The 25 Best RPG Games of All Time

The realm of role-playing games (RPGs) is vast and multifaceted, offering players the chance to immerse themselves in unique worlds, grandiose narratives, and complex character development. This article delves into the 25 best RPG games of all time, examining the various elements that make each of these titles a standout in the genre.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has become a cultural phenomenon since its release. Its expansive open world, intricate lore, and countless mods have kept players engaged for years. Set in the fantastical province of Skyrim, the player assumes the role of the Dragonborn, a hero destined to save the world from an ancient dragon menace.

Skyrim features a dynamic combat system, rich storytelling, and endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you're delving into ancient ruins, engaging with vibrant communities, or crafting your armor, the game's ability to let you chart your own adventure is unmatched.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a milestone in RPG gaming, praised for its deep narrative, fascinating world, and emotional depth. The game follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter searching for his adopted daughter amidst a land ravaged by war and political intrigue.

Aside from its gripping main story, The Witcher 3 is teeming with engaging side quests, each one crafted with as much care as the main narrative. Players are often faced with morally ambiguous choices that add an extra layer of complexity and realism to the game.

Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII is a seminal RPG that has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Known for its compelling characters, such as Cloud Strife, and its emotionally charged storyline, the game set new standards for storytelling and character development in video games.

The game's intricate turn-based combat, combined with its futuristic setting and masterful music score, offered an unforgettable experience for players worldwide. The recent remake has rejuvenated its legend, bringing this classic to the attention of a new generation.

Mass Effect 2

Mass Effect 2 masterfully blends action and RPG elements with a rich narrative and complex character interactions. Commander Shepard's quest to save the galaxy from the formidable Reapers is one of gaming's most epic sagas.

The game's dialogue system allows for meaningful conversations, impacting both relationships and the story's direction. The compelling mix of tactical combat, deep customization options, and an engrossing plot ensures Mass Effect 2's place among the greatest RPGs.

Planescape: Torment

Planescape: Torment is renowned for its deep philosophical storytelling and unique setting. Set in the Planescape multiverse, the game centers on the Nameless One, an immortal being seeking answers about his past and true identity.

Unlike many RPGs, Planescape: Torment places a premium on dialogue and character development over combat. The game's rich narrative explores themes of mortality, identity, and redemption, engaging players in a way few RPGs manage to achieve.

Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is a timeless classic that revolutionized the RPG genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics and memorable characters. The game follows a group of adventurers traveling through time to prevent a global catastrophe.

Its seamless integration of time travel into both plot and gameplay, combined with its multiple endings, ensures that each playthrough offers something new. The game's art direction, music, and engaging combat system make Chrono Trigger a beloved staple in any RPG enthusiast's collection.

Diablo II

Diablo II is a legendary action RPG that has had a lasting impact on the genre with its dark fantasy setting and addictive gameplay. Players can choose from several distinct classes, each with their unique skills and abilities, as they battle through hordes of enemies and treacherous dungeons.

The game's randomly-generated levels, extensive loot system, and multiplayer features have contributed to its enduring popularity. Diablo II's dark, atmospheric world and gripping gameplay continue to captivate players even decades after its release.

Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn

Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn is a high point in computer RPGs, thanks to its deep storytelling, rich tactical combat, and complex character interactions. Set in the Forgotten Realms, the game thrusts players into a struggle for survival and power against the sinister wizard Irenicus.

The game's extensive character customization, detailed world, and intricate plot have earned it critical acclaim. Baldur's Gate II expertly manages to balance a gripping main narrative with a wealth of side quests and character-driven stories.

Fallout: New Vegas

Fallout: New Vegas stands out for its complex narrative, engaging characters, and the freedom it offers players. Set in a post-apocalyptic Nevada, the player assumes the role of a courier who is ambushed and left for dead, setting off a quest for revenge and a deeper understanding of the world.

The game's choice system allows for varied paths and outcomes, making each playthrough unique. Its blend of dark humor, moral ambiguity, and intricate world-building ensures that Fallout: New Vegas remains a fan favorite.

Persona 5

Persona 5 captivates players with its stylish art direction, gripping story, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Beyond its turn-based combat, Persona 5 delves deeply into social simulation, allowing players to build relationships and manage their daily lives. Its unique blend of RPG elements and social interactions sets it apart as a standout title in the genre.

Dragon Age: Origins

Dragon Age: Origins is celebrated for its rich lore, complex characters, and engaging narrative. Players join the Grey Wardens, an ancient order sworn to protect the land from the monstrous Darkspawn, in a tale filled with political intrigue and moral dilemmas.

The game's branching storylines and deep character interactions provide a high level of replayability. With its robust combat system and expansive world, Dragon Age: Origins offers an immersive RPG experience that resonates with fans.

Dark Souls

Dark Souls is renowned for its challenging gameplay, intricate world design, and deep lore. Players traverse the cursed land of Lordran, uncovering its secrets through exploration and intense combat against formidable foes.

The game's difficulty level fosters a sense of achievement and community among players. With its atmospheric world, tight gameplay mechanics, and interconnected level design, Dark Souls has left a lasting legacy in the RPG genre.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic offers a captivating blend of Star Wars lore and RPG mechanics. Set thousands of years before the events of the movies, and players embark on a quest to stop the Sith Lord Darth Malak from conquering the galaxy.

