JRPGs are some of the most beloved games in the industry as a whole with fans specifically connecting with the various characters in each one of them. There truly is a JRGP for everyone from whimsical fantasy adventures to space epics and even some horror-tinged experiences.

One of the best aspects of any JRGP is the character designs. More often than not, JRPGs feature a plethora of both playable and non-playable characters. Great JRPGs will take the time to flesh out each character both in terms of narrative backstory and visual styles. These JRPGs feature some of the best character designs, from protagonists to antagonists, and everyone in between.

10 Radiata Stories

Radiata Stories is a fantasy-themed JRPG with a large emphasis on knights and recruitable characters. Our hero Jack, like many other similar JRPGs, is here to save the day, even though he seems to be a bit lazy overall. His character design and that of the other main characters are simple but reflect a more adorable, almost Chibi-like quality.

Since Radiata Stories focuses on a medieval fantasy world, its towns are meant to featuring all manner of characters who go about their daily lives whether you are around or not. Characters in this game are typical fantasy fare but exude a lively quality.

9 Shadow Hearts

Shadow Hearts is a darker, horror-themed JRPG with a unique battle system called the Judgement Ring. Shadow Hearts stars Yuri and Alice who are exploring an alternate version of Earth. The character designs in Shadow Hearts are a blend of old-world appeal with an almost Steampunk vibe.

Yuri comes off as a mostly typical JRPG protagonist with long wavy and spiked hair. Alice is a very mysteriously designed character with silver hair and sporting a very proper skirt of sorts. There is almost a doll-like quality to Alice. Each of the other party characters that Yuri and Alice encouter and are diverse and creative.

8 Dark Cloud 2 (Dark Chronicle)

Dark Cloud 2 or Dark Chronicle in some regions was quite the departure from the original Dark Cloud which featured a darker, more bland color palette. Dark Cloud 2 swaps out the Link-inspired main character from the first game with Max for the sequel. Max is a plucky jack-of-all-trades townsperson who dons overalls and a newsboy hat.

The characters in Dark Cloud 2 are extremely diverse and pop off the screen with vibrancy thanks to highly saturated color styles. One of the other main characters, Monica, sports bright red hair and a purple steampunk-type outfit. This is a game that nicely blends fantasy with industry.

7 Ys IX: Monstrum Nox

Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is the follow-up to the much loved Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana. In this newest entry, the series favorite protagonist Adol, along with his pal Dogi shakes things up with a darker tone. Adol’s main character design almost comes off as vampiric with flourishes of red and black with wing-shaped armor.

Along his journey, Adol will encounter a whole cast of silly and quirky monstrums each with their own unique fantasy-inspired outfit. These characters might seem like traditional anime-inspired characters but as they evolve in the game, their designs really start to shine through.

6 Shadow Hearts: Covenant

Shadow Hearts: Covenant is the second game in this series and ditches many of the horror elements from the previous entry, instead opting for a more historical take on a JRPG, albeit with some creative liberties. Shadow Hearts: Covenant stars Karin and returning protagonist, Yuri. The main box art featured Karin though with her vibrant red hair and simple, yet elegant outfit.

This second game really upped the ante in terms of goofiness with each new character you come across adding some interesting flair. Shadow Hearts is a series known for its unique character designs with each party member having their own distinct style.

5 Kingdom Hearts

The very first Kingdom Hearts was extremely magical upon release and continues to win hearts (pun intended) even to this day. While the narrative that spans the numerous games and spin-offs is convoluted, to say the least, fans really love each character’s design.

The most obvious character to discuss would of course be Sora. Sora is very much a cartoon-like character with anime influences. He sports the long spikey hair players have seen in many Final Fantasy games, but mixes it up with a colorful jumpsuit, yellow shoes, and his signature crown emblem necklace. Also, Donald and Goofy retain their normal Disney designs but with a more fantasy flair here.

4 Eternal Sonata

Eternal Sonata is an Xbox 360 and PS3-era JRPG that flew under the radar for many genre fans. This is unfortunate because not only does it feature a wonderful tactical time battle system but it also features a truly unique plot and some downright incredible characters.

The most notable character in Eternal Sonata is the Polish composer, Frederic Chopin. Yes, Chopin, is quite literally a central figure in this game. His design is elegant and regal. Joining him are a quirky bunch of characters including Allegretto, a young boy with strong convictions to make the world more just, and Polka, a young girl who shines with positivity and light.

3 Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX is easily one of the most standout entries in all of the series. Instead of opting for a more “realistic” tone and style, it went for a pure fantasy-inspired aesthetic. This change of tone and presentation didn’t appeal to all fans but for those new to the series at the time, it helped pull them in, mainly down to unique character designs.

Look no further than the whimsical, toy-like design of Vivi or the knightly and royal vibes that Zidane gives off. Each character in this beloved entry pops with colorful fantasy flourishes.

2 Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King is a true masterpiece of the JRPG genre and one of the best in the Dragon Quest series. This game brought a lot of new players into the fold with an engaging fantasy story about the Hero stopping the all-powerful Dhoulmagus but also with inventive and compelling characters.

The Hero himself donned a simple, yet honorable yellow and blue tunic of sorts, with a red bandana. Of course, players also loved Yangus, the short and stout brute of a character who wore a vest, a red sash, striped pants, and a spiky hat. Each character in this game stood out from the pack and helped make this a memorable game.

1 Kingdom Hearts 2

Kingdom Hearts 2 might just feature some of the best character designs of the entire JRPG genre. Much of this likely comes down to the fact that the majority of these characters are from Disney or Final Fantasy properties. Even Sora himself gets a new wardrobe upgrade from the three fairy godmothers, now featuring a more mature jumpsuit.

Goofy and Donald return but bring with them some fantasy-inspired bits and bobs that help them stand out from their traditional Disney counterparts. Hands down the reason this game has the best character designs though is due to the different Disney worlds that our party visits and quite literally take on their aesthetic.

NEXT: Kingdom Hearts 2 Keyblades That Feature Cool Disney And Final Fantasy References