7 Relaxing JRPGs That Are Worth Playing

[@TheKisekiNut]

Don't get me wrong, I dig a deep story. But there are times I just want to switch off from the 'serious' stuff and just enjoy a session in the most primal way possible - and these 7 JRPGs fill that void. Not too high in terms of stakes and go at their own pace.

[@stevenwhittaker9364]

Yeah this I can agree with I do enjoy relaxing on some games like this and I own 6 out of 7 of these games sakuna of rice and rain is the one I don't own but I own all the other games here and can say yeah they are all relaxing to play for sure

[@iancrawford2496]

I don't know the exact game I am looking for but here are some criteria. Needs to have cities that can be explored. Xenoblade Chronicles was one of my first favorites. I like Breath of the Wild, Final Fantasy 7 original, and any game where you can travel around and explore towns and buy things/do quests. Any suggestions on a JRPG like that? I own lots of games so if you suggest one I've already played I'll let you know. The Tales series seem like the right move so far but my Switch needs repair and I am waiting on parts.

[@g-alicenine]

This, I like to switch up between big epic games and relaxing games.

[@shadowtheimpure]

I get the same thing with anime sometimes too. I appreciate heavy themes and hardcore action as much as the next guy, but sometimes I just need to chill out to something like Cells at Work or Helpful Fox Senko-san.

[@borntorazehell777]

I'm probably late, but Blacksmith of the Sand Kingdom and Marenian Tavern Story: Patty and the Hungry God are two of my favorite JRPGs that are relaxing/chill to play (if you like crafting). They're both dirt cheap and Blacksmith is the only one with the free PS5 upgrade.

[@LexMarston]

Excellent list. I tend to lean towards these types of games the last few years. Not sure if it’s the world climate or my own personal issues, but I find much more honesty in these games - like having a nice, simple conversation with a close friend versus some stranger bragging about all the things they’ve done in their life. It’s nice to have a balance of the two, at the very least.

[@TheKisekiNut]

It's a nice change of pace from the formula we're used to seeing. Games like these have an important place in any backlog.

[@excaliburofgachagames9241]

Atelier Ayesha was a nice change of pace for me. I even had a few dreames with Ayesha in them because I was so addicted to her world. I haven't remembered a lot of dreams lately so it was like her alchemy was working well on me. I'm excited to try others like it

[@ConfusedSwede]

Eternal Sonata was a magical and wonderful journey. I also am holding on to hope that we get a remaster.

[@LedaXI]

I was so happy to see Eternal Sonata on this list. It's one of my top five favorites JRPGs and I feel like it's one of those unknown gems that is so often overlooked.

[@tbsffxx]

I've been trying to find a way to play it... barely any backwards compatibility

[@LedaXI]

Yeah that is an issue. I would love a re-release on a newer system. I play the PS3 version but if you don’t have one, it’s easy to just say forget it and move on to the next game.

[@TheMechaMessiah]

I kept holding out for Xbox BC and it never happened, it was the last xb360 I owner that wasn't compatible, so it's the sole reason I still have that ssytem.

[@amalathisdreaming]

Eternal Sonata may be one of my all time favorite jrpg's and it boggles my mind so many people never even heard about it, let alone play it. This one and Lost Odyssey are two jrpg's I'd love to see remastered or at least ported to new generation consoles.

[@forrandomsites3336]

Lost odyssey is backwards compatible on the Xbox one and Xbox series, though im not sure if they are enhanced in any way like fps/resolution.

[@TheSylvirr]

@@forrandomsites3336 It is! It's HD now, though I think the fps is the same. Still, it's cleaner and there's less bloom on things. It's available on the xbox store!

[@MrZahsome]

Oh yes that's a good one. Although I wasn't the biggest fan of it, I did enjoy the battle system they had and majority of the story.

[@AJ-po6up]

I want both on PC

[@petrstastny2090]

Yeah totally agree.. Eternal Sonata is in my top 3 JRPGs, I finished it on X360 and even after on PS3.. its sad its not on Microsoft and PS Store to purchase.. there is lot of people who never heard of it, because now simply its not available to buy anywhere..

[@charliep1]

Man, Eternal Sonata was great. I too wish they would do a remake of that or release it to PC. Purchased Sakuna and I am loving it.

[@JaretTheRPGLord]

Eternal Sonata is my favorite game of all time. I love the beautiful art direction and the profound story.

[@rossedwardmiller]

Dq11 is so chill. I played an hour or two before bed for months. One of my favorite games of all time.

