This video definitely took a lot of work, I'm sure. Really appreciate your love for rpgs and just video games in general. I had my notebook out, making sure I wrote down anything that needs to be added to my list. Thank you for doing what you do!
Hey man dont listen to these replies. that man appreciates all of us and does this out of his own passion, love, and enjoyment. you never know what someone is going thru or how busy one is especially at his age. you a real one for this donation out of ur kindness
@AppleSauceYo Believe me, I'm definitely not. The thanks come in the form of more content and all the previous content, of which I've been watching for years. I don't personally do nice things for recognition, so, in my opinion, money is well spent. I look forward to the next video. 😃
@@mobileunclegaming591 it's so annoying seeing these cynical comments. I'm not sure what you do for a living, but people who work hard, especially in creative fields, often need to walk away after completing a labor intensive project. It's only been a few days. It's summer and a holiday (Canada Day). Johnny is probably spending time with his family, which is something he probably struggled to do while investing many hours in this video. People often turn off emails and notifications after a job well done. Sometimes that means you can't get their attention, even if you're trying to praise their work! He doesn't owe a pat on the head to anyone.
There is not a single frame you could show from Chrono Trigger that won't bring joy to anyone who has played Chrono Trigger. That game truly was a masterpiece.
What an absolute treat it is to take a break from a chaotic work week to relive a bit of my childhood and reminisce about the past. Thank you, Johnny, for giving me something to look forward to!
@wil4485 I guess I totally gave my age away after saying I've played beaten and owned , Y's book 1&2 on PC Engine CD ROM..I was NOT QUITE a teen lol I'll say that much 1990...lol 89' "ish" lol
Since you asked, Paper Mario the Thousand Year Door comes to my mind as my favorite RPG that unfortunately wasn't featured on this list but I completely understand. Everyone has their own taste and preferences and it was a joy and pleasure to see and listen to yours Johnny.
This is the first video of yours I’ve ever seen. And it’s really nice to come across folks who are just as passionate about these kind of games as I am.
So glad this is the mysterious project you were working on. I don’t think there’s a better person qualified to talk about the top RPG’s over the decades!
I’ve got to say-I grew up during the N64 and GameCube era of video games. Then, school and life got in the way a bit. But starting again with the switch, I have developed that love for video games again. In recent years, I have discovered older games like Super Metroid, Earthbound, Mario RPG, the Castlevania series, A Link to the Past, Super Mario World, and Street Fighter 2. I’ve also played some newer titles like Triangle Strategy, Dragon Quest 11, Metroid Dread, Mario Odyssey, Mario Wonder, and Hallow Knight. This channel has introduced to many of the titles mentioned above. So I’m always stoked to hear your opinion on games you love!
I remember buying Phantasy Star IV with my dad in the early 90s. It cost $99 at Toys R Us (in the states). Insane prices for 1993, but remember my dad mentioning it had a bunch of special chips, and was HUGE game.
Yeah, that is definitely pricy, but the game takes like 25 hours to play through, which is huge considering many games only took a couple of hours back then, so it was a great value when you consider that.
@@dirtyfrench2926 too funny. Mystic Quest was my first proper turn based rpg. I had played Zelda and Zelda 3 before it but MQ holds a special place in my heart.
Legend of Legaia is my all time favorite RPG. The fighting mechanics and combos were so awesome. The narrative of humans being corrupted by the mist and becoming monsters is prescient, especially in this day and age.
So much respect you mentioned every single game I loved playing, growing up. Even Grandia 2. I used video games to escape the abuse and hard times that jrpgs and rpg games have taken me away from. Legend of dragoon needs a remaster and a sequel, as it holds a special place in my heart.
I remember that it had pretty poor reviews in EGM back in the day, so I never gave it a try, but over the years, I've seen many hardcore RPG enthusiasts speak fondly about it. Maybe one day I'll get to try it.
LoD is an all time classic. Also was about to be enraged not seeing suikoden on the list until the very end, as the first 2 games are my fav jrpgs of all time and honestly flat out better games than the early final fantasy titles that they get compared to.
Lufia 2 & Vagrant Story are highly underrated and never mentioned anywhere. Secret of Evermore is definitely a hidden gem and I'm so glad he mentioned Legend of Dragoon. It's a fantastic game that definitely needs a remaster
@@ennuiarduous6446 Hi. The boon in this game is that you can make your own challenges by not using some of the game mechanics that you dont prefer much. So it is very re-playable.
Awesome RPG video, Johnny. In a perfect world, your channel would have over 10 million subs from all the great content HCG has provided us over the years. Thank you!!!
I’ll say Johnny you’re channel is the reason I found a love for RPG’s Whether you're talking about playing Phantasy Star for the first time or discussing your love for an obscure series, it’s always a pleasure to hear about whatever topic you discuss Hearing your passion for this specific genre opened my eyes to a world of games I never knew existed when I was younger.
@@supadrew932 EB's Peanuts/SouthPark vibe remains so unique to the genre for me. It was my first COVID 2020 lockdown first time playthrough & I love its battle screen/HP counter.
This was an amazing video. Excellent work on this, Johnny. All 50 of your picks were solid ones and I know that even the ones I have not played were still considered great games. It was a longer video but it could have been much longer and still held my interest. For my Top 50, I would include Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Persona 4 Golden, Final Fantasy Tactics, the Mass Effect Trilogy, The Legend of Heroes Trails of Cold Steel saga, Baldur's Gate 3, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Dragon Age Origins, Cyberpunk 2077, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. If Castlevania: Symphony of the Night were to be considered an RPG, I would include that game as well.
