Best Recent Sega JRPGs on PS3, PS4, and PS5

Sega is a publisher usually known for series like Sonic that focus on platforming and other genres. But Sega surprisingly has some excellent Japanese role-playing games worth checking out. Here are the best recent Sega JRPGs across PS3, PS4, and PS5 alike. Note that I am excluding Atlus JRPGs, even though the company is owned by Sega, since they deserve their own dedicated list.

Best Recent Sega JRPGs on the PS3

The PlayStation 3 didn’t receive a ton of JRPG support from Sega since most of it went to handhelds at the time like the DS, PSP, and 3DS. However, there are some standouts like Resonance of Fate. This game has one of the sleekest combat systems I’ve ever seen with a pretty intriguing story, too.

There are also games like Shining Resonance for a flawed but still solid enough, more traditional 3D action RPG feel. That said, the best PS3 Sega JRPG comes from the original Valkyria Chronicles. This alternative World War II-set game features a flexible tactical RPG movement system that is fun to use and an emotional storyline.

Best Recent Sega JRPGs on the PS4

The return of Phantasy Star Online happened with Phantasy Star Online 2. It is a free-to-play MMORPG on PS4 that is worth checking out for a bit. There is so much content to this game that you will not find anywhere else on this list. And there is always more on the way, especially when it comes to great cosmetics and crossover events.

Sakura Wars also made a grand return in the West on PS4 with the 2019 version. The mix of mech combat and visual novel dating sim-like storyline is quite unique. If you want a bit of romance amidst the dramatic story about women fighting for their lives in a war, this is one to check out.

Then there is my personal favorite on this console: Valkyria Chronicles 4. Not only is this the best in the series but it is up there as one of my favorite Sega JRPGs of all time. The combat is strategic, deep, and full of challenging missions and decisions. Plus, the story is one of the most underrated on the PS4 with its colorful cast of soldiers and gut-wrenching twists.

Best Recent Sega JRPGs on the PS5

Even though the PS5 is well into its lifecycle, there aren’t too many Sega JRPGs not from Atlus on it. The core games come from the Like a Dragon series, including the one that started a massive shift for the franchise in Yakuza: Like a Dragon. This game switched out the brawler gameplay from previous titles for Dragon Quest-inspired turn-based combat with jobs and more.

It also has one of my favorite stories in gaming, focusing on the outcasts of outcasts as they rise up to get revenge. Then there is also its sequel in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. It continues the story of new protagonist Ichiban while bringing back Kiryu for a fascinating trip in Hawaii. The story is a bit rougher around the edges at times, but the turn-based gameplay is refined and the content is exceptionally varied.

Let us know what your favorite SEGA RPG is below!