[@demonangel00]

Eternal Sonata was one game that i had an absolute blast playing from beginning to end. the fact you could have more than one player was even better, as my wife and I played the entire game numerous times as a way to spend quality time. i hope RPCS3 figures out how to get it to run properly so we can play it again as my PS3 is a brick now lol.

[@jtraten]

Octopath traveler I also found to be very relaxing. The music in that game is outstanding.

[@fredflintstone5356]

I agree. I would rate that game to also be at the top of this list.

[@agauerm]

I got excited with Octopath traveller at first. It quenched that nostalgic Square Enix classic RPG thirst. Graphics and music are 10, beautiful. The problem I have with it is the repetition. It is always the same thing. Travel to new town, unlock the new character then play or not through chapter 1 of that character (which you most likely will do because you won´t be replaying this game a gazillion times). Then go to dungeon defeat boss, rinse repeat. I think that by the 4th time I had to do that, I started to get fed up. I really wanted to love the game, but it´s been almost a month since the last time I played and I don´t even feel like playing it.

[@skatingbozo]

Oh yes. So relaxing. It's not like it's the hardest grindiest game ever. I mean. It is. But it's still amazing.

[@feo130]

@@agauerm Same here, the repetitiveness forces me to play it sporadically every now and then. Owned it since 2018 and still on my first playthrough. It's a 7/10 in my opinion, just a decent game, but nothing special.

[@rbtoca]

It's relaxing but also the difficulty is high bar. Sometimes you get into a new map area and get crushed. Or the last job bosses are super hard. But overall, ambient atmosphere is relaxing, agreed on that.

[@thepsychicgaymer9888]

MMMMM Eternal Sonata. I have nothing but love, Respect, And Joy for that game. I played it recently and honestly if anything, It held up even more than when I first played it. The game is just perfection, From how the story progresses and plays out, The music, The art style, The gameplay. Perfection.

[@gigglez3036]

Thanks for the reminder to finally complete Atelier Sophie. Backlog hurts

[@Makoto03]

Great list. I particularly love the Atelier series. They are very relaxing and fun. Sophie is a great entry too. :)

[@morikeu2351]

I just finish it and i can confirm, it is rly slow, nice and comfortable, and Sophie smile is just heartwarming :D

[@spectrum4524]

Currently playing through Lydie & Suelle and can agree. That being said, I read somewhere that other entries of Atelier required players to finish certain things in a time limit (not my cup of tea). Also, synthesizing took me a while to grasp. Do any of the other Atelier entries have a similar/easier synthesizing concept compared to Lydie & Suelle that also doesn't have a ton of time limits? I read that Firis has a lenient time limit.

[@Culvey]

@@spectrum4524 Firis is preceeding Lydie and Suelle so im somewhat surprised you didnt play that already... but yes it has a 1 year (game time) limit to get good enough/travel far enough to pass the liscensing exam. The exam is honestly fairly easy to just pass, the hard part is if you want to beat your teacher for that achievement.

[@deathbykonami5487]

I'm still hoping for a remaster of the Atelier Iris trilogy and the Mana Khemia games. Those are forgotten gems of the PS2 era.

[@excaliburofgachagames9241]

Atelier Ayesha was definitely great. Despite the timer, I very much needed a break from our world. The world even gave me a few dreames.

[@Kenko_4]

Relaxing JRPGs are one of the best things about the genre. Just settling in and relaxing with a cozy JRPG is one of the best feelings. DQ11 and the Atelier series are definitely up there among my favorites. Another one I'll add to my personal list is Persona 4 Golden, but only for my replays. It's one of my favorite games ever and the countryside town of Inaba is one of my favorites to just hang around in.

[@TheKisekiNut]

P4G is on the list! Looking forward to giving it a go someday.

[@synx6988]

@@TheKisekiNut u need to play persona4. It is the best game of all time

[@Olphas]

Just earlier today I thought to myself: "Man, these Gust games are just wonderfully relaxing and chill". I am playing Blue Reflection - Second Light right now. I'm kicking myself that I did never try them before Ryza. But at least this way I have several to go back to whenever I need something like this.

[@TheKisekiNut]

Ryza is an excellent intro to Atelier. If you like chill games and you're in to crafting then I see it being a hit.

[@SteffiAkira]

The only one not relaxing for me was Atelier Totori, anything else was indeed very relaxing to play. Haven’t played the blue reflection games, but I plan to.