My childhood just flashed before my eyes. My love for RPG's started with Final Fatansy 2(4) and then I was hooked! I went Final Fantasy 3, Final Fantasy Mystic quest, Chrono trigger, Secret of Evermore, Secret of Mana and so many more! Legend of Dragoon was amazing, what a story, and I was a hugre fan of Lunar, traded my genesis and all games for the system and the game. Then went after the Sega Saturn so I could get to play Dragon Force on the system! I then imported a few games on the playstation 1, Xenogears, Final Fantasy Tactics, and Final Fantasy 7. Played and beat them all with help of online fan translation manuals! So many amazing games you covered and so many I have yet to try!
This video could not have come out at a better time for me! I'm sick currently, so when I saw that John has posted over an hour long video, I made myself breakfast and watched this while laying in bed. I can honestly say I'm feeling a little better now, thank you Johnny! (And greetings from Mexico!)
I'm sorry Witcher 3 is literally the most overhyped game ever. Its combat is terrible, Geralt is atypical loner cookie cutter uninteresting bounty hunter, and I just can't fathom how ppl like that game to this day
Been a fan for many years and almost shed a tear because I feel this is such a wonderful video and momentous project for your channel! It brought me back and reminded me why I love RPGS so much! Loved every second of it 😊
Johnny, this is my 2nd watch through of this video and i feel the need to comment on how much i love this video. Theres a few videos that i watch a couple times a year of yours, mainly the Christmas specials. I love the RPG genre and it has brough alot of happiness to my life throughout the years. I recently have gotten alot of PS1 RPGs mainly because i value your opinion on games alot as it seems we have the same taste in games. I loved going through memory lane with this video with you going through all of the old final fantasies and what not. Chrono trigger would have to be one of the tops for me and i think a replay is needed on it. I just wanted you to know how much i enjoyed this video and how much i love the channel. Thank you so much for continuing to put out videos :D
Crono Cross-Another World is my alarm to wake up. The softness and serenity wakes me up and without jolting me awake. It comes through a speaker system set up in the room. The violin echoes off each wall and feels like the music is wrapping around me and rejuvenating my brain.
Can I just say how genuinely HAPPY this video made me? Like thinking back to the first time I stepped into all of these worlds and stories and amazing characters even the artwork, everything. You just reminded me of what I’ve loved about RPG’s from the beginning and what continues to thrill me about them. This was an amazing list. Thank you 🙏🏿 😌
Lost odyssey is for sale on the xbox market and often goes on sale for about 7$ Johnnys right this game is an incredible RPG. if you own an xbox you owe it to yourself to play this game
@@devan_danger playing Lost Odyssey on my series X w original disc(s)..w a 2024 hdmi 2.1 up to 144hz tv..w EVERY bell & whistle that either console sole can toss at it was like playing a remaster was amazing ✌️✌️✌️
Just played it for the first time last year. It was such a great story and game especially for being on the 360 which was light on JRPGS to have such a amazing game.
@@devan_danger I JUST SAW a really decent copy 14$ at a small non franchise retro gaming store in my area ..and w 3 series X's and 2 flagship TV's 2024'(I have kids lol )..it's almost like playing a remaster 👍✌️✌️✌️
My personal favorite RPGs I've played throughout my life: • Persona 5 Royal, Chrono Trigger, Bloodborne, FF7, FF9, Earthbound, Persona 4 Golden, Breath Of Fire 3, Omori, Secret Of Mana, Disco Elysium, Kingdom Hearts 1&2, Undertale, The Legend Of Dragoon, Dark Souls Trilogy, Mother 3, Persona 3, Wild Arms, Legend Of Legaia, Mass Effect Trilogy, Nier: Automata, Star Ocean: The Second Story, The Walking Dead, The Witcher 3 •
Thanks for giving all the xeno games Justice! Absolutely loved your list! Me and my Girlfriend recently started playing dragon’s crown because of your videos ❤
Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete holds a special place in my heart. I played it while in high school and now I purchased an Anbernic specifically to play it again.
Oh man.. 1989, 10yrs old and getting a nes for my birthday.. I rip everything open, hook it up... my first game..... dragon warrior..and I hated it. My dad told me to give it a shot and try it out... and I got sucked in, so many fond memories playing that game with friends.. to this day, if I'm in a game store, and I see that cart, I can't help but smile.
Great video, as always! Love hearing about others who loved Earthbound at the time. I remember being 12 years old and seeing the Earthbound preview in nintendo power, and it blew me away. The clay art style and the modern setting just looked so cool and different. I must have read that issue dozens of times. I saved up all my money and bought it at release. Playing it was everything I had hoped it would be, and more. I even took the strategy guide to school in my backpack every day to read during breaks! Which I kinda regret now, as its falling apart, lol. So many happy memories of that game and playing it with my brothers and friends. I don't think I could ever sell my copy, it just means to much to me. 😁
I've just started playing Final Fantasy VII for the first time ever (the ps1 version). Watching this video has made me realise that I've definitely mkssed out on so many great games over the years.
This is such a fantastic video! I loved every minute of reminiscing on all these awesome games that hold so much weight in my gaming journey as well. The art and music alone for so many of these games just blow me away even still.
Thank you Johnny!! I have been watching you for many years and it was so great to hear you finally bring up The Legend of Dragoon. It was the first RPG I ever got into when I was younger and is one of my favorite games of all time!
Objectively, I think the original Baldurs Gate cycle (1,2 and Throne of Bhaal) are my personal favorite RPGs. There's games with better writing, better characters, better graphics etc, but BG has the complete package in my book. That said, there is one story and title I always bring up when it comes to best RPGs: the Neverwinter Nights 2 expansion Storm of Zehir. People raise their eyebrows at this, and I completely understand why. The reason it's so close to my heart is purely personal. You see, I have a party of D&D adventurers that I've been writing stories about for most of my life, but because of some exotic character races and class conbinations I had never been able to play all of them in the same party in a video game... until SOZ. Thanks to a selection of mods, I was able to play all of them, in the same party, and as the races and classes they were supposed to be for the first time. It was a special experience for me, and one I'll always cherish.
