The Best Games In The Tales Series, Ranked

Published and developed by Namco, the Tales series launched in 1995 with the release of Tales of Phantasia. It was considered revolutionary at the time due to its Linear Motion Battle System that featured real-time combat as opposed to turn-based. This beat-em-up-like combat helped the franchise stand out among a crowded genre in the ’90s. Additionally, it would become a staple of the series and evolve with every new mainline release.

Over twenty years later, the Tales series is considered one of the top three Japanese RPG series next to RPG giants like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy. Despite being considered RPG-lite compared to its rivals, many of the games have far more depth than they are given credit for. The themes of racism and loss are a mainstay of the series and convey a much darker undertone than many first realize. It’s a vast series that caters to many tastes, so where does your favorite rank?

All release dates listed reference the North American release, not the Japanese release.

Updated September 27, 2024, by Aydan Sattler: While the Tales of series has yet to release a new mainline entry in recent years, fans have been treated to a variety of DLCs, remasters, and spin-offs, such as the short-lived Tales of Luminaria mobile game. Despite the absence of a fresh title, the Tales fandom remains vibrant and dedicated, eagerly anticipating any new content. Whether through revisiting classic games or exploring newer offerings, the enthusiasm for the series continues to thrive as fans hold out hope for the next major addition to the beloved JRPG franchise.

20 Tales Of Link

• Released: 2016
• Platform: Android and iOS

Tales of Link was a mobile RPG from the Tales series, launching in Japan in 2014 with a global release following in 2016. Despite its initial success, the game was shut down in 2018. One notable aspect of Tales of Link was the discrepancy in content between the Japanese and global versions; the Japanese servers had more story content and side quests that were never made available to global players, leaving some storylines incomplete for the international audience.

Upon its closure, fans could purchase a limited-time Soundtrack CD and Memorial Artbook.

The game’s combat system centered around linking matching characters based on their elemental affinities. Players could enhance their team through boosts, upgrades, and by acquiring new characters. Players could grind for their pulls, but Tales of Link encouraged players to use microtransactions. Despite this, the game garnered attention for its extensive array of character skins, which remain popular among fans of the series to this day.

19 Tales Of Luminaria

• Released: 2021
• Platform: Android and iOS

Tales of Luminaria was notable for being the first mobile game in the Tales of series to feature a completely original cast, without any character cameos from previous Tales titles. The game’s story was told through the perspectives of 21 distinct characters, each with their own story arc, allowing for a multi-faceted narrative. Unfortunately, Tales of Luminaria was the shortest-lived Tales mobile game, with service ending just eight months after its release, on July 19, 2022.

Unlike typical gacha games, Tales of Luminaria made all 21 characters playable immediately after completing the tutorial. Instead of pulling for characters, players rolled for weapons, costumes, and materials to level up their characters. This approach set it apart from other mobile RPGs but was not enough to maintain a long-term player base.

18 Tales Of Rays

• Released: 2017
• Platform: Android and iOS

Released in 2017, Tales of Rays was a mobile RPG designed to look and feel like a mainline entry in the Tales series. It indeed looked top-notch, especially compared to the chibi-style of Tales of Link. But like Tales of Link, Tales of Rays was celebrated for its many, unique character skins. It is also one of few mobile games where you have the option to play antagonists, such as Dist the Rose from Tales of the Abyss.

Tales of Rays’s global servers were closed in 2018, though the Japanese servers lasted until 2024.

Unfortunately, this was a game that didn’t live up to its presentation. The free-to-play mechanics quickly reared their ugly heads and, as with the other mobile titles, it just feels like another cash grab that’s riddled with microtransactions. Furthermore, the fighting system used the series’ real-time combat system, but it felt unresponsive thanks to the touch screen elements.

17 Tales Of Crestoria

• Released: 2020
• Platform: Android and iOS

Released in 2020, Tales of Crestoria was a mobile JRPG that delved into themes of crime, betrayal, and moral conflict. True to the Tales series, it featured a rich main story, character-driven skits, sub-quests, and character episodes, creating a deep narrative experience for fans. Although the game was shut down in 2022, the main story continued through a spin-off anime and manga series, providing closure for dedicated players.