[@tricmagic]

@@SteffiAkira Ah yes, Totori, where you basically spend most of your time traveling. (Nintendo Switch is nice by having those bundles.) Kinda learned from last game and I'm just enjoying my time to the point I seem to have completely missed a character. Then again I did complete the first half of the game before year 3. Of note, like last game registering items is a good way to make money in the capital. The two bases being split really hurts though given the village shops are far more limited in what they stock. On the plus side, Migraine Medicine made with Behemoth Heart, 40 HP/MP healed a pop for 222 Col. (One needs many bombs as usual in this particular series. Particularly given Totori doesn't learn a single skill it seems like. Bring many Snowmen/Bombers:>) Also, freeze the giant puni in particular. Beating it before the renewal requires a lot of defense given the lack of all-heal items and mult-hit attacks. Least the elemental seems doable, though mostly due to, once again, the Behemoth Heart Migrane Medicine, which revives on top of it's other effects. (I mostly know this through save-scouting. And found the Artic birds and dragons for the mission that started popping up. Hunting Quests are something that aren't really easy to do if you don't have a Warp Gate or already know where to complete multiple.) Of last note, Gust makes good games. (And I played Sakuna last year too. Good fun.)

[@tricmagic]

... If I'm being honest. Rorona taught me a few things. 1: A proper adventure starts with preperation for the adventure. 2: Bring many bombs. 3: If Rule 2 doesn't work, you just need bigger bombs. 4: Please for the love of god check the fine print on those air drops, I don't like drowning cause I need new ones each area. 5: Never trust the fine print, the air machine doesn't work without Air Drops. ... Of these, the bit about bombs stuck out given Totori's useless without them, and godhand with them. Strangely, she makes Snowmen the most since those are the easiest to get materials for early on.

[@excaliburofgachagames9241]

I can't believe I never played Atelier Ayesha when I first heard about it from a KZbinr named Food4dogs. Nice old lady. Hope Kiseki doesn't mind me including her name here. When I wanted a anime game to play I went back to it and wow was I suprised at how addicted I got. And still am. I need more like this. Blue reflection definitely added to my list now though

[@NightmareOni]

Eternal Sonata was tragic :( the descending madness into Chopin's mind at his last moments, to the melancholic ending.

[@AeriochKahosZ]

I love Eternal Sonata, and it made me into a Chopin fan.

[@flanberry]

So happy to see Eternal Sonata on this list!! One of my favorite games!

[@ElliotScottDating]

Dragon quest 11 is easily one of the best if not the best rpg that came out in the last 10 years. Such an amazing game. And the ending omg!

[@copyninja8756]

It was aight

[@equilibriumculture-everyth4000]

Hell yeah it was.

[@Knicols]

Really? The best in the last 10 years? You can say that after all the Dragon Age, Divinity, Baldur's Gate Remastered, Pillar of Eternity, etc. etc.?

[@ElliotScottDating]

@@Knicols yes better than all those imo

[@TheFloodFourm]

@@ElliotScottDating ah, in your opinion, got to specify

[@Halz0holic]

You forgot the happiest murder mystery of all times, Persona 4 The Golden

[@the_gtc]

P4G is like a warm blanket for me

[@trullikoi]

I'm so happy you mentioned Atelier Sophie. Everyone is all over Ryza (which I haven't played). Sophie made me buy the entire Mysterious trilogy.

[@TheKisekiNut]

I see Sophie as a great starting point. It demonstrates what Atelier is all about, it's lowkey and it opens the door to an entire trilogy plus the newly released Sophie 2. Can't go wrong with it.

[@LordKoKuyou]

Ryza is great too. I thought i wouldn't enjoy it too much because all the changes it had, but it was great. It's worthy a try (the first one at least, i haven't tried the second game). Sophie is still my favorite game from the Atelier series. It's just so fun and relaxing...no time limit BS or anything and the characters are all great.

[@taromisaki5319]

@@LordKoKuyou You should really try Ryza 2 if you haven't done so The battle system is wayyyy more fast paced than Season 2 and the music makes it all the more satisfying, the DLC do pose a bit of a challenge but to be honest, Tao with 4 Flams is broken as hell

[@R0D3R1CKV10L3NC3]

@@LordKoKuyou Ryza 2 is worth it if only for Fi and their interactions with everyone. Gameplay-wise it's more of the same, just with some enhancements and additions, but the story and characters develop so well in the second one and it just makes you fall in love with them that much more.

[@LordKoKuyou]

@@taromisaki5319 I'll definitely try Ryza 2 in the future. I'm happy to know that the DLC is a bit challenging. I'm sure i'll have a lot of fun.

