Unsung Heroes of the Grid: Five Discontinued Tactical RPG Series That Deserve a Comeback

In the expansive world of role-playing games, few genres demand the same level of strategic thought and long-term planning as the tactical RPG. These games, which combine the character progression of an RPG with grid-based, turn-based combat, have produced some of the most beloved classics in gaming history. While franchises like Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics have rightfully cemented their place as titans of the genre, many other groundbreaking series have been left by the wayside, their innovations and worlds now a distant memory. With a new wave of tactical RPGs gaining traction, it’s the perfect time to look back at the unsung heroes of the grid, the discontinued franchises that are more than deserving of a modern-day comeback.

The rise of indie developers and a renewed interest in classic genres have created a fertile ground for these forgotten franchises to return. A modern reboot would not only satisfy a nostalgic fanbase but could also introduce new players to a different kind of challenge, one that rewards careful planning, character customization, and strategic thinking. Here are five discontinued tactical RPG series that are ripe for a revival.

1. Vandal Hearts

The Vandal Hearts series, developed by Konami, was a staple of the PlayStation 1 and had a short-lived sequel on the PlayStation 2. It was a dark, gritty fantasy series with a heavy emphasis on a morally complex story and a distinct, isometric art style. What made it stand out was its unique combat system. The series introduced a “height” mechanic, where the position of your units and the terrain could grant significant advantages. The combat was brutal and tactical, with every move counting. While the series did get a spiritual successor with Vandal Hearts: Flames of Judgment on the Xbox 360, it failed to capture the magic of the original. A full-fledged reboot with modern graphics, an updated control scheme, and a new story that honors the original’s dark tone could be a major hit.

2. Front Mission

For fans of mechs and science fiction, the disappearance of the Front Mission series is a major tragedy. Developed by Square Enix, this tactical RPG series combined grid-based combat with a deep layer of customization, allowing players to build and upgrade their Wanzer (giant mechs) with different weapons, armor, and parts. The series was praised for its political and military narrative, which was a stark contrast to the high fantasy of its peers. The last major mainline game, Front Mission 5: Scars of the War, never even received an official English localization. While there have been a few remakes of the older games, the series has largely been dormant. A modern reboot that brings back the deep customization and gritty sci-fi story would be a dream come true for mech fans.

3. Ogre Battle / Tactics Ogre

While Final Fantasy Tactics has a powerful legacy, it was built on the shoulders of the Ogre Battle series and its sub-series, Tactics Ogre. Created by legendary designer Yasumi Matsuno, these games were revolutionary. Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, in particular, introduced a new level of strategic complexity with its multi-tiered maps and a morally ambiguous story influenced by the player’s choices. The series has since been largely abandoned, with the last major release being the 2010 remake on the PSP. A new entry in the series would be a major event, and with the resurgence of interest in classic tactical RPGs, now is the perfect time for Square Enix to revisit this masterpiece and introduce it to a new generation of players.

4. Shining Force

The Shining Force series from Sega was a cornerstone of the tactical RPG genre in the 16-bit era. It was known for its expansive battles, large number of playable characters, and a charming fantasy aesthetic. The series was also notable for its permanent death mechanic, which made every decision a difficult one. While there have been a few spin-offs and remakes, the series has been largely dormant for years. A modern reboot that brings back the classic gameplay loop while adding new features and a compelling story could be a huge success. The series has a massive cult following, and a new game that honors the legacy of the originals would be a welcome addition to the modern tactical RPG landscape.

news5. Suikoden Tactics

The Suikoden franchise is a beloved RPG series, but its single foray into the tactical RPG genre, Suikoden Tactics, is often overlooked. The game was praised for its unique use of the series’ rune system and its charming art style. It also introduced a new gameplay mechanic where the environment could be altered by a character’s “rune of fire” or “rune of water,” creating dynamic and engaging battles. While the series has been largely dormant for years, there is a glimmer of hope. A new spiritual successor to Suikoden, called Eiyuden Chronicle, has been in development, and it could be the perfect opportunity for the developers to revisit the tactical genre with a new, a new spin on the classic formula. A modern-day Suikoden Tactics would be a perfect way to honor the legacy of the original game while introducing a new generation of players to its tactical brilliance.