PC games with RPG elements. The best RPG games for PC
Greetings! Below is a selection of the best old RPGs for PC, from 1997 to 2010. The list is ordered by release date, starting with the oldest games.
Fallout 1-2
release date: 1997 – first 1998 – second
Genre: RPG, post-apocalyptic, open world, turn-based tactics, science fiction
The global nuclear war between the United States and China launched a chain of nuclear strikes that practically destroyed the entire population of the Earth.
The surface of the planet was turned into a radioactive wasteland, separated by lonely, dilapidated cities. The player plays the role of a person from shelter number 13. The hero got out of the safe shelter outside to get a water chip, without which all residents of the shelter will be left without water.
When you first enter the game, the player must create his character, select his gender and distribute skill points. The entire gameplay depends on skill points; for example, a character with low luck will constantly get into scrapes and other negative random events. The gameplay is made in the form of turn-based battles. The player, depending on action points, walks a certain distance and deals damage to selected areas. The main advantages of the game were the post-apocalyptic atmosphere and complete freedom of action. The player can become either a negative character like a mercenary killer, a psychopathic maniac, a drug addict, a wasteland raider, or a positive character like a sheriff, a mutant hunter, a slave liberator, etc. Due to its features, the game takes pride of place in the list of the 50 best RPGs.
Planescape: Torment
release date: 1999
Genre: RPG, fantasy strategy, turn-based strategy
The player will be able to play the role of a nameless immortal - a hero who has lived many lives, but has now completely lost his memories. The mysterious character wants only one thing - to find any information about his past, no matter what the cost.
The game focuses on communication with other characters. There is turn-based combat, but most of the time, the player must communicate with NPCs, complete quests and make choices, which in turn affect the game world and overall gameplay. The project involves two types of passage - peaceful and militant. In the first case, the player completes tasks through dialogue and communication, in the second, using brute force.
Heroes of Might and Magic III
release date: 1999
Genre: Strategy with RPG elements, top-down, turn-based strategy, fantasy, about magic
The plot of the game is based on the confrontation between individual states on a large game map in a fantasy world. The player starts with a small city with the only task - to capture opponents and gain power over all lands. In a story-based company, the player will be able to go through entire chains of scenarios connected by one line.
The player takes control of heroes who must explore the global adventure map, capture enemy castles and fortresses, and gather a stronger army by purchasing and hiring new warriors. The game's combat system is represented by turn-based battles. In battle, there is a field along which fighters move and attack, at which time the hero can use spells and scrolls.
Diablo 2
release date: 2000
Genre
The plot of the game is based on the eternal confrontation between Heaven and Hell. The game takes place in the world of Sanctuary - a fantasy universe filled with magic, various races, monsters and demonic creatures. The player will be able to take on the role of a hero who must stop evil and end the endless war.
The game is a benchmark representative of the hack’n’slash games genre. The main emphasis is on battles. The player controls a created character who has the selected skills, class and abilities. The main task of the game is to clear dark dungeons from the undead, complete quests, level up the hero, and collect the best weapons and equipment. During its release, the project received many positive reviews from critics and the gaming community. Among the main advantages of the game, it should be noted a wide variety of levels, monsters, weapons, interesting quests, dynamic battles, a gloomy atmosphere, as well as a wide variety of bosses.
Nox
release date: 2000
Genre: Top-down RPG, science fiction
The plot of the game tells about the fictional world of Nox, into which the main character, an earthling, finds himself through an opened portal. The portal was not just a coincidence, it was opened by the Queen of the Necromancers in order to take possession of an ancient artifact located in the human world. With the help of the relic, the queen will be able to gain unlimited power and enslave the entire population. The main task of the hero is to stop the impending end of the world.
The game's role-playing system allows you to create a character and choose his class. There are three game specializations available in the project - mage, warrior and sorcerer. In addition to different gameplay, each of the classes has its own unique plot twists and other small features. In general, the game appealed to many fans of fantasy isometric RPGs.
Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura
release date: 2001
Genre: RPG, open world, steampunk, turn-based strategy, about gnomes
After the terrible crash of the Zephyr airship, an unknown hero finds himself on the continent of Arcanum. The country is at the stage of an industrial revolution, but many are actively using various magical talents. The player must settle into the new world, and perhaps save it from some kind of disaster.
During the passage, the player will be able to explore a huge open world, communicate with other characters, receive and complete quests. Since the game provides complete freedom of action, the gamer can become anyone. For example, you can walk on the peaceful and kind side, making good decisions, or, on the contrary, do bad things and become a real anti-hero. Among the key features of the game it is worth noting: a large arsenal of weapons, many quests, non-linear progression, as well as a well-developed universe.
Arx Fatalis
release date: 2001
Genre: First-person RPG, fantasy, slasher
The game takes place on the planet Exosta. As a result of a global cataclysm, the sun of the planet began to gradually fade, and this in turn caused a sharp cooling in the climate. The races inhabiting Exosta decided to unite for joint survival in underground cities. The player takes on the role of a prisoner who must convey important information to the king of humanity. The entire future life of the planet will depend on this information.
In addition to the classic combat system such as normal, power attacks and parries, the game features special magic control. To correctly apply a spell, the player must draw aerial figures with the mouse that will activate a particular skill. The game also has a realistic physics model, for example, to cook food, you need to throw it into the oven. At the time of its release, the game received high marks from gaming critics and popular magazines.
