Yeah BoFIV is pretty cool too, and I think I should have suggested he play that first before 3 since the general opinion is that 3>>>>>>4 (although I like both about equally).

BoFV is polarizing but it's pretty fun, save system and length aside.

Can't believe I forgot Persona 3 and 4. I'm wondering if I should mention Digital Devil Saga 1 and 2? They're both reasonably challenging but not too overly complicated.