[@MrMoogle]

So happy to see Eternal Sonata in the list and mentioned heavily in the comments. Such a unique experience and I still think about it all these years later.

[@banana6963]

I played Sakuna but couldn't complete it due to my PC breaking down. From the little that I played, I can tell that it's an amazing game. The characters are cute the atmosphere is never too gloomy and it's just a pleasure to hang around. Definitely recommend it.

[@sharebear421]

Popolocris and rhapsody are two really chill and feel good jrpgs

[@chirabi_rpg]

8:00 Omg thanks for understanding this. Most people around me complain that there isn't story in my favorite game series. But there is, there's plenty of character development - and that IS the story.

[@Vercalos]

I love *Eternal Sonata,* and to be honest, at this point, I don't even want a remaster. I'd settle for a straight port as the game was pretty gorgeous to begin with and, in keeping with a game based on a legendary pianist(a personal favorite), has fantastic music.

[@robertsmith-wv2hw]

Eternal Sonata is such a underrated game.I loved playing it on my 360 along with Blue Dragon.

[@socialistprofessor3206]

Thank you so much for introducing me to the Trails series. I've loved the first two chapters and will start the third after Dragon Quest XI. This is a helpful list.

[@Gaming_Amateur]

The third one is great if you're into the combat system, but just a warning: the story is significantly weaker. There are plenty of good character moments, but it doesn't have the charm of the first two. Can't wait for the Trails to Zero English port!

[@rodelcorton8815]

Atelier series is really a comforting game although alchemy is really easy to get into but really hard to master i always use several hours on the end game properties and best healing items and bombs before i finish these games which is oddly satisfying although you dont really need it its just for personal preference

[@TheKisekiNut]

You can get lost in alchemy for HOURS. But that's the best part, at least in the games without the time limits, you can just chill and do as much as you want.

[@jerryestimable4777]

Eternal Sonata and Lost Odyssey were nice little JRPGs for the X360 at the time when they actually made an effort to court JRPGs on the console.

[@AdriDwitomo]

Steambot chronicles should've been here i think! Definitely my all time chillax jrpg game

[@marc-ap4699]

Great list ! I too like some fun game with simple story to relax. I got a bunch on my switch that fit that type of games : - The tactical rpg series Mercenaries - Bravely Default - Grandia HD Collection - The Alliance Alive HD Remaster - Voice of Cards All these are easy to pick up and very enjoyable.

[@lipsontajgordongrunk4328]

Alliance Alive is phenomenal. Easily the most underrated JRPG of all time.

[@juniorbee1564]

It's true!! Sakuna is the top relaxing JRPG game that I've played. I'm 40 hrs in, 11 years planting rice, not progressing much, but that's the reason why i love it -- the game doesn't push you into a deadline... I also enjoy the fighting aspect of the game, it's super satisfying with the combos and raiment pull. I'm gonna get Atelier Sophie 2 soon! ^.^ Thank you for this video, it makes me happy that Sakuna is being appreciated, as I always feel it is too underrated.

[@MissBubbles]

Hahahaha, love the intro! Heck yeah sometimes we just want to unwind and relaaax! I added Sakuna to my library a while back and can't wait to play it 😍

[@TheKisekiNut]

Do itttttt! You enjoy farming games, and there's a good one for you!

[@thecognitiverambler8911]

Lovely list! I agree with FC to this list (even though weirdly, FC is STILL my favorite in the 9 I've played through CSIV). A game that I think would really fit this list well is Grandia. If you've never checked out Grandia, do it - it's a REALLY lovely JRPG that yes, does pick up near the end, but is mostly just about wanderlust and adventure.

[@Nikita_Akashya]

I actually played Grandia 1 when I first got my switch after it came out. I kept it lying around and finally finished it last year. After I finished Trails from zero. I really enjoyed Grandia, even though I kinda just wanted to get through when I reached the end. But I really loved it and especially the ending with all the small kiddos. They were so cute.

[@thecognitiverambler8911]

@@Nikita_Akashya I agree Grandia drags a touch near the end (but at least the stakes get higher), but the beginning was really lovely. Starting as a kid playing with sticks in the inner city and just slowly adventuring out. Nothing else quite like it imo.

[@GordonGordon]

Right there with you. The writing for the Sky arc just feels so natural and heartfelt. Those writers really nailed characters without getting into tropey cliches.

