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Top 25 best Android JRPGs for phones and tablets

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Top 25 best Android JRPGs for phones and tablets

Taking a turn for the better with the list of best Android JRPGs

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Updated on October 17, 2023 - re-checked the list


You can find loads of great role-playing games (RPGs) on the Google Play Store, but we're focusing on a very specific strand of the genre in this feature: the Android JRPGs.

Japanese role-playing games have a totally unique flavour, influenced by The Land of the Rising Sun's singular culture. It's tough to pinpoint, but you know a JRPG when you see one - even if it hasn't actually been made in Japan or by Japanese developers.

Spiky haired amnesiac heroes, improbably dressed sidekicks, absurdly proportioned weapons, screen-filling bosses, esoteric turn-based battle systems, magical crystals, mopey teen party members, cute chibi graphics... all signifiers of the JRPG genre.

We're incredibly pleased to see the undisputed champs at Square Enix turning out one Android JRPG after another. And some of them are originals too!

You'll also find star turns from Capcom, Nintendo, and more.

Unsurprisingly, Square Enix makes up a sizeable proportion of the following list. But it's not the only name in town.

Here, then, is a list of 25 of the very best JRPGs on Android. Have we omitted your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.

Original list by Jon Mundy, updated by Ivan Spasojevic.

Click Here To View The List »

1
Final Fantasy IX

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PSP
Genre: Adventure, RPG
Find out more about Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX tends to suffer in the shade of the mighty Final Fantasy VII, but it's a thoroughly charming and impressively vast adventure. When it comes to the Android FF ports, we'd argue it's one of the best there are. The game is as good as ever, and although it might have some Android issues due to the latest update, it's still one of the longest-standing JRPGs.

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2
Dragon Quest VIII

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + 3DS
Genre: RPG
Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

If there's a more joyful JRPG on mobile than Dragon Quest VIII, we've yet to see it. From its verdant world to its stellar animation and voice cast, this is top-quality stuff.

The game feels good, plays exceptionally, and is going to deliver absolutely everything that one might expect from a title belonging to the genre.

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3
Chrono Trigger

Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + DS
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger remains one of the finest JRPGs ever made, with a dizzying time-traveling plot and excellent combat. In the visuals department, it's still pretty good, although there are plenty of other games much more enticing. However, the experience doesn't even come close to the one in this amazing Japanese RPG.

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4
Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS
Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition

It would be a gross insult to describe this as a port. Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition takes the bones of the console game and completely rebuilds it for mobile.

It's pretty different from all the other FF games, but a little bit of change is always good - especially when it is as well done as it is in this one.

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5
Chaos Rings 3

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PS Vita
Genre: Adventure, RPG
Find out more about Chaos Rings III
Chaos Rings III

Square Enix took time out from its usual JRPG port work to make Chaos Rings. This third entry is really rather good, with top-notch production values and an intriguing world to explore.

While this premium game is quite pricey, the experience is a one-of-a-kind one, featuring amazing anime 3D graphics that take you back to the good ol' CG animations.

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6
KonoSuba: Fantastic Days

Developer: Nexon
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Adventure, RPG
Find out more about KonoSuba: Fantastic Days
KonoSuba: Fantastic Days

A colourful anime JRPG with more than just a hint of freedom and feel-good about it, KonoSuba is originally a light novel that has been (very) cleverly adapted into a game. In KonoSuba: Fantastic Days you'll have a gacha system and all the other elements you might expect, but wrapped simply so everyone can enjoy it.

If you want to check out the game, don't forget to also read our KonoSuba: Fantastic Days tier list - it'll certainly come in handy!

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7
Honkai: Star Rail

Publisher: Hoyoverse
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Honkai: Star Rail
Honkai: Star Rail

Honkai Star Rail differentiates from the rest of the JRPGs on this list by being the only one set in space instead of the regular fantasy world. That being said, the environment and the artwork, in general, are real pieces of art, you'll be starstruck the first time you start the game.

This interstellar adventure will take you on the journey that each of us dreamed of when we were kids, exploring different worlds with our friends, and picking all kinds of troubles on the way. You'll encounter numerous exciting characters on the way and voice acting will make their appearance even more compelling and realistic. It's rare to have this quality of voice acting even on PC and console titles at this time and age, let alone in Android JRPG.