BG2 is also very high in my list. I actually never played Neverwinter Nights because I get put off by transition to top down 3D. But I probably should play NWN2, it has to be a lot of dedication cuz I work 6 days a week, I'm mainly afraid of the amount of hours required. I also just bought Hogwarts Legacy on sale. I have to be selective about what to spend my time on.
Oh man thanks for reminding me about those legendary games and a special shout-out to divinity original sin 2, I was utterly entranced going through that game and can't wait to get round to BG3. Larion are the GOAT's
1:04:15 *The Legend Of Dragoon* looks so good I pray they remake it or remaster it someday. I will have to check out 57:50 *Parasite Eve 1 and 2* so thanks man and hope it gets a remake or remaster one day. Also I hope 38:14 *Lost Odyssey* gets a remake or remaster as well because it looks beautiful.
Played lost oddessy at least 4 times all the way through. It was the last old school turn based game made that i enjoyed and looked incredible at the time.
Chronocross was good graphically and the music was great. But the biggest issue was there was so many characters i had trouble relating. Xenogears first disc was the best rpg ever. Try it if you don’t believe. Especially if you are a mechanic maniac.
For my list I’d definitely have Final Fantasy Tactics, Ogre Battle 64, Golden Sun, and Valkyria Chronicles. But glad to see Star Ocean and Suikoden on the list.
I haven’t played all the games on your list. But the ones I did… your reactions and memories are almost exactly like mine! Phantasy Star(s), Y’s, Arcadia, Oblivion, KOTOR, Lost Odyssey etc. I am right there with you! What awesome memories. Thank you!
It took me a couple of days to finish this video. It is amazing how much you know, really know this RPGS. You can tell he really played and finished all those games. AWESOME video. Thank you so much for sharing it.
"I wish I could do 50..." We're not stopping you. We're ALL here for that. I'd watch it. Three times. We all love you Cheers, mate. Maybe we can see Mrs. HCG's list. And 29 years from now... HCG Jr's list!!!
Your knowledge and passion for RPG/JRPGs are second to none. I always look forward to your videos and they are usually great company when I am cooking a Sunday roast! You are a bright and shinning light and a voice I have come to rely on when it comes to game recommendations. You've never steered me wrong to this day! Massive thank you
Phantasy Star, Shining Force, Suikoden, Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Shin Megami Tensei, Persona, Secret of Mana, Crusader of Centy, Beyond Oasis are some of the RPGs off the top of my head that I love since they were released. ❤☘⚔🐉
@@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters it’s such a minor element though. It only has to do with your life and magic and it’s treated as an an item drop, if I recall correctly. It’s as much an rpg as the legend of Zelda.
I few mentions that are my all time favorites: Shenmue 1 & 2 Vagrant Story Koudelka Valkyrie Profile!!! Vagrant Story and Valkyrie Profile constantly get snubbed over the years along with Koudelka.
@@philbarton2832 There is conflicted ideas about Shenmue being an RPG, I classify it as both RPG & a action adventure game. It has a balance of both genres combined together.
@@amandamedina2533 Really? There's no puzzles to solve, there's no turn based combat, there's no levelling up or any substantial progression of your characters strength so I'd be interested in how it's classified as an RPG. I'd say it has more fighting game mechanics than RPG with it's obvious virtua fighter similarities with the combat but overall it fits more into the narrative adventure game genre surely
@@philbarton2832 Shenmue did have puzzles just different types of puzzles like solving a riddle or solving a mystery regarding an NPC. You could upgrade Ryu’s combat styles by practicing his Judo or obtaining new scrolls that allowed him to perform new move during combat. So there are RPG elements incorporated into the game just low key and unlike most RPG’s you don’t have numbers that indicate to you the characters HP level and Attack power, but regardless it’s still incorporated into the game in a low key way. Suzuki’s vision was to make the game more immersive, almost as if you were playing an interactive movie. You didn’t just fight in this game, there were plenty of other things to do such as get a job, go to the arcade, eat food at a local restaurant etc.
@@amandamedina2533 Yeah I can see those elements are kinda RPG like, I guess because they're so minimal compared to the narrative and life sim type stuff I more lean on the narrative adventure description. The RPG genre is so fluid nowadays and hard to nail down but to me and RPG is a game with heavy character progression in terms of leveling up character stats/gear but I understand that others defy them with other elements. Either way I can confidently say that shenmue 1+2 are brilliant videogames ✌️
I have been a huge fan of yours for a couple of years. I love the stories you share about these games you love. You have opened my eyes to many games I would not have traditionally played! I hope to try even more games you have to share! Knights of the old republic is one of the epic RPG's I first played when I was about 12!
I agree, I got it when it came out and didn't make it that far, just didn't like it all that much, then many years later I tried again and it is one of my favorite PS RPGs..
FF9 was done dirty. It released at the same time as the PS2 but only on original PlayStation. That caused it to be severely under appreciated. It is absolutely a top notch RPG even by golden age standards.
It really isn't. Its overrated if anything. Underplayed, perhaps. Trails fans are eclipsed by many much larger franchises, but go anywhere online and it feels like everyone of them voices their opinion constantly.
@@brianwright9215 Sky 1, Cold Steel 1, the original Legend of Heroes on PC Engine CD and Nayuta. Probably won't play more until the Remaster/Remake of the Sky Trilogy releases (or somehow a Legend of Heroes 2 fan translation drops), but I still own all of Sky/Cold Steel Azure/Zero and Reverie. Have daybreak preordered too.
