Introduction to RPGs: A Journey Through Time
When we think of video games that captivate us for hours on end, it’s hard not to immediately think of RPGs, or role-playing games. The genre has been a staple in the gaming world since the early days of digital entertainment, evolving from text-based adventures to expansive open-world epics.
RPGs are all about diving into a rich narrative, developing unique characters, and making choices that shape your adventure. The roots of RPGs can be traced back to tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, which laid the foundation for storytelling, character development, and player-driven narratives. With the advent of computers and consoles, these elements were translated into games like “Ultima” and “Wizardry,” which offered early gamers a taste of interactive storytelling.
As technology advanced, so did the complexity and scope of RPGs. Games like “Final Fantasy VII” brought cinematic storytelling and character depth to the forefront, while “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” introduced vast, open worlds that players could explore at their own pace. The genre continues to innovate, with modern titles like “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” and “Persona 5” pushing the boundaries of what RPGs can offer.
How We Chose the Best RPGs: Our Criteria
Selecting the best RPGs is no small feat. With so many incredible games out there, we had to establish a set of criteria to ensure our choices stood out for their quality, impact, and enduring appeal. Here’s what we considered:
- Storytelling: A great RPG needs a compelling narrative that draws players in and makes them care about the characters and the world. Games like Disco Elysium excel in this area, offering rich, layered stories that keep you hooked from start to finish.
- Character Development: RPGs are known for their deep and complex characters. Whether it’s through detailed backstories, moral choices, or character arcs, we looked for games where players can form a genuine connection with the characters they control. Final Fantasy VII is a classic example of this, with its unforgettable cast.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Innovative and engaging gameplay is crucial. This includes combat systems, exploration, and how player choices affect the game world. Games like Dark Souls stand out for their challenging yet rewarding mechanics.
- World-Building: The setting and world of an RPG are essential to its immersion. We looked for games with detailed, believable worlds that feel alive and responsive to player actions. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is renowned for its intricate world-building and atmospheric environments.
- Innovation and Impact: Finally, we considered how innovative a game was and its impact on the RPG genre. Some games push the boundaries of what’s possible in video games, influencing countless other titles. Skyrim is a prime example, having set new standards for open-world RPGs.
By using these criteria, we’ve curated a list of RPGs that not only stand the test of time but also showcase the best the genre has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there’s something here for everyone. So, get ready to embark on some epic adventures!
Timeless Classics
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Setting and Plot Overview: Set in the fantastical land of Tamriel, “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” immerses players in the frozen, rugged province of Skyrim. The game begins with your character, the Dragonborn, narrowly escaping execution and soon discovering your destiny to save the world from Alduin, an ancient dragon prophesied to destroy the world. As you explore Skyrim, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of stories, from political intrigue involving the Civil War between the Imperial Legion and the Stormcloaks to mysterious quests tied to the ancient Nordic culture.
Open-World Exploration and Freedom of Choice: One of the most compelling aspects of Skyrim is its vast open-world exploration. Players are free to roam the expansive world, discovering hidden caves, ancient ruins, and bustling cities. The game offers unparalleled freedom of choice, allowing you to follow the main storyline, dive into side quests, or simply explore the wilderness at your own pace. Whether you become a stealthy thief, a powerful mage, or a fearsome warrior, Skyrim adapts to your playstyle, providing a personalized adventure.
Modding Community and Its Impact: A key element of Skyrim’s enduring popularity is its vibrant modding community. Mods have allowed players to enhance and customize their game experience far beyond the original content. From graphical overhauls and new quests to completely new lands and characters, the modding community has breathed new life into Skyrim, keeping it relevant and exciting years after its initial release.
Final Fantasy VII
Iconic Story and Characters: “Final Fantasy VII” is often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, largely due to its unforgettable story and characters. The game follows Cloud Strife, a former soldier turned mercenary, who joins a group of rebels known as AVALANCHE to fight against the corrupt megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic antagonist, Sephiroth. The narrative delves deep into themes of identity, sacrifice, and redemption, making it a powerful and emotional journey for players.
Turn-Based Combat System: At the heart of “Final Fantasy VII” is its turn-based combat system, which was revolutionary at the time of its release. Players strategically manage their party’s abilities, equipment, and spells, known as Materia, to overcome a wide variety of enemies and bosses. The system allows for deep customization and strategic planning, ensuring that battles are both challenging and rewarding.