[@thecognitiverambler8911]

@@GordonGordon Yeah, the cast feels intimate, the world building is god-tier, and it feels more like an adventure than any of the others. Serious enough, but without suffering from some of the concept bloat that most of the others... suffer from. I love the whole series, but FC was the one that turned me into a raving fan, and is the one I most fondly remember.

[@TheKisekiNut]

I'll have to check it out some time, bud! At the moment though I'm sorted for games, at least 10 ready to go across multiple platforms.

[@GreatistheWorld]

Perfect timing for this to show up in my recommends. 90 hours into DQXI, I feel spoiled by generous chill vibes and worried I wouldn’t be able to follow it up

[@devin8367]

I've been looking for a relaxing jrpg for a while, just picked up Atelier Ryza, but had been looking for more. This video came at a perfect time

[@TheKisekiNut]

Hope you enjoy Ryza!

[@mistermack4987]

I've been a gamer for over 30 years. My twitch reflexes and puzzle solving skills aren't quite as sharp as they used to be. Thank you ever so much for this list. I pray to the Flying Spaghetti Monster that Eternal Sonata gets a PC release

[@LaLtheGaL]

Really great list. I know I am late to the game, but Dragon Quest XI was my intro into JRPGs and now I am hooked. I felt like a little kid, snuggling up in bed at night and reading my fairytale book. I also got into the Atelier games since then, and absolutely love them. I have beaten Ryza 1 & 2, and recently Sophie 1. The only game in your list that had me raise my eyebrow is Sakuna. I think because I got to point where I was stuck and I had no idea where to go or what to do. It was a shame because I was enjoying it until that point. I have also played and finished Trails in Cold Steel 1 on my Vita. I really enjoyed that, but WOW that was a big time commitment and I'm kind of nervous of what to play next. I am tempted to play Trails in the Sky, but only have access to it on the Vita, which a lot of people say is not that great.

[@TheKisekiNut]

Even on Vita Sky is great - I'd give it a go. If you like Cold Steel, I dare say you'll enjoy Sky as well especially with the connections the arc shares with the others.

[@adamh4h4]

I highly recommend you try out the Fire Emblem series (if you have Switch and 3ds). Cant go wrong with ANY of them. It has mechanics where if your character dies in battle, they're gone. Forever. I know its not really a "chill" RPG but its hella good. Series is really good at making you care for your roster and if you f*ck up, welcome to the save-scum community. lol Honestly, there's TOO many of them to list but ones from the top of my head are the Valkyria Chronicles series, Ni no Kuni series, Persona 3, 4 and 5, and Suikoden 1,2 and 5. Have fun with all of them.

[@LaLtheGaL]

@@adamh4h4 I finished one route of Fire Emblem Three Houses and loved it. I have also started Fire Emblem Awakening. I do like Tactics games. :)

[@adamh4h4]

@@LaLtheGaL Nice. Enjoy Awakening. Its a beautiful game. Hopefully you play Fates next which is equally just as good ( hell, the gamecube's path of radiance is pretty good too). Btw, good luck with the CS sequels (I'm on CS4 myself but forgot to continue the game). The "standard" doesnt go down but instead just keeps getting better and better. Its like watching a loooong TV series. Game is huuuuge too. ugghhhh so many games, so little time.

[@budlikycz2445]

I want to thank you for showing me Sakuna Of Rice and Ruin without you I wouldnt even know the game existed. Already bought it and playing it on PS4 :) Thank you!

[@xgremlynnx]

no way! eternal sonata is one of my favorite games of all time and i almost never hear anyone talking about it. it's truly an underappreciated gem of a game!

[@GcorpCoPrez]

Eternal Sonata is one my faves on the ps3! Someone in the comments mentioned co-op? Yup, I even got my younger fams to join me playing the game by allowing them to choose the characters they wanted. Coup de’ grace and other of chopin’s live rent free in my head. Triails First chapter is one rpg i barely played for about 30mins before my fams left and took their vita with them. Hopefully i can fund the game on other platforms.

[@adamr6621]

I love that there's a genre of relaxing, comforting games out there. I think I might need to grab some of these, wouldn't mind some more relaxing game time in my life.

[@RainbowGamx]

Never heard of Sakuna but you sold it to me ! It looks awesome

[@Archdjinn]

Voice of cards is my go-to for a very solid, relaxing play session. Such an underrated game

[@alanwattie6093]

I agree it’s always great to have these kinds of games to look forward to when I need a break from the fate of the world rests on your teenage shoulders trope. I’ve come to really enjoy the Atelier series, I liked the first Blue Reflection despite it’s flaws and am really looking forward to 2nd Light, and Neptunia as well for never taking itself seriously. Glad to see FC on the list as well since that game has so much charm the likes of which I haven’t seen since Lunar.