@@iCABALi How dare fans on things voice their support of it? It's actually overrated? Like really? That's your the best dumb ass response to Trails is underrated you can come up with?
60min in and no mention to Suikoden! I was about to have a heart attack! Great video man! Grats! My first passion was Phantasy Star I on sms…. I can’t get enough of it…. I still play it once a year! How I wish we get a PS5….
Amazing episode, Johnny! One JRPG I never see mentioned that’s a favorite of mine is Defenders of Oasis on the Game Gear. Man, that game takes me back!
Hearing you speak about your experience growing up playing these beloved classic RPGs just makes me happy and while i am super much younger than you it feels surreal hearing an actual person go and buy Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest games Day 1! I would have loved to have been alive during those times! But in the end we both share our love/passion for these games!
Loved this vid man. Been a fan of your channel for a good while. Kingdom Hearts was my first jrpg. Absolutely loved that series. It was definitely my gateway into jrpgs and anime. I also love the YS series and got into all of Falcom’s amazing games because of it.
I love your passion for the same type of games I love and have enjoyed. Thanks for this video, reminds me of all the sweet memories I have of me and my older late older brother....miss him and those times.
I'm a person who's usually very critical of entertainment but I really appreciate this channel. I want to be more positive and focus on the games I love instead. What a great inspiration!
A 75 minute HCG video?! I am absolutely going to love watching this, thanks Johnny!
and no mention of FF8. Unsubbed! j/k
I'm gonna listen to this at work a hundred times!!!!
Yes pls:))
Right? Amazing 💯
@@CheeseshredderAre you kidding? Gr ow ⬆️
This video definitely took a lot of work, I'm sure. Really appreciate your love for rpgs and just video games in general. I had my notebook out, making sure I wrote down anything that needs to be added to my list. Thank you for doing what you do!
Hey man dont listen to these replies. that man appreciates all of us and does this out of his own passion, love, and enjoyment. you never know what someone is going thru or how busy one is especially at his age. you a real one for this donation out of ur kindness
@AppleSauceYo Believe me, I'm definitely not. The thanks come in the form of more content and all the previous content, of which I've been watching for years. I don't personally do nice things for recognition, so, in my opinion, money is well spent. I look forward to the next video. 😃
@@gggtvjason exactly, we need people to understand that and humble down
@@mobileunclegaming591 it's so annoying seeing these cynical comments. I'm not sure what you do for a living, but people who work hard, especially in creative fields, often need to walk away after completing a labor intensive project. It's only been a few days. It's summer and a holiday (Canada Day). Johnny is probably spending time with his family, which is something he probably struggled to do while investing many hours in this video. People often turn off emails and notifications after a job well done. Sometimes that means you can't get their attention, even if you're trying to praise their work! He doesn't owe a pat on the head to anyone.
@@Troll_Ha 😆 hahaha 😆
This will be one of those classic videos I'll just revisit and have in the background while I'm working.
Watching it while working as we speak 👌🏿
So glad Legend of Dragoon was on your list. Fantastic list btw. I can’t wait to try the ones I haven’t played before after this video
There is not a single frame you could show from Chrono Trigger that won't bring joy to anyone who has played Chrono Trigger. That game truly was a masterpiece.
What an absolute treat it is to take a break from a chaotic work week to relive a bit of my childhood and reminisce about the past. Thank you, Johnny, for giving me something to look forward to!
@wil4485 as a "40 something" lifetime gamer I feel u ✌️✌️✌️
@wil4485 I guess I totally gave my age away after saying I've played beaten and owned , Y's book 1&2 on PC Engine CD ROM..I was NOT QUITE a teen lol I'll say that much 1990...lol 89' "ish" lol
Golden sun on the GBA is one of my fav RPGS of all time.
golden sun was a amazing game I could def see it making the cut. I still need to play the next one in the series.
They recently added it to switch online! both of them
Definitely on my list as well! I have played all of them, it's a shame that the series is just laying dormant. I am hoping for a new game someday
Yup super fun rpgs, love the graphics! Have all 3 cib minty
Golden sun is goated. My childhood right there
I only found this channel about a year ago but I think it’s become my favorite gaming channel on TH-cam. You’re such a genuine guy
Since you asked, Paper Mario the Thousand Year Door comes to my mind as my favorite RPG that unfortunately wasn't featured on this list but I completely understand. Everyone has their own taste and preferences and it was a joy and pleasure to see and listen to yours Johnny.
This is the first video of yours I’ve ever seen. And it’s really nice to come across folks who are just as passionate about these kind of games as I am.
So glad this is the mysterious project you were working on. I don’t think there’s a better person qualified to talk about the top RPG’s over the decades!
I’ve got to say-I grew up during the N64 and GameCube era of video games. Then, school and life got in the way a bit. But starting again with the switch, I have developed that love for video games again. In recent years, I have discovered older games like Super Metroid, Earthbound, Mario RPG, the Castlevania series, A Link to the Past, Super Mario World, and Street Fighter 2.
I’ve also played some newer titles like Triangle Strategy, Dragon Quest 11, Metroid Dread, Mario Odyssey, Mario Wonder, and Hallow Knight.
This channel has introduced to many of the titles mentioned above. So I’m always stoked to hear your opinion on games you love!
I remember buying Phantasy Star IV with my dad in the early 90s. It cost $99 at Toys R Us (in the states). Insane prices for 1993, but remember my dad mentioning it had a bunch of special chips, and was HUGE game.
It was a 24 meg cart and had battery backup, they are the only special things about it.
Yeah, that is definitely pricy, but the game takes like 25 hours to play through, which is huge considering many games only took a couple of hours back then, so it was a great value when you consider that.
