5 Best Atlus Games That Aren’t Persona or SMT

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In 2026, Atlus, a well-known developer and publisher of video games, will celebrate its 40th anniversary. Over the past four decades, the company has become famous for its popular JRPG franchises, Persona and Shin Megami Tensei. But Atlus has also created many other successful and beloved games that fans worldwide enjoy.

Let’s highlight some of Atlus’s best games that aren’t part of the Persona or Shin Megami Tensei series. Here’s a ranking of their five top titles. For this list, we’re focusing on games Atlus both created and published, not just those developed internally.

5. Snowboard Kids 2

Before Atlus became famous for role-playing and strategy games, the company experimented with many different genres. One of the most memorable examples of this was the Snowboard Kids series, which started on the Nintendo 64 in 1997. While the arcade racing series had several games, Snowboard Kids 2, released in 1999, was definitely the best one.

Although Snowboard Kids 2 didn’t reach the same level of popularity as racing games like Mario Kart 64 and Diddy Kong Racing, it was a really fun game in its own right. It also stood out for being more strategic – players could use tricks to block attacks from other racers. Snowboard Kids has been absent for about 20 years, but it’s definitely time for a return!

4. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is a surprisingly delightful game, and I’m still amazed it was made! Developed by Atlus and published by Nintendo, it blends elements from the Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem series in a really unique way. What makes it even more interesting is its setting within the world of Japanese idol culture. Despite sounding like a strange mix of ideas, the game feels surprisingly well-put-together and is genuinely enjoyable.

Similar to Atlus’s popular Persona and Shin Megami Tensei games, Tokyo Mirage Sessions boasts engaging, strategic turn-based battles. It also stands out with its vibrant world and upbeat music, while still feeling uniquely Atlus. The game’s original exclusivity to the Wii U kept it from a wider audience, but thankfully it’s now available on Nintendo Switch and remains a great experience even in 2026.

3. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim

Vanillaware and Atlus have worked together on many successful games, including Odin Sphere, Dragon’s Crown, and their newest title, Unicorn Overlord. However, many fans consider 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim to be the studio’s masterpiece.

With a large cast of 13 characters, Aegis Rim unfolds an epic story across multiple timelines. While its strategic gameplay—where characters pilot mechs to fight invading monsters—isn’t quite as polished as some other real-time strategy games, it’s still enjoyable. Despite a few flaws, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a visually stunning game with a memorable story that will stay with you long after you finish playing.

2. Catherine

Okay, so Catherine is seriously one of the weirdest, but also best, games Atlus has ever made. You play as Vincent, and the whole thing revolves around climbing these huge towers made of blocks… but it all happens in your dreams! And get this – the monsters you’re fighting aren’t just random; they represent the complicated love triangle Vincent’s stuck in back in real life. It’s a puzzle game, but it’s also way more than that.

Catherine is a captivating game that explores complicated themes of love and relationships. It encourages players to think about their own lives and make choices that shape the story. Because of this, and the fact that it’s relatively short compared to other games from Atlus, Catherine is highly replayable.

1. Metaphor: ReFantazio

Okay, I have to be honest, putting Metaphor: ReFantazio as my favorite feels a little unfair! It’s so clearly inspired by games like Persona and Shin Megami Tensei. But honestly, that’s a good thing! It’s Atlus’s first brand new RPG in ages, and it delivers everything I love about their other games – amazing turn-based battles, a killer soundtrack, and a gorgeous, super stylish look and feel. It just feels so polished and well-made!

What truly makes Metaphor stand out from other Atlus games is its distinct world and story. Set in the fantasy realm of Euchronia, the game features a cast of allies and enemies that are among Atlus’s most memorable characters. Metaphor also thoughtfully addresses important modern issues without feeling preachy or confusing. While many fans are eager for Persona 6, it’s hoped that Atlus will revisit and expand upon Metaphor in the future.

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2026-01-19 18:13