Its engaging story, memorable characters, and tactical combat have cemented its status as a classic RPG.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefines open-world RPGs with its breathtaking landscapes, freedom of exploration, and innovative gameplay. Players assume the role of Link, awakening from a long slumber to save the kingdom of Hyrule from calamity.

The game's physics-based puzzles, dynamic weather, and diverse approaches to challenges make it a unique experience for each player. Breath of the Wild's expansive world encourages curiosity and experimentation, solidifying its place among the greats.

Divinity: Original Sin II

Divinity: Original Sin II is lauded for its deep tactical combat, dynamic storytelling, and rich world-building. Players take on the role of Sourcerers, wielders of forbidden magic, navigating a world on the brink of collapse.

The game's cooperative multiplayer mode allows for a shared RPG experience, where players' choices significantly impact the story. With its intricate mechanics, engaging narrative, and expansive world, Divinity: Original Sin II is a modern RPG masterpiece.

Bloodborne

Bloodborne is celebrated for its dark, Gothic atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and intricate lore. Set in the haunting city of Yharnam, players take on the role of a Hunter seeking the cause of a mysterious plague.

The game's fast-paced combat, coupled with its immersive world and compelling story, offers a unique experience that keeps players coming back for more. Bloodborne's masterful blend of horror elements and RPG mechanics has earned it critical acclaim.

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a charming return to classic RPG roots, offering a richly detailed world, endearing characters, and traditional turn-based combat. The game follows the Luminary, a hero destined to save the world from an ancient evil.

Its beautiful art style, engaging narrative, and thoughtful gameplay balance nostalgia with modern enhancements.

Deus Ex

Deus Ex is a groundbreaking RPG that combines cyberpunk aesthetics with deep storytelling and player choice. Set in a dystopian future, players control JC Denton, a cybernetically augmented agent uncovering vast conspiracies.

The game is renowned for its freedom of choice, allowing players to tackle missions in various ways, whether through stealth, hacking, or direct confrontation. Deus Ex's impactful narrative, complex characters, and immersive world make it a seminal entry in the RPG genre.

Xenogears

Xenogears is known for its ambitious narrative, blending science fiction with philosophical themes. Players follow Fei Fong Wong and his companions as they unravel the mysteries of their world and their own origins.

The game's turn-based combat system and mech battles add depth to the gameplay, while its detailed story and character development create a richly woven tapestry. Xenogears remains a beloved title for its thought-provoking plot and unique gameplay mechanics.

Pillars of Eternity

Pillars of Eternity is celebrated for its rich narrative, deep lore, and engaging tactical combat. The game places players in the role of a Watcher, someone with the ability to see and interact with souls, embarking on a quest to uncover the mysteries of their world.

Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Pillars of Eternity pays homage to classic RPGs while introducing modern enhancements. Its complex story, detailed character interactions, and expansive world make it a standout in the RPG genre.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem: Three Houses combines strategic combat with deep character interactions and a branching narrative. Players take on the role of a professor at the Garreg Mach Monastery, guiding students through battles and personal growth.

The game's multi-perspective storylines allow for varied experiences based on the chosen house, adding replay value. Fire Emblem: Three Houses' blend of strategy, character development, and narrative engagement has earned it widespread acclaim.

Undertale

Undertale is a unique RPG that subverts traditional gameplay mechanics with its emphasis on player choice and morality. Players control a young human who has fallen into the Underground, a realm filled with monsters.

The game's charm lies in its quirky humor, memorable characters, and innovative combat system that allows players to show mercy instead of fighting. Undertale's impactful storytelling and emotional depth have made it a beloved indie classic.

Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World revolutionized the popular franchise with its expansive open world, refined gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. Players take on the role of a Hunter, tasked with tracking and studying powerful monsters within the New World.

The game's cooperative multiplayer mode, intricate ecosystems, and a vast array of weapons and armor provide endless avenues for engagement. Monster Hunter: World's blend of action and RPG elements offers a highly rewarding experience.

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom enchants players with its beautiful art style, captivating story, and engaging gameplay. The game follows young King Evan as he embarks on a quest to build a new kingdom and bring peace to the world.

Its seamless integration of real-time combat, kingdom-building mechanics, and character development creates a richly woven experience. Ni no Kuni II's charm lies in its heartwarming narrative and stunning animations, making it a standout RPG.

Shadowrun: Dragonfall

Shadowrun: Dragonfall blends cyberpunk and fantasy elements to create a unique RPG experience. Players lead a team of showrunners on dangerous missions within a dystopian Berlin, navigating a world filled with magic and technology.

The game's tactical combat, deep narrative, and complex character interactions provide a highly immersive experience. Shadowrun: Dragonfall's distinctive setting and engaging gameplay make it a notable entry in the RPG genre.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines is lauded for its dark atmosphere, complex narrative, and immersive role-playing mechanics. Set in the World of Darkness, players assume the role of a newly turned vampire navigating the political intrigue and dangers of modern-day Los Angeles.

The game's deep customization options, choice-driven story, and memorable characters offer a richly rewarding experience. Despite its rough edges, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines has garnered a devoted fan base and remains a cult classic.

These 25 RPG games are testaments to the genre's power to transport players to new worlds, challenge their perceptions, and offer unparalleled experiences. Each title on this list has contributed to the rich tapestry of RPG history, showcasing the creativity and innovation that continue to drive the genre forward.