Anachronox
release date: 2001
Genre: Third person turn-based RPG, cyberpunk, sci-fi
The plot of the game will tell about the distant future, in which people have learned to travel in space with the help of Senders - some planetoids built by a long-vanished alien civilization. Each of the Senders became a space base. The player begins his journey at one of these bases. Since the project has low system requirements, it is perfect for users of weak PCs.
The gameplay has two equal parts. The first one combines space exploration, communication with other characters, completing various quests, and also searching for new companions. The second is represented by turn-based tactical combat, during which the player controls the entire group, selects the type of attacks, special skills, etc. At the time of its release, the game received positive reviews from critics for its interesting plot and quests, great opportunities for space exploration, as well as for the variety of enemies and bosses.
Wizardry 8
release date: 2001
Genre: First-person turn-based RPG, fantasy, open world
According to an ancient prophecy, the entire population of the galaxy is destined for immortality and eternal life in the form of Gods. To do this, residents must combine three artifacts on the planet Dominus. This is the only way change can take place. But at the last moment, one of the ancient artifacts was stolen by the Warlock, a powerful military leader. The player goes in search of the missing part. Even at the time of release, the game had very modest system requirements, which is why the project will be the best choice for owners of weak PCs.
The gameplay can be roughly divided into two components. The first is traveling around the open world, completing quests, accepting companions into the team, communicating with other characters (using the command line and keywords). The second is turn-based battles from the first person. In this mode, the player can select targets, assign skills and types of attacks. Among the key features of the game, it is worth noting: non-linear progression, a huge arsenal of weapons and equipment, a large selection of companions, high replayability, as well as an open world that is interesting to explore.
Neverwinter nights 1 and 2
release date: 2002 – first 2006 – second
Genre: Third person RPG, fantasy
A group of adventurers receive their first task - to deal with attacks on a small human settlement. They learn that the village was attacked by creatures from other worlds who want to restore the ancient artifact Silver Sword. With the help of this weapon, the creatures want to destroy the King of Shadows - the ancient guardian who practically destroyed the Githyanki race. During the passage, the player will be able to choose his own path and complete the story with two different endings.
The player will be able to create his own character and edit his appearance. You can choose gender, race, specialization and basic skills. In addition to creating a hero, the player will be able to recruit companions in the form of other NPCs or summoned creatures. The battles are represented by a classic target system with the use of various spells and special skills. During battles, you can press the tactical pause to assess the enemy and build action tactics. The role-playing system is also represented by leveling up the hero and companions and choosing equipment.
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
release date: 2002
Genre: First-person RPG, third-person action, open world, fantasy, about magic
The player begins his journey as a prisoner who finds himself in the province of the dark elves - Morrowind. After being released, the player receives his first task, during which he learns about the arrival of Dagoth Ur, a dangerous and powerful Chimer who can provoke the end of the world. Depending on the choice, the player will be able to engage in battle with the ancient creature or take his side.
At the beginning of the game, the gamer will be able to create his own character, choose his race, basic skills, constellation and other characteristics. The project features a large-scale open world and complete freedom of action, so immediately after creating a hero, the player will be able to go anywhere on the map and do whatever he wants there. For example, you can explore dungeons, complete quests, or simply hunt and sell skins to traders. Among the key advantages of the game, it is worth noting the non-linear progression, interesting quests, a large number of weapons and magic, as well as a very detailed game world with a story told through books and dialogues.
Dungeon siege 1 and 2
release date: 2002 – first 2005 – second
Genre: Top-down RPG, slasher, fantasy
The events of the game tell about the eternal confrontation between good and evil. The player will be able to play the role of a mercenary who finds himself imprisoned and in order to gain his freedom, the hero must complete several dangerous tasks. In the process of carrying out orders, the mercenary realizes that a new danger is looming over the world in the form of its former leader. The hero begins to collect an ancient artifact - the Shield of Azunai - in order to stop the Dark Cult and protect the universe from the coming of Chaos.
The gameplay component of the game is classic hack’n’slash. The main focus of the game is on battles, dungeon exploration, leveling up the hero and collecting equipment. The project contains quests and side tasks, the completion of which is rewarded with experience and gold. During the passage, the player will gain levels that give access to new abilities, gifts and magic.
Gothic 2
release date: 2002
Genre
The game takes place in a medieval fantasy world. After destroying the magical barrier and killing the Sleeper, the hero finds himself with a necromancer, who tells him about the coming of the dark forces of Beliar under the command of ancient dragons. To prevent the destruction of the world, the hero must find the ancient artifact Eye of Innos and use it to stop the invasion of the forces of chaos.
The gameplay of the project is made in the form of a third-person action game, in which the player travels through the open world, explores new locations, completes story and secondary tasks, and also upgrades his hero, selecting the best weapons and equipment. The second part of the game received improved graphics, more diverse enemies, as well as an increased arsenal of melee and throwing weapons, as well as spells.
Warcraft III
release date: 2002
Genre: RTS, military strategy, RPG
The game takes place in the fictional world of Azeroth, which is divided into three continents. The fantasy universe is inhabited by people, orcs, night elves and rebel undead. Each faction fights for the right to own new lands and resources. The game's plot is divided into five chapters, each of which tells the story from the perspective of warring factions.
