Both sides have their pros and cons. Although I feel Western RPGs have a more solid and sound RPG element, they are more weak in storyline. While Eastern RPGs are more story-oriented, it might make the game more linear. I like Baldur Gate becos you could just go explore, take your time to do quest (well, I think so), sight seeing, monster bashing and such. I like Final Fantasy becos of the great story (FFVII), great monsters, eye-candy, and also great gameplay. Gee, it is hard to choose. Gryph, you should try FFVII. I must admit some of the FF series are not that good, but FFVII is really a classic. Or you can try FFIX, which is really old school.