Published and developed by Namco, the Tales series launched in 1995 with the release of Tales of Phantasia. It was considered revolutionary at the time due to its Linear Motion Battle System that featured real-time combat as opposed to turn-based. This beat-em-up-like combat helped the franchise stand out among a crowded genre in the '90s. Additionally, it would become the staple of the series and evolve with every new mainline release.

Twenty years on, the Tales series is considered one of the top three Japanese RPG series next to RPG giants like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy. Despite being considered RPG-lite compared to its rivals, many of the games have far more depth than they are given credit for. The themes of racism and loss are a mainstay of the series and convey a much darker undertone than many first realize. It's a vast series that caters to many tastes so where does your favorite rank?

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Updated September 24, 2021, by Michael Llewellyn: Tales of Arise has been released to fan and critical acclaim. The longer time in development paid off and the move to the Unreal Engine finally brought the series in line with triple-A franchises like Final Fantasy. As a result, the series is finally getting the attention it deserves in the West. It has always had a dedicated and vocal fanbase but with one of the best games of the year that is outselling all previous entries in the series, new fans going to be left wanting more. Now is as good a time as any to find out what the best games in the Tales series are.

Link artes performed and Boost Arte split screen  Tales of Link
  • Released: 2016
  • Platform: Android and iOS

Tales of Link was a mobile RPG that launched in Japan in 2014 and got a North American release in 2016. Unfortunately, the game was short-lived and it was shut down in 2018. It was later replaced with Tales of Crestoria which is still running today.

The combat system required its players to link up matching characters representing different elements. There are boosts, upgrades, and extra characters but as always, it’s a mobile title so there was a heavy focus on microtransactions to progress.

18 Tales Of Rays

IX Nieves in Sprit Gear
  • Released: 2017
  • Platform: Android and iOS

Released in 2017, Tales of Rays was a mobile RPG designed to look and feel like a mainline entry in the Tales series. It indeed looked top-notch especially compared to the chibi-style of Tales of Links.

Unfortunately, this was a game that didn’t live up to its presentation. The free-to-play mechanics quickly reared their ugly heads and as with the other mobile titles, it just feels like another cash grab that’s riddled with microtransactions. Furthermore, the fighting system used the series’ real-time combat system but it felt unresponsive thanks to the touch screen elements.

17 Tales Of Crestoria

Kanata fighting off enemies in a cutscene for Tales of Crestoria
  • Released: 2020
  • Platform: Android and iOS

Released in 2020, Tales of Crestoria is a mobile JRPG with a theme that centers on crime and betrayal. Just like the mothership Tales series, it features a large main story, sub-quests, skits and, character episodes.

The combat system, however, is turn-based and even though this is better suited to mobile it may disappoint some that the staple real-time combat system is absent. Furthermore, being a free-to-play mobile game it’s designed to make you part with your cash. The difficulty ramps up and story progression is almost impossible without spending some money.

16 Tales Of The World: Radiant Mythology

Protagonist accepting a quest in Tales of the World
  • Released: 2007
  • Platform: PSP

Released on the PlayStation Portable in 2007 Tales Of The World: Radiant Mythology is a spin-off crossover action RPG that features several iconic characters from the Tales series. It’s the only game in the Tales of the World spin-off series to be released in western territories.

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Players can create their characters and have to undertake MMO-style quests to increase their “fame”. The more famous the player gets means they have access to more recruitable characters like Luke from Tales of the Abyss or Lloyd from Tales of Symphonia.

15 Tales Of Symphonia: Dawn Of The New World

Marta teaming with Sheena in Tales of Symphonia 2
  • Released: 2008 and 2013
  • Platform: Wii and PS3

First released in 2008 for the Nintendo Wii, Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is a direct sequel – albeit with a new protagonist – to Tales of Symphonia released on the GameCube. It was released again in 2013 bundled together in an HD remaster for the PlayStation 3 called Tales of Symphonia Chronicles.

In terms of its story and characters, Dawn of the New World is much weaker than its predecessor and without playing the first game newer players may not grasp the plot to its fullest extent. However, released as a package with the excellent original, it’s a worthy purchase.

14 Tales Of Hearts R

Kor wielding his sword in Tales of Hearts R
  • Released: 2014
  • Platform: PS Vita

Released in 2014, Tales of Hearts R is the PlayStation Vita remake of the Japan-only 2008 Nintendo DS original. Hearts R features full 3D characters and environments as opposed to the DS version’s 2D sprite and 3D background art style.

