG systems. Additionally, puzzles and narrative choices add depth to the charming story. Furthermore, its accessible gameplay appeals to casual fans while still rewarding exploration and decision-making. Overall, it’s a narrative-driven JRPG with broad appeal.

Handcrafted environments and light RPG systems combine with puzzle-solving to create a playful yet thoughtful experience. Narrative choices impact character interactions, making exploration and decision-making feel purposeful.

Nioh 3

Nioh 3 is a JRPG that extends Team Ninja’s critically acclaimed action-RPG series, which began in 2017 and drew inspiration from Souls-like combat blended with Japanese yokai mythology. The franchise became known for its stance-based swordplay, punishing difficulty, and deep build crafting. This third entry builds on the lore and mechanical complexity established across the first two games and the Nioh 2 DLC expansions.

Nioh 3 continues Team Ninja’s signature action formula with enhanced stance systems, new yokai transformations, and build customization. Moreover, it rewards skillful play with satisfying combat loops. Additionally, bosses are more challenging, and environmental hazards require careful planning. As a result, the game promises a high-intensity experience for action JRPG fans.

Enhanced stance systems and yokai transformations offer versatile combat options, while build customization allows for personalized playstyles. Environmental hazards and adaptive enemies challenge players to think tactically in every encounter.

Tales of Berseria Remastered

Tales of Berseria Remastered revisits the 2016 classic that became one of the most beloved entries in the Tales series, praised for its darker narrative and Velvet Crowe’s iconic character arc. Tales of Berseria Remastered served as a prequel to Tales of Zestiria and stood out for its emotional storytelling and fluid battle system. The remaster brings the fan-favorite adventure to modern hardware with updated presentation.

The remaster for Tales of Berseria enhances visuals, reworks combat flow, and introduces accessibility features. Meanwhile, Velvet Crowe’s story remains the dark, character-driven narrative fans loved. Moreover, remastered content includes extra side missions and gameplay tweaks. Therefore, both newcomers and returning players can enjoy a smoother, polished experience.

Polished combat flow and new side missions provide smoother gameplay, while refined accessibility options welcome newcomers without diluting depth. Remastered visuals and tweaks highlight both story and action for a modernized experience.

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement continues Koji Igarashi’s spiritual successor to Castlevania, following Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and its expanding universe. The series revived the classic Igavania structure with exploration-heavy gameplay and gothic themes. Scarlet Engagement builds on this modern reinterpretation, offering a new chapter rooted in the legacy of Metroidvania classics.

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement evolves Bloodstained’s ritual-based combat with expanded skill trees and exploration. Additionally, its gothic-horror atmosphere heightens tension and stakes. Moreover, players can experiment with equipment and spells, making combat highly strategic. Consequently, the game balances action, exploration, and narrative depth.

Expanded skill trees and customizable equipment empower players to define combat style, while gothic-horror aesthetics heighten tension. Strategic spellcasting and exploration mechanics reward careful planning and experimentation.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword

Onimusha: Way of the Sword marks the return of Capcom’s iconic samurai action series, which began on the PlayStation 2 and blended historical Japan with demonic forces. The franchise became known for cinematic storytelling, fixed-camera tension, and fast-paced swordplay. After years of dormancy, this new entry reintroduces Onimusha to modern players while respecting its PlayStation 2-era legacy.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword is a JRPG that returns with cinematic action, supernatural elements, and revamped samurai combat. Furthermore, the game preserves the franchise’s historical themes while modernizing gameplay. Additionally, intricate level design encourages strategic play and exploration. As a result, fans of the original can enjoy nostalgia with fresh challenges.

Cinematic samurai combat emphasizes timing and positioning, while supernatural elements introduce unique enemy encounters. Detailed level design encourages exploration and tactical thinking, giving players new challenges beyond standard action sequences.

Arknights: Endfield

Arknights: Endfield expands the universe of the hit mobile strategy game Arknights, which became known for its tower-defense mechanics, deep lore, and striking character designs. Arknights: Endfield serves as the franchise’s leap into full-scale real-time action-RPG territory, building on Terra’s rich narrative foundation. It represents the series’ evolution from mobile strategy to broader, multi-platform world-building.

Arknights: Endfield is a JRPG adapts the Arknights universe to console and PC with real-time combat, exploration, and story-rich environments. Moreover, the game expands on Terra’s lore with narrative-driven missions. Additionally, players can experiment with tactical systems in combat and base-building. Consequently, Endfield offers both strategic depth and engaging storytelling for 2026.

Real-time combat combined with base-building systems adds strategic depth, while story-driven missions explore new lore. Players can experiment with unit placement and tactical combinations, creating a highly engaging and replayable experience.

With a wide mix of sequels, remasters, reimaginings, and new worlds, 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting JRPG years yet. Whether you’re craving experimental systems, emotional storytelling, or nostalgic comebacks, there’s something on the horizon for every fan.

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Beatrix

Undying Blue

An elite Society agent and contractor of the seal weapon Embrasque, Beatrix's ferocity when facing primal beasts is rivaled only by her insatiable hunger for glory.

Eustace

Earthrending Thunder

An elite Society marksman and contractor of the seal weapon Flamek Thunder, Eustace is efficient, laconic, and longs to live in a world of peace and quiet.

Fraux

Striking Strength

Pactbearer to The Devil, a primal seeking to create a new world order, Fraux is otherwise an ordinary skydweller whose heart, character, and temperament are filled with love and compassion.

Fediel

Darkness Personified

One of the Six Dragons, entities who exist beyond the confines of the natural world. Having dominion over darkness, she influences the very laws of nature.