Influence on Future RPGs and Its Remake: The impact of “Final Fantasy VII” on the RPG genre cannot be overstated. Its success paved the way for future RPGs, influencing game design, storytelling, and production values. The game’s influence is so profound that it led to the creation of Final Fantasy VII Remake, a modern reimagining that updates the original’s graphics, gameplay, and narrative while preserving the essence of what made the original so beloved. The remake has introduced the classic story to a new generation of gamers, ensuring that the legacy of “Final Fantasy VII” continues to endure.
Modern Masterpieces
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Rich Narrative and Character Arcs: “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is renowned for its deeply engaging narrative and well-developed characters. Players step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned monster hunter, as he embarks on a quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, while the world around him is embroiled in war. The game’s story is richly layered, with complex moral choices and branching storylines that ensure no two playthroughs are the same. Characters like Yennefer, Triss, and the enigmatic Ciri are not just companions but integral parts of the story, each with their own compelling arcs and backstories.
Open-World Design and Side Quests: The open-world design of “The Witcher 3” is a marvel of game development, offering players a vast and visually stunning world to explore. From the war-torn lands of Velen to the bustling city of Novigrad and the picturesque Skellige Isles, each region is meticulously crafted with its own unique atmosphere and challenges. The game’s side quests are particularly noteworthy, often featuring stories and characters as engaging as the main plot. These quests are more than mere distractions; they enrich the world and provide valuable insights into the game’s lore and Geralt’s character.
Awards and Critical Acclaim: Since its release, “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” has garnered an impressive array of awards and critical acclaim. It won numerous Game of the Year awards and is frequently cited as one of the best RPGs ever made. Critics and players alike have praised its storytelling, character development, and open-world design. The game’s impact on the RPG genre is profound, setting new standards for what players can expect in terms of narrative depth and world-building.
Persona 5
Unique Blend of Life Simulation and Dungeon Crawling: “Persona 5” stands out in the RPG genre due to its unique blend of life simulation and dungeon crawling. Players assume the role of a high school student who must balance daily life activities, such as attending classes, forming relationships, and working part-time jobs, with exploring the supernatural realm known as the Metaverse. The game’s calendar system adds a strategic layer, requiring players to manage their time effectively to build skills, deepen relationships, and prepare for dungeon exploration.
Stylish Presentation and Soundtrack: One of the most striking features of “Persona 5” is its stylish presentation. The game boasts a vibrant, anime-inspired art style and a user interface that’s as functional as it is visually appealing. The soundtrack, composed by Shoji Meguro, is another highlight, featuring a mix of jazz, rock, and pop that perfectly complements the game’s tone and setting. The music not only enhances the overall experience but has also become iconic in its own right, with tracks like “Life Will Change” and “Beneath the Mask” becoming fan favorites.
Impact on the RPG Genre: “Persona 5” has had a significant impact on the RPG genre, introducing many players to the unique mechanics and storytelling style of the “Persona” series. Its success has led to a surge in popularity for life simulation elements in RPGs, influencing other developers to incorporate similar features in their games. Additionally, the game’s emphasis on social interactions and character development has set a new benchmark for narrative-driven RPGs. The release of “Persona 5 Royal,” an enhanced version with additional content, further solidified its status as a modern classic and expanded its reach to even more players.
Indie Innovations
Disco Elysium
Revolutionary Storytelling and Dialogue System: “Disco Elysium” has redefined what storytelling can be in video games. At its core, the game is an isometric RPG that puts a heavy emphasis on dialogue and narrative choices. Players step into the shoes of a detective with a troubled past, navigating through a complex murder mystery. The game’s dialogue system is revolutionary, offering a vast array of choices that can lead to wildly different outcomes. Each conversation is rich with nuance, and the player’s internal monologue, influenced by various aspects of their psyche, plays a significant role in shaping the story.
Art Style and Atmospheric Setting: The art style of “Disco Elysium” is a stunning blend of hand-painted backgrounds and gritty, realistic character designs. The game takes place in the fictional city of Revachol, a decaying urban landscape filled with political unrest and social turmoil. The atmospheric setting perfectly complements the game’s themes, creating an immersive experience that draws players into its world. The melancholic yet beautiful visuals, combined with an evocative soundtrack, enhance the overall mood and storytelling.
Critical Reception and Awards: “Disco Elysium” has received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling and its complex, well-written characters. It has won numerous awards, including several Game of the Year accolades and recognition for its narrative and writing. The game is praised for its depth, creativity, and the way it challenges conventional RPG mechanics.