@me_mate_argyle u brought back memories I have a C.I.B Phantasy Star 2 & 3 in 1991 OG Sega genesis grid box ...never did get 4....✌️✌️✌️
PS4 was the very first RPG I played back when I was 13. I followed that up with FF Mystic Quest which was a dud and then another banger with FF6.
@@dirtyfrench2926 too funny. Mystic Quest was my first proper turn based rpg. I had played Zelda and Zelda 3 before it but MQ holds a special place in my heart.
Legend of Legaia is my all time favorite RPG. The fighting mechanics and combos were so awesome. The narrative of humans being corrupted by the mist and becoming monsters is prescient, especially in this day and age.
Loved that game! I rented it from the video store so many times. Never completed it but excited to go back and finish it on an emulator
So much respect you mentioned every single game I loved playing, growing up. Even Grandia 2. I used video games to escape the abuse and hard times that jrpgs and rpg games have taken me away from. Legend of dragoon needs a remaster and a sequel, as it holds a special place in my heart.
Legend of Dragoon, fave RPG of all time. So happy you put this in.
I remember that it had pretty poor reviews in EGM back in the day, so I never gave it a try, but over the years, I've seen many hardcore RPG enthusiasts speak fondly about it. Maybe one day I'll get to try it.
Better than ffvii
LoD is an all time classic.
Also was about to be enraged not seeing suikoden on the list until the very end, as the first 2 games are my fav jrpgs of all time and honestly flat out better games than the early final fantasy titles that they get compared to.
LoD is one of my favorite games of all time, let alone top RPG. The story building, cinematics, music, dam. Just an absolutely fantastic experience.
Lufia 2 & Vagrant Story are highly underrated and never mentioned anywhere. Secret of Evermore is definitely a hidden gem and I'm so glad he mentioned Legend of Dragoon. It's a fantastic game that definitely needs a remaster
Oh, I'd always perceive Vagrant Story as way overrated ;)
Lufia 2 is one of my favorites. Such a great game. Love the puzzles and characters. Especially DEKAR!
Vagrant Story is amazing!!
@@ennuiarduous6446 Hi. The boon in this game is that you can make your own challenges by not using some of the game mechanics that you dont prefer much. So it is very re-playable.
Lufia 2 is my all time favorite. The capsule monsters hidden evolution and the secret dungeon probably burned an entire summer of my youth completing.
Awesome RPG video, Johnny. In a perfect world, your channel would have over 10 million subs from all the great content HCG has provided us over the years. Thank you!!!
Agreed!
I’ll say Johnny you’re channel is the reason I found a love for RPG’s
Whether you're talking about playing Phantasy Star for the first time or discussing your love for an obscure series, it’s always a pleasure to hear about whatever topic you discuss
Hearing your passion for this specific genre opened my eyes to a world of games I never knew existed when I was younger.
Breath of fire 3 is my favorite Breath of fire along with part 4, and I'm glad you put in Chrono Cross, it's amazing, great video.
You could dang near make an entire top 50 list with the ps1/ps2 alone
Yes. But you’d HAVE to add Xenoblade 1-3 lol
With the Sega Master System alone tbh
lol
SNES..?
@@domymbd is great but ps1/ps2 has a lot more tbh
@@kaetceXenoblade is overrated as hell
1.DQIV...2.Earthbound...3.Chrono Trigger...4.FFVI...5.Secret of Mana
Are you in my brain?!
All games from a single 5-year window. Not saying it is a bad list but there have been a lot of great games since 1995.
@@MrDernagonThat window was peak gaming, though. Not saying newer games are bad, but damn we had it good back then.
Guys whats so special about Earthbound that it can better then Chrono Trigger ?
@@supadrew932 EB's Peanuts/SouthPark vibe remains so unique to the genre for me. It was my first COVID 2020 lockdown first time playthrough & I love its battle screen/HP counter.
Over an hour breaking down the greatest RPG's of all time? Can't wait to dive into this video later
You love to see it
Same hope my favorite makes the cut
I cherish the time I spent with Dragon Warrior. It actually came free with a subscription to Nintendo Power.
This was an amazing video. Excellent work on this, Johnny. All 50 of your picks were solid ones and I know that even the ones I have not played were still considered great games. It was a longer video but it could have been much longer and still held my interest.
For my Top 50, I would include Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Persona 4 Golden, Final Fantasy Tactics, the Mass Effect Trilogy, The Legend of Heroes Trails of Cold Steel saga, Baldur's Gate 3, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Dragon Age Origins, Cyberpunk 2077, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. If Castlevania: Symphony of the Night were to be considered an RPG, I would include that game as well.
My childhood just flashed before my eyes. My love for RPG's started with Final Fatansy 2(4) and then I was hooked! I went Final Fantasy 3, Final Fantasy Mystic quest, Chrono trigger, Secret of Evermore, Secret of Mana and so many more! Legend of Dragoon was amazing, what a story, and I was a hugre fan of Lunar, traded my genesis and all games for the system and the game. Then went after the Sega Saturn so I could get to play Dragon Force on the system! I then imported a few games on the playstation 1, Xenogears, Final Fantasy Tactics, and Final Fantasy 7. Played and beat them all with help of online fan translation manuals! So many amazing games you covered and so many I have yet to try!
This video could not have come out at a better time for me! I'm sick currently, so when I saw that John has posted over an hour long video, I made myself breakfast and watched this while laying in bed. I can honestly say I'm feeling a little better now, thank you Johnny! (And greetings from Mexico!)
Great list, but The Witcher 3 is sorely missed. My favorite game of all time
I guess I really need to give this one another go / fair shake.
