JRPGsare known for their more linear stories compared to theirWRPGcounterparts, which prioritize narrative choices and player agency over a fixed storyline.
However, that doesn’t mean their gameplay has to be strictly linear. There are plenty of open-world JRPGs that, while keeping a beeline to the main story, grant players the freedom to explore.
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Of course, there are various definitions of what constitutes an open-world game, but I won’t get too rigid about it. My goal is to highlight JRPGs with grassy fields, deserts, cities, or any environment where players can roam freely without hitting invisible walls.
This also includes some JRPGs divided by zones or loading screens but still allows players to explore their world from top to bottom. All to say, the definition of open world here is flexible, as it is with most genres nowadays. Just don’t confuse sandbox with open world, and we’re good.
10SaGa Scarlet Grace
A Static Open World
SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions
SaGa Scarlet Graceis an odd entry—as anySaGagame is, to be fair. This JRPG features a static world map packed with activities and events for players. From the beginning, you can explore wherever you like if you face the challenges.
While your chosen protagonist’s campaign has a main objective, you’re free to tackle side activities at any time and visit different regions whenever you want, whether to complete quests or recruit new allies.
The open world ofSaGa Scarlet Graceis a bit unconventional because the entire game is structured in a non-linear manner that is way too loose.
If you’re familiar with SaGa, this is a stellar entry. If not, and you’re up for a JRPG that’s totally different from anything you’ve played before, dive in without hesitation.
The franchise leans heavily on its freeform scenario mode, which prioritizes player freedom, even if it’s presented on a silver platter of eccentricity.
9Final Fantasy XV
The Sprawling, Empty World of Eos
Final Fantasy 15
I’ll admit, it feels a bit strange to be writing this piece since I’m not the biggest fan of open-world games. However, I attempt to be open-minded, cast a wide net, and I am willing to experiment, so much so that whenFinal Fantasy XVwas about to be released, I bought a PS4 just to play it.
At first, I was loving the open world ofFinal Fantasy XV. Cruising around with the boys in the Regalia while listening to Weight of the World was incredible. Prompto snapping pictures as I soaked in the beautifully rendered scenery on my new console felt magical.
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However, as I progressed further into the game, I realized that the stunning visuals, character interactions, and even Prompto’s musings were just a façade for an empty, lifeless, open world.
Occasionally, midway through the game, it was thrilling to be surprised by Niflheim soldiers, giving the illusion of a living world, but that feeling faded fast.Final Fantasy XVended up being one of the franchise entries I was most excited for—and one I liked the least.
Still, the Royal Edition significantly improved the game, adding personality to the open world and more to do. So, if you plan to dive intoFinal Fantasy XV, don’t think twice and grab the completeFinal Fantasy XV: Royal Edition.
8NieR: Automata
Small but Rewarding
NieR: Automata
I hadn’t thought about it before, but the city and surrounding regions inNieR: Automataqualify as an open world, no matter how small the scale. You can explore everything the JRPG offers from the get-go, though game progression is tied to the main objectives.
You can collect items, face various monsters, and discover more about the City Ruins, Desert, and other locations.
That said, picking up side quests and following their objectives is highly recommended. This way, you’ll explore theNieRworld with a greater sense of purpose and save time on travel.
All in all,NieR: Automataisn’t an excessively long game, just as its open world is small compared to other titles. Those aiming to unlock all endings will notice the repetitive progression, including revisiting the same areas.
But don’t let that fool you. Despite revisiting the City Ruins multiple times, you’ll ultimately experienceone of the best JRPG stories ever.
7Digimon World
It’s a World of Digimon
Digimon World
When I mentioned some open-world JRPGs don’t necessarily have seamless maps, it was just an excuse to includeDigimon Worldhere, which is, in essence, an open-world game. I included the classic, not the sequelDigimon World: Next Order, because I wanted to make a point.
Whether due to the technical limitations of the PS1 or not, the game is divided into areas with loading screens. But from the beginning, you’re free to visit any area, though doing so with a weak Digimon would likely lead to a premature death at the hands of stronger foes.
This means that once you have a strong Digimon, you can fully explore the entire world, which technically qualifies it as an open-world game. All that to say, the coolest part ofDigimon Worldis how you have to explore it to recruit new digital monsters to File City and expand it.
Each area has its unique biome, distinct Digimons, and other features only theDigimonuniverse can offer. It’s a blast to train and strengthen your Digimon, gradually expanding your exploration field, only to end up lost in the wilderness, fail to find a bathroom, let your Digimon make a mess on the ground, and eventually watch them turn into a Sukamon. Peachy.
6Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key
Dangerous for Collectible-Aficionados
Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key
TheAtelierseries is among the coziest of JRPGs. The standout feature is always controlling a protagonist with alchemical knowledge, which throws players into a loop of gathering materials and crafting new items.
Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Keytakes this loop to a new level by offering massive open zones and giving players full freedom to explore, gathering materials and resources along the way.
As you find these items, you can craftsurvival toolsand expand your exploration scope even further.
