Create Your Own Story: 30 Greatest RPGs in the Industry

An RPG (Role-Playing Game) is a video game genre in which players assume the role of one or more characters and control their actions. The main feature is the focus on character development, storyline, and interaction with the game world. In these games, players typically create or select a character, upgrade their skills, equipment, and attributes, and make decisions that influence the plot and relationships with other characters.

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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

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An adventure RPG that reimagines the classic Zelda formula. The game takes place in a vast open world — Hyrule. You play as Link, an elf-like boy who awakens after a hundred-year slumber. Your main task is to save Princess Zelda and defeat an ancient evil known as Kalmara. The game features non-linear gameplay, allowing players to explore the world in any order, solve puzzles, gather resources, craft items, and fight enemies using physics and the environment.

Baldur’s Gate 3

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The largest role-playing game based on the 5th Edition Dungeons & Dragons rules. The action takes place in the Forgotten Realms, where players create their own character or choose one of the pre-made heroes. The game combines a deep storyline, complex moral choices, tactical turn-based battles, and a huge open world full of quests, mysteries, and interactions. Its complexity and attention to detail make it one of the best RPGs of recent years. It also won The Game Awards "Game of the Year" in 2023.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

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It has been on the gaming scene for so long that it can be considered a full-fledged favorite among all RPGs of the past decade. Like previous games in the series, it welcomes us to a new region—Skyrim, part of the fantasy world of Tamriel. Our hero, the Dragonborn, possesses the gift of the dragon’s voice, compelling him to embark on an epic adventure. The main goal is to stop the return of an ancient evil—Alduin the dragon. The game lets you explore vast territories, complete numerous quests, engage in crafting, and shape the world’s fate through your decisions.

Mass Effect 2

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The second installment of the famous sci-fi trilogy. We are still in space, fighting for our place among other races. The main character, Commander Shepard, assembles a team of elite fighters for a deadly mission—threatened by the Reapers, who loom over the universe as a mysterious menace. Gameplay includes planet exploration, dialogue with branching options, tactical combat, and team skill upgrades. You’ll encounter unique stories and moral dilemmas that affect the outcome of events.

Elden Ring

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The most expansive Souls-like game ever, captivating many players with its visuals. Its vast, meticulously crafted open world is called the Lands Between, filled with secrets and the ever-present fear of rolling in the wrong direction. This time you are the Tarnished, who must restore the Elden Ring and become the Lord of the Lands Between. The game was praised for its innovation, scale, and captivating gameplay, and it won "Game of the Year" in 2022. George R. R. Martin, author of the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, also contributed to its creation.

Persona 5 Royal

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An enhanced version of the cult-classic Japanese game that combines elements of a simulator and classic RPG. The story takes place in Tokyo, where our main hero, nicknamed Joker, and his friends are known as the "Phantom Thieves of Hearts." The game is split into two parts: by day, it looks like a social simulator where you’re an ordinary student, and by night, the team battles enemies in turn-based combat using "Personas"—manifestations of their inner powers. Its stylish visual design, gripping plot, and unique blend of genres made it one of the best JRPGs of its time.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

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The most classic RPG set in the Star Wars universe. The action takes place thousands of years before the movies’ events. Players take on the role of a nameless hero who gradually discovers their true nature and becomes a key figure in the battle between the Light and Dark sides of the Force. The game features a deep story with moral choices that affect your character’s development and the ending. KOTOR is still considered one of the best Star Wars games ever, and many of us awaited a remaster of this masterpiece, which, unfortunately, was canceled.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

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Another game by Larian Studios, which was and remains a benchmark for tactical RPGs. Set in the fantasy world of Rivellon, you can either choose one of the unique pre-made characters or create your own equally distinctive hero. The main conflict centers on the battle against the Voidwoken, ancient beings threatening the world. The game offers total freedom: players can explore the world, solve quests in various ways, and interact with the environment and other characters. It’s also renowned for its complex leveling system, co-op mode, and the ability to shape the world through your decisions.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

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Even a decade after its release, it can be considered a cult RPG, also named "Game of the Year" in 2015. It concludes the trilogy of adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster-hunting Witcher. Our hero is searching for his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is pursued by a mysterious and destructive force—the Wild Hunt—while also helping common folk along the way. This Polish masterpiece greets us with one of the largest open worlds in the gaming industry, filled with gripping stories, moral dilemmas, and dangerous creatures.

Disco Elysium

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A one-of-a-kind role-playing game that focuses on dialogue and character development. Set in the fictional city of Revachol, you play a detective tasked with solving a murder. The game offers a deep character creation system, where each choice and skill affects how the story unfolds and how you interact with the world. There is a complex progression system in which skills affect not only abilities but also the hero’s thoughts, dialogues, and perception of reality. There is no combat system; conflicts are resolved through dialogue and internal monologues.