I'm sorry
Witcher 3 is literally the most overhyped game ever. Its combat is terrible, Geralt is atypical loner cookie cutter uninteresting bounty hunter, and I just can't fathom how ppl like that game to this day
@@FalloutZombie5555 Go play shit ring
@@SpeaksYourWord thanks I do and will
@@FalloutZombie5555as a guy who loves fallout, and appreciates elden ring, i must say the witcher 3 is great game
Been a fan for many years and almost shed a tear because I feel this is such a wonderful video and momentous project for your channel! It brought me back and reminded me why I love RPGS so much! Loved every second of it 😊
Johnny, this is my 2nd watch through of this video and i feel the need to comment on how much i love this video. Theres a few videos that i watch a couple times a year of yours, mainly the Christmas specials. I love the RPG genre and it has brough alot of happiness to my life throughout the years. I recently have gotten alot of PS1 RPGs mainly because i value your opinion on games alot as it seems we have the same taste in games. I loved going through memory lane with this video with you going through all of the old final fantasies and what not. Chrono trigger would have to be one of the tops for me and i think a replay is needed on it. I just wanted you to know how much i enjoyed this video and how much i love the channel. Thank you so much for continuing to put out videos :D
I played Earthbound for the first time this year and its aged spectacularly. So awesome to hear you talk so highly about it
“Sold my entire collection for this game! Was it worth it? ……Yes!”
Somebody get Andrew on the phone for his opinion on the game 🤣 🤣 🤣
I’m 31 years old and have been watching for probably 10 years now. I couldn’t care less about RPGs but this was a great video.
Keep it up!!!
If you like wind waker there's no reason you wouldn't like action rpgs. Keep an open mind
@@postgotham he would SO devour Ys8. Pulling all nighters guaranteed!
@@postgotham Stop telling people what to like/dislike. Keep an open mind.
@@wreagfe getting highly offended at suggestions (on other's behalf) is literally the opposite of an open mind
Crono Cross-Another World is my alarm to wake up. The softness and serenity wakes me up and without jolting me awake. It comes through a speaker system set up in the room. The violin echoes off each wall and feels like the music is wrapping around me and rejuvenating my brain.
Can I just say how genuinely HAPPY this video made me? Like thinking back to the first time I stepped into all of these worlds and stories and amazing characters even the artwork, everything. You just reminded me of what I’ve loved about RPG’s from the beginning and what continues to thrill me about them. This was an amazing list. Thank you 🙏🏿 😌
I could listen to Johnny talk about RPGs for hours. Hell, give us 50 more, Johnny!
An hour of RPG talk with the guy who got me interested in the genre in the first place? Sounds like heaven to me!
Lost odyssey is for sale on the xbox market and often goes on sale for about 7$
Johnnys right this game is an incredible RPG. if you own an xbox you owe it to yourself to play this game
I want a PC release for this game...
@@devan_danger playing Lost Odyssey on my series X w original disc(s)..w a 2024 hdmi 2.1 up to 144hz tv..w EVERY bell & whistle that either console sole can toss at it was like playing a remaster was amazing ✌️✌️✌️
Just played it for the first time last year. It was such a great story and game especially for being on the 360 which was light on JRPGS to have such a amazing game.
I played it emulated on Steam Deck. You can keep a mostly constant 40fps with minimal loading times. It feels so good to play!
@@devan_danger I JUST SAW a really decent copy 14$ at a small non franchise retro gaming store in my area ..and w 3 series X's and 2 flagship TV's 2024'(I have kids lol )..it's almost like playing a remaster 👍✌️✌️✌️
Dude you are a true RPG fan! A lot of similar taste for sure! Arc the Lad series, Shadow Heart, and Kingdom Hearts are great also!
The music of Final Fantasy 3/6 blew my mind. The iconic opening scene with the mechs in the snow with Tera's Theme playing. Magical.
My personal favorite RPGs I've played throughout my life:
• Persona 5 Royal, Chrono Trigger, Bloodborne, FF7, FF9, Earthbound, Persona 4 Golden, Breath Of Fire 3, Omori, Secret Of Mana, Disco Elysium, Kingdom Hearts 1&2, Undertale, The Legend Of Dragoon, Dark Souls Trilogy, Mother 3, Persona 3, Wild Arms, Legend Of Legaia, Mass Effect Trilogy, Nier: Automata, Star Ocean: The Second Story, The Walking Dead, The Witcher 3 •
Top 50! I always struggle to sort my top 10, or even top 15 without rearranging it every few weeks. Looking forward to this!
Chrono Cross has the most beautiful music of any game I can think of. I listen to that sound track constantly.
Thanks for giving all the xeno games Justice! Absolutely loved your list! Me and my Girlfriend recently started playing dragon’s crown because of your videos ❤
Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete holds a special place in my heart. I played it while in high school and now I purchased an Anbernic specifically to play it again.
The music in the background couldn't be better. So nostalgic
Long time subscriber, and this channel is going from strength to strength. Loving the recent change in content whilst still being the HCG we all love
Oh man.. 1989, 10yrs old and getting a nes for my birthday.. I rip everything open, hook it up... my first game..... dragon warrior..and I hated it. My dad told me to give it a shot and try it out... and I got sucked in, so many fond memories playing that game with friends.. to this day, if I'm in a game store, and I see that cart, I can't help but smile.
Great video, as always! Love hearing about others who loved Earthbound at the time. I remember being 12 years old and seeing the Earthbound preview in nintendo power, and it blew me away. The clay art style and the modern setting just looked so cool and different. I must have read that issue dozens of times. I saved up all my money and bought it at release. Playing it was everything I had hoped it would be, and more. I even took the strategy guide to school in my backpack every day to read during breaks! Which I kinda regret now, as its falling apart, lol. So many happy memories of that game and playing it with my brothers and friends. I don't think I could ever sell my copy, it just means to much to me. 😁
I've just started playing Final Fantasy VII for the first time ever (the ps1 version). Watching this video has made me realise that I've definitely mkssed out on so many great games over the years.