One notable departure in Crestoria was its combat system, which utilized a turn-based format – quite different from the real-time combat that the Tales series had employed since Tales of Phantasia. While the game’s story and characters were praised, like most Tales mobile entries, it heavily relied on microtransactions for progression. The difficulty ramped up significantly as players progressed, forcing them to either grind for rare pulls or spend money to advance in the narrative.

16 Tales Of The World: Radiant Mythology

• Released: 2007
• Platform: PSP

Released on the PlayStation Portable in 2007, Tales of the World: Radiant Mythology is a crossover RPG that brings together iconic characters from the Tales series. It stands out as the only game in the Tales of the World spin-off series to receive a Western release.

Players create a custom character who undertakes MMO-style quests to gain “fame,” which unlocks more recruitable heroes from past Tales games. As players progress, they can recruit fan favorites like Luke from Tales of the Abyss or Lloyd from Tales of Symphonia to help in their mission to save the world of Terresia.

15 Tales Of Symphonia: Dawn Of The New World

• Released: 2008 and 2013
• Platform: Wii and PS3

First released in 2008 for the Nintendo Wii, Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is a direct sequel to the beloved Tales of Symphonia on the GameCube, though it features a new protagonist, Emil Castagnier. In 2013, it was re-released as part of Tales of Symphonia Chronicles, an HD remaster bundled with the original game for the PlayStation 3.

Compared to its predecessor, Dawn of the New World is often regarded as weaker in terms of story and character development. Without playing the first Symphonia, newcomers may struggle to fully grasp the plot and its connections to the original game. However, when packaged alongside the exceptional first installment, it’s still considered a worthwhile purchase for fans of the series.

14 Tales Of Hearts R

• Released: 2014
• Platform: PS Vita

Released in 2014, Tales of Hearts R is a PlayStation Vita remake of the Japan-exclusive 2008 Nintendo DS original, Tales of Hearts. Unlike the original, which featured a combination of 2D sprites and 3D backgrounds, Hearts R showcases fully 3D characters and environments, enhancing the visual experience for players.

While Tales of Hearts R doesn’t stray far from the more predictable tropes of the JRPG genre, it’s still an enjoyable experience for fans of the series. One notable downside is the inclusion of old-school random battles, which can be jarring for modern players. However, the action-based combat system that defines the Tales franchise helps maintain the game’s entertainment value, ensuring that battles stay engaging throughout.

13 Tales Of Legendia

• Released: 2006
• Platform: PS2

Released in 2006 for North American audiences, Tales of Legendia found itself overshadowed by the more popular Tales of the Abyss, which debuted the same year. Legendia’s music and graphics are unique within the Tales of series, which was off-putting for many fans. Nevertheless, it remains a solid entry in the Tales series, especially for fans looking to explore more of its world and characters.

Tales of Legendia is the first game in the Tales of series not to be developed by Namco Tales Studio.

Legendia is split into two major gameplay segments: the main story and the character stories. In the first half, players follow the main narrative, introducing key characters and developing a central plot. The second half is dedicated to character stories, which serve as a continuation of the main plot, focusing on resolving each character’s personal arcs while tying together the overarching storyline. This structure allows for deep character exploration and ultimately has significant implications for the world’s future.

12 Tales Of Phantasia

• Released: 1995
• Platform: GBA

Tales of Phantasia is the very first game in the Tales series, and its innovative real-time battle system was groundbreaking for RPGs when it was released. Although the system may feel dated by today’s standards, it still delivers a fun and engaging combat experience that sets it apart from other RPGs of its time.

The game’s time-traveling story and its memorable characters continue to charm fans, maintaining its status as a classic entry in the series. Many long-time fans hold out hope that Namco will eventually release a remake or remaster of Tales of Phantasia, bringing it to new platforms and revitalizing its legacy for modern audiences.

11 Tales Of Eternia/Tales Of Destiny 2

• Released: 2001 and 2006
• Platform: PS1 and PSP

Beware story spoilers for Tales of Eternia, Symphonia, Xillia, and Arise.

Also known as Tales of Destiny 2 in North America, Tales of Eternia was first released for the PlayStation in 2001 and later ported to the PSP in 2006. Released during the twilight years of the PS1’s lifecycle, Eternia showcased attractive visuals that translated well to the PSP, maintaining its charm over the years.

Tales of Eternia was renamed to Tales of Destiny 2 for the western release because Tales of Destiny was the first Tales title released in America, so the marketing team decided that Tales of Destiny 2 was better for marketing than Tales of Eternia.