[@Tyler.Burleson]

Duuuude yes finally someone mentions Eternal Sonata. It's such an underrated gem and I wish it would come back on the Switch or on Steam. I'm also probably the only person that doesn't like Dragon Quest 11. I'll agree that it's definitely relaxing, but for me it's a little too relaxing, and I get bored easily. Especially in the middle of the game. A game I usually play to chill is Battle Chef Brigade, another underrated gem and one that is forever in my top 10 games of all time. Also of note, Tetris Effect (probably the best iteration of Tetris, and definitely the one with the best soundtrack, 10/10 chill game), and then of course the obvious entries like Stardew Valley and Minecraft.

[@Evertide05]

Some very nice, and interesting choices. Kingdom Hearts 1 was an unexpected entry, but having played through it a few times, I have to agree it's overall a feel-good trip. While watching, I didn't expect to have any ideas for what I'd put on the list. I've always loved RPGs, but I think RPG, I think "kill God, save the world." But then I knew one: Dark Cloud II. The combat is fun but not very demanding, I have a fondness for crafting systems and you'll be doing a LOT of that in this game, the music's pretty relaxing, and the city building aspect is especially good for chilling out. I would say Spheda is relaxing too but I have too many memories of ragequitting...but it sure feels good when you win.

[@GamesofFuturesPast]

I had a similar experience with DQ11. I was playing xenogears at the same time so contrasting that with the lighthearted and whimsical adventure of DQ was very pleasant.

[@Chichichurri]

Thank you for introducing me to Eternal Sonata, it sounds like an amazing game! Unfortunately, I just found out it's only available for Xbox 360 and PS3, so now all I can hope for is that they release it on a more modern platform 🙏

[@handlerone5172]

Omg I love seeing all the love for Eternal Sonata. The game is awesome and even though it's story and voice acting has it's flaws it more than makes up for it. I loved collecting all the music sheets and some of the tunes that played were straight fire. Definitely a game to pick up to enjoy for a day as it is not very long.

[@winterprincegamecollection5135]

I agree with Sakuna, it is quite relaxing, I had more fun planting rice compared to fighting, it feels really great when you harvest the rice every year 😁

[@juniorbee1564]

i agree with you! sakuna is really underrated, but i love it so much.

[@Kazuchi35]

Eternal Sonata was soooo good. It was fairly short, but I loved almost everything about it. Xbox360 had some great JRPGs.

[@TheKisekiNut]

Not many on the platform, but it got some bangers.

[@Kazuchi35]

@@TheKisekiNut Star Ocean 4, Eternal Sonata, Tales of Vesperia, FFXIII just from the top of my head. I know you didn't really like Vesperia and FFXIII isn't generally liked (I had some serious issues with it as well), but these games made me fall in love with JRPGs permanently.

[@TheMechaMessiah]

Eternal Sonata is my all time favorite game so I'm glad to see it on this list! It doesn't nearly get enough love from gamers.

[@Yasminyokai]

Eternal sonata is one of my favourite childhood games and I hope it gets a reboot! Unfortunately very underrated

[@TheKisekiNut]

Too underrated.

[@mountainking1166]

Legend of Mana will always be my go-to relaxing JRPG. It's a bit older but so worth it.

[@cabbage_cat]

so glad you mentioned at least one of the atelier series

[@mrpsyco5884]

I can't wait for zero and azure since I'm pretty much in limbo rn after having experienced sky 1-3. I recommend emptying like a month out of your schedule to talk to everyone in that game since every accessible npc walking around in the town changes dialogue every single time you do something in the main story it's fucking wild.

[@placefantasy1821]

Couldn’t agree more about kh1. It radiates comfort and a tone that disappears as the games become darker and more focused on the original story that was developing. I love every kh game but the original has such a pleasant and whimsical vibe to it.

[@kyle4854]

Very glad to see Eternal Sonata on the list. Such a good game.

[@g-alicenine]

Been loving the Atelier series for ages. They're so fun and relaxing and cute, truly recommend it.

[@SheIsTheOneNamedSailorMoon]

All these games look amazing and relaxing. One of my favourite JRPG is Eternal Sonata. I really hope we get a remaster someday. It's a beautiful warm hearted and emotional game.

[@PelvicGaming]

AYYYYYYY, I also played DQ11 and SMT3 ...more back to back rather than at the same time. But DQ11 was a little *too* feel good for me, so SMT just scratched that itch for me!

