Role-playing games (RPGs) have been a cornerstone of gaming for decades, offering players immersive worlds, compelling narratives, and deep character customization. From classic turn-based systems to modern open-world adventures, RPGs have evolved significantly over the years. Here, we explore the top 10 RPGs of all time, delving into what makes each title a masterpiece and why they remain essential experiences for gamers.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Why It’s Great:
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs ever made, and for good reason. It combines a sprawling open world with a deeply emotional narrative, complex characters, and meaningful choices that impact the story. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a morally gray world filled with political intrigue, supernatural threats, and personal dilemmas.
The game’s side quests are particularly noteworthy, often feeling as rich and detailed as the main story. The expansion packs, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, are also considered some of the best DLCs in gaming history, adding hours of content and further enriching the world.
Legacy:
The Witcher 3 set a new standard for open-world RPGs, influencing countless games that followed. Its success also solidified CD Projekt Red as one of the most respected developers in the industry.
- Chrono Trigger (1995)
Developer: Square Enix
Platform: SNES, DS, PC, Mobile
Why It’s Great:
Chrono Trigger is a timeless classic that revolutionized the RPG genre. Developed by a “dream team” of creators, including Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy) and Akira Toriyama (Dragon Ball), the game features a unique time-traveling narrative, memorable characters, and multiple endings based on player choices.
The game’s combat system introduced the “Active Time Battle” mechanic, which added a layer of strategy and urgency to encounters. Its pixel art and soundtrack, composed by Yasunori Mitsuda and Nobuo Uematsu, are still celebrated today.
Legacy:
Chrono Trigger remains a benchmark for storytelling and innovation in RPGs. Its influence can be seen in modern titles that prioritize player choice and non-linear narratives.
- The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Why It’s Great:
Skyrim is the epitome of open-world exploration. Set in the frozen province of Skyrim, the game allows players to create their own character and embark on a journey filled with dragons, ancient ruins, and countless quests. The freedom to explore at your own pace and shape your character’s destiny is unparalleled.
The game’s modding community has also played a significant role in its longevity, with thousands of mods available to enhance graphics, gameplay, and content.
Legacy:
Skyrim has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning memes, remasters, and even a VR version. Its success cemented Bethesda’s reputation as a leader in open-world RPGs.
- Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Developer: Square Enix
Platform: PS1, PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch
Why It’s Great:
Final Fantasy VII is a landmark title that brought RPGs to a mainstream audience. Its epic story, centered on the eco-terrorist Cloud Strife and his battle against the corrupt Shinra Corporation, resonated with players worldwide. The game’s cinematic presentation, emotional depth, and iconic characters like Sephiroth set a new standard for the genre.
The Materia system allowed for deep customization of characters’ abilities, while the game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, remains one of the most beloved in gaming history.
Legacy:
Final Fantasy VII is credited with popularizing RPGs in the West. Its 2020 remake introduced the game to a new generation, further solidifying its place in gaming history.
- Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn (2000)
Developer: BioWare
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great:
Baldur’s Gate II is a masterpiece of tactical combat, intricate storytelling, and player choice. Set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, the game offers unparalleled freedom in how you build your party, approach quests, and interact with the world.
The game’s writing is exceptional, with memorable characters like Minsc and his miniature giant space hamster, Boo. Its real-time-with-pause combat system remains a gold standard for CRPGs.
Legacy:
Baldur’s Gate II set the foundation for BioWare’s future successes, including Mass Effect and Dragon Age. Its influence can still be felt in modern RPGs that prioritize player agency.
- Dark Souls (2011)
Developer: FromSoftware
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, PC
Why It’s Great:
Dark Souls redefined what an RPG could be, blending challenging gameplay with a hauntingly beautiful world. The game’s minimalist storytelling, conveyed through environmental details and item descriptions, encourages players to piece together the lore themselves.
Its combat system is precise and punishing, rewarding patience and skill. The interconnected world design, where every area feels meticulously crafted, is a testament to FromSoftware’s attention to detail.
Legacy:
Dark Souls spawned an entire subgenre of “Soulslike” games and inspired countless developers to prioritize world-building and player-driven narratives.
- Mass Effect 2 (2010)
Developer: BioWare
Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
Why It’s Great:
Mass Effect 2 is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling. As Commander Shepard, players assemble a diverse crew of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations. The game’s loyalty missions add depth to these relationships, making the final mission—where every decision matters—an emotional rollercoaster.
The game streamlined the RPG elements of its predecessor, focusing more on action and narrative. Its dialogue system and branching choices set a new standard for player-driven stories.
Legacy:
Mass Effect 2 is often regarded as the pinnacle of the series and a benchmark for narrative-driven RPGs.
- Planescape: Torment (1999)
Developer: Black Isle Studios
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great:
Planescape: Torment is a philosophical and introspective RPG that asks profound questions about identity, mortality, and redemption. The game’s protagonist, The Nameless One, is an immortal being searching for answers about his past.
The game’s strength lies in its writing, which is some of the best in the genre. Combat takes a backseat to dialogue and exploration, making it a unique experience.
Legacy:
Planescape: Torment is celebrated for its intellectual depth and remains a cult classic among RPG enthusiasts.
- Persona 5 (2016)
Developer: Atlus
Platform: PS3, PS4
Why It’s Great:
Persona 5 combines traditional JRPG elements with life simulation, creating a unique blend of gameplay. Players balance their time between battling supernatural forces in a surreal world and managing their daily lives as high school students.
The game’s stylish art direction, catchy soundtrack, and compelling story about rebellion and self-discovery have earned it widespread acclaim.
Legacy:
Persona 5 brought the series to a global audience and set a new standard for modern JRPGs.
- Diablo II (2000)
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
Platform: PC
Why It’s Great:
Diablo II is the quintessential action RPG, offering endless replayability through its loot-driven gameplay and character classes. The game’s dark, gothic atmosphere and addictive loop of killing monsters and collecting gear have made it a timeless classic.
Legacy:
Diablo II laid the foundation for the ARPG genre and inspired countless games, including its own sequel and spiritual successors like Path of Exile.
Conclusion
These 10 RPGs represent the pinnacle of the genre, each offering something unique and memorable. Whether you’re drawn to epic narratives, deep character customization, or immersive worlds, these games are essential experiences for any RPG fan. Their influence continues to shape the industry, proving that great storytelling and gameplay never go out of style.