Games Like Ys IX: Monstrum Nox

Ys returns with a brand new adventure for the first time in 8 years! Adol awakens shipwrecked and stranded on a cursed island. There, he and the other shipwrecked passengers he rescues form a village to challenge fearsome beasts and mysterious ruins on the isolated island.

Why similar: JRPG 42.4%, Action RPG 14.7%, RPG 13.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.6%, Anime 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive modern Ys experience, featuring the same polished party-based combat and exploration mechanics that define the series.

Explore uncharted islands, engage in fast-paced action combat, and experience the high seas adventures of unlikely allies Adol and Karja in Ys X: Nordics!

Why similar: JRPG 38.8%, Action RPG 23.8%, Story Rich 8.3%, RPG 7.8%, Drama 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: The latest entry in the series refines the action combat even further with unique sailing and traversal mechanics that feel like a natural evolution of the Monstrum abilities.

Tokyo Xanadu eX+; a massive action RPG from the masters of the genre, Nihon Falcom! When high school student Kou Tokisaka encounters the nightmare realm known as the Eclipse, his world is forever changed.

Why similar: JRPG 49.2%, Action RPG 20.7%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, RPG 8.1%, Anime 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio, this game shares the urban setting and fast-paced action RPG combat found in Ys IX.

300 years of tyranny. A mysterious mask. Lost pain and memories. Wield the Blazing Sword and join a mysterious, untouchable girl to fight your oppressors. Experience a tale of liberation, featuring characters with next-gen graphical expressiveness!

Why similar: JRPG 40.9%, Action RPG 21.2%, RPG 9.8%, Anime 9.3%, Story Rich 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: This title provides a high-production-value action RPG experience with a strong focus on character-driven storytelling and flashy combat.

World-famous red-haired adventurer Adol Christin awakens in the unfamiliar land of Celceta, remembering nothing more than his name. Join Adol and his new friends as he embarks on an adventure to map the wilderness and reclaim his memories in this beloved action RPG from Nihon Falcom.

Why similar: JRPG 33.5%, Action RPG 23.7%, RPG 16.1%, Action 11%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%

Why You'll Like It: A core entry in the party-based Ys system that emphasizes exploration and fast-paced combat against challenging bosses.

A grand adventure in the skies awaits! Form a party of four from a diverse roster of skyfarers and slash—or shoot or hex—your way to victory against treacherous foes in this action RPG. Take on quests solo or with the help of others in up to 4-player co-op play!

Why similar: JRPG 42.2%, Action RPG 27.2%, Anime 9.2%, RPG 7.5%, Fantasy 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game offers some of the most fluid and satisfying party-based action combat currently available in the JRPG genre.

Experience the first “modern-era” Ys game, now off the small screen for its worldwide PC debut! Features a full party system, dozens of unique combat skills, and a massive overworld to explore. Uncover the secret of the Five Great Dragons, and help Adol Christin save the day once again!

Why similar: JRPG 41.5%, RPG 15.8%, Action RPG 13.9%, Great Soundtrack 13%, Action 9.7%

Why You'll Like It: This title introduced the party-based combat system that would go on to define the modern Ys games.

Choose between Yuito and Kasane, elite psionics each armed with a talent in psychokinesis and their own reason to fight. Complete both of their stories to unlock all the mysteries of a Brain Punk future caught between technology and psychic abilities.

Why similar: JRPG 41.4%, Action RPG 24.6%, RPG 10.8%, Anime 10.4%, Action 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: It features a high-octane action combat system centered on psychic abilities and a deep, anime-inspired urban narrative.

Cloud Strife, an ex-SOLDIER operative, descends on the mako-powered city of Midgar. The world of the timeless classic FINAL FANTASY VII is reborn, using cutting-edge graphics technology, a new battle system and an additional adventure featuring Yuffie Kisaragi.

Why similar: JRPG 40.9%, Action RPG 26.1%, RPG 11.2%, Story Rich 4.6%, Fantasy 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: The urban setting and fast-paced, tactical action combat provide a similar feel to the city-bound exploration of Balduq.

The perfect mix of action, exploration and story with screen-filling bosses, unique platforming elements, and innovative puzzles.

Why similar: JRPG 39.1%, Action RPG 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 15.7%, RPG 9.9%, Action 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: While it lacks the party system, it is the pinnacle of the classic, high-skill, non-stop action that the Ys series is famous for.

