2021 started well for LadiesGamers! David Lloyd over at The Thirsty Mage RPG Podcast reached out to us, recognising another gaming website geared towards bringing positivity to the gaming community. And as our friends specialize in RPG gaming, they were exited to bring us their lineup for 2021. Here it is!
Most Anticipated RPG Coming to Switch in 2021
For many RPG fans, the freedom and convenience of the Nintendo Switch makes it the number one choice for an experience that could go on for fifty plus hours. This preference for portability often means waiting a bit longer for a Switch release when compared to its TV locked competitors, but the reward is certainly worth it for those who can tolerate the wait. With a good mix of highly anticipated Switch only titles and ports that have already been confirmed as must play experiences, Switch owners have a whole lot of reasons to be excited about 2021.
Bravely Default II, February 26, 2021
The unique battle system and absolutely gorgeous visuals propelled the original Bravely Default to become one of the best RPGs on the Nintendo 3DS. Fans of the franchise were ecstatic at the Nintendo Switch announcement but expectations became tempered thanks to a demo that left much to be desired. To the credit of Square Enix developers, much of the feedback provided by those who played the demo seems to have been implemented into the final product with one exception: the full party turn-based system the franchise is known for. Whether this change in philosophy pays off, remains to be seen.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV, April 9, 2021
The Legend of Heroes franchise might just be the best bunch of JRPGs you’ve never heard of. Switch owners can be forgiven for being in the dark as last year’s release of Trails of Cold Steel III was the first time one of these titles was released on a Nintendo console. A slew of localization and licensing challenges has contributed to a low adoption rate in the west but hopefully those difficulties are in the past now that NIS America is committed to porting the latest titles to Switch. Researching the ongoing story that spans over 9 separate titles is certainly a big ask but completely worth it in order to truly appreciate what is arguably the best modern turn-based JRPG.
CrisTales, Early 2021
An unfortunate development delay bumps this highly anticipated indie RPG from an end of 2020 release to an early (hopefully) 2021 launch. A demo at the end of last year showcased an interesting battle system and time control mechanics that could result in a rather unique experience. Drawing inspiration from some of the most celebrated franchises in Final Fantasy and Persona, the first time developer hopes to craft its own legacy early this year.
Rune Factory 5, Spring 2021
Our favourite fantasy farming simulation RPG is back in 2021 with a brand new entry on the Nintendo Switch. In this latest adventure, the hero is recruited into a band of peacekeeping rangers in order to protect a small town while tending to their land. Rune Factory 5 continues with the tradition of taming monsters and exploring the vast land with many of the townsfolk. Farming sims fans looking for a bit more action out of their experience should keep a close eye on this fun title from Marvelous (XSEED).
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox, Summer 2021
Nihon Falcom is poised for a massive year on Switch as the latest title in their other flagship franchise is set to release later this year on the Nintendo handheld. Adol Christin returns for another adventure along with his companion Dogi as they become detained within the city of Balduq. Following the highly praised Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana, Monstrum Nox features a terrific action-RPG based combat system and is supported by a cast of interesting characters.
Shin Megami Tensei
Shin Megami Tensei III Nocture, Summer 2021
Originally released on the PlayStation 2 back in 2004, this remaster of a cult classic is the first in a pair of Shin Megami Tensei titles coming to the Switch in 2021. The mature themed RPG follows a high school student turned into a demi-fiend following an apocalyptic event triggered by a sinister cult. Shin Megami Tensei is known for its turn-based combat system that relies on exploiting enemy weaknesses and recruiting demons to assist the protagonist in their exploits. No set date has been announced but rumors persist of a summer release.
Shin Megami Tensei V, Hopefully 2021
Perhaps the most anticipated RPG of 2021, Shin Megami Tensei V is a game that has been on the minds of Switch owners ever since it was first announced at the launch of the Nintendo console. Little is known about the next entry in the SMT series other than it will be set in modern day Tokyo and feature the same combat system that fans have grown to love. The biggest question mark surrounding the title is whether it will be ready before the end of the year.
Honorable Mentions
- Monster Hunter Rise (March 26, 2021)
- Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin (Summer 2021)
- Boyfriend Dungeon (2021)
- Disco Elysium (Spring 2021)
The Thirsty Mage is a family friendly podcast that does weekly episodes analyzing both new and old RPGs as well as RPG related themes. They can be heard on most services where podcasts can be found including iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts and more.