Summary
PC gaming is a booming scene that has shown no signs of quietening down anytime soon, and it’s easy to see why this is the case. From the powerful nature of these machines to the inherent preference that most people have towards gaming on a platform they’re more comfortable with, most console-only franchises that had remained on exclusive platforms for the longest time are quickly realizing just how valuable the PC is as a platform.
TheJRPGgenre has also seen a ton of representation on this platform, with the ever-popular Steam hosting a bunch of games from this genre that have been quite notably excellent in their own right, especially when it comes to flaunting some truly amazing turn-based and real-time battling systems. Suffice it to say, thebest JRPGs on Steamare the ones with amazing combat across the board.
Updated Jun 06, 2025, by Mehrdad Khayyat:Every year, many JRPG titles hit Steam from big little studios located in Japan, but it is safe to say that we always have at least a few of them stand out and become an icon of the year, be it from a well-known series like Final Fantasy, or a brand-new IP like Metaphor: ReFantazio.
Steam is home to a lot of JRPGs, and for newcomers to this genre, the long list of games on the market could be overwhelming and confusing. The truth is that JRPGs worth playing are numerous, but everyone has a deciding factor. So, what if the deciding factor is the combat system?
Featuring a wealth of interesting characters with diverse movesets and great combat that’s a blast to get into, it’s easy to see whyGranblue Fantasy: Relinkis so hard to put down. The sheer amount of variety in the combat alone makes it clear why PC players looking for a JRPG with strong gameplay mechanics should give this title a shot.
The boss fights are especially noteworthy and have clearly taken a page out ofMonster Hunter’s combat mechanics. Players must fight through these epic encounters using all the tools in their arsenal to destroy enemies who are kicking up too much of a fuss, showing them who’s boss with a repertoire of visually dazzling moves that look like they hurt…and they certainly do!
Tokyo Xanadu eX+takes place in a fictional version of Tokyo, where high school student Kou Tokisaka discovers a mysterious dimension called the Eclipse.The combat system inTokyo Xanadu eX+is real-time and action-oriented, with players controlling one character and issuing commands to their party members.
Players can attack, use skills, and dodge in battles, with the ability to combo attacks for more damage. Along with this, players can activate their X-Drive at regular intervals to become even stronger!
Bravely Defaultisa greatJRPG seriesthat harkens back to the old-school nature of the genre without sacrificing any modern innovations. The result is a JRPG that is wonderfully unique and engaging despite its misleading title.
Bravely Default 2’s release on Steam was a source of great joy for many fans. This game improved on its predecessor in every way and boasts a wonderful combat system that is easy to get into and slowly lets players master its many complexities.
Resonance of Fateis one of themost underrated JRPGson this list, and it’s a shame that more people don’t know about this great game. While the aesthetics of the game might seem a bit wearisome, the game’s amazing combat system and the off-beat story will keep players hooked.
Resonance of Fate’s combat system is pretty hard, and players need to be quite smart with their strategies. The tougher battles in this game can be absolutely brutal if the player hasn’t mastered the combat system and understood its nuances.
Scarlet Nexus' unique dual campaign and dark setting would draw many people into playing this title. However, it’s the action-packed combat system that will keep them hooked to the very end.
Using ally abilities and unleashing damaging combos is important to win some of the tougher battles in this game. Once players get into the meat of this game, they’ll have a hard time droppingScarlet Nexus.
The Legend of Heroesseries can seem rather cliched at first glance, and it is to an extent. However, underneath a seemingly unimpressive exterior are some deep and engaging games with amazing characters and a tactical combat system.
Trails in the Skyis a fan-favorite courtesy of a riveting story and engaging combat. The battle system isn’t too complex and lets players enjoy a brilliant experience that never lets up from start to end.
I am Setsunachannels the brilliance ofChrono Triggerin its design, so it’s easy to see why the combat would be great. Just likeChrono Trigger, battles happen on the overworld and the player has access to several combination attacks based on the number of people in the party.
It helps that the story ofI am Setsunais also pretty great, even though it might tread a lot of the same ground asFinal Fantasy 10. Regardless, the snowy landscapes and fun characters make this game an absolute treat indeed.
Tales of Symphoniaisa classic JRPGthat follows the journey of Lloyd Irving and his friends as they attempt to save the world of Sylvarant. The combat system inTales of Symphoniais real-time and action-oriented, with players controlling one of four party members and issuing commands to their AI-controlled companions.
Players need to use EX Gems to set their skills and be more effective against tough enemies. The game also features a unique Unison Gauge mechanic, which allows players to perform a powerful attack with their entire party when the bar is full.
The shift to a hybrid real-time action game was something that many fans were skeptical about when it came toPersona 5. However, for what it’s worth,Persona 5 Strikersis a brilliant addition to the series that does a great job of changing up its gameplay!
The musou gameplay coupled with the casting of spells and like makes combat a blast in this game. WhilePersona 5itself hasn’t come on PC yet,Strikersis a wonderful title that expands on the story of this amazing title while having some great original inclusions of its own!
The Legend of Heroesis easily one of the most underrated franchises of all time. Out of all the games released in this series, the latest arc deserves praise for being the most technically advanced of the lot.
All the games inTrails of Cold Steelare worthy of praise, although the last two games are particularly notable for featuring several notable improvements in the combat system. All in all, theTrails of Cold Steelarc isa great series of JRPGsto try out for any player who wishes to enjoy a deep JRPG with excellent worldbuilding and enjoyable combat.