Undertale
Innovative Combat Mechanics and Moral Choices: “Undertale” is a game that turns traditional RPG mechanics on their head. The game features an innovative combat system where players can choose to fight or peacefully resolve encounters with enemies. Each decision impacts the story and characters, leading to multiple endings. This emphasis on moral choices is a core aspect of the game, encouraging players to think about the consequences of their actions. The combat mechanics are both unique and engaging, combining bullet-hell elements with classic turn-based combat.
Memorable Characters and Humor: One of the standout features of “Undertale” is its cast of memorable characters and its distinctive sense of humor. From the lovable skeleton brothers Sans and Papyrus to the determined and kind-hearted Toriel, each character is vividly brought to life through witty dialogue and charming animations. The game’s humor is both clever and heartwarming, often breaking the fourth wall and playing with player expectations. This blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling has endeared “Undertale” to players of all ages.
Cult Following and Community Impact: “Undertale” has developed a massive cult following since its release, thanks in large part to its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay. The game has inspired countless fan creations, including artwork, music covers, and even full-fledged fan games. Its impact on the gaming community is significant, demonstrating the potential for indie games to achieve mainstream success and cultural relevance. The passionate fanbase continues to support the game and its creator, Toby Fox, ensuring that “Undertale’s” legacy endures.
Multiplayer Experiences
World of Warcraft
Overview of Its History and Expansions: Since its launch in 2004, “World of Warcraft” (WoW) has become a cornerstone of the MMORPG genre. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, the game is set in the high-fantasy world of Azeroth. Over the years, WoW has seen numerous expansions, each adding new content, areas, and storylines. From “The Burning Crusade” and “Wrath of the Lich King” to “Shadowlands,” each expansion has expanded the game’s universe, introducing players to new challenges and adventures.
Community and Social Interactions: A significant aspect of WoW’s enduring popularity is its vibrant community. The game encourages social interactions, whether through guilds, cooperative raids, or player-versus-player (PvP) battles. These social elements foster a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among players. The game’s in-game chat, forums, and external fan sites provide platforms for players to connect, share strategies, and form lasting friendships.
Long-Term Impact on the MMO Genre: WoW’s influence on the MMO genre is profound. It set new standards for game design, player engagement, and community building. Many modern MMOs draw inspiration from WoW’s mechanics and systems. Its success demonstrated the viability of subscription-based models and microtransactions in online games.
Final Fantasy XIV
Revival and Success Post-Relaunch: “Final Fantasy XIV” (FFXIV) had a rocky start when it was first released in 2010. However, after a complete overhaul, it was relaunched as “Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn” in 2013, to much acclaim. This relaunch was a significant success, revitalizing the game and attracting a large player base. The story of its revival is a testament to the developers’ commitment to delivering a high-quality gaming experience.
Story-Driven Content and Regular Updates: FFXIV is renowned for its rich, story-driven content, which is on par with the best single-player RPGs. The game features an ongoing narrative that spans multiple expansions, including “Heavensward,” “Stormblood,” “Shadowbringers,” and “Endwalker.” Regular updates ensure that players always have new content to explore, from main story quests and side quests to challenging raids and dungeons. Each expansion builds upon the game’s lore, offering deep and engaging storytelling.
Active Player Community and In-Game Events: The FFXIV community is one of the most active and welcoming in the MMO space. The game hosts numerous in-game events, seasonal celebrations, and community-driven activities that keep players engaged and foster a sense of belonging. The developers’ active communication with the player base, through live letters and forums, further strengthens the bond between the game and its community.
RPGs with Unique Mechanics
Dark Souls
Challenging Gameplay and Rewarding Difficulty: “Dark Souls” is synonymous with challenging gameplay and rewarding difficulty, setting a benchmark for what players expect from a truly demanding RPG. The game’s relentless enemies and intricate level design require players to learn from their mistakes and master combat mechanics. This challenging nature is a core appeal, providing a deep sense of accomplishment with every victory.
Deep Lore and Environmental Storytelling: Beyond its tough exterior, “Dark Souls” offers a rich, intricate lore woven into its environmental storytelling. The game’s narrative is not spoon-fed to players but discovered through exploration, item descriptions, and cryptic NPC dialogues. This method of storytelling encourages players to piece together the world’s history and their place within it, adding depth and immersion to the already captivating fantasy world.