Players embark on a journey of self-discovery as they assume the role of Velvet, a young woman whose once kind demeanor has been replaced and overcome with a festering anger and hatred after a traumatic experience three years prior to the events within Tales of Berseria.

Why similar: JRPG 46%, Action RPG 12.5%, Anime 10.8%, RPG 9.1%, Story Rich 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: Known for its strong narrative and aggressive, fast-paced combat system, it is a staple for fans of anime-style action RPGs.

An Action RPG driven by fast-paced combat and paired with an intricate puzzle-filled world.

Why similar: JRPG 38.4%, Action RPG 19.6%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, RPG 10%, Action 7%

Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in classic action RPG design, focusing on tight controls and challenging, rhythmic boss encounters.

Adventurer Adol Christin has washed ashore in yet another mysterious, isolated new land, inhabited by a people who sport long ears and bushy tails...and are none too fond of humans. Experience the very first 3D Ys game as never before, with a whole new gameplay mode unique to this release!

Why similar: JRPG 40.3%, Action RPG 17.9%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, RPG 11.6%, Action 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: This game serves as the bridge between the classic and modern Ys eras, offering a great balance of exploration and action.

At Thors Military Academy, Erebonia’s best learn everything from the art of war to liberal arts. First year Rean Schwarzer learns he’s been selected to join the controversial Class VII, and they’ll need to deal with more than just class warfare--they’ll need to safeguard their country from chaos.

Why similar: JRPG 54%, Great Soundtrack 12%, Story Rich 10.8%, RPG 10.2%, Anime 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: While turn-based, it shares the same world-building DNA and character-driven storytelling that makes Falcom games so engaging.

NieR: Automata tells the story of androids 2B, 9S and A2 and their battle to reclaim the machine-driven dystopia overrun by powerful machines.

Why similar: JRPG 31.4%, Great Soundtrack 21.8%, RPG 18.3%, Story Rich 14.2%, Action 6.6%

Why You'll Like It: It offers incredibly fluid, fast-paced action combat paired with a deep, philosophical story that resonates with fans of dark fantasy.

A fateful encounter with the fairy Noi sets Nayuta and his friends on a path to explore beyond the borders of their island home in order to stop a dark plot.

Why similar: JRPG 41.1%, Action RPG 28.3%, RPG 18.1%, Anime 7.3%, Action 4%

Why You'll Like It: An action-heavy spin-off from the Trails series that plays more like a traditional Ys game than a turn-based RPG.

When Lloyd Bannings is assigned to Crossbell's Special Support Section, he and his new teammates must prove themselves as they fight to overcome the injustice of a city gripped by corruption.

Why similar: JRPG 51.3%, RPG 14.3%, Story Rich 13.3%, Great Soundtrack 12%, Anime 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: An essential entry for understanding the Falcom universe, featuring a compelling urban mystery set in the city of Crossbell.

Square Enix and Tri-Ace present the latest title in the Star Ocean RPG series.

Why similar: JRPG 38%, Action RPG 24.9%, RPG 10.3%, Story Rich 8.5%, Fantasy 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: It features a massive emphasis on vertical exploration and fast, real-time combat that feels very similar to the Monstrum traversal.

"Only the possibility of you can change our fate" Rindo comes to the grim realization that his life is on the line when he is forced to compete in the so-called "Reapers' Game."

Why similar: JRPG 35.8%, Action RPG 22.9%, RPG 9.1%, Story Rich 7.3%, Anime 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: A stylish, urban-focused action RPG with a unique combat system that emphasizes team synergy and fast movement.

Join the Phantom Thieves and strike back against the corruption overtaking cities across Japan. A summer vacation with close friends takes a sudden turn as a distorted reality emerges; reveal the truth and redeem the hearts of those imprisoned at the center of the crisis!

Why similar: JRPG 39%, Great Soundtrack 15.6%, Action RPG 10.4%, Anime 9.3%, Story Rich 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: This action-oriented spin-off captures the stylish, fast-paced combat and urban exploration that fans of Ys IX will appreciate.

In the face of certain death, we rise. Team up and embark on a journey to the ends of hell to unlock your past and escape your living nightmare in CODE VEIN.