This is such a fantastic video! I loved every minute of reminiscing on all these awesome games that hold so much weight in my gaming journey as well. The art and music alone for so many of these games just blow me away even still.
Thank you Johnny!! I have been watching you for many years and it was so great to hear you finally bring up The Legend of Dragoon. It was the first RPG I ever got into when I was younger and is one of my favorite games of all time!
Objectively, I think the original Baldurs Gate cycle (1,2 and Throne of Bhaal) are my personal favorite RPGs. There's games with better writing, better characters, better graphics etc, but BG has the complete package in my book.
That said, there is one story and title I always bring up when it comes to best RPGs: the Neverwinter Nights 2 expansion Storm of Zehir. People raise their eyebrows at this, and I completely understand why. The reason it's so close to my heart is purely personal. You see, I have a party of D&D adventurers that I've been writing stories about for most of my life, but because of some exotic character races and class conbinations I had never been able to play all of them in the same party in a video game... until SOZ. Thanks to a selection of mods, I was able to play all of them, in the same party, and as the races and classes they were supposed to be for the first time. It was a special experience for me, and one I'll always cherish.
Baldur’s Gate 1/2 will always be my goat ❤
BG2 is also very high in my list. I actually never played Neverwinter Nights because I get put off by transition to top down 3D. But I probably should play NWN2, it has to be a lot of dedication cuz I work 6 days a week, I'm mainly afraid of the amount of hours required. I also just bought Hogwarts Legacy on sale. I have to be selective about what to spend my time on.
Oh man thanks for reminding me about those legendary games and a special shout-out to divinity original sin 2, I was utterly entranced going through that game and can't wait to get round to BG3. Larion are the GOAT's
First time playing Oblivion was truly a next level experience at the time. absolutely unforgettable.
Honestly shocked Golden Sun didn’t make the list.
Now THIS is good content! Can't wait to see the games you have on this list!!
This is definitely going on repeat. Awesome video!
Already watched it 5 times
Johnny I am SO glad you included Tales of Arise. I absolutely fell in love with that game. So good. Thanks for the great list!
1:04:15 *The Legend Of Dragoon* looks so good I pray they remake it or remaster it someday.
I will have to check out 57:50 *Parasite Eve 1 and 2* so thanks man and hope it gets a remake or remaster one day.
Also I hope 38:14 *Lost Odyssey* gets a remake or remaster as well because it looks beautiful.
Played lost oddessy at least 4 times all the way through. It was the last old school turn based game made that i enjoyed and looked incredible at the time.
Chronocross was good graphically and the music was great. But the biggest issue was there was so many characters i had trouble relating. Xenogears first disc was the best rpg ever. Try it if you don’t believe. Especially if you are a mechanic maniac.
Xenogears both discs are amazing
Really loved having a long episode this Sunday. Thanks Johnny!
For my list I’d definitely have Final Fantasy Tactics, Ogre Battle 64, Golden Sun, and Valkyria Chronicles. But glad to see Star Ocean and Suikoden on the list.
Been watching your channel for years Johnny, and I been waiting for a big top RPG list like this for awhile. Good Stuff!
I haven’t played all the games on your list. But the ones I did… your reactions and memories are almost exactly like mine! Phantasy Star(s), Y’s, Arcadia, Oblivion, KOTOR, Lost Odyssey etc. I am right there with you! What awesome memories. Thank you!
It took me a couple of days to finish this video. It is amazing how much you know, really know this RPGS. You can tell he really played and finished all those games. AWESOME video. Thank you so much for sharing it.
"I wish I could do 50..."
We're not stopping you.
We're ALL here for that.
I'd watch it.
Three times.
We all love you
Cheers, mate.
Maybe we can see Mrs. HCG's list.
And 29 years from now... HCG Jr's list!!!
So hyped for this. Respect for the sheer volume of work. You the man.
Knights of the Old Republic 1 and 2 gotta be on there. My favorite Star Wars things period. So so so so good.
Great video Johnny, a real trip down memory lane. I just wish I had the time to go back and revisit some of these and finish them!
Personal favorite all time is Suikoden. Good story, not TOO long, and epic soundtrack
An hour long HappyConsoleGamer episode?! YES PLEASE!
*THIS* is deserving of the Doritos and Mountain Dew!
Cool Ranch???
Skies of Arcadia _and_ Grandia II are underrated TBH
Maybe Grandia II but Skies of Arcadia, I see brought up often on people's list.
Chrono Cross OST is THE best OST in the history of music videogames!!! PERIOD. amazing video btw!
Your knowledge and passion for RPG/JRPGs are second to none. I always look forward to your videos and they are usually great company when I am cooking a Sunday roast! You are a bright and shinning light and a voice I have come to rely on when it comes to game recommendations. You've never steered me wrong to this day!
Massive thank you
Fantastic list john! Love Xenogears, Tactics Ogre, FF7 the best!
Phantasy Star, Shining Force, Suikoden, Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Shin Megami Tensei, Persona, Secret of Mana, Crusader of Centy, Beyond Oasis are some of the RPGs off the top of my head that I love since they were released. ❤☘⚔🐉
Can’t argue with those games just the only o e I haven’t played was Crusader of Centy
Centy and Beyond Oasis are more action adventure than rpgs. But they are also two of the best games I’ve ever played
Love your options. Especially Shining Force. That game set me on the path of RPG lover 🥰
@@opaljk4835 Beyond Oasis does have a leveling up system so it technically is one.