Tales of Hearts R is one of the more predictable entries in the series but it’s still good enough to keep fans pushing through until its conclusion. The biggest downside, however, is the inclusion of old-school JRPG random battles. Thankfully, the action-based combat system the series has become known for keeps the action as entertaining as possible.

13 Tales Of Legendia

tales-of-legendia Senel and co on the promo material
  • Released: 2006
  • Platform: PS2

Released in 2006 for North American territories, Tales of Legendia was released the same year as the more popular Tales of the Abyss and isn’t quite held in the same regard. Abyss’ gameplay and visuals indeed felt like a big step up from its predecessors and Legendia felt antiquated by comparison but it’s still a solid entry in the series.

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Legendia’s story isn’t going to surprise fans of the genre, but its post-game content and the time it takes to develop the interesting cast of characters is arguably the best series has to offer.

12 Tales of Phantasia

Tales of Phantasia Cress Casting Chaos D.Blade
  • Released: 1995
  • Platform: GBA

Tales of Phantasia is the very first game in the series, and its unique real-time battle system made RPG fans take notice. By today’s standards, the battle system is showing its age, but that doesn't take away from its fun factor.

The time-traveling story and characters are as charming now as they ever were, and it remains a favorite among fans of the series. Many are still hopeful that Namco will release a remake or even a remaster sometime in the future.

11 Tales Of Eternia/Tales Of Destiny II

Reid swinging a sword in cutscene for Tales of Eternia
  • Released: 2001 and 2006
  • Platform: PS1 and PSP

Also known as Tales of Destiny II in North America, Tales of Eternia was first released for the PlayStation in 2001 and was later ported to the PSP in 2006. Released toward the end of the PS1’s lifecycle, Eternia is an attractive game that held up well on the PSP.

The story and characters aren’t as strong as many of its successors but Eternia is an enjoyable little adventure. The world contrasting worlds will be familiar to fans of Tales of Arise. Interestingly, the developing relationship of the two leads from very planets will be familiar to Arise fans too.

10 Tales of Xillia 2

Ludgar protecting Elle in Tales of Xillia 2
  • Released: 2014
  • Platform: PS3

As the name suggests, Tales of Xillia 2 is a direct sequel, but this time it puts players in the shoes of a silent protagonist named Ludger Kresnik. Xillia 2 features an interdimensional plot where Ludger is tasked with destroying parallel worlds in an attempt to retain his own world's balance. It's surprisingly clever with feeling convoluted or bloated.

Xillia 2 has a cast of relatable characters and, a gripping plot that rounds up the events of the first game. Unfortunately, it is slightly let down by the fact you will have to endure its MMO-like fetch quest system to earn and satisfy the game’s debt system to advance the story.

9 Tales Of Zestiria

tales-of-zestiria Sorey and Mikleo ready for combat
  • Released: 2015
  • Platform: PS3, PS4 and PC

Tales of Zestiria is one of the series more recent titles that, despite its slow start, feels like a return to the series’ roots. It features a good if predictable narrative based on Arthurian legend. It's one worth sticking with, however, as the characters make it worthwhile. Additionally, it feels like it's part of a bigger universe that can be appreciated a lot more when played together with Tales of Berseria.

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It can take some time to learn but Zestiria’s combat combines elements of Xillia’s bonding system with Graces’ core fighting mechanics. As a result, it’s exciting, fast, and a little flashy but the strategic planning required will satisfy even the most hardened RPG fans.

8 Tales Of Destiny

Tales of Destiny Barbatos Villain Boss Fight close up threatening hand gesture
  • Released: 1997
  • Platform: PS1

Tales of Destiny was released in 1997 and remains one of the most beloved entries in the series. Despite being a follow-up to Tales of Phantasia, it was the first Tales game to get a western release. What it lacked in originality it made up for this with great characters.

Even by today's standards Tales of Destiny excels in its character development. Additionally, the combat system was an improvement over its predecessor and holds up better as a result. It was remade for the PS2 but this version didn't make it to the West.

7 Tales Of Graces f

Asbel and Sophie in Tales of Graces F
  • Released: 2012
  • Platform: PS3

In terms of story and characterization, the Tales fans will find Tales of Graces is very formulaic. Its narrative doesn't have much in the way of twists or surprises but the execution and presentation are fantastic. Graces is a light-hearted tale of friendship but it is presented in such a charming way that one can’t help but fall in love with it.