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With these tools, Ryza can dive into the sea, use a sort of grappling hook to climb mountains, and even summon a Spirit Beast mount to traverse zones more quickly.
Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Keyknows precisely how to latch on to players who enjoy collecting items by always offering that extra taste of freedom and possibility.
5Shin Megami Tensei V
Demons Everywhere
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Technically,Shin Megami Tensei V—and maybe others on this list—qualifies as a semi-open world because it features huge zones that aren’t interconnected until late in the game. However, that’s true for most JRPGs, especially those that unlock an aircraft near the end.
Shin Megami Tensei Vearns its place here because this exploration is unprecedented for the series. Right from the start, you’re thrown into a desert filled with items to scavenge, side quests to tackle, puzzles to solve, and NPCs to chat with.
All this unfolds while the traditionalShin Megami Tenseigameplay happens. You face monsters, negotiate with them, and recruit them to your party, making exploration a bonus to the JRPG formula rather than its central focus.
The game introduces Demon Navigators who accompany the Nahobino and point out search spots to collect even more resources while exploring these massive zones. For a first take on this approach,SMTVdelivered, but there’s no doubt Atlus will refine the open map in the next entry.
4Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
No More Tall Grass Needed
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
Pokémon Legends: Arceusgave players a taste of what Game Freak was cooking up for the future of exploration, andPokemon Scarlet and Violetdelivered sprawling open worlds filled with Pokemon, Tera Battles, and fleeting dreams while chasing that elusive shiny.
The best part is that, from the start, both games give players the tools to scour the world—none other than the legendary Pokemon Koraidon and Miraidon, who serve as mounts for your protagonist.
By completing Titan Battles, theselegendary Pokemon learn new skillslike swimming, gliding, and climbing surfaces, adding verticality and expanding exploration.
The latest mainlinePokemongames offer freedom from the get-go while delivering more of the features that have captured fans' hearts over the years. Whether you want to tackle gyms, capture monsters, or take on Team Star’s grunts, the choice is yours.
I can easily see Game Freak repeating this formula in the upcomingPokemon Legends: Z-A, offering unfettered liberty to tackle objectives however trainers see fit.
3Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
A Hawaiian Open City
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealthstarts off quite linear, but by Chapter 3, the city opens up, allowing players to dive into minigames, side quests, and countless activities that expand the series' signature wackiness.
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As you wander the city, you’ll find endless possibilities to broaden your gameplay experience. Want to join a dating app, become the best Sujimon trainer, or take care of your Dondoko Island? you’re able to.
Or, if you’re not in the mood for minigames, maybe bonding with your friends is a more appealing option before hitting the streets. Hawaii is yours for the taking, andLike a Dragon: Infinite Wealthisn’t shy about showing it.
2Xenoblade Chronicles X
A Gigantic Open Planet
Xenoblade Chronicles X
Xenoblade Chronicles Xis often considered the black sheep of theXenobladefranchise. Granted, other entries, especially theXenoblade Chronicles 3: Future RedeemedDLC, offer some of the most rewarding exploration in JRPGs.
But since we’re talking about the open world here, it’s hard to argue with whatXenoblade Chronicles Xachieves. Early on, you’re presented with your main objective: explore the planet Mira and determine if it’s suitable to become the new Earth. And that’s it; you may explore your heart’s content.
The JRPG has a main quest, but if you want to go off the beaten path, swim all the way to another continent, and die to a level 90 monster, you can. The world of Mira is yours to take with your infinite probes.
Once you unlock the Skells—giant mechs that tug at the nostalgia ofXenogearsfans—exploration becomes even more absurd. You can fly to the farthest reaches of the world.
Many times, I found myself lost in dangerous areas simply because I was admiring the scenery in my Skell. It’s a fantastic game, and I hope it gets more love with theupcomingXenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition.
1Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
An Overworld Map Tuned to Perfection
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
After the linearFinal Fantasy VII Remake, Square Enix had the utmost responsibility to represent the classicFinal Fantasy VIIoverworld map in all its grandeur inFinal Fantasy VII Rebirth. With a big smile and puffed chest, I can proudly say they nailed it.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirthpresents its open world using anAssassin’s Creed-like formula, which initially put me off. But my excitement grew as I played, explored, and discovered what each region offered in terms of lore, challenges, and puzzles.
It gets even better when you realize that sidequests inFinal Fantasy VII Rebirthfinally matter. Sure, there are still odd jobs like hunting chickens, but since a party member is always involved, they feel more personal and engaging.
The open world ofRebirthcan feel overwhelming with so much to do, and I’ll admit that some minigames are a chore.
But it’s undeniable that Square Enix perfectly represented those polygons we once saw on the PS1 in all their majesty on the PS5. The developer didn’t just recreate the classic game with excellence but expanded upon it.
For me,Final Fantasy VII Rebirthisn’t just one of the best open-world JRPGs out there; it’sone of the best JRPGs in the industry. I can’t wait to see what Square Enix is cooking up for the third part and how they’ll implement exploration with the Highwind.
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