At its core, the game is a strategy game with RPG elements. The player must build buildings, send workers to extract resources, increase combat power and defense, as well as improve technology and attack enemies. The victory condition is the complete destruction of all enemy units. The role-playing element of the game appears when constructing a certain type of building that can create a hero. A hero is a character with levels, items, skills and other abilities. The hero's increased health, spells and physical damage can provide a significant advantage in battle. Due to the new features added to the gameplay, as well as the unusual game setting, the project began to enjoy massive popularity among fantasy fans and fans of strategy games.
Divine Divinity
release date: 2002
Genre: Top-down RPG, open world, fantasy, slasher
The plot of the game tells about Rivellon - a fictional world inhabited by people, five magical races. The player will be able to take the role of one of the heroes and fight with the leader of Chaos, who wants to plunge the whole world into eternal darkness.
The gameplay of the project is made in the form of a hack’n’slash game. The main emphasis is on constant battles, which occupy most of the gameplay. The player will be able to create a character, choose his class, or create his own unique warrior with a mixture of other classes. The main objective of the game is to destroy the main boss, having first collected the best equipment and leveled up to the maximum level. The game will appeal to all fans of classic role-playing action games, as well as fans of games like Diablo 2 and Titan Quest.
Enclave
release date: 2003
Genre: RPG, slasher, third-person action, fantasy, sword fighting
The game has two storylines. One for the light side, and the other for the dark. In the first, the player begins his journey from a prison and subsequently enters into battle with the Dregatar army. In the second, the player will be able to play the role of a mercenary who works for Zurana, a powerful magician who wants to master the power of the ancient creature Vatara.
The gameplay is classic for the hack'n'slash genre. The player completes tasks, improves levels, collects better equipment and explores new locations. The project has very hardcore gameplay, because only one save is available per level. In general, the game will delight you with an interesting new world, two storylines, as well as a huge number of weapons and equipment.
Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
release date: 2003
Genre: Third person RPG, open world, science fiction
The plot of the game will tell about the events that took place four thousand years before the creation of the Galactic Empire. At this time, the Jedi faction had a huge following, and they constantly fought against the Dark Sith. The player plays the role of a hero who is endowed with the Force. Depending on your choice and actions, you can take one side or the other in the conflict.
The game is made in the form of a third-person action game with a target system. The player must select targets, use skills and special skills, as well as grenades. A tactical pause is available, during which you can accurately select goals and the order of actions. In the process of passing, the player will collect a personal lightsaber, as well as gain access to new characters who can be taken with him as companions.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines
release date: 2004
Genre: RPG first person, stealth, horror, about vampires
The player will be able to play the role of a newly converted vampire who finds himself drawn into a large-scale war between vampire groups. The cause of the conflict was the appearance of the most important artifact of ancient times - the Ankara sarcophagus. During the passage, the player will be able to join either side of the conflict and unravel the secrets of the vampire community.
The role-playing system of the game involves leveling up the character, choosing skills, studying vampire abilities, as well as oratory. Much attention is paid to communication with other characters. A hero with high intimidation or charm scores will be able to receive unique lines. The project features a large arsenal of modern firearms; the player will be able to use shotguns, pistols and machine guns. For those who like a bloodless passage, stealth is available.
Fable 1 and 3
release date: 2004 – first 2010 – third
Genre: Third-person RPG, life simulator, fantasy, open world, about dictators
The player begins his journey in the role of a little boy whose family was killed by bandits. After this incident, the hero is taken to the Guild of Heroes, where he undergoes training. After leaving the guild, the player will be able to do any business at his discretion. Saving the world, fighting monsters, getting on the trail of bandits who killed a family, or just peacefully fishing and hunting all your life are just a few of the possibilities that are provided in the game.
The game is a third-person action game that is partly a life simulator. The hero the player controls will mature and change over time. For example, if a player chose the path of a warrior, his hero will become large and muscular, while at the same time, the path of an archer will make the hero lean and agile. The same applies to the choice of good and evil. Over time, a peaceful character will have a halo above his head, while an evil one will grow horns and a dark aura will appear.
Sacred
release date: 2004
Genre: Top-down RPG, open world, slasher, fantasy, co-op,
The game takes place in the fictional world of Ancaria, which is inhabited by humans and other magical races. The player plays the role of an adventurer who finds himself drawn into grandiose events that herald the arrival of the sorcerer Shaddar, a powerful magician who wants to take over the whole world.
The game is a hack'n'slash project, so its main emphasis is on battles with monsters and other opponents. First, the player creates a hero, selects his class, specialization and basic skills. Then, following a chain of quests, the player goes on dangerous missions, which often involve clearing dungeons, killing monsters, bandits, etc. During the game you can level up, buy new weapons, armor and other equipment.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
release date: 2006
Genre: First-person RPG, fantasy, open world, character editor
The player begins his journey in the role of a prisoner who accidentally finds himself drawn into a story related to the murder of the last emperor of Tamriel, Uriel Speptim. Dying, the ruler transfers the legendary artifact Amulet of Kings to the hero, who must find the emperor's heir and help him ascend to the throne. At this time, the army of Oblivion is preparing a full-fledged invasion and opening new gates through which demons, goblins and servants of chaos enter the world.
