Upcoming JRPGs on Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch is still a great place for Japanese role-playing games.

It mixes being easy to take with you with stories that pull you in. Going into 2025 and 2026, game makers are getting ready to release a lot of cool JRPGs on the Switch.

This guide will tell you about the games everyone is waiting for: what’s been announced, when they should be out, where you can play them, what’s cool about them, and why JRPG fans should be excited.

What Counts as a “JRPG”?

JRPGs, or Japanese Role-Playing Games, usually have these things:

• A story that keeps you hooked.

• You build up a group of characters as you play.

• Combat is either the classic turn-based style, real-time, or a mix of both.

• A unique look and sound.

Even though JRPGs can be different in how they play, they all put importance on characters, exploring the world, and ways to level up that come from Japanese game design.

Confirmed Upcoming JRPGs on Switch

Here's a list of JRPGs that have been officially announced or are heavily rumored to be coming to Nintendo Switch through 2026. Some have set release dates, while others are just targeting a season. We'll point out the ones that don't have specific dates yet.

1. Octopath Traveler III

Developer: Square Enix / Acquire
Genre: Turn-based JRPG, HD-2D
Release Window: 2025
Platforms: Switch, others

Here's what's coming in the next Octopath Traveler game:

• Eight new protagonists

• Deep, cross-narrative storytelling

• Evolved HD-2D visuals

• Enhanced combat depth with new job systems

Why This Game's a Big Deal

Octopath Traveler changed how JRPGs can look. The newest game aims to be better and more complex, but it'll still have the turn-based battles fans love.

2. Dragon Quest XII: The Flames of Fate (Switch Version)

Developer: Square Enix
Genre: Turn-based/Action hybrid JRPG
Release Window: 2026 (Confirmed or Strongly Reported)
Platforms: Initially next-gen consoles; Switch version expected

Even if the main launch is on other systems, Square Enix says it plans to support the Switch, maybe with cloud gaming or local versions.

What you should know:

• Explore a big, open world.

• Fight using a mix of turn-based and real-time action.

• Experience a story for adults that changes as it goes.

Considering that Dragon Quest is a long-running, popular JRPG series, any new main game is big news.

3. Shin Megami Tensei V: Paradox Journal

Developer: Atlus
Genre: Turn-based JRPG, demon summoning
Release Window: Early 2026 (anticipated)
Platforms: Nintendo Switch

A spin-off of Shin Megami Tensei V will have:

• A bigger map with more demons

• More stories to play

• Fresh battle styles and difficulty options

Why you might like it

SMT games are famous for their thinking stories, hard fights, and complicated demon combinations. This new expansion looks to make the world even bigger.

4. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince

Developer: Square Enix / Tose
Genre: Monster collection JRPG
Release Window: Late 2025
Platforms: Nintendo Switch

It's great to be back in the Dragon Quest Monsters world! Get ready to:

• Catch and train monsters

• Build your best team for battle

• Check out a fresh story focused on cool creatures

Collecting monsters has always been a fun part of JRPGs (think Pokémon, but with a Dragon Quest twist). This game tries to mix what we loved about the old games with a cool, updated look.

5. Atelier Resurgence: Chrono of the Lost

Developer: KOEI Tecmo / Gust
Genre: Turn-based JRPG / Alchemy RPG
Release Window: Mid 2025
Platforms: Switch, PS5, PS4, PC

The new Atelier game features:

• Alchemy crafting

• Turn-based battles

• A story about the characters

Atelier games focus on creation and exploration in a JRPG format, with classic fights and a more relaxed feel.

Rumored and Expected JRPGs (Unconfirmed But Likely)

These games haven't been officially announced for the Switch yet, but based on what's happening in the industry and what the developers have said, it's likely they're coming.

6. Tales of Symphonia Remastered / New Tales Entry

Status: Rumored
Expectation: 2025-2026
Genre: Real-time JRPG

The Tales series has always been a good fit for the Switch. A new game or even a remastered version would surely be popular with Switch owners.

7. Xenoblade Chronicles 4 (Early Dev Talk)

Status: Teased (Developer Hints)
Expectation: 2026+
Genre: Open-world JRPG

Xenoblade is a key JRPG series for the Switch. Even without a date set, people keep talking about a potential fourth game.

Trends Shaping Upcoming JRPGs on Switch

Here's why the Switch is still doing well:

1. Hybrid Combat Evolution

Many upcoming JRPGs mix:

• Turn-based strategy

• Real-time action

• Tactical depth
  This flexibility broadens appeal and suits a portable play style.

2. Narrative Maturity

Recent and upcoming JRPGs target:

• Older player bases

• Emotional storylines

• Character complexity

Switch has a wide audience that appreciates different ways of telling stories.

3. Cross-Platform Releases

Many big JRPGs first appear on systems like PS5 or PC, but Switch versions usually come later.

• Native ports

• Cloud-optimized releases

It makes it easier for everyone to get access while keeping the quality high.

Tips for JRPG Fans on Nintendo Switch

When you keep tabs on releases, think about this:

1. Set Notifications
   Keep an eye on the eShop and other big gaming news sites for the latest updates.

   
   

2. Follow JRPG Festivals / Events
   Game shows in Japan, such as Famitsu or Tokyo Game Show, usually introduce new RPGs for the Switch.

   
   

3. Track Developers’ Channels
   Studios like Atlus, Square Enix, Gust, and Monolith Soft usually share their game development plans well before the launch date.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch is still looking like a great spot for JRPGs in 2025 and 2026. With franchise expansions, cool original titles, and the return of some favorites, there's a lot to look forward to.

Games like Octopath Traveler III, Dragon Quest XII, and Shin Megami Tensei V: Paradox Journal are expected to have great stories, fun combat, and lots of replay value.

If you're into JRPGs, the Switch is still a top pick for both current hits and upcoming games.