Summary
Square Enixis one of the most notable video game companies of all time. This merger occurred around the time when the sixth generation of gaming was in its infancy, means that the bulk of its games were developed with the PS2 in mind. After all, it wasn’t until the next generation arrived thatSquare Enix would start releasing gamesfor both PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
As a result, some of the best Square Enix games are PS2 exclusives that are stuck on this console. Unfortunately, this makes it hard for players to check out these interesting titles for themselves.
Most fans of SquareSoft are aware ofBrave Fencer Musashi, a unique action RPG that flew under the radar for many in the wider gaming sphere. Fans of this title will be surprised to know that this title received a sequel that was somehow even more obscure.
Most people have no idea thatMusashi: Samurai Legendexists, which is a shame since Nomura’s designs and the fun combat make it a PS2 gem that is stuck on this console. Players who want to check out a charming action RPG will love whatMusashi: Samurai Legendbrings to the table.
Dawn of Manais one of the most important games intheManaseries, so it’s puzzling that this title is stuck on the PS2. It was the first game in the series to be set in a 3D environment, and abandoned the co-op gameplay that had become a staple of the series at one point.
WhileDawn of Manahad its fans, the story and leveling system were criticized for bogging down the experience. Perhaps this is why the game was never ported to other consoles, with Square Enix focusing on other priorities instead.
Despite being one of the most unique PS2 JRPGs, this one can be a tough title to get into.Radiata Storiesboasts a great scriptand simple combat that would seem to make it easily accessible. It’s not until players go through the game that they realize how overwhelming it can be to recruit NPCs for their journey.
Players can recruit more than a hundred characters to use in battle, which helps make up for the simplicity of the combat itself. This can makeRadiata Storiesa daunting game to get into, but its cult classic reputation makes it clear that players will have a great time if the experience clicks with them.
One of the most underrated tactical RPG franchises players can sink their teeth into,mostFront Missiongamesare engaging enough for fans to stick with these games for the long haul.Front Mission 4is no exception here, forcing players to adjust to its difficulty or die trying.
The game had its flaws and can be a bit boring at times, but the tactical gameplay more than makes up for any issues. It’s a shame thatFront Missionfans can only check out this title on the PS2. Many fans agree that a re-release on modern consoles is long overdue.
If players want a JRPG with a unique story, thenGrandia 3may not be the best game for them. However, the real strength of this title is a hybrid combat system, which still looks amazing to this day.
Anyone who owns a PS2 and wants to check out Square Enix’s history should play throughGrandia 3. Some of its elements may be generic, but the engaging battles that players can engage in more than make up for this.
Front Mission 5: Scars of the Waris an excellent title in the series, and it tests a player’s knowledge of the battle system. It’s advised that players have a basic idea of the combat system from previous games before trying to jump into this title, which makes no effort to hide its difficulty.
Every victory feels rewarding as players enjoy a cinematic story that is surprisingly well-told and engaging for its time. This game is a no-brainer for fans of theseries who are attached to previous games in the series and want to see how farFront Missionpushes things without getting too frustrating.
Yoko Taro has become a household name at this point, but there was a time when his name wasn’t all that prominent in the video game industry.His work onDrakengardwas exemplaryin regard to the ambitious narrative, though the story was bogged down by unimaginative gameplay.
However, players who can deal with some of the game’s shakier gameplay systems will be drawn into the story in no time. As one would expect, the title boasts multiple endings that are equally riveting and worth unlocking for players who love Yoko Taro’s eccentric work.
One of the most beautiful yet complex JRPGs on the PS2, it’s a crying shame thatValkyrie Profile 2: Silmeriahasn’t been portedto other consoles yet. If there’s one game that deserves this treatment, it’s the amazing sequel toValkyrie Profilethat rewards players for mastering a fast-paced combat system that can get challenging at times.
Everything from the visuals to the soundtrack boasts immense quality, and fans can’t get enough of the combat system that rewards players for beating a foe that has been giving them a tough time. It’s a wonderful JRPG with an epic story perfect for fans seeking a unique JRPG to invest a ton of hours in.