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8
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PSP
Genre: Action, RPG
Find out more about Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth

Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth is a port of one of Square Enix's stranger JRPGs, mixing side-scrolling gameplay with a fresh Norse mythology-inspired story.

It doesn't exactly scream JRPG at first glance, but the deep narrative, stunning FF-esque graphics and immersive stages make it all the rave.

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9
Secret of Mana

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Secret of Mana
Secret of Mana

Much beloved of the SNES generation, The Secret of Mana is a great little title that bridges the gap between Dragon Quest and Zelda with its peppy real-time combat and verdant world. Even though it was released back in 1993, it still stands as one of the beacons of quality and tells a fine story that even the tooth of time can't chip, let alone crumble.

Older players will feel right at home with the pixellated graphics and the cheerful 16-bit tunes playing in the background, and newer players might be interested in experiencing something from a different age.

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10
Genshin Impact

Developer: Hoyoverse
Publisher: Hoyoverse
Available on: iOS + Android + Switch
Genre: 3D, Action, Adventure
Find out more about Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact might be made by Chinese developer miHoYo, but its JRPG roots are on display for all to see. Mixing a rich Breath of the Wild-like world with modern gacha mechanics, it's easy to see why it's taken the world by storm.

We do have guides for each Genshin Impact character, but if you are eager to find out which are the best ones without reading too much, consult our Genshin Impact tier list. Of course, when you download the game, the first thing to do would be to redeem all of the Genshin codes because they'll get you some free stuff for an easier start!

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11
Monster Hunter Stories

Publisher: Capcom
Available on: iOS + 3DS
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Monster Hunter Stories
Monster Hunter Stories

This 3DS port takes a cuter, more Pokemon-inflect angle than other MH games, but it remains the absorbing action-RPG everyone seems to love right now. It's got a great story behind, the characters and combat feel right, and that's enough to land it a spot on this list.

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12
Langrisser Mobile

Publisher: Zlongame
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Langrisser Mobile
Langrisser Mobile

This strategy JPRG features chunky maps, a huge variety of flicky-haired characters, classic weapon triangle combat, and stellar visuals. You'll almost definitely fall for it the moment you start playing because its strategic turn-based combat cleverly combines with the vast collection of characters.

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13
Evertale

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Evertale
Evertale

Evertale has been one of the most popular titles for a few years now. In a cliche story, you'll collect various characters and monsters and use them as companions on a quest to remove the ancient curse. That noble quest will lead you across the continent, through various cities, forests and dungeons, as there are over 180 characters that you can collect! They can't all fit in one small box, right? The world is completely open, and this freedom of choice is what sets it apart from most of the similar games in the genre. It's definitely one of the best JRPGs on Android at the moment.

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14
Final Fantasy VII

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + 3DS
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII continues to wow with its quirky characters, compelling plot, and formidably deep combat. This isn't the best port, but the game's brilliance still shines through. This is the third mention of a FF game on the list, but as you may well know, it's a title that cannot be overlooked.

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15
Dragon Quest Tact

Developer: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG, Strategy
Find out more about Dragon Quest Tact
Dragon Quest Tact

Despite the bright, cute art style common to the series, Dragon Quest Tact is a fully-fledged tactical RPG with a decent story, a compelling turn-based combat system, and bags full of content.

You'll collect monsters and assemble a powerful team using your best ones, and learning which ones to attack with first is key. There are many layers to this game, although it looks fairly simple at first glance. That makes it one of the best Android JRPGs even years after its original release.

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16
Dragon Quest V

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Retro, RPG
Find out more about Dragon Quest V
Dragon Quest V

A fantastic port of one of the all-time great JRPGs, Dragon Quest V is a true old-school classic. From the graphics to character design and narrative, everything feels retro and, frankly, quite innocent when it comes to this game.

If you are looking for one of the hidden gems of the genre, make sure you give this one a try. You might end up loving it more than some of the more contemporary releases.

