Thought this could be a cool thread maybe.
I, like many other folks here, am big into Japanese import JRPGs, fan translations, and the like. That said, most of my time spent in this realm has been focused on the Super Famicom and, more recently, the Famicom (cart and disk). These are my favorite consoles and both sport generous JRPG libraries - translated or not.
Recently, I've been getting into more modern games and technology. Which is to say late 4th gen and 5th gen cutting-edge CD-ROM sometimes-3D games. A copious amount of fantastic Japan-only RPGs were released on this format, though most have gone unnoticed in the West - likely due to lack of fan translations - barring some notable exceptions like King's Field, Dragon Force II, Front Mission 2, Xak III, and Ys IV.
This thread is for sharing knowledge, recommendations, and discussion 'bout those obscure Mega CD, PC Engine CD, 3DO, Saturn, PC-FX, Neo Geo CD, and PlayStation JRPGs. I'll start off with some recommendations (one game per console).
Illusion City: Genei Toshi (Mega CD), 1993
This is a Micro Cabin game, so it comes as no surprise that Illusion City appeared on Japanese computers first and that the Mega CD version is the only console port. The setting is incredible: a ruined cyberpunk Hong Kong teeming with magical demons. Combat is turn-based with an over-the-shoulder view reminiscent of Phantasy Star II. Tasty crunchy primitive graphics that look lifted directly from the PC-98.
Seiya Monogatari: AnEarth Fantasy Stories (PC Engine CD), 1995
Embarrassed to say I haven't finished this one, as what I've played is stupidly good. This is like the Final Fantasy VI or Chrono Trigger of the PCE. A big sweeping epic with gorgeous pixel art. The story is brilliant; I especially adore how the lead character's "class" is chosen during the opening. Smooth and fast with no level-grinding. Later ported to the Saturn.
Blue Forest Story: Kaze no Fuuin (3DO), 1996
Arguably a "generic" RPG, but a well-made one. Beautiful 2D graphics with isometric battles resembling Breath of Fire III. Epic 3DO cutscenes. Fits nicely alongside Lucienne's Quest. Later ported to the PlayStation.
Linkle Liver Story (Saturn), 1996
Surprised this isn't more popular. It's a super-kawaii Zelda-ish game with cat girls. The graphics are pure 2D bliss, even rivaling Magic Knight Rayearth in parts. Still pretty affordable and a Saturn exclusive.
Boundary Gate: Daughter of Kingdom (PC-FX), 1997
This rules. Old-school first-person dungeon crawling with bunches of anime characters and cutscenes. Perspective changes during battle, where the playable characters appear on screen. Ported to the PlayStation.
Shinsetsu Samurai Spirits: Bushidou Retsuden (Neo Geo CD), 1997
Well, here it is: the Neo Geo CD RPG! Plays like a Final Fantasy game with Samurai Shodown characters. The graphics are great, especially the characters themselves, who are downsized versions of how they appear in the fighting game series. Still a pretty affordable title, even for Neo Geo standards. Hell, when I bought the console the seller tossed in this for free! Ported to the PlayStation and Saturn.
The Mystic Dragoons (PlayStation), 1999
Well, I suppose this is the PlayStation's "dragon-riding" game. Seems to have received a mixed reception in Japan, but I enjoy it. Really beautiful character and enemy designs. Persistently energetic music. Looks like a partial translation patch exists.