Influence on the ‘Soulslike’ Sub-Genre: The impact of “Dark Souls” extends far beyond its own franchise. Its success has spawned the ‘Soulslike’ sub-genre, influencing many games with similar mechanics and philosophies. Titles like “Bloodborne,” “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice,” and even “Nioh” draw heavily from the “Dark Souls” formula, emphasizing challenging combat, intricate world-building, and deep lore. This influence is a testament to the game’s enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping modern RPGs.
Divinity: Original Sin 2
Cooperative Gameplay and Tactical Combat: “Divinity: Original Sin 2” distinguishes itself with its cooperative gameplay and tactical combat. Players can team up with friends, each controlling their own character, to navigate the game’s rich fantasy world. The combat system is turn-based, requiring strategic thinking and clever use of the environment to gain an advantage. This cooperative element adds a layer of depth and fun, making each encounter a collaborative effort.
Storytelling and Player Choices: In “Divinity: Original Sin 2,” player choices significantly impact the narrative, providing a highly personalized experience. The game’s story is richly detailed, with branching paths and multiple endings based on decisions made throughout the adventure. Whether you’re siding with different factions, resolving conflicts, or building relationships with companions, every choice shapes the outcome, making the story as unique as the players themselves.
Modding Support and Community Contributions: A notable feature of “Divinity: Original Sin 2” is its robust modding support, allowing players to create and share custom content. This has fostered a vibrant community that continually contributes new quests, characters, and gameplay tweaks, enhancing the game’s replayability. The support from the developers for modding has not only extended the game’s lifespan but also empowered the community to leave their mark on this entry in the series.
Hidden Gems
Chrono Trigger
Timeless Story and Innovative Mechanics: “Chrono Trigger” is often celebrated as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, thanks to its timeless story and innovative mechanics. Released in 1995 by Square (now Square Enix), the game follows a group of adventurers who travel through time to prevent a global catastrophe. The narrative is engaging and complex, weaving together different eras and providing a rich tapestry of history and future possibilities. The game introduced several groundbreaking mechanics, such as the Active Time Battle system and multiple endings, which were revolutionary for its time.
Memorable Characters and Multiple Endings: The characters in “Chrono Trigger” are unforgettable, each with their own unique backgrounds and personalities. From the silent protagonist Crono to the rebellious princess Marle and the noble knight Frog, every character adds depth to the story. The game’s multiple endings, influenced by player choices and actions, add significant replay value, encouraging players to explore different paths and outcomes. This feature ensures that every playthrough can offer a new perspective and experience.
Influence on Modern RPGs: “Chrono Trigger” has had a lasting impact on modern RPGs, inspiring countless developers and games. Its blend of storytelling, character development, and innovative gameplay mechanics set a high standard that many RPGs strive to achieve. The game’s influence can be seen in titles like “Mass Effect” and “Dragon Quest,” which also prioritize narrative depth and player choice.
Dragon Age: Origins
Complex Narrative and Character Relationships: “Dragon Age: Origins” is renowned for its complex narrative and deep character relationships. Developed by BioWare, the game is set in the dark fantasy world of Thedas, where players assume the role of a Grey Warden tasked with saving the land from the Blight. The narrative is rich with political intrigue, moral dilemmas, and personal stories, making every decision impactful. The relationships you build with your companions are central to the experience, as their loyalty and personal quests can significantly influence the story’s outcome.
Tactical Combat and Strategic Depth: The combat system in “Dragon Age: Origins” combines real-time action with tactical pausing, allowing players to strategically plan their moves and utilize their party’s abilities effectively. This tactical depth adds a layer of strategy to each encounter, requiring players to think carefully about their approach to combat. Whether you prefer to control the battlefield as a mage, charge into the fray as a warrior, or strike from the shadows as a rogue, the game offers a variety of playstyles to suit different preferences.
Player Choices and Consequences: “Dragon Age: Origins” is a game where player choices have significant consequences, affecting not only the immediate storyline but also the broader world and its characters. Decisions made during quests, interactions with companions, and the handling of political situations all contribute to the game’s multiple endings. This focus on choice and consequence ensures that every playthrough feels unique, providing a personalized narrative experience that reacts to your decisions.
Both “Chrono Trigger” and “Dragon Age: Origins” are hidden gems that have left an indelible mark on the RPG genre. “Chrono Trigger” is celebrated for its innovative mechanics, memorable characters, and lasting influence on modern RPGs. Meanwhile, “Dragon Age: Origins” offers a complex narrative, deep character relationships, and strategic combat, with player choices that shape the world around them. These titles stand out for their exceptional storytelling and gameplay, making them must-play entries in the RPG landscape.