Tales

The Tales series is a franchise of fantasy role-playing video games published by Bandai Namco Entertainment (formerly Namco) and developed by its subsidiary, Namco Tales Studio until 2011, and presently by Bandai Namco Studios. First begun in 1995 with the release of Tales of Phantasia for the Super Famicom, the series now spans 17 main titles, multiple spin-off games, and supplementary media including manga, anime, and audio dramas.

While entries generally stand independent with different characters and stories, they are linked by gameplay, themes, and high fantasy settings. The series is characterized by its anime-inspired art style and the action-based Linear Motion Battle System. Key contributors include character designers Kōsuke Fujishima and Mutsumi Inomata, producers Hideo Baba and Makoto Yoshizumi, and composer Motoi Sakuraba. The series was created by Yoshiharu Gotanda.

Most mainline games have been localized for North America and Europe, though few spin-offs have been released abroad. While considered a niche series in English-speaking regions, Tales is regarded as one of the most important JRPG franchises in Japan. The series gained popularity in the West following Tales of Symphonia, which remains one of its most popular entries. As of 2024, the series has shipped over 30 million copies worldwide.[edit]

The series is defined by its action-oriented combat system, the Linear Motion Battle System. Players control one character directly in real-time battles on a 2D or 3D field, moving along a linear axis to engage enemies, execute physical and magical attacks, and perform special Artes. The system has evolved from the 2D plane of Tales of Phantasia to the free-run 3D arenas of Tales of Zestiria and Tales of Arise. Outside combat, games feature exploration of overworld maps, towns, and dungeons, often with puzzles. A recurring mechanic is the Skit system, where characters engage in optional dialogue that develops their personalities and relationships.[edit]

Each main entry features a unique, self-contained story. Common themes include prejudice, the nature of good and evil, and the struggle against oppressive systems. Tales of Symphonia follows Lloyd Irving on a journey to regenerate a dying world. Tales of Vesperia centers on Yuri Lowell fighting for justice in a corrupt empire. Tales of Arise depicts a rebellion against an oppressive planetary regime. Most plots involve a group of diverse characters who unite to confront a greater threat, often exploring themes of coexistence and sacrifice.[edit]