Why similar: JRPG 42.3%, Action RPG 28.6%, Anime 12.3%, RPG 9.1%, Action 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: This action RPG features a distinct anime aesthetic and a dark, gothic world that mirrors the atmosphere of Ys IX.

In a world torn by war and political skirmishes, accept the burden of the Shepherd and fight human darkness to protect your world from Malevolence and reunite humans and Seraphim.

Why similar: JRPG 48%, Action RPG 13.6%, RPG 8.6%, Anime 7.8%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A classic party-based action JRPG that offers a large world to explore and a deep, elemental combat system.

CRYMACHINA is an action RPG where mechanical girls strive to survive in a post-apocalyptic world to become “Real Humans''. But what does it mean to be a “Real Human”?

Why similar: JRPG 34.6%, Action RPG 23.2%, RPG 9.2%, Dark 7.5%, Anime 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action RPG with a strong anime aesthetic and a focus on high-speed combat encounters.

The all-new Action-RPG, ONINAKI tells the story of one Watcher on a journey to protect Life, after Death.

Why similar: JRPG 43%, RPG 20.1%, Action RPG 17.8%, Action 11.6%, Anime 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: This action RPG features a unique soul-swapping combat mechanic and a somber, emotional narrative.

For when I weep, then I am strong. Battle through Purgatory as Rei to help save her sister in this Action RPG. Switch freely between four playable characters, and uncover each one of their pasts to see the sorrows they have endured.

Why similar: JRPG 41.9%, RPG 12.8%, Action RPG 11%, Great Soundtrack 10%, Anime 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: It combines a dark, emotional story with action-RPG mechanics, focusing on a female protagonist in a supernatural setting.

Long, long ago, there was an ancient kingdom called Ys which prospered under the auspices of two heavenly Goddesses. Over time, the kingdom came to be known as Esteria, and its divine history was largely forgotten by all but the descendants of those who once preached the Goddesses’ will.

Why similar: JRPG 47.2%, Action RPG 15.2%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, RPG 9.1%, Action 6%

Why You'll Like It: The origin point of the series, showcasing the fast-paced, bump-based combat that started the Ys legacy.

The spriggan known as Van Arkride, an underground professional, accepts any job, acting as detective, negotiator, or bounty hunter. Dive into the Trails series' latest chapter with intense combat, beautiful visuals, and a new alignment system in Calvard!

Why similar: JRPG 38.3%, Action RPG 23.2%, RPG 11.3%, Action 6.9%, Anime 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: The latest evolution in the Trails series, incorporating more action-oriented elements into its combat system.

Long ago, Ragnarok—the End Times—loomed upon the realms. The All-Father Odin, with the last of his strength, created an emissary of redemption, Valkyrie; her sole task being the salvation of a doomed world.

Why similar: JRPG 32%, Action RPG 24.2%, RPG 13.7%, Action 9.4%, Dark 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action RPG that emphasizes fluid movement and combo-heavy combat against mythological foes.

Civil war has broken out across Erebonia. After his narrow escape from Trista, Rean will take up his sword again on a journey with his Divine Knight, Valimar, in search of his friends from Class VII and a way to end the conflict before its price becomes far too dear...

Why similar: JRPG 53.6%, Great Soundtrack 13.5%, RPG 11%, Story Rich 10.2%, Anime 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: A direct continuation that deepens the character relationships and political intrigue of the Cold Steel arc.

Whenever mist hangs over Lake Orwell, sailors catch sight of a phantom castle just out of reach. As they draw near, it fades away, leaving only questions for all who have seen this “Castle Strangerock.” Now, you must aid your charge in uncovering its secrets...even if it costs you your very soul.

Why similar: JRPG 29.9%, Action RPG 26.4%, RPG 16.9%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, Action 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A cult classic action RPG from Falcom that features a dark, dungeon-crawling focus and excellent music.

Ys IX, the high-speed action RPG known for its exhilarating battles and adventure powered by special abilities, is now available on Steam®!

Why similar: JRPG 34.2%, Action RPG 20.7%, RPG 14.3%, Action 9.7%, Dark 7%

Experience the definitive edition of Adol and Karja's unforgettable journey across Obelia Gulf in Ys X: Proud Nordics!

Why similar: JRPG 34.2%, Action RPG 24.9%, RPG 14.3%, Action 10.1%, Drama 6.3%

The story takes place in the northern sea Obelia Bay, a bay filled with countless islands of all sizes. Ys X: Nordics depicts a brand-new adventure in the northern sea Obelia Bay, featuring the young adventurer, Adol Christin, as its protagonist!

