What’s an RPG without a decent story attached to it?

But more importantly, some of the genres greatest-ever titles came from this period.

The RPG genre and gaming in general would be far poorer without these magnificent games.

A collage of Summoners from Final Fantasy. From left to right the Summoners of Final Fantasy 3, Final Fantasy Tactics and Rydia from Final Fantasy 4.

Here are some other IPs that do a great job.

The fact that its also an early example of a cooperative RPG is just the icing on the cake.

If you are looking for an exceptional 16-bit RPG, look no further than Secret of Mana.

Phantasy Star Games Phantasy Star 4, Phantasy Star Online, Phantasy Star Online 2

And while the first game was solid enough, Shining Force 2 is operating on a whole different level.

Here are the best summoners in the Final Fantasy series!

EarthBounds genius lies in its emotional storytelling.

16 RPGs With Great Job Systems

Everything comes together for an excellent 16-bit RPG that has aged like fine wine.

1Chrono Trigger

The obvious choice perhaps, but the obvious choice for good reason.

16-bit RPGs simply dont get better than Chrono Trigger.

16-Bit RPGs Final Fantasy 6, Chrono Trigger, Earthbound

Be who you want to be with these RPGs.

BEST RPG STORYLINES

Super Mario RPG cover showing Mario, Princess Peach, and Bowser.

Ali standing in a forest in Beyond Oasis.

10 Best Games With Zelda-Like Dungeons - Emaki

Hero fighting a giant insect monster in a cave.

Warrior telling on the front cover of Shining Force 2.

Cecil and Rydia fighting Goblins in Final Fantasy 4.

Floating castle in the sun in Ys Book 1 and 2.

Party walking through a suburban street in EarthBound.

Party fighting Rio in Phantasy Star 4.

Celes singing on a moonlit castle balcony in Final Fantasy 6.

All of the party members of Chrono Trigger posing together.

Triple-A Games