Final Fantasy Meets Star Trek In Perfect Square Enix JRPG Nobody Talks About

A perfect Square Enix JRPG that nobody talks about is a grand mix between elements seen in Final Fantasy and Star Trek, and if you’re a fan of either, you should definitely consider checking it out. It’s common for games to take inspiration from popular franchises, siphoning elements seen in them and adapting them to make them their own. In a couple of days, players will be able to play a JRPG that mixes Zelda and Monster Hunter, for example. However, some players may prefer turn-based combat.

There are plenty of options around, and turn-based combat is getting yet another resurgence in popularity, especially with the titles that were released in the past few years. From smaller indie titles like Sea of Stars to industry-breaking games like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, turn-based RPGs are under the spotlight once more. Even so, real-time combat continues to thrill players, and it may be worthwhile looking back at a few older titles that may not have gotten the props they deserved when they first arrived.

Star Ocean: Second Story R Is Criminally Underrated

One of these underrated JRPGs that deserves more attention is Star Ocean: The Second Story R. Released in 2023, the Square Enix RPG is a full remake of the 1998 PlayStation classic, updated with modern visuals, music, mechanics, and more. The game is described as a “science fantasy RPG,” mixing elements from what could be described as a space adventure, as well as magical elements from high fantasy tales. The title may not be too popular, but it is extraordinary.

In fact, on Steam, Star Ocean: The Second Story R boasts a whopping 95% Positive review status from players (at the moment of writing). This is a testimony to how great the JRPG is. The recent surprise release of Star Ocean for Switch 2 has put the title in the limelight once more, but it is still severely underrated, especially in comparison to other JRPG franchises. Even so, it doesn’t shy away from being one of the best options within the genre right now.

Final Fantasy Fans Shouldn’t Sleep On It

Claude uses Dragon Roar in Star Ocean the Second Story R

Players who are fans of the Final Fantasy series, especially, shouldn’t miss out on this game. In Star Ocean: The Second Story R, you get to pick between Claude and Rena, and play the story from their perspectives. Along the way, you’ll also make friends who will join the party. In Screen Rant’s review of Star Ocean: The Second Story R, we gave it a 4-star rating, praising it as a “charming” remake.

If you’re not completely sold on the idea of playing, know that you can check out a demo for Star Ocean: The Second Story R for free on Steam, no strings attached. All you have to do is download and play it. If you like some of the sci-fi elements from Star Trek and the fantasy tropes of Final Fantasy, be sure to play this JRPG.