@@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters it’s such a minor element though. It only has to do with your life and magic and it’s treated as an an item drop, if I recall correctly. It’s as much an rpg as the legend of Zelda.
An hour long video of HCG talking about his favorite RPGs. Thank You
Surprised how little I see Lunar the Silver Star mentioned in these. It's an absolute must play classic.
Great stuff, Johnny. These videos give me so much nostalgia as someone who was growing up in the 90s. Rock on, man!
An hour long video is so awesome, thanks Johnny!
I'm a simple man. I see a video from Happy Console Gamer. It's 75 minutes. I'm happy.
I few mentions that are my all time favorites:
Shenmue 1 & 2
Vagrant Story
Koudelka
Valkyrie Profile!!!
Vagrant Story and Valkyrie Profile constantly get snubbed over the years along with Koudelka.
Although they're great groundbreaking games I don't think the shenmue games are RPG's, they're more narrative adventure games
@@philbarton2832 There is conflicted ideas about Shenmue being an RPG, I classify it as both RPG & a action adventure game. It has a balance of both genres combined together.
@@amandamedina2533 Really? There's no puzzles to solve, there's no turn based combat, there's no levelling up or any substantial progression of your characters strength so I'd be interested in how it's classified as an RPG. I'd say it has more fighting game mechanics than RPG with it's obvious virtua fighter similarities with the combat but overall it fits more into the narrative adventure game genre surely
@@philbarton2832 Shenmue did have puzzles just different types of puzzles like solving a riddle or solving a mystery regarding an NPC. You could upgrade Ryu’s combat styles by practicing his Judo or obtaining new scrolls that allowed him to perform new move during combat. So there are RPG elements incorporated into the game just low key and unlike most RPG’s you don’t have numbers that indicate to you the characters HP level and Attack power, but regardless it’s still incorporated into the game in a low key way. Suzuki’s vision was to make the game more immersive, almost as if you were playing an interactive movie. You didn’t just fight in this game, there were plenty of other things to do such as get a job, go to the arcade, eat food at a local restaurant etc.
@@amandamedina2533 Yeah I can see those elements are kinda RPG like, I guess because they're so minimal compared to the narrative and life sim type stuff I more lean on the narrative adventure description.
The RPG genre is so fluid nowadays and hard to nail down but to me and RPG is a game with heavy character progression in terms of leveling up character stats/gear but I understand that others defy them with other elements.
Either way I can confidently say that shenmue 1+2 are brilliant videogames ✌️
I have been a huge fan of yours for a couple of years. I love the stories you share about these games you love. You have opened my eyes to many games I would not have traditionally played! I hope to try even more games you have to share! Knights of the old republic is one of the epic RPG's I first played when I was about 12!
Mad respect for including Legend of Dragoon on your list
Final Fantast VIII is criminally underrated
It’s one of my favourite games
I second this!
greatest game of all time
7 & 8 where my favorite
I agree, I got it when it came out and didn't make it that far, just didn't like it all that much, then many years later I tried again and it is one of my favorite PS RPGs..
FF9 was done dirty. It released at the same time as the PS2 but only on original PlayStation. That caused it to be severely under appreciated. It is absolutely a top notch RPG even by golden age standards.
The Trails series is so underrated
Facts! ❤️
It really isn't. Its overrated if anything. Underplayed, perhaps. Trails fans are eclipsed by many much larger franchises, but go anywhere online and it feels like everyone of them voices their opinion constantly.
@@iCABALi But have played it...😏
@@brianwright9215 Sky 1, Cold Steel 1, the original Legend of Heroes on PC Engine CD and Nayuta. Probably won't play more until the Remaster/Remake of the Sky Trilogy releases (or somehow a Legend of Heroes 2 fan translation drops), but I still own all of Sky/Cold Steel Azure/Zero and Reverie. Have daybreak preordered too.
@@iCABALi How dare fans on things voice their support of it? It's actually overrated? Like really? That's your the best dumb ass response to Trails is underrated you can come up with?
60min in and no mention to Suikoden! I was about to have a heart attack! Great video man! Grats!
My first passion was Phantasy Star I on sms…. I can’t get enough of it…. I still play it once a year! How I wish we get a PS5….
Amazing episode, Johnny! One JRPG I never see mentioned that’s a favorite of mine is Defenders of Oasis on the Game Gear. Man, that game takes me back!
Dragon Age: Origins not being here is criminal
Yeah makes me wonder if he played it. If not he absolutely should.
I'm agree
It’s okay
Suikoden 2 and 3, Breath of Fire 2 and 3, and Legend of Legaia are all better than half of these games
Legend of legaia was underrated fr
Your passion/enthusiasm/knowledge always shine through and bring a smile to the face. Keep being you, sir!!
Hearing you speak about your experience growing up playing these beloved classic RPGs just makes me happy and while i am super much younger than you it feels surreal hearing an actual person go and buy Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest games Day 1! I would have loved to have been alive during those times! But in the end we both share our love/passion for these games!
Loved this vid man. Been a fan of your channel for a good while. Kingdom Hearts was my first jrpg. Absolutely loved that series. It was definitely my gateway into jrpgs and anime. I also love the YS series and got into all of Falcom’s amazing games because of it.
I never had my RPG backlog completed.
Glad you’re still making videos!
I love your passion for the same type of games I love and have enjoyed. Thanks for this video, reminds me of all the sweet memories I have of me and my older late older brother....miss him and those times.
I'm a person who's usually very critical of entertainment but I really appreciate this channel. I want to be more positive and focus on the games I love instead. What a great inspiration!
Wonderful video my friend Johnny! You brightened my day, it was a privilege to remember old times with you! Thank you brother!
Great video, your passion for rpg's comes right trough the screen. Really enjoyed this, all the best from the Netherlands!