Once upon a time, turn-based JRPGs were at the forefront of gaming, and indeed, some of the most beloved and classic titles of all time were released under the genre's banner. However, such games gradually fell out of favor. Although the genre did not disappear, it found itself in a lull for a while. Recently, of Sandfall Interactive Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 For has been a breath of fresh air JRPGs. Campaign 33 It's earned accolades behind many AAA-caliber titles with its unwavering commitment to a strong approach by undeniably channeling old-school designs and combining them with modern designs from games. personality. For everyone Clair ObscurOf better merit, though, there's another great turn-based JRPG that preceded it, and that deserves a lot of praise: Chained echo.
An indie solo project developed primarily by Matthias Linda over a seven-year period,Chained echo It was released in 2022. Featuring stunning pixel art and inspired by titans of the era Secrets of the mind and final fantasyIt's a loving and well-made tribute to the 16-bit era of JRPGs. And yet it may be overlooked in comparison Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Chained echo The execution of turn-based mechanics and other related elements stands as strong as before, and similarly gives many modern AAA titles a run for their money.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 may now be the face of JRPG turn-based combat, but Chained Echo did it first
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Perhaps the most high-profile title to date that has revived and refined the genre through its hybrid of turn-based and action mechanics. And take nothing away from it, because it certainly deserves recognition for the success it has achieved in this and other fields. before Campaign 33 exploded onto the stage this year, though, Chained echo A firm dedication to the classic JRPG formula has already shown that updating it in a few key ways can make for an engaging and satisfying gaming experience that thrives in the modern landscape.
Chained echo' The decision to remove many original genre elements or to keep others intact while significantly altering others belied the recurring idea that the genre had often faded into obscurity and was heading for obsolescence. And it can almost be seen as a precursor Clair ObscurThis year's impact. Chained echo It may be a bit more under the radar now, but it still serves as a template that other games, especially those in the AAA region, would do well to emulate and learn from.
Like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Chained Echoes' turn-based combat and other classic JRPG designs stand toe-to-toe with any AAA title.
How Chained Echoes expertly marries classic and modern sensibilities
Chained echo Somewhere in the middle lies the design spectrum Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and acclaimed JRPGs from AAA developers well versed in the genre. While it doesn't use the same 2.5 HD visual style, shades of Square Enix aren't hard to spot. Octopath Traveler Series and Dragon Quest Remakes on Chained echo. And even though it's not Campaign 33A mix of turn-based and reactive combat systems, Chained echo It exemplifies a well-designed JRPG with its other key features:
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A strong roster of recruitable characters with bespoke skills
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An epic and emotionally engaging story spanning 4 major acts
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An overworld map consisting of large explorable areas
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Variety of optional side quests
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Extensive customization and upgrade options, viz Clair ObscurPicture of and Lumina
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Secret locations and hidden objects
While all of this is probably pretty standard in the eyes of many players, Chained echo On top of them includes some great innovative ideas, especially regarding its traditional, strictly turn-based battle system. Most notable is the Overdrive mechanic, which tasks players with managing a dynamic meter during fights to maximize each character's strength, reduce ability costs, and exploit enemy weaknesses.
of another Chained echo' One of the most welcome and convenient updates to the established works is that the entire party is fully healed and regains all ability points after each successful encounter. This eliminates some of the frustrations that can often come from adhering to older and more limited designs in this context, and encourages experimentation. All these aspects come together seamlessly Chained echoAnd its incredible job of incorporating and balancing them is reflected in its impressive Metacritic and Steam scores.
Chained echo 2025 received a substantial DLC, Ashes of Elrant, which is also highly rated.
More AAA games can learn great lessons from Chained Echoes as well
Clair Obscur'Its current status as the poster game for the modern face of JRPGs outside of the AAA space ensures it serves as inspiration going forward. In fact, Square Enix itself said it was potentially taking cues Campaign 33 for another final fantasy the game But it shouldn't be the only game that companies and others look at. Chained echo It also offers an equally compelling case for developers creating games within the genre to pull from its best designs, especially in its commitment to turn-based combat.
Another acclaimed indie game in the same vein and spirit Chained echo It was 2023 Sea of starsThe developers cite memorable games like Chrono Trigger and Super Mario RPG As an inspiration.
While Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 enjoying his time in the light, Chained echo It should also be given full rights. It's an absorbing experience, showcasing the same level of quality and thoughtful design, made all the more impressive because it was mostly the work of a single person. Chained echo has wholeheartedly embraced its classic JRPG roots to produce a highly engaging title, and if Clair Obscur’s success signals a return to those roots for AAA developers Chained echo It should also be considered for many of the same reasons.
