best tales of games ranked

2025

3 min read 26-11-2024

Meta Description: Embark on a nostalgic journey through the Tales series! This comprehensive ranking dives deep into the best Tales games, exploring their captivating stories, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. From the classics to the modern masterpieces, discover your next favorite RPG adventure. Dive into our in-depth analysis, comparing combat, storylines, and overall impact on the genre. Prepare for a trip down memory lane, filled with thrilling battles and unforgettable characters!

Introduction: A Legacy of Adventure

The Tales series boasts a rich history of captivating JRPGs, known for their blend of thrilling combat, engaging storylines, and memorable casts of characters. Choosing the "best" is subjective, but this ranking considers a multitude of factors, including narrative depth, combat innovation, character development, and overall impact on the gaming landscape. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, get ready to explore some of the most beloved entries in the Tales saga. This ranking will explore both fan favorites and critically acclaimed titles, giving you a well-rounded perspective on the series' long and storied history.

Ranking the Best Tales Games

This ranking isn't just a list – it's a journey through the evolution of the Tales series. We'll delve into what makes each game stand out, comparing strengths and weaknesses to give a comprehensive picture.

Tier 1: Pinnacle of the Series

Tales of Symphonia (GameCube/PS2): Often cited as the best in the series, Symphonia set a high bar. Its mature themes, compelling characters, and engaging story resonated deeply with players. The dual protagonist setup and complex world-building are still praised today. Its innovative linear motion battle system (LMBS) was revolutionary for its time.
Tales of Vesperia (Xbox 360/PS3/PC/Switch): Vesperia refined the LMBS, adding more depth and fluidity. Its compelling cast, political intrigue, and exploration of complex moral dilemmas solidified its place among the greats. The sheer number of playable characters offered incredible replay value. The PS3/Switch versions, in particular, added significant content.
Tales of Xillia 2 (PS3): Often overshadowed by its predecessor, Xillia 2 deserves recognition for its superb character development and compelling story. It expands upon the world and characters of Tales of Xillia in surprising and impactful ways. The refined combat and the emotional depth make it a standout title.

Tier 2: Excellent Entries

Tales of Berseria (PS4/Xbox One/PC): Berseria, a prequel to Zestiria, offers a darker, more mature narrative. Its anti-hero protagonist, Velvet Crowe, is one of the series' most compelling characters. The combat system, a refined version of the Zestiria system, is fast-paced and engaging.
Tales of Arise (PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Xbox Series X/S/PC): A recent release, Arise benefits from modern graphics and an updated combat system. Its story, while sometimes predictable, is still very engaging and boasts a strong cast of characters. The world is visually stunning, and the combat flows beautifully.

Tier 3: Solid Choices

Tales of Zestiria (PS3/PS4/PC): While not as polished as some other entries, Zestiria still offers a fun experience. Its combat system was innovative for its time, although some aspects of the story and pacing received criticism. The world is rich, and its lore provides context for Berseria.
Tales of Graces f (PS3): Graces f (an enhanced version of Graces) is a visually impressive game with a charming cast of characters. While its story is perhaps not as groundbreaking as others, its solid gameplay and fun characters make it a worthwhile experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes the Tales series so unique?

A: The Tales series stands out for its blend of engaging storylines, charming characters, and innovative combat systems. It often tackles mature themes and complex moral dilemmas, setting it apart from many other JRPGs. The series has always evolved its battle systems, never stagnating creatively.

Q: Which Tales game should I start with?

A: Tales of Symphonia, Tales of Vesperia, and Tales of Arise are excellent starting points, offering compelling narratives and accessible gameplay.

Q: Are there any other great Tales games?

A: Many other Tales games offer unique experiences. Exploring the series' extensive history is part of its charm! Research other titles to find those that resonate best with you, based on your preferences.

Conclusion: A Journey Through Time and Adventure

The Tales series represents a consistent effort to deliver high-quality JRPGs with engaging stories and unforgettable characters. This ranking represents a culmination of critical consensus and fan opinions. Ultimately, the "best" Tales game is subjective, depending on personal preferences. But hopefully, this exploration of the series will help you find your next great RPG adventure. Which Tales game is your personal favorite? Let us know in the comments below!