These JRPGs were fun to play but they aren’t available for purchase anymore.
Whether these titles have been console locked, discontinued, or become prohibitively expensive items on eBay, there are many wonderful JRPGs that are unlikely to see the light of day any time soon in an official capacity. Of course, fan-made versions, emulations, or a change of IP ownership may increase the chances of them being available again, but retro game stores are fun and nostalgic for a reason.
Short of flying to Japan and combing through second-hand shops, these titles have become much more difficult to play for modern gamers. Adding to the challenge, consoles remain the most popular platform for younger gamers in Japan, with 72.3% of players still using them, often encouraged by parents who prefer the content control consoles provide.5 Mother 3 (GBA Version)
This turn-based RPG features a young blondie named Lucas who must use his psychic abilities to save the planet from an army of invaders. In contrast to previous entries in the series, it takes a more dramatic and melancholy tone while still maintaining a unique surrealist humor. Its development first started in 1994 but was repeatedly put on hold, spanning across several other consoles before its final realization in 2006.
Despite only being released in Japan and having no official localization, this sequel to Earthbound (or Mother 2 in Japan) is now a sought after gem for Western audiences and has been lovingly translated by fans in an unofficial capacity. The freelance work hours required to complete this translation project were estimated to be around $30,000. Released for the Game Boy Advance, official copies are still locked to the system and exceedingly rare. While fans hope for an official localization or remaster in the future, Nintendo is not often swayed by public opinion, and those who adore the series may have to make do with what they have now. At least fans can play as Lucas in Super Smash Bros.4 Shadow Hearts Trilogy (PS2)
The Shadow Hearts trilogy is a series of dark, gothic JRPGs released for the PlayStation 2 between 2001 and 2005.
