Koei has made quite a few games that have attempted to merge more roleplaying elements into their characteristic strategic simulation gameplay, and I think Taikou Risshiden V is the best evidence that the genre mix both works and is a natural combination. Whether you decide to play as a merchant, a ninja, a traveling swordsmaster, or a noble warrior, every aspect feels well explored and in-depth enough to warrant several playthroughs on the same career route. For example, I ended my swordsmaster playthrough after winning a tournament in Kyoto, but I could've continued working up on my dojo until it was the biggest martial arts school in Japan if I wanted.

I can't think of any other games which allow you to either just travel around and meditate under waterfalls learning skills, or set up your own dojo and gather disciples until your the most well known martial artist in all of Japan. Highly recommend, shame it's never been released in English.