Monster Hunter: World

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A huge, living world teeming with dangerous monsters. Hunters explore various locations, hunt monsters, and craft gear from their parts. The battles are dynamic, and each monster requires a unique strategy; there’s also a co-op mode for shared hunts, letting players team up to take down particularly large and dangerous creatures. The game was nominated for "Game of the Year" in 2018 but lost to God of War. It did, however, win "Best Role-Playing Game" that year. Its graphics, massive world, and engaging gameplay drew players from all over the globe.

Dark Souls III

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The concluding chapter of the Dark Souls series, considered the pinnacle of the trilogy. It’s challenging and atmospheric, unfolding in the bleak, ruined world of Lothric. You are an Unkindled, the last hope of a realm sinking into chaos. The game offers no easy difficulty, only painful trials—but that doesn’t make it bad or unplayable; on the contrary, it offers a true challenge. You’ll explore a captivating world packed with secrets, lore, and dangers. While it wasn’t named Game of the Year, it remains a favorite among From Software fans.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

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An expanded and improved version of the cult-classic Final Fantasy VII Remake. The story unfolds in Midgar, where players control Cloud Strife, a mercenary who joins the eco-terrorist group "AVALANCHE" in their fight against the Shinra corporation. The game retains all the key elements of the original, including a thrilling combat system that blends turn-based strategy with dynamic battles. It still offers a deep storyline that reimagines the classic 1997 narrative. The game features new content, improved graphics, and 60 FPS support.

NieR: Automata

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A post-apocalyptic setting where humanity wages war against machines created by alien invaders. Earth is fully occupied, forcing survivors to move to the Moon. The main characters are androids 2B, 9S, and A2, each with unique abilities and combat styles. They are created and sent to Earth to fight for humanity’s survival. The game is known for its non-linear structure, requiring multiple playthroughs to fully understand its story—so don’t abandon it after the first ending.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

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A tactical RPG set in the fictional world of Fódlan. Players take on the role of a professor tasked with educating and leading students from one of three houses: the Black Eagles, the Blue Lions, or the Golden Deer. The game merges turn-based tactical battles with social simulation elements, where you interact with students. There’s a deep character progression system, strategic combat, and multiple storylines that depend on the house you choose. The plot branches out into various paths, each revealing a unique story.

Horizon Zero Dawn

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A post-apocalyptic world where technology has fused with nature, and humans struggle against machines for survival. The main character is Aloy, a hunter and outcast who finds a device from the past that reintroduces her to a world filled with unknowns. She uncovers her past and the secrets of a land overrun by mechanical creatures. You’ll explore a huge open world and battle machine-like animals using bows, traps, and strategy. Its visual splendor and unique concept captivated many players.

Diablo III

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Continuing the legendary Diablo series, the game takes place in the dark fantasy world of Sanctuary, where players take on the role of a hero to halt an invasion of evil forces and defeat the Lord of Terror, Diablo. The game features fast-paced combat using skill and spell combinations, as well as loot collecting and gear upgrades. It supports both single-player and co-op modes, along with a seasonal events system. Even years later, it still performs impressively thanks to continuous updates.

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire

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A classic-style cRPG sequel to the original story, now set in the Deadfire Archipelago. You are the Watcher, pursuing the god Eothas, who threatens the world. It features a richly detailed world, captivating narrative, and the ability to explore islands by ship. The game includes naval travel and battles, where you can upgrade your vessel and crew. With deep lore and a strong adherence to the genre’s traditions, it is a worthy successor to the original Pillars of Eternity.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

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A historical RPG set in medieval Bohemia. It’s a direct sequel to the first game, only now with new features. Your actions affect how NPCs perceive you, influencing the success of certain quests. The main character is Henry of Skalitz, and this time you fight against King Sigismund of Hungary to avenge your parents’ deaths. You must find a horse, gear, and a way to infiltrate a local noble’s wedding. Later, you will be drawn into a war for power over the state and political intrigue.

Tales of Arise

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A Japanese blend of action and classic RPG. The story takes place in a world divided between two planets—Dahna and Rena—where the oppressed people of Dahna rise up against their oppressors from Rena. Your character is named Alphen, a nameless slave who becomes the leader of the revolution. You control a party of heroes, each with unique abilities and combat styles. Thanks to its graphics, engaging gameplay, and storyline, it’s considered one of the best in the Tales series.

