If you’ve finished your Final Fantasy XIII replay and are looking for that next hit of high-budget cinematic drama and tactical combat, you’re in luck. The JRPG landscape in 2026 is stronger than ever. Here are the top titles you need to play next.
1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
As discussed in our [FFXIII vs Expedition 33 Comparison], this is the closest we’ve come to a spiritual successor to the XIII trilogy. With a “Paintress” threatening the world and a high-fashion cast, it’s a must-play for Lightning fans.
- Best For: Fans of surrealist art and high-pressure turn-based combat.
2. Metaphor: ReFantazio
From the creative minds behind the modern Persona series, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a masterclass in “Evolutionary” JRPG design. Its combat system allows you to toggle between real-time action and strategic turn-based play, much like the fluidity of FFXIII’s Paradigm Shifting. The story focuses on a high-stakes political race for the throne, mirroring the “rebellion against the system” themes found in Cocoon.
- Best For: Fans of deep political narratives and stylish, fast-paced strategy.
3. Visions of Mana
If the vibrant, alien colors of the Archylte Steppe were your favorite part of FFXIII, Visions of Mana is a visual feast you can’t miss. It captures that classic Square Enix “high-fantasy” magic with semi-open zones that feel as lush and expansive as Gran Pulse. The combat is fluid and elemental-focused, requiring you to adapt your party’s roles on the fly.
- Best For: Fans of beautiful, vibrant worlds and classic Square Enix charm.
4. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 (PC/Switch)
If you loved the “Gran Pulse” section of FFXIII—the sense of being a small part of a massive, alien world—Xenoblade 3 is your next stop. It features a massive world and a deep “class” system that feels like a natural evolution of the Paradigm roles.
- Best For: Fans of massive world-building and emotional soundtracks.
5. Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn
Tales of Arise brought the Tales series into the modern era with visuals that rival FFXIII‘s cinematic flair. The relationship between Alphen and Shionne carries the same “enemies-to-allies” weight as the early FFXIII party.
- Best For: Players who prefer action-heavy combat with a focus on character romance.