Furthermore, Graces f has one of the best combat systems in the series. It's easy to pick up for new players. The variety of fighting styles, dodges, counter attacks, and strategic battles add a layer of depth that's very rewarding.

6 Tales Of Xillia

Tales of Xillia Jude and Milla
  • Released: 2013
  • Platform: PS3

A hit for fans on the PS3, Tales of Xillia shook up the formula by offering two protagonists to choose from. Once again, character development is at the forefront of this title with the leads Jude and Milla getting their chance to shine.

A single playthrough as one character can last around 40 hours. However, a second playthrough as the other protagonist adds more longevity. Additionally, its direct sequel Tales of Xillia 2 continued to build on and develop the world of Xillia.

5 Tales Of The Abyss

Luke's ego on full display before sword fighting practice  Tales of the Abyss
  • Released: 2006 and 2011
  • Platform: PS2 and 3DS

Fan-favorite Tales of the Abyss is still considered one of the best PS2 JRPGs to this day. Instead of linear movements on the battlefield, characters can move freely in the arena. However, Abyss shines through its character development and complex but solid world-building.

RELATED: PS2 JRPGs With The Best Storylines, Ranked

The protagonist is Luke, and much of the story develops around his growth from an unlikeable spoilt rich kid into a heroic warrior. It's coming of age story where the audience grows with the characters along their journey. Abyss can feel a little bloated in the later stages of the game's plot, the story's conclusion is one of the most satisfying and memorable in the series.

4 Tales Of Berseria

Velvet sitting on the stairs in a snowy scene in Tales of Berseria
  • Released: 2017
  • Platform: PS4 and PC

Even though Tales of Berseria is a stand-alone Tales title, the events precede those in Tales of Zestiria by 1000 years. it does a great job of adding more context to the events that happened in Zesteria, without losing sight of the events in Berseria.

Those expecting another whimsical fantasy will be surprised to learn that Berseria is much darker in tone. The protagonist, Velvet is emotionally conflicted, complex, and angry. She's one of the most interesting leads in the series' history. She is accompanied by an equally conflicted supporting cast of anti-heroes, each with questionable agendas of their own.

3 Tales Of Symphonia

Lloyd and Kratos discuss important matters in Tales of Symphonia
  • Released: 2003 and 2013
  • Platform: GameCube, PC, and PS3

For many Western JRPG fans, Tales of Symphonia served as an introduction to the series. Especially as the game was a major leap forward in terms of visuals and combat with its introduction of a 3D battlefield.

It employs a more cutesy art style than recent titles, but the cell-shaded visuals and beautifully rendered towns still hold up well today. Symphonia boasts a large cast of lovable characters, and its story which focuses on oppression and discrimination is as poignant now as it was at the time of its release.

2 Tales Of Vesperia

Tales-of-Vesperia Yuri and Flynn duelling
  • Released: 2009 and 2019
  • Platform: Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS4, and Switch

Originally released as an Xbox 360 exclusive in the West, Tales of Vesperia may have gone under the radar with many JRPG fans. Thanks to its definitive remaster released in 2019 and a popular title in the Xbox Game Pass library Vesperia found a larger audience hitting good sales numbers for Bandai Namco.

Vesperia's protagonist Yuri Lowell is an experienced warrior and former imperial soldier. As something of an anti-hero, Yuri is a contrast to the plucky naive do-gooder hero usually featured in its predecessors. Furthermore, the supporting cast is endearing and works well as a countermeasure to Yuri's sarcastic tone.

1 Tales Of Arise

Alphen and Shionne from Tales of Arise.
  • Released: 2021
  • Platform: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC

Surpassing fans and review critic's expectations, Tales of Arise confidently sits atop of the pile as arguably the best Tales game of all time. The developers moved the series forward with excellent design choices while borrowing and improving on elements from their best games.

Tales of Arise continues the series of themes of racial divide, acceptance, and character development. Much like Berseria, it's darker in tone but there are still moments of light humor to break up the seriousness of the story. The combat system takes inspiration from the mechanics seen in Tales of Graces f. It's also worth mentioning that soundtrack is hands down the best in the series. It's an evolution for the series, without ever forgetting its roots.

Next: Games To Play If You Loved Tales of Arise