Turn-based RPGs have had a storied history, evolving from their tabletop roots to some of the most beloved digital adventures of all time. In 2025, the genre continues to thrive, with both legendary franchises and bold new challengers pushing the boundaries of tactical combat, narrative depth, and player choice. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of traditional grid-based battles or looking for a fresh take on turn-based mechanics, this list will guide you through the must-play RPGs of the year.
Classic Franchises That Continue to Shine
Final Fantasy Tactics: Warborn
Square Enix returned to its tactical roots with Final Fantasy Tactics: Warborn, a long-awaited spiritual successor to the original FFT. Featuring an intricately woven political narrative reminiscent of Tactics Ogre and Game of Thrones, Warborn reintroduces the Job System with modern refinements, allowing for deep customization and strategic play.
What sets Warborn apart is its adaptive AI, which learns player tendencies over time, forcing strategic shifts in every encounter. The game also introduces environmental manipulation, where terrain dynamically alters combat effectiveness. Battles play out on a beautifully detailed, semi-realistic diorama-style battlefield that makes every encounter feel like a living chessboard.
Persona 6
The Persona series has long been a benchmark for turn-based RPG excellence, and Persona 6 refines its signature formula to near perfection. While social simulation remains a core pillar, combat has received a significant overhaul. The introduction of the Fate System dynamically alters encounters based on the protagonist’s relationships, meaning that social bonds now have a direct impact on battle conditions.
The game also introduces Tandem Persona Attacks, allowing party members to merge abilities for devastating combo moves. This encourages players to experiment with different social links and fusion strategies, creating an unprecedented level of synergy between narrative and gameplay.
Shin Megami Tensei VI
Following the success of SMT V, Atlus doubled down on its signature demon-recruiting, high-risk combat system. SMT VI refines the Press Turn System, allowing for even more nuanced tactical decision-making. The addition of the Dominion System—which lets players exert influence over entire regions in a post-apocalyptic world—adds a layer of strategy that extends beyond battles.
With a darker, more philosophical story tackling themes of control and free will, SMT VI continues the series’ tradition of delivering thought-provoking narratives alongside punishing yet rewarding gameplay.
Fire Emblem: Dynasty of Shadows
Intelligent Systems’ Fire Emblem franchise has embraced its legacy while integrating fresh mechanics. Dynasty of Shadows brings back weapon durability and introduces Trinity Formations, a new battle mechanic that rewards careful positioning and synchronized attacks. With larger-scale battles than ever before, commanding your army requires precise planning and foresight.
The game’s dual-story approach—where players can experience the campaign from two opposing factions—adds rich replay value, making Dynasty of Shadows one of the most ambitious entries in the series.
New Contenders That Redefine the Genre
Eidolon’s Embrace
This indie breakout hit merges the deliberate pacing of Divinity: Original Sin with the atmospheric storytelling of Dark Souls. Eidolon’s Embrace is a turn-based RPG that places emphasis on adaptability, as enemy patterns shift based on the in-game lunar cycle. Spells and abilities fluctuate in power depending on the phase of the moon, encouraging players to carefully time their most powerful moves.
With an evocative hand-drawn art style and a hauntingly beautiful orchestral score, Eidolon’s Embrace proves that independent developers can challenge the genre’s giants.
Chrono Rift
A spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger, Chrono Rift blends classic time-travel mechanics with modern tactical RPG sensibilities. In this game, battles unfold on a dual-timeline grid, where players can position characters across different time periods to alter enemy behaviors and battlefield conditions.
The game’s Temporal Convergence System allows players to pull skills from different timelines, leading to fascinating combat possibilities. With multiple endings influenced by time-travel decisions, Chrono Rift is a must-play for fans of classic RPGs looking for a fresh spin on turn-based mechanics.
Fateborn: The Shattered Era
Inspired by XCOM and The Banner Saga, Fateborn introduces a permadeath system where fallen allies can return as spectral warriors with unique abilities. Each decision affects the overarching narrative, with a dynamic world that reacts to player choices. The combat, a blend of tactical grid-based warfare and dice-based ability rolls, ensures that no two encounters feel the same.
Its Norse-inspired setting, combined with weighty, consequence-driven storytelling, makes Fateborn an unforgettable journey for players who crave meaningful choices in their RPG experience.
The Future of Turn-Based RPGs
Turn-based RPGs are proving that their appeal is timeless. While fast-paced action RPGs continue to dominate mainstream gaming, these titles demonstrate that strategic depth, rich storytelling, and meaningful player agency remain pillars of the genre’s success. Whether you’re a fan of franchise juggernauts like Persona and Fire Emblem or excited to dive into innovative new experiences like Eidolon’s Embrace and Chrono Rift, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for turn-based RPG fans.
What are you most excited to play this year? Have any hidden gems on your radar? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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