One of the standout aspects of Eternia is its use of contrasting worlds – Inferia and Celestia – a favorite story motif that has reappeared in later Tales entries like Tales of Symphonia, Tales of Xillia, Tales of the Rays, and most recently, Tales of Arise. While Eternia may not have the narrative depth of some of its successors, it remains a beloved title in the series, offering a memorable and enjoyable adventure that has resonated with fans for years.

10 Tales Of Zestiria

• Released: 2015
• Platform: PS3, PS4 and PC

Tales of Zestiria, despite its slow start, feels like a return to the roots of the Tales series. It features a solid, if somewhat predictable, narrative heavily inspired by Arthurian legend. The story is worth sticking with due to its rich cast of characters, each of whom adds emotional depth and humor to the game. The world of Zestiria also feels part of a larger universe, especially when played alongside Tales of Berseria, which enhances the lore and context of the series.

The combat system, while taking some time to master, is a highlight of Zestiria. It blends the bonding mechanics from Xillia with the dynamic fighting systems of Graces, resulting in an exciting, fast-paced, and slightly flashy combat experience. However, the strategic planning involved makes it rewarding for even the most seasoned RPG players.

9 Tales Of Xillia 2

• Released: 2014
• Platform: PS3

As the name suggests, Tales of Xillia 2 is a direct sequel, this time placing players in the shoes of Ludger Kresnik, a silent protagonist. The game features an intriguing interdimensional plot, with Ludger tasked with destroying parallel worlds to maintain balance in his own world. The narrative is surprisingly clever, managing to avoid becoming overly convoluted or bloated despite its complex premise.

Xillia 2 boasts a cast of relatable characters and a gripping plot that ties up the events of the first game, making it a satisfying follow-up. However, it is somewhat hampered by its MMO-style fetch quests and debt system, which players must endure to progress the story. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a compelling entry in the Tales series.

8 Tales Of Destiny

• Released: 1997
• Platform: PS1

Tales of Destiny, released in 1997, is often regarded as one of the most beloved entries in the Tales series. As a follow-up to Tales of Phantasia, it holds the distinction of being the first Tales game to receive a western release. While it may not have been groundbreaking in terms of originality, it compensated with a cast of memorable and well-developed characters.

Even by today’s standards, Tales of Destiny excels in character development, allowing players to forge strong connections with the party members throughout the journey. The combat system marked a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a more engaging and dynamic experience. Although the game was later remade for the PS2, that version unfortunately did not make it to western territories, leaving many fans hopeful for a potential revival in the future.

7 Tales Of Graces F

• Released: 2012 and 2025
• Platform: PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series XIS, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Steam

In terms of story and characterization, Tales of Graces might come off as formulaic to seasoned Tales fans. The narrative lacks significant twists or surprises, but the execution and presentation are top-notch. At its core, Graces tells a light-hearted tale of friendship, and its charming delivery makes it hard not to fall in love with the characters and their journey.

Moreover, Tales of Graces f is celebrated for having one of the best combat systems in the series. It’s designed to be accessible for new players while still offering depth for veterans. With a variety of fighting styles, dodges, counter-attacks, and strategic battles, the combat system provides a rewarding experience that encourages players to explore different tactics and play styles. This combination of heartfelt storytelling and engaging gameplay makes Graces a standout title in the Tales franchise.

6 Tales Of Xillia

• Released: 2013
• Platform: PS3

A hit among fans on the PS3, Tales of Xillia revitalized the series formula by introducing two protagonists, Jude and Milla. This dual perspective allows players to experience the story from different viewpoints, enriching character development and offering unique story quests and insights. For those looking to fully grasp the narrative, you should play through the game twice to appreciate all its nuances.

Milla Maxwell was the first female main character in the Tales of series, an honor that wasn’t seen again until Velvet in Tales of Beseria.

Tales of Xillia also set the stage for modern Tales games with several key mechanics. It introduced an over-the-shoulder camera angle that enhances immersion alongside an evolution of the free-run mechanics in battle. The game features the Double-Raid Linear Motion Battle System (DR-LMBS), allowing players to team up with their characters for powerful combo attacks. This system encourages strategic gameplay over mere button-mashing, making battles feel more technical and rewarding.

