Hey everyone! I’ve been diving into RPGs lately and wanted to share my thoughts and seek recommendations from fellow gamers. I’ve found myself resonating with Scott the Woz’s viewpoint on random encounters and grinding, but I do make an exception when the combat system is truly exceptional, like in the case of Undertale.Personally, I’m not particularly fond of random encounters and the need to grind excessively. I find it difficult to immerse myself in games that heavily rely on these mechanics. However, I’m open to exploring RPGs that strike a balance between engaging combat and a captivating narrative. While the combat system doesn’t necessarily have to be mind-blowing, it does need to offer some strategic depth.I’ve tried Pokémon games in the past, but they didn’t quite grab my attention. I’d prefer for the game to be available on steam or the switch. In terms of graphics I prefer pixel-art.That being said, I’m eager to hear your recommendations for pixelated RPGs that you think might suit my preferences. Whether it’s a lesser-known gem or a popular title, I’m open to any suggestions. Thanks in advance for your input, and I can’t wait to delve into some new RPG adventures!
Give the Nier series a try. Starting with Automata is probably the best way in. The Replicant remake is great too but it might take more time to grow on you because Replicant’s opening is slow and not as captivating compared to Automata. Both are great RPGs once you get into the thick of them. Both games have several chapters (aka playthroughs but that term is misleading) which can make them quite long but enjoyable all the way. I have sunk more than 100 hours into each of them.
Illusion of Time is one of my all time favourite pixel art rpgs, don’t know if it’s available to you on your chosen systems though, should be easily emulated if on Pc.
Do people not like Octopath Travler (1 & 2)??? I rarely see it mentioned but it’s one of my absolute favorites. Fantastic pixel art and music. I love the combat and job system too. Being able to bridge level deficits with items/gear and strategy meant it wasn’t grindy either.
The World Ends With You (or the sequel, Neo: The World Ends With You) is an action RPG that does away with random encounters. Battles are initiated by you scanning for enemies and picking fights in your own, you can even lower your level or string multiple fights together for more rewards. The original is 2D (and best played in a DS/2DS/3DS but if you don’t have one there’s also a single-screen version on Switch) and the sequel is 3D on Switch and Steam.
Not sure if this fits in what you’re looking for but I like Book ofTravels. It’s a very original morpg (they call it tmorpg I think which stands for tiny multiplayer online RPG ).
Also has some very interesting story telling coupled with a no hand holding way of handling quests.
