I'm a big fan of these kinda games where you explore an area collect items/level up to fight bosses.
My favorite is Order of Ecclesia for the DS. It was just great gameplay, a decent story, and great art.
I'm kinda unfamiliar with the new games in the genre, so I'd appreciate any suggestions. And is there a community of people who design those games?
I second Carrion. Incredibly fun to play as the monster, and the level design is great. I'm also suprised i didn't get lost lol