RPGs are perfect for handheld gaming. Long play sessions, turn-based combat, and stories that keep you coming back – they're tailor-made for commuting, travel, and lazy weekends.
Your R36S can play an enormous library of classic RPGs. These are the ones that are genuinely worth dozens of hours of your life.
The 16-Bit Golden Age
Chrono Trigger (SNES)
Widely considered the best JRPG ever made. Time travel, multiple endings, unforgettable characters, and a soundtrack that still gives chills. The R36S runs it perfectly, and the 15-20 hour playtime fits beautifully into handheld sessions.
Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Before FFVII made the series famous, FFVI was telling an epic story with an enormous cast of characters. The opera scene alone justifies its legendary status. Expect 30-40 hours of pure nostalgia.
EarthBound (SNES)
Quirky, funny, and surprisingly deep. This cult classic follows Ness and friends as they save the world from an alien threat. The modern-day setting was unique for its time, and the humour still lands.
The Game Boy Advance Era
Pokemon Emerald (GBA)
The definitive third-generation Pokemon experience. Battle Frontier, secret bases, and a massive post-game. Plus, you can transfer Pokemon from Ruby/Sapphire/FireRed/LeafGreen if you're feeling completionist.
Golden Sun (GBA)
An original IP that deserved more love. Excellent puzzles, satisfying Djinn collection system, and a story that spans two games. The sequel (Lost Age) is just as good, and R36S lets you play both.
Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga (GBA)
The start of a brilliant series. Hilarious writing, creative combat that uses both brothers, and a perfect difficulty curve. One of the best RPGs Nintendo ever published.
Final Fantasy IV, V, VI Advance (GBA)
Enhanced versions of the SNES classics with better translation, additional content, and quality-of-life improvements. If you can only play one version, make it the GBA one.
PlayStation 1 Classics
Final Fantasy VII (PS1)
The game that made JRPGs mainstream in the West. The pre-rendered backgrounds look dated, but the story, characters, and Materia system remain brilliant. Expect 40-60 hours for a first playthrough.
Final Fantasy IX (PS1)
Many fans' favourite FF game. The art style has aged beautifully, the story is genuinely emotional, and the ability system is accessible without being shallow. Vivi alone makes this worth playing.
Chrono Cross (PS1)
The controversial follow-up to Chrono Trigger. It's different – more characters, more complex, and a divisive story. But the soundtrack is god-tier, and it's an unforgettable experience if you give it a chance.
Suikoden II (PS1)
Recruit 108 characters, build your castle, and experience one of gaming's best-written stories. The castle-building mechanic is genius, and the ending is genuinely heart-wrenching.
Hidden Gems
Dragon Quest III (SNES)
The peak of the classic Dragon Quest formula. Class changes, a massive world, and a time-travelling story that predates Chrono Trigger. The mobile/SNES versions are excellent.
Breath of Fire II (SNES)
Covers themes you wouldn't expect from a 16-bit RPG – religion, deception, and what it means to be human. The Shaman fusion system is fun, and the world-building is top-notch.
Phantasy Star IV (Genesis)
Sega's answer to Final Fantasy. Sci-fi setting, excellent characters, and some genuinely surprising story beats. The combo battle system was ahead of its time.
Playing RPGs on Handhelds: Tips
Save Frequently: Classic RPGs can be brutal. Use save states liberally, especially before difficult battles or areas with limited save points.
Adjust Display Settings: Some RPGs have tiny text. Try different scaling options to find what works for your eyes. Integer scaling keeps text crisp, while smoothing can make it more readable.
Manage Your Battery: RPGs are perfect for low-brightness gaming. If you're running low on power, dim the screen and enjoy some turn-based action.
Take Notes: Old-school RPGs don't hold your hand. Keep your phone handy for taking screenshots of clues, passwords, and important information.
Perfect for Travel
RPGs shine when you have extended travel time. A long flight, a train journey, or a weekend away – these games are designed to consume hours, and that's a feature, not a bug. The R36S's 6-7 hour battery gives you multiple gaming sessions between charges.
Building Your RPG Library
Your R36S comes with many RPGs preloaded, but adding more is simple. Check out our guide on transferring games to R36S for step-by-step instructions.
Ready to save the world, catch 'em all, or defeat a god? Browse our retro handheld collection and start your next adventure today.