Atlus has a storied history of creating some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed RPGs. When you’re looking at their catalog, it’s difficult to determine which Atlus games are the best, but that’s exactly what we intend to do.
The 10 Best Atlus Games, Ranked
Known for their unique storytelling and often difficult gameplay, Atlus games have been cult classics for decades. The following list of 10 Atlus games I feel best represents what the company does well. Keep in mind that this list is an opinion, and you should feel free to disagree with any of these placements.
(One more note: This list focuses solely on games developed by Atlus, not those they have merely published.)
10. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore blends elements of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, creating a unique RPG experience set in modern-day Tokyo. Players navigate a world where young idols battle dark forces, combining turn-based combat with musical performances.
While it’s far from the Shin Megami Tensei x Fire Emblem mashup we expected, it was generally well-received by fans. The vibrant aesthetics, catchy music, and fun story make it a great pickup for fans of both franchises. Thankfully, you can nab it now on Nintendo Switch!
9. Trauma Center: Under the Knife
Trauma Center: Under the Knife brought a fresh, innovative approach to the Nintendo DS with its unique medical simulation gameplay. Players take on the role of a surgeon, using the DS stylus to perform intricate surgical procedures. Yet, there was also some insane lore thrown in too?
I’ve found really nothing else like Trauma Center. The game combines medical drama with urban fantasy and puts it in the form of an adult version of Operation. We’d love to see this series revived to modern platforms, for now this game is trapped on the DS. However, there was an enhanced remake on the Wii.
8. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan
Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan is a standout in the dungeon-crawling genre. It’s known for its challenging gameplay and intricate map-making mechanics. Players explore vast labyrinths, drawing their own maps and battling formidable enemies.
While I’m not a huge fan of this type of game, I understand its appeal. The deep customization and fun story make it a standout in Atlus’s portfolio, even if it’s not my favorite. You’ll need to bust out the 3DS, though, if you’re looking to play this one.
7. Catherine: Full Body
Catherine: Full Body is a unique puzzle-platformer that delves into mature themes of love, infidelity, and commitment. Players guide Vincent through a series of challenging puzzles, represented as nightmarish climbing stages while navigating a complex narrative filled with moral choices.
Although another team worked on this upgraded version, the core game was developed by Atlus, which is why it is included here. The game’s distinctive art style, multiple endings, and psychological depth make it a standout title.
6. Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster
The remastered version of this classic RPG brings improved graphics and accessibility to a new generation of players. Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne is known for its dark, apocalyptic setting and deep, strategic combat system. While the age of the game has started to show itself, it still stands strong among Atlus’s best.
5. Devil Survivor Overclocked
Devil Survivor Overclocked is an enhanced port of the original Devil Survivor, offering additional content and voice acting. This tactical RPG combines the strategic elements of grid-based combat with the deep narrative and character development Atlus is known for.
The game feels more tense than nearly anything else I’ve ever played; it has a time limit that doesn’t feel overwhelming, but you absolutely feel the weight of every choice. Its branching storylines and multiple endings provide significant replay value.
4. Persona 3 FES
Persona 3 FES expands on the original Persona 3, adding new content and gameplay enhancements. Players balance daily life as high school students with dungeon-crawling combat, all while uncovering a dark, compelling story.
The addition of The Answer, an epilogue that extends the narrative, makes this version the definitive experience of Persona 3. The game’s innovative blend of social simulation and RPG elements set a new standard for the genre. If you absolutely need a more modern engine, then get 2024’s Persona 3 Reload remake. However, FES is, in my opinion, the best version of this excellent story.
3. Shin Megami Tensei IV
Shin Megami Tensei IV, a standout entry in the Shin Megami Tensei series, upholds the franchise’s legacy of challenging gameplay and deep, strategic combat. Set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, players traverse a demon-infested world, blending modern exploration mechanics with the series’ classic turn-based combat system.
SMT IV is a must-play for any RPG enthusiast. It not only pushes the boundaries of what players expect from the genre, but it also offers a rich and rewarding experience that stays true to the core elements of the beloved Shin Megami Tensei series.
2. Persona 4 Golden
Persona 4 Golden expands on the beloved Persona 4 with additional content and improved mechanics. Set in the rural town of Inaba, players solve a series of mysterious murders while managing their daily lives.
The game’s engaging story, memorable characters, and refined gameplay make it a standout in the series and a favorite among fans. The remake also does an excellent job bringing the RPG closer to the series’ modern engine with gameplay additions that vastly improve on the original.
1. Persona 5 Royal
At the pinnacle of Atlus’s development achievements is Persona 5 Royal, an enhanced version of Persona 5 that adds new characters, storylines, and gameplay improvements. Players follow the Phantom Thieves as they seek to change the hearts of corrupt adults in a stylish, urban setting.
The game’s stunning visuals, deep narrative, and innovative turn-based combat system make it Atlus’s crowning achievement. Persona 5 Royal fulfills every fan’s wish with quality-of-life improvements and additional content, solidifying its place as the best game Atlus has developed. While I prefer the characters in Persona 4 over those in Persona 5, the latter improves on the original in so many of the ways I care about.
Overall, I feel these ten games highlight the best of what Atlus has to offer. A showcase of their ability to create rich narratives, complex characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. While there are many more games worth mentioning, these titles represent why the Atlus logo is still synonymous with quality.
Persona 5 Royal is available on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
