Before we start need to set something clear on the terms "JRPG" and "WRPG" in what it really means.
I will not go in the entire history of the two. Just briefly mention Ultima in 1981 is the first RPG ever and western made. Dragon Slayer in 1984 is the first RPG from Japan,however it was action oriented. Dragon Quest is what began what we typically associate JRPG with turn based and such.
Various kinds of RPGs but let's focus on why we use these terms. Now Japan can make a Western RPG. Dragon's Dogma for example. I like the term WRPG/JRPG describing styles in how they were made. Secret of Evermore western made JRPG style.
If you need modern examples rather than me pointing to Ultima or Might and Magic.
Witcher,Dragon Age Kingdoms of Amalur and Elder Scrolls. Tho in the past they focused much more on customization of your character and party. The JRPG typically focuses on a preset party often teens or kids. So Dragon Quest,Chrono Trigger,Phantasy Star and such.
yeah long intro..sorry. I don't know how many into RPG's here.
Curious to those who do which do they prefer?
BTW for newcomers to these genres. JRPG to get a basic understanding either get Dragon Quest IX on DS or on Wii Shop grab Mario RPG. Western Dragon Age Origins on PC.
Not long ago I would have said JRPGs myself but now I like both esp the older offerings of WRPG. Both styles I like in general with some part of them I do not.
Edited by Ryudo, 14 March 2015 - 09:21 PM.