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Tales of

"Tales of" is a Japanese fantasy role-playing video game franchise published by Bandai Namco Entertainment.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Tales of" is a Japanese fantasy role-playing video game franchise published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. It began with *Tales of Phantasia* in 1995 and is known for its anime-influenced art style and action-based combat system.

History

The franchise began with *Tales of Phantasia* in 1995 and expanded into a major series of role-playing games. It was created by Yoshiharu Gotanda and has been developed by Namco-affiliated studios, later Bandai Namco Studios.

Gameplay and style

The series is distinguished by real-time, action-oriented combat and by visual design influenced by Japanese anime and manga. A core feature of the franchise is the Linear Motion Battle System.

Media and adaptations

Beyond video games, the franchise includes supplementary media such as manga, anime series, and audio dramas. These works expand the brand beyond the main role-playing games.

Series structure

Most mainline *Tales* games are independent stories rather than direct sequels. Spin-offs and related works exist alongside the principal numbered or titled entries.

Key facts

  • The series began in 1995 with *Tales of Phantasia* for the Super Famicom.
  • It is a long-running franchise of fantasy role-playing games published by Bandai Namco Entertainment.
  • The games are known for anime- and manga-inspired visuals.
  • The series features an action-based combat style called the Linear Motion Battle System.
  • The franchise includes mainline titles, spin-offs, manga, anime series, and audio dramas.
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Canadian context

The series has been released in North America, including Canada, and is part of the broader Japanese role-playing game market that has a significant audience among Canadian players.

Frequently asked questions

What is *Tales of*?
It is a Japanese fantasy role-playing video game franchise published by Bandai Namco Entertainment.
When did the series begin?
It began in 1995 with *Tales of Phantasia*.
Who created the series?
The series was created by Yoshiharu Gotanda.
What is the series known for?
It is known for anime-style presentation and action-based combat, especially the Linear Motion Battle System.
Are the main games connected by story?
Most main entries are separate stories with different characters and settings.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_(video_game_series)
    Supports: Series origin, publisher, creator, first title, and gameplay style.
  2. Bandai Namco Entertainment — https://www.bandainamcoent.com/tales-of-30th-anniversary
    Supports: Official description of the franchise as a fantasy role-playing game series with different protagonists and journeys.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Tales_media
    Supports: Supplementary media, franchise scope, and general series characteristics.