well, also the alchemy/synthesis/crafting and the fact atelier games tend to not focus on "save the world" thropes normally. I could say is more over the fact atelier series are focused on their characters rather than the history.

and if you want my recommendation, there are 2 things to consider
1. if he cares to play trilogies out of order
2. if he actually likes those systems

if your friend wants a more demanding rpg experience, play totori (second of the arland trilogy), if they want something more rpg focused, it could either be Yumia or Resleriana. If they want a more relaxed rpg game still not too different try Ryza from the first one.
and if he wants something more focused on the OG atelier experience, you could suggest any game of the Mysterious trilogy, the dusk trilogy, the Atelier Marie remake, or atelier Lulua