The game features a character editor. The player chooses a race (each race has its own set of characteristics, for example, wood elves are excellent thieves, and Argonians can breathe underwater), constellation and the main skills of their hero. The game has a very developed leveling system, in addition to magical talents, health and mana, the player will be able to level up running speed, jump height, charm, swimming, alchemy, etc. Every few levels of a pumped-up ability will bring an additional skill, for example, a high agility rating allows you to quickly run and jump on the surface of the water. The game has many quests and side tasks, and there is also a huge arsenal of weapons, bows, armor and magic spells. Game critics and the community highly appreciated the project's capabilities, so the game won the "Game of the Year 2006" nomination.
Titan Quest
release date: 2006
Genre: Top-down RPG, open world, about Ancient Greece, about Ancient Egypt
Three ancient Titans decided to destroy the entire world and seize power in it. Now the worlds of Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt and the East are divided, and the people in them are enslaved by dark forces. The player takes on the role of a nameless hero who must unite the worlds and stop the evil Titans.
The game begins with the creation and selection of a hero. There are several playable classes available with different skills and abilities. Depending on the choice, the player begins his journey in one of three worlds. The gameplay itself is classic for games in the hack'n'slash genre. The player must upgrade the hero, collect the best equipment, and also complete various quests. The main focus of the game is on battles, which take up most of the time.
BioShock 1
release date: 2007
Genre: RPG, first-person shooter, horror, steampunk
The player will be able to play the role of Jack, the only survivor of a plane crash in the Atlantic Ocean. The hero's only salvation is a lonely lighthouse, which is an elevator to the underwater city of Rapture. This is a dark place filled with drug addicts and genetically modified mutants who have gone mad due to constant exposure to plasmids.
The player finds himself in a gloomy, dilapidated underwater city that is hostile and reluctant to reveal its secrets. To fight enemies, the player will be able to use a large selection of firearms that can be modified. The player can also use plasmids - syringes with a special substance that allows them to use unique abilities, such as setting objects and people on fire with a snap of their fingers, shocking electricity directly from their hands, mind control, etc. Due to the innovative combat system, special atmosphere and excellent graphics performance. includes a list of the most beautiful games for PC.
The Witcher 1 and 2
release date: 2007 - first 2011 - second
Genre: Third person RPG, slasher, fantasy, open world
The player will be able to play the role of Geralt - a witcher, an experienced warrior and monster hunter. The last task completely erased the hero's memory and now he must restore his skills and re-learn his profession. In the process of completing the next task, the witcher finds himself involved in darker and larger-scale affairs, the outcome of which will depend only on the player’s decisions.
After a quick learning process, the player finds himself in a huge fantasy world, which is inhabited by various magical races, monsters and other creatures. By communicating with NPCs, the player can take tasks and complete them for a reward. As a rule, you can complete any quest in several ways. The plot and the characters' attitude towards the player depend on these choices. The game also has a unique combat system, which is based on combinations of strikes, dodges and defense. The player will be able to use magical talents, spells, two swords (one for the undead, the other for ordinary opponents) and other melee weapons.
Fallout 3 and New Vegas
release date: 2008 -third 2010 – New Vegas
Genre: RPG, first-person and third-person shooter, open world, post-apocalypse,
The war between China and the United States led to the total destruction of people and all living things. After the bombs fell, the world began to look like a nuclear wasteland, inhabited by maddened raiders, mutants and remnants of survivors who lead a miserable existence on the ruins of a former civilization. The player begins his journey as a refugee. The hero followed his father, who decided to make his grandiose project a reality.
Being more of a shooter, the project has not lost the main features of any RPG, namely an interesting plot, many quests, a character editor, leveling up the hero and dialogues with other NPCs. The game has a large selection of weapons and equipment. The player will be able to destroy mutants and raiders using laser, plasma, firearms and heavy weapons. The game also features a first-person view with the ability to change the camera to a third-person view. The key advantages of the game include: a huge open world with many locations, a gloomy post-apocalyptic atmosphere, freedom of action, as well as many additions and add-ons that make the game more diverse.
Dragon Age: Origins
release date: 2009
Genre: Third person RPG, open world, fantasy
The game takes place in the medieval fantasy universe. The player takes on the role of an adventurer who joins the Order of the Gray Wardens. The guild is engaged in the destruction of evil spirits and other dangers. While completing the next task, the hero learns about the imminent arrival of certain dark forces capable of completely destroying the world. To stop this, the player must gather a team of companions and fight the army of chaos.
The combat system is designed in the form of third-person battles with the possibility of a tactical pause. During the pause, the player will be able to give orders to his companions, select the desired weapon, assign spells and assess the situation. The project also contains many non-linear quests that can be completed in different ways. The choice will affect the character's karma, and the change in the game world and the ending of the plot depend on its indicator. The main advantages of the game include: many charismatic companions, a large selection of weapons and equipment, unpredictable choices, and the ability to create a unique class.
Risen
release date: 2009
Genre: Third person RPG, fantasy, open world, magic
The player plays the role of a hero who finds himself on an unknown island after a serious shipwreck. His companion, the gypsy Sarah, also survives with the hero. While exploring the island, the player learns that there are two militant factions on it - the Inquisition and bandits. The hero will be able to join any of them, and the entire further plot of the project will depend on this choice.