5 Tales Of Berseria

• Released: 2017
• Platform: PS4 and PC

Even though Tales of Berseria is a stand-alone Tales title, it skillfully sets the stage for the events that unfold in Tales of Zestiria, taking place a millennium earlier. This rich context enhances the lore of Zestiria while maintaining a strong focus on Velvet’s journey in Berseria.

Unlike other entries that often embrace a whimsical fantasy tone, Berseria delves into much darker themes. The protagonist, Velvet Crowe, is a deeply complex character driven by anger and a desire for vengeance, making her one of the most intriguing leads in the series’ history. Alongside her, a diverse cast of anti-heroes joins the adventure, each grappling with their own moral dilemmas and conflicting motivations. This depth of character development and narrative complexity sets Berseria apart, inviting players to explore the gray areas of morality and the consequences of one’s choices.

4 Tales Of Symphonia

• Released: 2003, 2013, and 2023
• Platform: GameCube, PC, PS3, Windows, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

For many Western JRPG fans, Tales of Symphonia stands as a landmark title that introduced them to the Tales series. It marked a significant evolution in both visuals and combat mechanics, particularly with its transition to a 3D battlefield, enhancing the gameplay experience.

The game’s cutesy art style, characterized by its vibrant cell-shaded visuals, remains charming, and the beautifully rendered towns are a testament to its artistic quality that holds up well even today. Symphonia features a diverse cast of endearing characters, each contributing to a narrative that addresses themes of oppression and discrimination. This poignant storyline resonates deeply with players, making Tales of Symphonia not just an enjoyable RPG but also a memorable and impactful experience in the realm of gaming.

3 Tales Of Vesperia

• Released: 2009 and 2019
• Platform: Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS4, and Switch

Originally released as an Xbox 360 exclusive in the West, Tales of Vesperia may have slipped under the radar for many JRPG fans. However, the game’s definitive remaster launched in 2019, along with its presence in the Xbox Game Pass library, allowed Vesperia to reach a broader audience, resulting in impressive sales numbers for Bandai Namco.

The story follows protagonist Yuri Lowell, a seasoned warrior and former imperial soldier who embodies the anti-hero archetype, providing a refreshing contrast to the typically idealistic and naive heroes found in previous titles. This complexity adds depth to the narrative as Yuri navigates his journey with a mix of sarcasm and moral ambiguity. The supporting cast complements Yuri’s character beautifully, bringing warmth and humor that balances out his more cynical demeanor. Together, they create a dynamic and engaging experience that resonates with players, solidifying Tales of Vesperia as a standout entry in the series.

2 Tales Of Arise

• Released: 2021
• Platform: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC

Surpassing both fan and critical expectations, Tales of Arise confidently claims its place as one the best games in the Tales series. The developers made significant strides forward with excellent design choices, all while borrowing and enhancing elements from previous beloved titles.

Continuing the series’ themes of racial division, acceptance, and character development, Tales of Arise shares a darker tone reminiscent of Berseria, but it expertly weaves in moments of lighthearted humor to balance the narrative’s gravity. The combat system draws inspiration from the mechanics seen in Tales of Graces F, delivering fast-paced and engaging battles that keep players on their toes. The Arte set for each character is engaging, providing exciting cinematics that enhance the characters’ development. Additionally, the soundtrack is widely regarded as the best in the series, enhancing the emotional weight of the story and the overall gaming experience. Tales of Arise represents a bold evolution for the franchise, skillfully honoring its roots while paving the way for future entries.

1 Tales Of The Abyss

• Released: 2006 and 2011
• Platform: PS2 and 3DS

Fan-favorite Tales of the Abyss is still regarded as one of the best JRPGs on the PS2, and for good reason. It revolutionized combat mechanics by allowing characters to move freely in battle arenas, breaking away from the traditional linear movements seen in previous entries. However, what truly sets Abyss apart is its rich character development and intricate world-building.

The story centers around Luke fon Fabre, who undergoes a significant transformation from a spoiled and unlikeable aristocrat to a courageous hero. This coming-of-age journey allows players to witness his growth and maturation alongside other characters, making for a deeply engaging narrative. While the plot can feel somewhat bloated in its later stages, the resolution is one of the most satisfying and memorable conclusions in the Tales series. Abyss remains a beloved title for its heartfelt storytelling and character arcs that resonate with players long after they finish the game.