Why similar: JRPG 42.1%, Action RPG 23.8%, RPG 16.6%, Anime 6.6%, Fantasy 4%

Fantasy meets reality in Shibuya, Tokyo, where magic is something to be feared. In this action RPG, a young wizard seeks freedom through strength, and an officer seeks to control magic and restore order. When their paths cross, a darkness that will transform the world descends.

Why similar: JRPG 39.3%, Action RPG 25.1%, RPG 14.3%, Action 10.4%, Fantasy 4.1%

Half a year after Trails in the Sky SC, Father Kevin Graham takes on a routine mission on behalf of the Septian Church. He and his partner are then plunged into a realm that follows an unnaturally strict set of rules and is as intent to open old wounds as it is to keep them behind closed doors.

Why similar: JRPG 49.4%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, RPG 12.2%, Story Rich 11%, Anime 6.8%

The long awaited finale to the epic engulfing a continent comes to a head in the final chapter of the Trails of Cold Steel saga!

Why similar: JRPG 45.5%, RPG 20.8%, Great Soundtrack 11.8%, Story Rich 10%, Anime 7.8%

Play as Yuma Ilvern and stop the Empire from exploiting the power of the ancient dragons, including the soul of the Shining Dragon within you. With the help of your friends, realize your destiny, save Astoria, and unleash the strength you’ve always had locked away.

Why similar: JRPG 42%, Action RPG 19.8%, RPG 12.3%, Anime 8.8%, Story Rich 5.6%

The Special Support Section is back with more members and more cases to solve! How will this rag-tag group deal with the oncoming threats to Crossbell’s political stability while maintaining their team’s foundation?

Why similar: JRPG 54.4%, RPG 15.9%, Story Rich 12.8%, Anime 8.2%, Great Soundtrack 7.6%

Experience an epic story developed across three titles, and crafted for new and old fans alike. Also includes an interactive introduction to catch up new players to the ongoing story so anyone can dive right in to the world of Trails of Cold Steel.

Why similar: JRPG 45.3%, RPG 24%, Great Soundtrack 10.9%, Story Rich 9.5%, Anime 7%

Explore a world of elemental spirits and adventure in the latest Mana action-RPG.

Why similar: JRPG 39%, Action RPG 23.5%, RPG 10%, Story Rich 7.1%, Anime 4.8%

Caught in the middle of a divine clash of epic proportions that has left gigantic weapons towering over the landscape, Cyan and newfound allies Elise and Zantis set out on a quest to save the world…and defy the gods. Claim your fate in this fantastical adventure inspired by classic JRPGs.

Why similar: JRPG 35.1%, Action RPG 21%, RPG 9.7%, Story Rich 8.4%, Action 6.1%

An epic dark fantasy where fates are decided by mighty Eikons and the Dominants who wield them. This is the tale of Clive Rosfield, a tragic warrior who swears revenge on the Dark Eikon Ifrit, a mysterious entity that leaves naught but calamity in its wake.

Why similar: JRPG 32.5%, Action RPG 23.9%, Story Rich 10%, RPG 6.9%, Drama 6.9%

Lead the members of Expedition 33 on their quest to destroy the Paintress so that she can never paint death again. Explore a world of wonders inspired by Belle Époque France and battle unique enemies in this turn-based RPG with real-time mechanics.

Why similar: JRPG 33.1%, Great Soundtrack 15.6%, Story Rich 15%, Action RPG 13.2%, RPG 9.4%

Trials of Mana is a modern revival of the 3rd game in the seminal Mana series. The game, originally released in Japan as Seiken Densetsu 3, has been fully rebuilt from the ground up in 3D.

Why similar: JRPG 34.5%, RPG 27.7%, Action RPG 18%, Anime 6%, Great Soundtrack 4.3%

Could you face yourself and the threats around you to save the ones you love? Shin Mikado Academy is engulfed in a madness-inducing Mist, and only you can save everyone inside. Develop your Ego to break the pacts set by the Pactbearers and remove the corrupting Mist.

Why similar: JRPG 55.3%, RPG 18.6%, Dark 12.1%, Anime 9.4%, 3D 3.7%

Join the young king Evan as he sets out on an epic quest to found a new kingdom and, with the help of some new friends, unite his world, saving its people from a terrible evil.

