For fans of JRPGs, the line up for the first couple of months of 2021 is ready to kickstart the new year in spectacular fashion.
In order of release, these are the games coming to us at the start of 2021, so prepare your wallet and book time off work, as there are some huge games to get us going for 2021. The release dates were correct at the time of writing this article, but due to the effects of Covid-19 actual release dates have fluctuated significantly recently, so keep an eye on our news or the developer’s official sites for updates.
Release date 26th January 2021
Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends and the Secret Fairy (Switch, PS 4/5, Windows PC, Mac OS)
One of the biggest JRPGs to hit 2021 may indeed be the very first to release. We have been eagerly anticipating GUST’s second instalment of the game ever since we reviewed Atelier Ryza, and with improved systems, gameplay and features on top of what was already a superb game, things can only get better for the budding alchemist.
Release date 28th January 2021
Re:ZERO – Starting Life in Another World – The Prophecy of the Throne (PS4, Switch, Windows PC)
If you enjoyed the hit anime series of the same name (I did, go team REM), then you’ll be excited to know that the series writer has overseen the story of the game, which is based on the first series of the anime but has an original storyline of its own.
Release date 2nd February 2021
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox (PS4, Switch, Windows PC)
It’s always time to sit up and take notice when Falcom, the JRPG giant of the gaming world , releases a new game. The next instalment in the long-running Ys series is another behemoth of a JRPG for fans coming early in 2021.
Release date 5th February 2021
Nioh Remastered – The Complete Edition (PS5)
One of the finest PS console exclusives of the last generation is getting a visual and technical upgrade, bringing 60 fps gameplay and 4K visuals in one double-game package. The games looked and played superb last gen, so one can only wonder what a PS5 bundle can bring. Both games are being brought to us in stunning 4k, with 120 Hz available to those with compatible hardware.
(For PC and PS4 players, Nioh 2: The Complete Edition is also releasing on 5th February 2021.)
Release date 19th February 2021
Fallen Legion Revenants (Switch, PS4)
A smaller title, but with a big-hitting solid gameplay experience that is again getting a sequel in Revenants. Improved gameplay and features look set to expand on the next instalment of the game.
Release date Q1 2021
Aragami 2 (Xbox One, Series X|S, PS4/5, Windows PC
Lince Works’ excellent first outing of Ninja styled assassinationis getting a sequel that looks to bring more ghost-like, stabbing in the back action moments that even Assassin’s Creed would be proud of.
Release date 20th February 2021
Persona 5: Strikers (Switch, PS4, Windows PC)
Undoubtedly the biggest and most anticipated title on this list. The series is so popular that the world demanded the previously Japan-exclusive title be available for everyone. They succeed in convincing the developers/publishers to do it, and it will be arriving soon for those adoring fans of the Phantom Thieves!
And dipping into March and beyond
Release date 2nd March 2021
Yakuza: Like a Dragon PS5 upgrade (PS4/5, Xbox One/Series X|S)
Ok, this one isn’t technically new, but for PS5 players waiting for the new-gen upgrade, this is big news. Xbox Series X|S players have been treated to the upgraded new-gen experience of Yakuza: Like a Dragon since its release, however, PS5 players have had to wait patiently for their upgrade. Thankfully, the free PS5 upgrade is coming next March. It’s worth noting that cross-gen saves are not supported, so if you’re looking forward to the PS5 upgrade and don’t want to play through it all again, it may be best to hold off starting this one for now.
Release date 23rd April 2021
NieR: Replicant ver.1.22474487139… (PS4, Xbox One, Windows PC)
Ok, so we are now into April, but this is also a huge title in the genre that should not be forgotten. Following up from the success of the smash-hit NieR: Automata, NieR goes back to its first game with a remake of NieR: Replicant, that not only brings the PS3/X360 classic up to date visually, it’s also adding new features and overhauled gameplay mechanics. This is definitely one to watch out for.
These are just some of the titles upcoming for 2021, but all will be covered and hopefully have full written reviews on release date here at Total Gaming Addicts.
