The hardware that powered established JRPG franchises also meant that newcomers were able to enter the fray. A lot of JRPG franchises that we celebrate and love today got started on the PS1. It was one of the earliest PS1 games, launching just one year after the console's launch in December 1996. Suikoden is one of the most beloved JRPG franchises of all time, and it all started way back in 1996. It's one of the most oft-overlooked JRPG franchises, and has some of the most enjoyable combat I've ever experienced in the genre.