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Is Undertale a JRPG or RPG? A Deep Dive into Genre Classifications

Undertale is best classified as an RPG (Role-Playing Game) with heavy influences and parodic elements of the JRPG (Japanese Role-Playing Game) genre. While it borrows heavily from JRPG mechanics like turn-based combat, character progression (though unconventional), and a focus on narrative, it also subverts and deconstructs many of the genre’s tropes. This unique blend makes it difficult to definitively categorize, and it is often described as an anti-RPG due to its commentary on traditional RPG conventions.

Understanding the RPG Spectrum

To fully appreciate Undertale’s genre placement, we need to understand the broader RPG landscape. RPGs task the player with assuming a role within a fictional world, making choices that impact the narrative, character development, and overall outcome.

Western RPGs (WRPGs): Emphasize player freedom, open-world exploration, branching narratives, and often feature detailed character customization. Think games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim or The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
Japanese RPGs (JRPGs): Tend to be more linear in their narrative structure, with a stronger focus on character development, turn-based combat systems, and anime-inspired aesthetics. Examples include Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest.

Undertale certainly wears its JRPG inspirations on its sleeve, especially in its battle system. However, it significantly deviates in its core design philosophy, particularly its emphasis on pacifism and choice. This conscious rejection of traditional RPG norms pushes it beyond a simple JRPG classification.

Deconstructing the JRPG

Undertale doesn’t just use JRPG mechanics; it actively questions and parodies them.

Combat as a Puzzle: The battle system isn’t just about stats and grinding. It’s a bullet-hell style mini-game that tests the player’s reflexes and pattern recognition, emphasizing skill over raw power. It is also possible to not fight at all.
Moral Choices: Unlike most RPGs where combat is the default, Undertale incentivizes pacifism. Players can choose to befriend their enemies, leading to unique outcomes and challenging the traditional RPG trope of indiscriminate monster slaying.
Meta-Narrative: Undertale frequently breaks the fourth wall and acknowledges its own nature as a video game, commenting on player agency, save states, and the expectations of the RPG genre.

This deconstructive approach is what leads many to label Undertale an anti-RPG. It uses the familiar framework of a JRPG to deliver a message about violence, choice, and the nature of games themselves.

The Influence of EarthBound

Undertale’s aesthetic and humor are heavily influenced by EarthBound, a cult-classic SNES JRPG. Both games share a quirky sense of humor, an emphasis on character interactions, and a subversion of traditional RPG tropes. While EarthBound still adheres more closely to the JRPG framework, its influence on Undertale’s unique style is undeniable.

Deltarune: A Different Approach

Deltarune, Toby Fox’s spiritual successor to Undertale, presents a different perspective. While it retains many of the elements that made Undertale unique, it feels more like a traditional RPG, albeit one with the signature Undertale charm. Deltarune’s combat system is more strategic, and the narrative is more focused on world-building and character relationships.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into Undertale

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further illuminate Undertale’s place within the RPG landscape:

1. Is Undertale really only 5-6 hours long?

Yes, a standard playthrough of Undertale, focusing primarily on the main story, can take approximately 5-6 hours. However, completing all endings and exploring optional content can significantly increase the playtime.

2. What makes Undertale’s characters so memorable?

Undertale’s characters are renowned for their depth, humor, and relatability. They defy typical RPG archetypes and feel like real people (or monsters!) with complex motivations and personalities.

3. What is metahumor, and how is it used in Undertale?

Metahumor is humor that draws attention to itself as being humorous, often by breaking the fourth wall or referencing the conventions of the medium. Undertale uses metahumor extensively to comment on video game tropes and player expectations.

4. Why is Undertale considered an anti-RPG?

Undertale is considered an anti-RPG because it subverts and deconstructs many of the genre’s conventions, particularly the focus on combat and violence. It encourages players to think critically about their choices and the impact they have on the game world.

5. Is Undertale the best RPG ever made?

This is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Undertale is undeniably influential and has resonated deeply with many players, but whether it’s the “best” is a matter of personal opinion.

6. How does Undertale’s combat system work?

Undertale’s combat system is a unique blend of turn-based RPG mechanics and bullet-hell style dodging. Players must defend against enemy attacks by moving their heart-shaped soul around a small box, while also having the option to fight, act, or show mercy.

7. What are the different endings in Undertale?

Undertale has three primary endings: Neutral, Pacifist, and Genocide. The ending you receive depends on your choices throughout the game, particularly whether you choose to kill or spare your enemies. There are also variations within these endings based on specific actions you take.

8. Is Sans really the hardest boss in gaming?

While Sans is notoriously difficult, whether he’s the “hardest” is subjective. His battle is designed to be challenging and requires memorization and precise timing, but other games feature bosses with equally demanding mechanics.

9. Is Undertale appropriate for children?

The game contains complex themes and some frightening imagery, so it is generally considered suitable for teens 13 and up.

10. Does Undertale have any romantic relationships?

Yes, Undertale features several implied romantic relationships between characters, although the game’s focus is more on friendship and community. The relationships are presented in a subtle and nuanced way.

11. Who is the villain in Undertale?

The main antagonist is Flowey, a sentient flower with a malevolent personality. However, the game also explores the potential for other characters to become villains depending on the player’s actions.

12. Is Undertale a dark game?

While Undertale has its share of lighthearted moments, it also delves into darker themes such as loss, trauma, and the consequences of violence. The game’s emotional depth and willingness to confront difficult subjects make it a complex and thought-provoking experience.

13. Can you complete Undertale without killing anyone?

Yes, a pacifist run is possible and is required to achieve the “True Pacifist” ending. The game actively encourages players to find non-violent solutions to conflicts.

14. What is 201X in Undertale lore?

201X is simply the in-game year when the events of Undertale take place. The year doesn’t have any hidden significance within the game’s lore, other than setting the timeframe of the game.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational value of video games?

For more insights into the educational benefits and research surrounding video games, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The Games Learning Society fosters interdisciplinary research and dialogue about the intersection of games and learning.

Conclusion: A Genre-Defying Masterpiece

Undertale transcends simple genre classifications. While drawing inspiration from JRPGs, its subversive nature and unique design philosophy make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you consider it an RPG, a JRPG parody, or an anti-RPG, Undertale is a testament to the power of video games to tell meaningful stories and challenge our expectations. It is a game that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on our choices and the impact they have on the virtual worlds we inhabit.