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17
Romancing SaGa Re;UniverSe

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Romancing SaGa Re;UniverSe
Romancing SaGa Re;UniverSe

Something of a lost classic, this 1995 SNES game had never been released in the West until now. Featuring eight selectable perspectives and classic turn-based combat, this new version adds a new dungeon to explore, new scenarios, and a new game+ function. All these elements might not seem like much (considering all the technologically advanced creations that have been released lately), but you'd be surprised just how nostalgic and well-done they'll prove to be.

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18
Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2

Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2

The game that takes the fairly simple concept and brings it up-to-date in a very unique and tactical way, Dx2 captivates with a multitude of characters, unique mechanics, and some truly wonderful CG graphics.

It's one of those modern Android JRPGs that takes you down the streets of modern Tokyo and into the immersive world within the game. By our books, it's a must-play!

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19
Tower of Fantasy

Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: Action, RPG
Find out more about Tower of Fantasy
Tower of Fantasy

The next title is a beautiful JRPG with cute and powerful characters and many interesting weapons. Tower of Fantasy features an anime style with a huge open world full of adventures. It has a dynamic combat system, epic enemies, and exciting events. The graphics are good, and the music is fantastic.

To make your start easier, use some of the Tower of Fantasy codes for gold and other free gifts. Also, we created a Tower of Fantasy tier list to show you which characters are the best in the game!

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20
Disgaea 1 Complete

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG, Strategy
Find out more about Disgaea 1 Complete
Disgaea 1 Complete

A sharp remaster of one of the finest JRPGs of the PS2 era, Digaea is a formidably deep isometric strategy experience with a quirky storyline.

Featuring a nuanced isometric turn-based combat system and a wacky world where every new piece of equipment is a new battlefield, Disgaea is one of a kind.

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21
Princess Connect! Re:Dive

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Princess Connect! Re:Dive
Princess Connect! Re:Dive

This JRPG takes the much-familiar gacha mechanics into an adorable setting, filled with strategic battles, adorable stages, animations, and much much more. The story will keep you entertained, and if you want the cherry on top - it's voiced by some of the most popular VAs in Japan.

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22
Another Eden

Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Another Eden
Another Eden

Another Eden has considerable pedigree, coming as it does from JRPG legend Masato Kato (who wrote Chrono Trigger and Xenogears). It's a spiritual successor to the former, though it incorporates mobile-friendly gacha mechanics.

There are so many reasons why this turn-based RPG is so amazing, but one of the most significant ones has to be the vast collection of main and side quests and collectables. Another Eden tier list of every character is here to help you in case you decide to play this one!

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23
Brave Nine

Publisher: NEOWIZ Games Corp
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Brave Nine
Brave Nine

This is another JRPG that takes the typical gacha mechanics and implements them into a game so well, that you can almost overlook the rates - almost. Brave Nine is one super-alluring title, with turn-based battles and a collection of characters to fill an entire book. It's really great, and the ever-changing events and stages make it all the more exciting.

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24
LAST CLOUDIA

Publisher: AIDIS
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: RPG
Find out more about LAST CLOUDIA
LAST CLOUDIA

A beautiful fantasy RPG with massive Japanese influence, Last Cloudia is one of the very few games that stood the test of time and came victorious - it's one game that you should definitely check out if you haven't yet, because its story alone is worth it. Now if we add the actual gameplay, it's something else entirely.

Don't forget to also read our Last Cloudia tier list of all the best heroes in the game.

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25
Idola Phantasy Star Saga

Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Idola Phantasy Star Saga
Idola Phantasy Star Saga

A mobile-focused, gacha-fuelled spin on Sega's classic JRPG series, Idola: Phantasy Star Saga is all big swooshy 2D anime graphics and turn-based spectacle, with the franchise's patented swords-'n'-sci-fi aesthetic. JRPG purists need not apply, but the younger and more casual crowd might just dig it.

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Ivan Spasojevic
Ivan Spasojevic
When I was 6 y/o, my gaming journey began on Amiga 600. That’s where the Worms, The Secret of Monkey Island, Lemmings and many other legendary games made their first appearance. People say: “you can’t find games like that anymore”, but I beg to differ. Anyway, you can still see the same passion and zoning out whenever I’m doing something I like, including my lifelong passion – gaming. I’m currently doing a different line of work, SEO Management and writing, but when the time allows I get into the games I love and spend some peaceful hours. If friends are playing with me, it’s even merrier.