While defined by its flagship series, Square Enix boasts an incredible catalog of non-Final Fantasy JRPGs. From tactical masterpieces and HD-2D marvels to genre-defying epics, this collection showcases bold innovation, artistic vision, and unforgettable storytelling.
While the conversation about Square Enix often begins and ends with Final Fantasy, the publisher's legacy is far richer and more varied. Beyond its most famous franchise lies a vast library of Japanese role-playing games that consistently challenge genre conventions through bold experiments in gameplay, artistic direction, and narrative structure. These titles demonstrate a remarkable willingness to take creative risks, resulting in experiences that are both mechanically deep and emotionally resonant, solidifying the company's status as a powerhouse of innovation.
This commitment to variety is evident in its approach to combat and visual design. The Brave and Default system in Bravely Default reinvents turn-based encounters into engaging tactical puzzles, while the action-oriented systems of Star Ocean: The Second Story R reward both reflexes and strategic thinking. Visually, games like Octopath Traveler 2 and the remake of Dragon Quest III masterfully employ the HD-2D style to blend nostalgic pixel art with modern depth. Meanwhile, a title such as FANTASIAN Neo Dimension pushes artistic boundaries even further with its unique and captivating handmade diorama aesthetic.
The publisher's narrative ambitions are equally impressive. Nier: Automata delivers a profound, genre-bending experience that fuses frenetic action with deep philosophical themes, requiring multiple playthroughs to fully unfold. Tactical RPGs like Tactics Ogre: Reborn present intricate political dramas where player choice carries significant and lasting weight. Even beloved crossover series like Kingdom Hearts 2 and timeless adventures such as Chrono Trigger showcase an unwavering dedication to meaningful character development and unforgettable world-building. This diverse portfolio proves that Square Enix is far more than the house that Final Fantasy built; it is a bastion of creativity for the entire genre.