Why similar: JRPG 45.7%, RPG 13.6%, Action RPG 11.7%, Anime 8.2%, Story Rich 6.1%

Embark on a new adventure with pride in your heart! The action RPG Ys X:Nordics returns to Steam® with a massive upgrade—introducing new story content, new adventure areas, and a host of new features in Ys X: Proud Nordics!

Why similar: JRPG 38.1%, Action RPG 21.6%, RPG 17.4%, Action 9.7%, Anime 5.4%

Three different legends are about to unfold! Determine the fates of Rean Schwarzer, Lloyd Bannings, and the mysterious “C” in this climactic chapter of The Legend of Heroes series.

Why similar: JRPG 51.1%, RPG 18.1%, Story Rich 11.9%, Anime 8.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.6%

The upgraded prequel of NieR:Automata. A kind young man sets out with Grimoire Weiss, a strange talking book, to search for the "Sealed verses" in order to save his sister Yonah, who fell terminally ill to the Black Scrawl.

Why similar: JRPG 34%, Great Soundtrack 21.2%, Story Rich 13.6%, Action RPG 10.4%, RPG 8.8%

Wage epic turn-based battles as you follow Daryon and Selene on their quest to find a cure to the all-consuming Corrosion in this grand tale of hope and sacrifice, created by a small team of passionate JRPG lovers.

Why similar: JRPG 37.7%, Action RPG 20.6%, Story Rich 10.1%, RPG 9.6%, Anime 6.8%

Fight in 3-tiered battles, devour your enemies, and customize your characters in this epic RPG to end the dragon's curse!

Why similar: JRPG 55.2%, RPG 20.6%, Anime 9.6%, Action 9.2%, Fantasy 3.1%

The future of an entire continent is at stake in this milestone entry in the Trails series! Explore the vast Calvard Republic with three different protagonists, nurture connections, and master powerful skills in both real-time and turn-based battles as you uncover the secrets at the core of Zemuria!

Why similar: JRPG 40.2%, Action RPG 23.4%, RPG 11.6%, Action 6.8%, Anime 6.3%

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Tales of Vesperia and the return of this fan-favorite with the Definitive Edition!

Why similar: JRPG 49.4%, Action RPG 14.5%, RPG 11%, Anime 7.5%, Story Rich 6.6%

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter reimagines the first chapter of a beloved series, infusing it with enhanced visuals and refined gameplay. Join Estelle and Joshua, partners bound by fate, as they unravel dark conspiracies threatening the peace of the Liberl Kingdom.

Why similar: JRPG 43.9%, Action RPG 20.4%, RPG 9.9%, Story Rich 8.9%, Dark 6.6%

A new entry in the “Bravely" series! Four new Heroes of Light emerge in a new world and story!

Why similar: JRPG 53.3%, RPG 13.7%, Story Rich 8.6%, Drama 7.7%, Fantasy 5.4%

Experience Tales of Xillia, remastered for the first time ever. Dive into the magnificent world of Rieze Maxia as either Jude Mathis, an aspiring medical student from the capital, or Milla Maxwell, a mysterious woman accompanied by four powerful spirits.

Why similar: JRPG 41%, Action RPG 21.4%, RPG 15.1%, Action 10%, Anime 7.1%

Originally released in Japan in 2012, Nayuta no Kiseki is an action-packed RPG reborn as the newest member of the KAI series for Steam®!

Why similar: JRPG 36.3%, Action RPG 22%, RPG 16%, Action 9.1%, Drama 7.7%

Anuchard has fallen. Generations after the fall, its surviving descendants have chosen you as the Bellwielder of the magical Audros Bell. Go forth, battle monsters, solve puzzles, and restore Anuchard to its former glory: A paradise in the skies!

Why similar: JRPG 35.2%, Action RPG 23.4%, Story Rich 9.1%, RPG 8.6%, Anime 6.1%

Picking up shortly after The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky, Estelle travels across Liberl in search of Joshua. The journey involves more than seeking loved ones, however, as the Bracer Guild also tasks her with unraveling the mysteries behind the newly unveiled Society of Ouroboros.

Why similar: JRPG 54.1%, Great Soundtrack 14%, Story Rich 11.6%, RPG 9.9%, Anime 6.5%