The summary of ‘THE TOP 50 BEST RPGS OF ALL TIME – Happy Console Gamer’

00:00:00

In this part of the video, the presenter introduces their list of the top 50 RPGs of all time, clarifying that it is a personal list based on games they have played and enjoyed. They begin by discussing the foundational RPGs that influenced later games, starting with “Fantasy Star,” a groundbreaking game on the Sega Master System, known for its anime-style graphics and innovative gameplay, which made the presenter a lifelong RPG fan. They continue with “Fantasy Star 2,” a sequel on the Sega Genesis that offered a deeper and more expansive experience, and “Fantasy Star 4,” which wrapped up the series with significant story and graphical improvements.

The presenter then shifts to the “Dragon Quest” series, starting with the original “Dragon Quest” (known as “Dragon Warrior” in North America), which introduced them to RPGs on the Nintendo. They highlight “Dragon Warrior 4” for its diverse characters and compelling storyline, and “Dragon Quest 8” for its heartfelt story and open-world gameplay, which emotionally resonated with their wife. The success of “Dragon Quest 11,” which appealed to a broader audience, is also noted.

Finally, they delve into the “Final Fantasy” series, beginning with “Final Fantasy 1” on the NES, a game that captured their imagination despite its era’s technical limitations. They also discuss “Final Fantasy 4” (released as “Final Fantasy 2” in North America) on the Super Nintendo, praising its engaging story, characters, and graphical improvements that attracted many new RPG fans to the genre.

00:10:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses several of their most anticipated and beloved RPG games, specifically from the Final Fantasy series and Chrono series. They start with “Final Fantasy 3” for the Super Nintendo, noting its significant improvement in graphics and storyline over its predecessors, and why it remains a standout game for them. They then move on to “Final Fantasy 7” for the PlayStation, emphasizing its groundbreaking 3D graphics and CD-ROM format, which introduced new elements to the RPG genre.

The speaker also shares their affection for “Final Fantasy 9,” appreciating its return to a more medieval setting and charming characters, and reflecting on the game’s humor and engaging storyline. They discuss “Final Fantasy 10,” mentioning their initial mixed feelings about the story and characters, but how their appreciation for the game has grown over time due to its strong characters and term-based gameplay.

The segment proceeds with a tribute to “Chrono Trigger,” highlighting its impact on RPG history, the memorable character designs by Akira Toriyama, and the game’s captivating storyline and music. Following this, “Chrono Cross,” the spiritual sequel to “Chrono Trigger,” is praised for its beautiful tropical setting, outstanding soundtrack, and intriguing storyline, despite some critiques of its combat system.

Lastly, the speaker touches on “Zeno Gears” for the PlayStation, describing it as a masterpiece with controversial religious themes, strong character designs, and enduring replay value.

00:20:00

In this part of the video, the speaker highlights various impactful video games and their personal experiences with them. They discuss the ambition behind the creation of the game featuring Mecca, despite budget constraints affecting the final output. They commend the gameplay elements, characters, and music, and express a desire for a remaster. The speaker then transitions to discussing their discovery of American RPGs with “Oblivion,” which stood out for its expansive open world and immersive gameplay. This experience led to an appreciation of “Skyrim,” which was seen as a significant evolution in the Elder Scrolls series with its detailed environments and extensive quests.

They also mention the “Lunar” series, particularly the charm, character art, and music, despite its somewhat lost status over time. Personal anecdotes about receiving these games as gifts highlight their sentimental value. Moving to more recent titles, “Shin Megami Tensei 5” is praised for its dark storytelling and unique mechanics. Lastly, “Earthbound” is celebrated for its unique modern setting, humor, and cult status, making it a beloved RPG despite its initial underappreciation. The speaker underscores their deep connection to these games, noting their significance in their gaming history.

00:30:00

In this segment, various influential RPG games and their significance are discussed. Key points include:

1. **Earthbound and Mother Series**: The disappointment surrounding Nintendo’s refusal to localize “Mother 3” despite its success in Japan. The fan-made translation is highlighted as a way fans still access the game.

