The best JRPGs of 2016

Michibiku is a site about Japanese games, so, you know, we like RPGs around here. And 2016 was an interesting year for them! Among the blockbusters were some real niche gems, and these are the ones you should set aside those hefty hour counts to play.

Best JRPG of 2016: 7th Dragon III Code: VFD

7th Dragon III has style for miles, a job system that makes characters feel legitimately different and a knack for making every hour count. What’s more, it does everything it needs to do to work without the context of its unlocalized predecessors. Don’t miss it. Really. – Graham

Runner-up: Bravely Second: End Layer

Bravely Second: End Layer is one of those games where you enjoy the grind. There are all these job options before you, and it’s possible to have access to abilities and skills from different classes at once. Will we be a Catmancer who happens to have some Yokai skills up her sleeves? What about a Hawkeye that’s also a Ranger? I’m rather fond of my Summoner Patissier. Combine that with a story that’s tighter than the original’s, but still offers a satisfying twist, and you have a game that’s difficult to put down. – Jenni

Runner-up: Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE may be more Persona than it is Fire Emblem, but it’s all kinds of interesting. This is a stylish adventure through a modern world where we right wrongs with characters like Chrom and Caeda by our sides. Not to mention, the soundtrack is pretty great. This is definitely one of the Wii U’s best games. – Jenni