Being a third-person action game, the project has a deep role-playing system. Initially, the character does not have a large set of skills and talents. Powerful spells and combo techniques become available as you level up and improve your character. After joining the ranks of one of the factions, members of the opposite faction will automatically become hostile to the hero. In addition to people, the hero will fight with magical creatures and monsters that densely populate the island. The project has an interesting game world, a fascinating plot, as well as a wide variety of skills and professions.
Mount & Blade: Warband
release date: 2010
Genre: RPG about the Middle Ages, real-time strategy, open world, first-person action.
During the Middle Ages, all territorial and political issues were resolved with the help of force and the army. The player will be able to play the role of an ordinary warrior, who can later become a noble ruler or find any other more peaceful occupation, such as trade and caravan management. Everything is possible in this project.
In the game, the gamer will be able to level up his character in the chosen profession. For every active action, killing an enemy, completing a mission, or successfully besieging a siege, the hero will receive experience, which can be spent on skills, the ability to wield a specific weapon, and other passive abilities. The game also features a strategic component; the player will be able to give orders to entire squads, and then personally participate in the center of the battle. The game received mostly positive reviews from critics for its innovative gameplay and complete freedom of action.
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In our top of the best games, we tried to select projects based on how interesting they are to play today and how they correspond to the definition of “role-playing game.”
10. Dark Souls
Of course, we couldn’t ignore the super-successful Dark Souls series, which has already become a cult one, but we’ll focus on the very first part of the trilogy, released in 2011. The Japanese from From Software, with the sophistication inherent in Asians, decided to remind gamers what games were like before the casual era.
But the advantage of Dark Souls is not at all in the prohibitive complexity and hostile attitude towards the player, but in the fact that at its core it is a role-playing game, albeit with an eye to a slasher combat system. Dozens of character build options, the ability to join guilds that provide unique abilities and non-obvious quests, an open world where every NPC encountered, every item found reveals its own story for the player.
9. Kingdom Come Deliverance
Another game that was created as an outlet in the modern gaming industry, where developers seem to be competing on how to make the game simpler, clearer, in short - in the era of “Press X to win”. Unfortunately, the hardcore and medieval Tamagotchi scared away the lion's share of players from Kingdom Come Deliverance.
But if you let the game open up, you will see a canonical RPG that offers a lot of options for solving even the most basic quest. The variability of the passage makes you close your eyes to some of the project's problems. After all, as befits many Middle Eastern RPGs, its gameplay is crooked, annoying with constant bugs, but how interesting it is to explore this drawn world!
8. Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic
Any top best RPG without games from the Canadian studio Bioware is automatically worthless, and the authors of such collections should be sent to the Gulag. Canadian wizards led the role-playing game genre in the early 2000s and finally brought it into the mainstream. We love all of their games up to and including the Mass Effect trilogy, but KotOR will forever remain in our hearts.
The ability to freely move between planets, non-standard characters, omnipresent nonlinearity, and cinematic production - all this blew the mind and brought even the most skeptical role-players into ecstasy.
15 years have passed, and the game is still relevant and impressive even more than the Captain Shepard trilogy.
7. Gothic 2
German products are famous all over the world for their quality, in almost all areas: from technology to food. But with computer games, not everything is so rosy; the German game industry can boast of only one game - Gothic 2, but the main thing is not quantity, but quality.
Like any cult game, Gothic 2 had its own special charm, which made it stand out among the numerous Elder Scrolls clones. Firstly, the atmosphere of the harsh Middle Ages, where the charming music of Kai Rosenkratz was always playing in the background. Secondly, a living world, where each character lived according to a unique daily routine. And, of course, nonlinearity, where would cult RPGs be without it.
6. Divinity 2 Original Sin
This game is an excellent example of the fact that even such a conservative genre as isometric RPGs can be modernized, made interesting for young gamers and without breaking the usual canons of role-playing projects.
And as if this were not enough, the developers have given the opportunity to play Divinity 2 in co-op for four players at once. Of course, in this case, the feeling that you are a hero who was chosen by the universe to save the world once again will not be so obvious... But in all honesty, let’s say that living partners are always better than computer dummies on the team.
5. Vampire The Masquerade - Bloodlines
In the bearded year of 2004, even before the vampire setting was vulgarized by the godless Twilight, Vampire The Masquerade – Bloodlines was released. When talking about this game, almost every RPG fan will name a lot of facts why the game adaptation of the World of Darkness universe is a unique masterpiece of the role-playing genre.
We, in turn, will also name several main features of the latest good game about Vampires. A hybrid of action, shooter and classic role-playing game, there are many ways to complete any task. The quests themselves also move as far as possible from the usual “give-and-fetch”, but tell an unusual story with unique gameplay situations.
4. Fallout 2
A small disclaimer: starting with Fallout 2, any positions in the top of the best RPGs are equivalent, just in case, because putting the second “Follych” not in the first place will seem blasphemous, godless heresy to many old-fag RPG fans. After all, why exactly do we love role-playing games? Of course, for role-playing, for maximum non-linearity, a world in which you want to disappear and quests that surprise you with non-standard plot twists.
Fallout 2 has all the above advantages of RPGs. This year the game celebrates its 20th anniversary, but in terms of features and replayability it still remains one of the pinnacles of the genre. If a modern gamer can get used to archaic graphics and gameplay, then even forcibly dragging him away from the computer will be an impossible task.
