A survey conducted by the Japanese outlet Denfaminicogamer asked its readers to identify role-playing games (RPGs) whose stories have moved them to tears. With over 4700 responses, the poll highlights games that are remembered for their ability to evoke deep emotion through their narratives, character development, and endings.
Which RPGs’ stories move players to tears?
The Japanese media’s survey presents a selection of titles spanning over two decades of the industry’s history. The results indicate that emotional impact in the RPG genre is often linked to themes such as personal sacrifice, the discovery of life’s purpose, family relationships (especially between parents and children), and the inevitability of fate.
Here is the list of the 10 RPGs that have made players cry the most in Japan:
- Final Fantasy X (498 votes)
- Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (289 votes)
- Persona 3 (245 votes)
- Okami (211 votes)
- Mother 3 (208 votes)
- Tales of the Abyss (207 votes)
- Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age (164 votes)
- Final Fantasy IX (161 votes)
- Suikoden II (158 votes)
- Final Fantasy XV (154 votes)
1. Final Fantasy X
Originally released in 2001, this game is also notable for being the first Final Fantasy title with full voice acting. Participants pointed to the relationship between Tidus and his father, Jecht, as well as the development of the romance between the protagonists and the melancholic tone of the ending, as reasons for their tears.
2. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
This prequel to the Cloud-led universe centers on Zack Fair. Players highlighted their protagonist’s bravery in the face of a destiny already known to the audience, praising the story’s execution and the music that accompanies the final scene.
3. Persona 3
Survey respondents emphasized Persona 3‘s exploration of themes like life and death, which are central to the game. The protagonist’s growth throughout a school year and the sense of loss following the final battle were the most frequently mentioned points by players who voted for the RPGs that made them cry the most.
4. Okami
Unlike other titles on this list, respondents mentioned crying with Okami due to feelings of gratitude and hope. The Japanese-style aesthetics and the story’s climax, focused on the support of supporting characters for Amaterasu, deeply touched the Japanese audience.
5. Mother 3
Mother 3 remains exclusive to the Japanese market to this day, making it unique on this list. Surveyed players highlighted the family tragedy surrounding twins Lucas and Claus, along with the contrast between the game’s colorful appearance and the harshness of its story, as catalysts for their tears.
6. Tales of the Abyss
Based on the concept of “knowing the meaning of birth,” Tales of the Abyss is remembered for the evolution of its protagonist, Luke, who must confront his own identity and the weight of his existence.
7. Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Japanese players also noted that the emotional impact stems from the shared journey with allies and the significance of the subtitle (“Echoes of an Elusive Age”). This subtitle connects with the franchise’s nostalgia and the value of memories, creating a perfect mix that often led to uncontrollable tears during the hero’s adventures in this Dragon Quest installment.
8. Final Fantasy IX
Despite its fairy-tale aesthetic, respondents appreciated how deeply Final Fantasy IX addresses mortality and the purpose of life. The final monologue and the closure of its main characters’ stories were highlighted as the most emotional parts of this adventure.
9. Suikoden II
The impact of Suikoden II, which debuted in 1998, lies in its portrayal of war, friendship, and betrayal. Respondents pointed out that the story avoids simplistic black-and-white portrayals and depicts difficult-to-resolve human conflicts that often touch sensitive chords with players.
10. Final Fantasy XV
It’s widely known that Final Fantasy XV is essentially a “road movie” where the daily lives of the four protagonists forge a strong bond with the player. During Noctis’s journey, he and his friends (or bodyguards) experience numerous adventures and visit many locations, taking photos and sharing experiences. This, along with the game’s conclusion, were the elements most cited by those surveyed by the Japanese outlet as triggers for tears while playing this RPG.
What RPG has touched your heart the most? Share your answers in the comments.
