Feature: Dissecting the Japanese RPG: What's next? Subscribe to this RSS feed
Why do we love Japanese RPGs so? We've pinpointed the common threads that keep the popularity in the stratosphere and what needs to be done to keep it that way in the new gen.
It is popular belief that role-playing is the most popular genre in the gaming business. While some argue that FPSes are the most widely loved games, the truth of the matter is, role-playing in general has been subjected to far more experimentation and polishing than any other genre in the industry.
Japanese role-playing games, in particular, emphasize on a broader set of elements than their Western brethren that contribute to their widespread appeal. Rarely will you come across a JRPG that revolves solely around hacking and slashing. Linear gameplay, immersive storylines, impressive lengthy cinematics, amazing soundtracks ... it can be fairly hard to come up with a concrete answer to why we revere games like Final Fantasy VI, VII and X. (Although, I'm rather partial to VIII myself)
Let's go over some of the more definitive features shared by several role-playing games that were at their peak during the PS2 era:
Cinematics: One would think that directing a video game cinematic wouldn't be much different from directing a movie. However, unless you're playing through one of the XenoSaga games, FMVs are usually between 2 - 5 minutes in length. Now, you're probably thinking, "Hey, a two minute game cinematic? I could do that!"
But it isn't quite that simple. Think about it. Within those two minutes, you have to create an incredibly detailed cinematic with high-res models, and play out a scene that is entertaining to the player or emotionally involving while ensuring that it furthers the plot of the game in a significant way at the same time. You also have to ensure that the cinematic doesn't interfere with the "flow" of the game in any way and that it adheres to the style of the in-game art.
Fortunately, developers have done a bang up job so far, and JRPG cinematics are among the best of the best in terms of quality and appeal. Companies like Square Enix are now known for their breathtaking and emotionally stirring FMVs.
Soundtracks: It shouldn't come as any surprise to role-playing fans that part of the reason Final Fantasy games are so revered is because of their soundtracks. Names like Nobuo Uematsu, Yoko Kanno and Yuki Kajiura are well-known in both the anime and games industries. However, not everyone is a Nobuo Uematsu, which means not all games can boast soundtracks that can hold up against the better Final Fantasy OSTs.
However, to their credit, most JRPG developers have managed to ensure that the music in their games is at the very least appropriate, if not appealing. Putting aside the FFs, games like Kingdom Hearts, XenoSaga, The Legend of Zelda and Super Robot Taisen come to mind. Music helps set up the mood for an entire level or event in a game, and can no longer be taken lightly by anyone hoping to create an involving game experience.
Characters: In role-playing, this is what it boils down to. An RPG could boast amazing art, dazzling graphics and visual effects, some of the best music heard in a game and compelling gameplay mechanics, but unless the characters the game revolves around appeal to you, chances are you're not going to stick with the title for very long.
From the silent, lonely types like Cloud and Squall to arrogant bastards like Tidus. From the under-confident kids like Link and Sora to the adrenaline-loving Balthier and Vaan. Role-playing games have always been blessed with the most unique characters the games industry has to offer. Often, a character will grown and develop alongside the story, making the player's connection to him that much more intense. Whether haunted by a hidden, troubled past or thrown from a carefree, joyful life to a battlefield plagued with death and loss, RPG protagonists are never quite what they initially seem.
Antagonists are usually equally intriguing. Sometimes, you'll find yourself relating to the bad guy more than you do to the good guys. I mean, really; how many people would actually pick Cloud over Sephiroth?
