FF6 is a good one for beginners- its a lot easier than the rest of the 2D ones, and also probably the best one ever created. Chrono Trigger would also be good, though I'm not really sure if its the right difficulty for a beginner. Another one, though it's not so impressive nowadays, is Final Fantasy VII. Unfortunately, it might be TOO easy- it degenerates into pressing X over and over. And sadly, it hasn't held up well. I did not play it until a year ago, and all I can say is that I was underwhelmed by it.

And if you can find it, Golden Sun for the GBA is a fairly easy one, and also really fun.

Sorry Soriku but I had to lol aswell.  FF8 freaking hard XD.

nice. thanks everyone. your wisdom is much appreciated!

Golden Sun for GBA (compatible with DS but yeah)

Easy to play, interesting story, male characters don't look like girls, 3D battle system

Start with the first one then play The Lost Age.

Western RPGs: Oblivion and Fallout 3

Japanese RPGs: Final Fantasy series

Depends what your taste is,.  Western RPGs deal with leveling up your character with a fps-esque style, where you actually fight with the sword you buy or aim the gun you found.  Japanese RPGs are turn-based and involve more strategy.

Earthbound.