Square Enix

Square Enix formed in 2003 when Square (home of Final Fantasy) merged with Enix (home of Dragon Quest). The combined catalog still represents two of the longest-running JRPG pillars — both families see new numbered or spin-off releases decades after their 1980s debuts.

Final Fantasy reinvents battle systems and settings almost every mainline entry, while Dragon Quest prefers gradual iteration — soothing turn-based rhythms and recognizable art direction associated with long-time collaborator Akira Toriyama. Major Dragon Quest launches in Japan still trigger midnight queues and retailer events, which says plenty about domestic attachment.