Cyberpunk 2077

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One of the most highly anticipated games in a sci-fi setting of the same name. You’re in Night City, a dark, ultra-technological metropolis. Your protagonist is V, a mercenary who, during one job, becomes the unwitting owner of a unique chip containing Johnny Silverhand’s engram. The story revolves around finding a way to survive, as the chip is destroying your brain and the second personality constantly tries to take over. Despite technical issues at launch, the game has been praised for its atmosphere, visual design, and deeply crafted world.

Dragon Age: Inquisition

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A massive game, the third installment in the Dragon Age series. Set in the fantasy world of Thedas, you play as the Inquisitor, tasked with ending the chaos caused by the breach between the human world and the demon world. It features a robust character development system, character customization, and interaction with party members—each with a unique personality and backstory. Dragon Age: Inquisition garnered multiple awards, including "Game of the Year" in 2014. It remains one of the most popular RPGs of its time.

The Outer Worlds

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Created by the same team that brought us Fallout: New Vegas, but this time it’s set in space rather than the desert. This is an alternate universe where corporations control colonized planets. You’re a colonist awakened from cryosleep, entangled in a conspiracy threatening the entire system. The game features a deep story with moral decisions, open-world exploration, tactical combat, and interaction with unique characters who may join your crew. Expect captivating gameplay and witty dialogue.

Wasteland 3

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Set in the snow-covered wastelands of post-nuclear Colorado after a global conflict. Having lost your main base in previous installments, the Rangers are contacted by the Patriarch, the ruler of Colorado. He offers them help and support, but on the way there, the squad is ambushed; most of your allies die, and some are kidnapped. The heroes must find their missing comrades and assist the ruler. The game features turn-based tactical combat, where strategy and environment usage are crucial, as well as co-op and character customization.

Fallout: New Vegas

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One of the series’ fan-favorites, set in the same post-apocalyptic world but this time in the deserts surrounding the ruined Las Vegas area. Essentially, you’re a courier who begins the journey after an attempt on their life, caught in a power struggle for control of the Hoover Dam. You aim to uncover the conspiracy and decide the region’s fate. New Vegas is celebrated for its deeply crafted world, satirical take on post-war society, and numerous factions. In 2010, The Game Awards didn’t exist, but if it had, New Vegas could have easily taken Game of the Year.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

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A deep RPG based on the Pathfinder tabletop game. The action unfolds in the world of Golarion, and you’re a hero leading a crusade against a demonic threat emerging from the Worldwound. It has a complex combat system that not everyone might enjoy. There’s also a unique "Mythic Paths" feature allowing players to transform their hero into a powerful being. Yet, its rich story and freedom of choice affecting the game’s ending may appeal to many.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

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Yes, it’s a Nintendo exclusive, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be on our list. The world of Alrest sees people living on the backs of gigantic creatures called Titans. The main character is Rex, a young treasure hunter who becomes a Driver—someone who can control powerful beings known as Blades. Together with Pyra, you embark on an epic quest to find the legendary paradise called Elysium. The game features dynamic battles with a unique "Driver-Blade" system and a deep storyline filled with emotional moments and philosophical themes.

Octopath Traveler

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A modern Japanese RPG in a classic style with updated graphics. You explore the land of Orsterra, where you can choose from eight characters, each with their own story, motivation, and abilities. The game features turn-based battles, world exploration, and numerous side quests. It boasts a modern "HD-2D" graphical style that combines pixel art with 3D elements and lighting effects. The nonlinear progression allows you to explore the world in any order, and there’s a rich leveling system.

Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

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A remaster of the classic version of the game set in the fantasy world of Amalur. You are the first and only successful result of someone resurrected in the Well. Your goal is to stop a sinister threat. The game combines dynamic real-time combat, open-world exploration, a rich narrative, and a flexible progression system allowing you to mix warrior, mage, and rogue skills. Re-Reckoning includes improved graphics, gameplay optimizations, and all the original DLC. Later, two expansions were released: The Legend of Dead Kel and Teeth of Naros.

Gothic II

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A true classic of the RPG genre—yes, it’s old, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad. The game continues the story of the first installment, picking up literally 13 days after it ended. You’re on the island of Khorinis, located off the coast of the Kingdom of Myrtana. As the hero, you must stop the orc invasion and uncover the secrets of the island’s magical barrier. The game offers a branching plot with multiple choices and endings, as well as a complex leveling system where you can develop combat skills, magic, or crafts. It achieved cult status among RPG fans and is considered one of the best in its genre despite its age.

RPGs remain among the most popular and diverse game genres, offering deep stories, complex moral choices, rich worlds, and unique mechanics. These games not only captivate with their narratives and characters but also let players shape the world, creating a distinct experience each time. RPGs continue to inspire and unite fans, proving that the genre remains relevant and vital to the video game industry.

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