2. **Xbox and Knights of the Old Republic**: The personal story of acquiring an Xbox to play “Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic,” which is praised for its deep connection to the Star Wars universe and its impactful gameplay twists.

3. **Elden Ring**: Celebrated for its expansive, dark world and challenging gameplay that captivated a wide audience, including new players to the genre.

4. **Tales of Arise**: praised for its beautiful environments, strong character designs, and immersive experience, recommending it highly to JRPG enthusiasts.

5. **Super Mario RPG**: Nostalgia for the Super Nintendo game developed by Squaresoft and Nintendo, highlighting its unique art style and turn-based combat.

6. **Lost Odyssey**: Emphasized for its emotional storytelling, character design, and music, despite long load times. A call for a remaster to bring the game to a broader audience.

The segment reflects on the personal impact and legacy of these RPGs, underscoring their timeless appeal and contributions to the genre.

00:40:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses various RPGs and their personal experiences with them. They express regret that “Lost Odyssey” did not achieve mainstream success despite being a cult classic and praise the detailed menus and combat interface of “Persona 5” and the impressive and stylistic remake of “Persona 3 Reload.” They describe how “Hogwarts Legacy” resonated emotionally with their wife, a Harry Potter fan, and commend it for its immersive world and gameplay. The speaker also shares their affection for “Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition,” noting its improved visuals and engaging open world on the Nintendo Switch. They highlight the charm of “Breath of Fire,” despite its seemingly generic appearance, and the expansive, more explorative nature of “Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth” compared to its predecessor. Lastly, they acknowledge the global popularity of the Pokémon series, specifically mentioning “Pokemon Sapphire” for introducing them to the franchise’s appeal.

00:50:00

In this part of the video, the speaker reminisces about several beloved video games and series. They express a strong fondness for the charm and nostalgia of the Game Boy Advance era, particularly with “Pokemon Sapphire.” They then shift focus to “Skies of Arcadia” on the Dreamcast, praising its imaginative pirate-themed aerial adventure and its engaging combat system, urging Sega to remaster the game.

Next, the speaker discusses the “Eas” (Ys) series, highlighting the significance of “Ys Books I & II” for being monumental RPGs in their early gaming years. They share memories of playing “Ys IV” and “Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana,” praising the latter for revitalizing the series and bringing it mainstream recognition.

The speaker also touches on their experience with the “Diablo” series, noting how addictive the gameplay is and how it holds a special place for them and their wife. Lastly, they recall “Parasite Eve” on the PlayStation 1, emphasizing its cinematic RPG elements and horror themes, and advocating for a remaster due to its significant impact and unique storyline.

01:00:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker reflects on their passion for several classic RPG games. They express admiration for “Parasite Eve” due to its diverse environments, memorable moments, and captivating music. They also highlight the charm and combat mechanics of “Grandia” on the PlayStation 1, and discuss its sequel “Grandia 2,” praising its arcade-like graphics and engaging combat on the Dreamcast.

The speaker then reminisces about “The Legend of Dragoon,” emphasizing its underappreciated quality and innovative character designs. They provide insights into their mixed feelings about the “Star Ocean” series but commend “Star Ocean: The Second Story R” for its successful remake and improved graphics.

Additionally, “Dragon’s Crown” is noted for its beautiful hand-drawn graphics, engaging multiplayer experience, and stunning art style. Finally, the speaker fondly remembers purchasing their PlayStation specifically to play “Suikoden,” appreciating its storyline, fast-paced combat, and the challenge of collecting numerous characters.

01:10:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses a conversation with a police officer about favorite video games, specifically mentioning “Suikoden.” The speaker then transitions to their list of top RPGs, reflecting on “Wild Arms” at number 49, a game with a Western feel that resonated with them during a difficult personal time. At number 50, the speaker highlights “Xenosaga 3,” praising its mech combat and story conclusion. The segment concludes with the speaker emphasizing their deep connection and personal experiences with these RPGs and inviting viewers to share their favorite RPGs in the comments.