3. The Witcher 3
Over the past few years, so many flattering words have been said about the masterpiece CD Project that I don’t even want to repeat it. We even put the game first. The Poles in The Witcher 3 have created just the perfect tool for telling stories, and you really want to believe in this drawn, mystical world filled with magical creatures.
Why not first place? No matter how much we love The Witcher 3, in terms of non-linearity and role-playing, it still loses to many classic role-playing games. We always play either the cruel or the benevolent Geralt, and the canonical neutrality in Sapkowski’s books is not a frequent guest here.
2. The Elder Scrolls III Morrowind
The eternal question: “Which is better - Morrowind or Skyrim” has already ruined more than a dozen lives. On any gaming forum you can see this brutal confrontation, in which the moderators do not have time to hit particularly eccentric users with a banhammer. The games differ in many details, but offer the most important thing - to live hundreds of exciting hours in a fantasy world.
We will still give the championship to Morrowind for its unique setting, the opportunity to join one of the Houses and build majestic country estates, for the enormous scope for customization and hundreds of amazing quests.
1.Planescape Torment
The now deceased studio Black Isle showed the world a real philosophical treatise in the form of Planescape Torment. The plot of the game closely intersects with Buddhist ideas, in which a person must experience an endless cycle of rebirth, in order to then open the circle of Samsara and achieve parinirvana - final death. The search for death is one of the main goals of the game.
Overall, if you like intellectual works that pose challenging questions for thought, then you will definitely like Planescape.
But the game is not only valuable for its plot; it is, first of all, an RPG, which is multiplied by a crazy world. Here you can sell your partners into slavery, dig through your own entrails for valuable loot. This is a unique game and not just the best RPG, but also one of the most important projects in the history of the gaming industry.
Our top list of the best RPGs has come to an end. We hope you found some interesting projects for yourself or simply experienced a feeling of nostalgia for your favorite childhood games. And for those who prefer new video games, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with.
Do you like development games? Then be sure to check out our TOP RPG games for PC. Games with the best system for character development and plot in general. The games presented in the list are the most advanced and classic examples of their kind.
TOP 10 Best RPG games on PC
10th place: KAROS
And our TOP of the best RPG games opens - a game from Russian developers. An amazing and beautiful world that is full of exciting quests, and the ability to level up your character in the most unique way gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in this RPG world! And what is also an important factor, the game is absolutely free and available for download now! And it doesn't weigh much at all.
9th place: Planescape: Torment
This game, despite its place, definitely deserves a special mention. This two-dimensional game turned out to be simply a miracle of its time! The game is implemented without excessive fantasy and tries to very clearly convey the atmosphere of this world. This game is much less about action and more about philosophy. Our hero will make history after losing his memory. The game definitely deserves a place in our TOP RPG games on PC.
8th place: Vampire: The Masquerade — Bloodlines
An amazing game that starts with you becoming a vampire. Now a world is revealed to us in which everything is depicted as very dark and depraved. In the traditions of the genre, we are faced with classic missions for vampires, but why will the plot begin to develop at breakneck speed? In the game, quests can be completed in several ways. which will lead to certain moments in the game. The game takes place in modern America, where the atmosphere is very unusual for RPG games, but the game turned out surprisingly great! These are the best RPGs on PC today.
7th place: Fallout New Vegas
The Fallout series of games does not need to be introduced; this is an elite series of RPG games for true fans of this genre. The world in this game tells about events in a post-apocalyptic world, after a nuclear war. Most of the people mutated, and the rest scattered to various corners of the wasteland. The game will definitely appeal to every fan of the best RPG games on PC.
6th place: Anachronox
Perhaps the least popular game in our top among all RPG games on PC. There is a surprisingly interesting combination of genres such as JPRG and black cinema. Our main character is an ordinary detective, on whose head the fate of the savior of the world fell. In the game we can observe very interesting moments, such as pointing the mouse. Overall, the game turned out to be surprisingly unusual and cool. Definitely deserves its place on our list of the best RPG games on PC.
TOP 5 Best RPG games on PC
5th place: Dragon Age: Inquisition
The game, as it should be, belongs to the category of fantasy RPG. By the way, it is worth noting that we have on our website where this series of games was included. However, the combat system in this game is not for everyone. However, in the new part of this amazing game we will find a lot of exciting quests and huge worlds that we have to explore. In the game we have to not only perform heroic deeds, but also lead people! The player will have to travel around the world and decide the fate of many people, as well as his own... The game definitely deserves to be included in the list of the best RPGs on PC.
4th place: Diablo III: Reaper of Souls
The game has gone through more than one change in its core game system, but in the end the game has only gotten better! The game has an excellent fantasy world and an excellent leveling system. The plot of this game deserves special attention. As a result, we have a truly high-quality RPG game for PC.
3rd place: Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II
Before us is a fascinating part of the Star Wars universe, in which we will be privy to the essence of what force is. I would like to note how the game has grown from its standard version. In the game you not only have to develop as a character, but also choose which side to join in the great war of the forces of light against the forces of darkness. This game is definitely one of the best rpg games for PC. Check it out in person!
