7 Classic JRPGs That Are So Good They Never Need a Remake
The article argues that seven classic Japanese role-playing games remain enjoyable enough to need no remake, even as the industry pours effort into remakes and remasters. It says some older games benefit from modern updates, but these titles’ distinctive stories, art and music have endured.
Examples include 1995’s EarthBound, praised for its humour and unusual enemies, and Final Fantasy IX, whose visuals and music still hold up. Chrono Trigger is celebrated for its time-spanning adventure and creative team, while Lunar is noted for preserving the original’s appealing style across later ports. The article says the games have been lightly updated or made available on newer platforms, though access varies.
In short
- Some classic JRPGs still feel fresh without remakes.
- EarthBound’s humour and oddball enemies remain distinctive.
- Chrono Trigger’s availability on modern consoles is limited.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
These games’ distinctive stories, art, music and humour have endured, and their existing versions still offer the experiences that made them classics. Remakes can alter tone or design, so making them is not automatically an improvement; keeping the originals available through ports or modest updates may preserve their character while letting new players discover them.
The case against
Even beloved games can be difficult for new players to approach when older interfaces, pacing or technical limits feel dated, and access to some versions varies. Thoughtful remakes could preserve the stories and creative identity while improving playability, presentation and availability, allowing the games to reach a wider audience.