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The Mega CD has plenty of great games that never left Japan, and A-Rank Thunder Tanjouhen is one that fans of anime and visual novels should definitely try. The language barrier may be a problem, but the cool character designs and presentation make it worth the effort. We need a fan translation!
The U.S. Saturn suffered early on due to a lack of RPGs, and one of the first released was Virtual Hydlide. The game was a noble attempt at bringing a 3D environment to the genre, but it sacrificed everything the Hydlide series had built up over the years. The result was an adventure better left to rot in a dungeon.
The Master System is not known for a wide selection of RPGs, but some actually get passed over in favor of more recognized titles. Miracle Warriors is such title, having spent decades in the shadows of Phantasy Star and Ys. While it is far from their level of quality, there is actually a decent game under some unforgiving RPG mechanics.
The Sega CD has a great selection of RPGs, but most were sadly left in Japan. Those willing to brave the language barrier should consider playing Shin Megami Tensei, an installment in the long-running and popular series that was never brought to the West. It’s a great upgrade over the Super Famicom version, and there are FAQs online to help with the plot!
RPG fans looking for some adventure on their Game Gear should give Defenders of Oasis a try. Despite some basic design flaws, it has an interesting quest and a stellar presentation that are worth sinking some hours into. It’s not Phantasy Star, but it has its own charm, and there’s enough here to keep you coming back.