2nd place: Black Desert
So, a worthy silver place is occupied by a game whose character editor no one has yet been able to recreate. The level of detail in the world, quests and most importantly the characters will make you enjoy every minute of the game. And most importantly, this game is absolutely free! I'll leave a link to it below. If you love RPG games as much as I do, then this game should be on your list of games right now! The game about the Witcher became better and better with each part, and finally the third part only confirmed this practice. The game came out simply gorgeous, you have to make difficult decisions and influence this fantasy world, in which everything is not as simple as it seems. A lot of magical techniques and a variety of quests of the highest level bring The Witcher 3 to the first place in our TOP, and make it the best RPG game on PC.
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The best RPGs for PC guarantee hundreds of hours of exciting adventures in one of the main genres of the platform.
Here are the best RPGs for PC. Role-playing games have always been considered the cornerstone of PC gaming. Long before the advent of shooters and real-time strategy games, early PC game developers meticulously brought tabletop RPGs into the virtual world, creating action-packed adventures featuring orcs, wizards, and dangerous caves.
These games gradually expanded upon the worlds of their tabletop prototypes, and the RPG genre itself eventually became so popular that games in other genres began to borrow various mechanics and elements from it.
Whenever we put together a list of the best games in a genre, the first thing we try to do is understand what defines a “best” game. In this case, the main criterion is the fascination of a particular RPG by modern standards. By the way, this applies to all games of any other genre.
Of course, we do not forget about the impact of the game - but innovation and relevance to the industry are not the main criteria for selection.
Finding pure RPGs is quite difficult, because, if you follow the literal definition, every game can be called a role-playing game.
That's why this list features games that fit the canonical definition of an RPG - they put story first, and they put you into the role of a character, developing them through skill points, making dialogue decisions, and building complex relationships with companions or non-playable characters. This framework allowed us to narrow down the list of games, although we made a few exceptions for the most prominent representatives of the genre.
Release year: 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Buy
Many RPGs feature lonely wanderers as protagonists, but rarely do you come across a game with a story told as skillfully as The Witcher 3. This is primarily due to the picturesque setting, where you can admire sunsets and incredibly beautiful forests for a long time - Even after months of playing, I prefer to navigate this world on foot, ignoring fast travel points.
But The Witcher 3's greatest strength lies in the fact that these lush landscapes are populated by NPCs who give out modest but memorable quests, making it one of the liveliest RPGs on the gaming market. In a godforsaken village, the witcher Geralt may stumble upon impoverished elves who have become victims of racism; in another location, he can help a stylish baron reunite with his daughter. Such quests carry an important moral, and it is presented quite unobtrusively.
As in The Witcher 2, Geralt has his own goals and aspirations that are understandable to any player. Therefore, even when killing dangerous monsters and powerful opponents, he does not seem like a superhero. Before us is an ordinary (well, almost) person in unusual circumstances, and it is this fact that makes us empathize with him.
Release year: 2017 | Developer: Larian Studios | Buy
Larian Studios, known primarily as a creator of board games, rarely delights its fans with RPGs with complete freedom of action. That is why this list could not do without Divinity: Original Sin 2, because in this game you can do whatever comes to your mind. For example, kidnap a merchant using a teleportation spell, and then set him on fire using his own blood.
Almost every skill has an alternative (and sometimes quite unexpected) use that can be revealed in the heat of battle.
You can enjoy the crazy experiments and tactical battles in the game with up to four people, and the best part is that you don't have to work in a team or be located in the same part of the world.
Moreover, there are many reasons to fight against each other. It all depends on the player himself, and when four people join the game at once, collisions are inevitable. Just remember: if you decide to freeze your friends and then poison them, be sure to apologize for this action.
Release year: 2015 | Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Buy
There isn't much innovation in Pillars of Eternity; in fact, the game owes its existence to the general nostalgia for Baldur's Gate II on the outdated Infinity Engine. But nevertheless, Pillars of Eternity, even without bright innovations, became a hit.
The graphics here are reminiscent of examples from the 90s, but the game script is simply masterful. Obsidian Entertainment managed to create a wonderful (if lacking in humor) story that gracefully touches on themes of religious conflict and social inequality. And almost every corner of the virtual world has its own backstory.
It is worth noting the excellent voice acting, which was replenished with new lines in the latest patch. The game is incredibly difficult in places, and even in the easiest modes you will have to time your attacks and parries to avoid dying in battles against multiple enemies. And there is nothing wrong with that - in an era of excessive lightness of games, Pillars of Eternity looks bright and original.
Release year: 2015 | Developer: Failbetter Games | Buy
There is no other place like the Undersea. The eerie underground ocean that serves as the setting for Sunless Sea is a vast abyss full of horrors and dangers that would drive even the most courageous sailors crazy. In your rickety little boat, you navigate murky waters, trading, fighting, and having extraordinary adventures on islands inhabited by giant mushrooms or rats waging a civil war.
Sunless Sea looks really impressive in places, but all its charm lies not in the visuals, but in the text. Like the browser game Fallen London from the same developer, Sunless Sea is filled with interestingly written quests, dialogues and descriptions. And he doesn't limit himself to the atmosphere of gothic horror. Your journey through the Undersea will both frighten and amuse you. But even in moments of fun, something sinister will be lurking nearby. Something that disturbs the usual peace.
Release year: 2014 | Developer: Obsidian | Buy
This game was not supposed to be successful. Most licensed projects are terrible, and an RPG based on an animated series with over-the-top animation and lots of swearing was doomed to fail. But Stick of Truth suddenly became a hit, and the reason for this was Obsidian's competent work on integrating the world of South Park into the RPG framework.
