From Classic to Cutting-Edge: How Turn-Based JRPGs Are Becoming “Fresh Again”

In the evolving landscape of video games, the venerable turn-based combat system of classic Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) has often been viewed as a relic of a bygone era. For decades, the genre has been in a constant state of flux, with developers moving toward more dynamic, action-oriented gameplay to appeal to a broader, modern audience. However, according to Masaaki Hayasaka, the producer of the upcoming Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake, this trend has come full circle. In a recent PlayStation blog, Hayasaka observed that with so many RPGs adopting action elements, the old-school turn-based style is “actually rare nowadays” and has become “considered fresh again.” This sentiment signals a significant shift in the industry’s perspective, highlighting a renewed appreciation for a style of gameplay that once defined a generation.

The Dragon Quest series is a perfect example of this. It is one of the pioneers of the JRPG genre, and its core, turn-based combat has remained largely unchanged for nearly 40 years. While other flagship series like Final Fantasy have transitioned to real-time action, Dragon Quest has held firm to its roots. This steadfast dedication, once seen by some as a resistance to change, is now being framed as a unique selling point. For a generation of gamers who grew up on reflex-based combat, the methodical, strategic nature of a turn-based system offers a welcome change of pace, and a chance to engage with a game in a different, more thoughtful way.

The Return of Strategic, Thoughtful Combat

The move away from turn-based combat was a direct response to a perceived demand for faster, more cinematic gameplay. Developers invested heavily in creating intricate combo systems and flashy abilities that required quick reflexes and button presses. While this led to many successful titles, it also created a void for players who preferred a more cerebral approach to combat. Turn-based games allow players to stop and think, to analyze the battlefield, and to plan their moves without the pressure of a ticking clock. This can lead to a deeper sense of strategy and a more rewarding feeling of victory that comes from outsmarting your opponent rather than simply out-maneuvering them.

• A Focus on Strategy over Speed: Turn-based combat systems, by their nature, reward strategic thinking. Players must consider enemy weaknesses, character synergies, and resource management with every decision.
• Reduced Barrier to Entry: For players who may not have the reflexes for an action RPG, turn-based combat provides a more accessible and welcoming experience. It allows a wider range of players to enjoy the genre’s rich stories and worlds.
• Nostalgia and Novelty: The HD-2D remakes of classic games like Dragon Quest and Octopath Traveler have proven that there is a strong appetite for this style of game. The nostalgia factor is a powerful driver, but for younger players, it is a truly “fresh” experience.

A Market Ready for the Classic Vibe

The success of recent turn-based titles and remakes suggests that the market is more than ready for a return to this classic style. Titles like Octopath Traveler, Persona 5 Royal, and even the tactical RPG Baldur’s Gate 3 have demonstrated that a well-crafted turn-based system can be a major draw for both critics and players. The conversation has shifted from “Why are these games still turn-based?” to “Thank goodness these games are still turn-based.” This a major win for the genre and its fans.

The remakes of Dragon Quest 1 & 2 are a direct result of this renewed interest. Hayasaka emphasized that the new versions will “respect the original” and its classic command-battle style, while also adding modern quality-of-life improvements. This approach strikes a perfect balance: it preserves the core gameplay that made the originals great while making them more palatable for a modern audience. It’s a testament to the timeless nature of the design and a validation for developers who have continued to champion the turn-based system.

In conclusion, the turn-based JRPG is no longer an outlier; it’s a genre that is finding its footing again by being different from the action-heavy mainstream. As developers continue to explore new ways to create engaging gameplay, the simple yet strategic nature of turn-based combat is proving to be a powerful and, ironically, innovative choice. The return of Dragon Quest‘s classic style is not just a trip down memory lane; it’s a bold statement that the old ways are not only relevant but are ready to define the future of the JRPG once again.