[@TheKisekiNut]

Heeeey, this is a surprise! Thanks for dropping in! :) I saw your SMT III review like a month back and it was pretty much bang on with my experience. SMT V is shrink wrapped for now, too many games to push through at the moment.

[@VidiverseExplorer]

The Trails of Cold Steel series is the best of the best when it comes to jrpg's, and I'm one of those Crono Trigger FF VI kinda guys!

[@Hugo_Prolovski]

Eternal Sonata is one of my all time favorites. The story and presentation is just so good and ive never found anything remotely comparable

[@markshaw827]

Great game totally needs a remaster

[@DeadMeat991]

Sometimes between Souls games and survival fps I really find myself craving something a bit lower stress. Thank you for the suggestions.

[@Papaw.Rooster]

Thanks for the list. I’ve been playing almost nothing other than action RPGs and action games in general for so long I find myself just wanting to chill. I’m gonna try at least one of these

[@drowningin]

Skies of Arcadia is my comfort food JRPG. Play it once a year or every other year. I just love being in that world with that early 3D and beautiful music. I consider it my ideal fantasy world

[@kanetidus]

I started yesterday Chrono Cross on PS4 and I love it, I'm so hook-up already

[@berrylarry20]

Eternal Sonata is such an underrated gem. The story, music, and visuals are iconic, but the game is NOT relaxing if you own the PS3 version like me 😅 As you level up the game gets progressively harder I got into a ragequit loop.

[@forrandomsites3336]

That's what I never understood about the ps3 port, like the Xbox 360 version(basically the og version) had a very satisfying progression system that does progressively get difficult, but it doesn't randomly spike like on the ps3 version. Granted the ps3 version does have more content and dialogue so theres that.

[@MacDork]

Thank you so much for this; I just got my Steam Deck, and the relaxing list you've created is just what i want to get stuck into. Some of these titles are on my shelf, untouched, while others are new to me. your reviews have me convinced to branch out 👍🏽

[@TheKisekiNut]

Give em a whirl mate, at least you got the hardware to get the best out of them!

[@RyuuSeichi]

I had a feeling Sky FC was gonna be on here, I just felt so much unbridled joy playing it that made me feel 10 years younger~ Amazing where this series goes lol

[@lenalovesbooks916]

funny I clicked on the video to see, and hope to see eternal sonata. I love the game so much and it is so underrated. I've played the ps3 version and I would love a version for PC or even the switch. after scrolling through the comments I am delighted that so many others love the game as well. maybe one day we'll get a remake or just a PC version🥰❤

[@TheKisekiNut]

Wonderful premise, even better game!

[@S.O.G13]

I absolutely love eternal sonata, it desperately needs a remake, port or remaster to the ps5. So different, unique, fun and interesting

[@XelthorTheBlind]

I don't think this fits the criteria, but Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana is my number one relaxation game. Well. My favorite game too. It's story and music are pretty powerful and not what I'd call relaxing. However, the exploration of the island is one of the best parts. The maps are sometimes rather simple, but chocked full of tiny details you won't notice on the first playthrough. The wonder of exploring Seiren Island still hasn't gotten old after probably the 7th playthrough for me. Idk, something about a deserted tropical island with dinosaurs just really does it for me. 10/10

[@blaked7532]

I recently picked up Blue Reflection: Second Light and it's pretty damn good, only a few hours in and i'm hooked. Just wish i had more time for video games these days.

[@TheKisekiNut]

Second Light's a great little game after a hard day. Doesn't do anything new, but has good fundamentals.

[@ayayashamwow2021]

I adore the Atelier series. Wonderfully made games. Totori is my favorite game in general, and I always say its just because of how calming it is when youre not freaking out about the time limit. For bigger games, Id say FFX is actually super relaxing. Great soundtrack and extremely simple combat plus a super easy to follow story. Also, maybe its because of how open ended the game is, I would actually say Elden Ring can be relaxing as well. Traveling around Limgrave for the first time was such an experience that actually took me back to how I felt playing Oblivion and just riding around the map for hours with no real goal in mind! Of course Elden Ring isnt a conventionally relaxing game, but the earlier stages are definitely in that same calm atmosphere as Ryza for me, maybe just because of the wanderlust.

[@MrDimrey]

Great video. Relaxing games have such a cozy feel good vibe. Most of those games have a positive attitude you can easily enjoy for a long time.

