5 Classic JRPGs with Virtually Perfect Battle Systems

Many role-playing games have a familiar, turn-based combat system. Your options are usually riffs on one of four actions: attack, defend, use magic, or use an item. Even with that very basic template, you’re usually in for a pretty fun time saving the world with a group of pals. But if it’s not snappy and satisfying, or if battles drag on too long, you’re probably bouncing off that game. A rare few RPGs manage to elevate this simple format into an experience worth savoring over the course of dozens of hours. Below, you’ll find five such games.