JRPGs are known for their storytelling and linear gameplay, and menus. They are also turn-based for the most part. One could argue the classic AD&D Gold Box PC RPGs partly inspired them. JRPGs refined the concept and placed them on the forefront.
Now take Western RPGs. They are normally real-time, in 3D, and focus on open-ended gameplay. Elder Scroll and now Fallout 3 sum them up. Fable 2 would also qualify, as would Mass Effect.
This generation, however, the Western style RPG have generated far better sales than the JRPG format, with people seeming to harken back to the good old days. The JRPG seems to be far more limited in its release or awareness in the minds of people.
So, I will ask this: As far as driving sales and being in the minds of people, has the Western RPG replaced the JRPG? I don't think the JRPG will go away. There will always seem to be a market for redoing the classics, with updated graphics and tweaks. But as a driving force?
Could it be also that the action genre will consume more and more RPG into it, the way it did with adventure games? The fact you see leveling in games like Call of Duty now hints at that trend.
Your thoughts please here.