[@paulkinder8440]

Still to this day Eternal Sonata is my favourite single player jrpg of all time, truly unique story,amazing characters, great combat, a really nice looking game, great music. I really enjoyed the game. One game i do feel that is relaxing due to it's combat style is Blue Dragon. I felt an Artelier game would be there, i've only played Atelier Rorona the Alchemist of Arland and had it not been for the time constraints, that would've been a chilled out game.

[@JMMinorSituation]

Currently playing through Sophie 2, it made me get the first one and both Ryza games. So oddly addicting and chill, love it!

[@gdoubleu8045]

Trails in the Sky FC is a pretty chilled experience, but you really need to play SC too, to get the story conclusion. Of course there's the meta story that covers the entire series too. Basically if you start Trails, be prepared to play...THEM ALL!!!!

[@jonm3427]

Although I haven't finished DQ 11 yet, it was my time filler between SMT Nocturne and SMT V. Definitely a good lighthearted choice to come down from the intensity of SMT. I might pick it back up since I just finished SMT V and Soul Hackers 2 isn't out yet.

[@jimmothy79]

Eternal Sonata was a great game and really does deserve and HD Remaster, or at least a pc port

[@deadkodo]

I played second light earlier this year, and I loved it. I played Sophie 2 earlier but haven't played the first one yet and I also loved they Ryza games. I would love Eternal Sonata to get a remake/remaster but having being on Xbox 360 I don't see that happening anytime soon. Trails games are so good and cold steel is some of best game series I have played.

[@intrepid1160]

So glad to see Blue Reflection mentioned. One of my favorite games, from the characters, the writing, and the music. Speaking of music, since you apparently haven't played the first game (which you don't need to, it has its issues), definitely check out the soundtrack for it. The boss themes in particular are incredible. I think Second Light's soundtrack is overall better balanced, but the first game has some really stand-out tracks.

[@GalaxyWhimsy]

awesome thank you for the suggestions they are perfect!

[@Eksistenssi]

And if you combine Eternal Sonata with Blue Reflection (music focus and the gust effect) you get Ar Tonelico + Surge Concerto. Near perfect idea, but 80% of budget probably went into the OST. Still worth checking out (start from AT2 as that is the most polished, then 1,3,Cn,An)

[@KwBeee]

Ys Origin is a short, fast paced action RPG I'd recommend if you don't have time for a full-fledged JRPG!

[@Omnicloudx13]

Honorable mention to the Ni no kuni games, great list.

[@CrimsonKage]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that needs a break from all the dark storylines that have become ubiquitous of late. I've been on a relaxing game kick for a number of years now and this list is exactly the type of thing I've been playing instead. Though I've played most of these, Blue Reflection and DQ11 look like they could complete the set, and then Trails if it's still available.

[@bobboberson6792]

I ran into a game breaking bug in Sophie that prevented me from doing the post game stuff, so I had to start over to get the platinum. I definitely wasn't relaxed.

[@olddrunkninja]

My only real complaint that puts me off Eternal Sonata is the absolute out of nowhere shift into endgame it does. Like I remember when I first played it, a big event happened and was like "oh okay so we're going to do this now" when instead the game just suddenly goes "NOPE, TIME TO GO TO END DUNGEON" which was a massive whiplash and really drowned my enjoyment of what was otherwise a great game..

[@suhericoba911]

The Hyperdimension Neptunia series should be on the list. Because the game basically full of humor and fan-service

[@neoaoki3451]

No rune factory in the entry?

[@phenton91]

DQXI was my first thought, I never felt pressure, but the game is as hard as you make it.

[@felipefgoliveira]

Very nice list, I’ll give it a try on these indications

[@prototype102010]

I kind of gave up on DQ11 because I thought all it was was going to a region, getting a quest to go to the dungeon in that region, and moving on... over and over again. But that boat clip... I'm a sucker for boats in JRPG's

[@randominternetperson5806]

DQ XI S is just perfectly refreshing and it has that relaxing feel whether you're sailing the sea or exploring various terrain from snowy Snaerfelt to Gallopolis desert

[@nobodyinterestingyou]

Interesting list. I find that the Neptunia series would also fit that bill. It's zany, the characters are quirky ,everything's colorful and seeing this big allegory for the console wars In the form of a fantasy world dominated by 4 goddess In a really tongue In cheek way Is a great stress reliever In a Jrpg format * at least for the mainline titles, but I'd argue that If you like those characters, a lot of the spin offs are worth It *

[@rancepolicarpio7644]

Didnt expect Eternal Sonata but it is honestly a very good game

[@TheKisekiNut]

Underrated, and sadly forgotten by many.