We assemble our squad using a Facebook-style interface, complete quests like “Deliver a package to Mr. Masochist,” experience nausea during battles, etc. This is not the deepest RPG in this collection, but it is one of the most fun. In addition, it is perfect for those who want to get acquainted with the genre.
Release year: 2001 | Developer: Ion Storm Dallas | Buy
Former id Software designer Tom Hall was at the helm of his first and only game, created under the wing of the studio Ion Storm. He wanted to release a turn-based RPG similar to Final Fantasy, but in a Western setting.
It was this style that made Anachronox so memorable: just look at the incredibly funny negotiations between Sly Boots and the sock-chewing mutant leader. In addition, this is perhaps the only game on the list in which you can add an entire planet to your squad.
Ion Storm built the game on a heavily modified version of the Quake 2 engine, and the project looked extremely unusual. But even today, the boxy models look convincing, and their facial animations make you believe what's happening.
For example, the resigned expression on Sly's face when he is thrown out of the window of his own office looks simply brilliant. Yes, the development of the project was far from smooth, and the final version of the game turned out to be frankly crude, but Anachronox is still interesting to play through. It's a shame that Hall's planned sequels never saw the light of day.
Release year: 2018 | Developer: Warhorse Studios | Buy
In this historical RPG set in 1403 Bohemia, we play as a peasant named Henry who finds himself caught up in a war for his homeland. This is a detailed RPG with a deeply developed sword fighting system, mechanics of thirst and hunger, excellent crafting and a dozen slots for the most authentic equipment for that time.
The player is given surprisingly great freedom here. If you just want to wander through the forests and pick mushrooms for sale, then no one is stopping you - the main thing is to beware of bandits who like to rob single people. The game is far from perfect - it has plenty of bugs and questionable moments - but it is an RPG in the spirit of the Elder Scrolls. For the sake of the overall atmosphere, the project can be forgiven for its shortcomings.
Release year: 2016 | Developer: Crate Entertainment | Buy
If you've already explored every corner of Diablo 2 and want something modern in the same spirit, then you won't find a better game than this. Grim Dawn is a dark and addictive action RPG with interesting classes and a beautiful world full of various monsters. In some ways, this is the ideological successor to Titan Quest, created by the same designers and using familiar mechanics.
We remember these mechanics in the 2006 ARPG dedicated to Greek mythology. In Grim Dawn you can also choose two classes and distribute skill points between them. This allows you to create quite interesting combinations, and the skills themselves are very pleasant to use in practice - and this is a big plus for a game where combat plays a paramount role.
And the plot itself is not bad, if you start from ARPG standards. Don't expect any sudden twists or decisions with far-reaching consequences (after all, this is a game about single-handedly clearing out a world infested with monsters), but there is a reputation system that affects the difficulty of enemies. In other words, the more enemies you kill, the stronger will be the new criminals, cult members and monsters you meet along the way.
Local demons and warlords terrorizing certain areas of the world are well depicted in dialog boxes and diaries scattered throughout the locations. The game itself is focused on killing and collecting items, and both of these components work as efficiently as possible in Grim Dawn.
Release date: 2018 | Developer: Square Enix | Buy
The smartest game in the Final Fantasy series in 2018 finally got a ported version for PC. Unfortunately, the local open world is much inferior in scale and vibrancy to more modern projects, but the graphics still look amazing, and the “Gambit” system remains one of the most fun squad leveling systems in RPG history.
With its help, you can write commands that will be automatically followed by members of your squad in battle. You can create any characters and upgrade them in any direction. Under your control, Vaan can become both a specialist in two-handed swords and a magician who commands the elements. The ported version also has an accelerated mode that allows you to save time on pumping.
Release year: 2014 | Developer: Almost Human Games | Buy
The original Legend of Grimrock was wonderful, first of all, with its system of creating squads, familiar from Dungeon Master (where the characteristics of the heroes played a big role) and step-by-step exploration of the world. The only drawback of the project was that all its action was limited to dungeons. The enemies may have changed, but we still wandered along the same corridors until the very end of the game.
The sequel invites us to walk not only through dark caves, but also through the open world, which in total gives an unforgettable experience. The enemies here have become more dangerous, and the puzzles have become more difficult. As with the original, the element of surprise plays a huge role. You can joyfully kill enemies in batches without feeling any resistance, until suddenly you are faced with an almost immortal demon. And in a second, your heels sparkling, you will understand that retreat is not as shameful as it seemed before.
Release year: 2015 | Developer: tobyfox | Buy
In the first 20 minutes of playthrough, Undertale seems like another nod to popular JRPGs - here you have jokes about Earthbound with Final Fantasy, and cute angular graphics, and a general cloying atmosphere. But if you decide to play the game to the end (and realize that it's not so sweet and sweet), you will see that this is an innovative and very touching project.
At times, the game cleverly pushes you out of your comfort zone, remembering little things and using our expectations of a typical RPG to surprise, delight, or terrify us. More than just a respectful nod to the RPG genre, it's a heartfelt message to all RPG fans and an exploration of our relationship with games.
Undertale clearly stands out among other indie RPGs, because even despite the atypical combat system and the virtual absence of a skill tree and hero levels, it has the most important thing: a great presentation of the story and respect for the player’s choices.
Release year: 2016 | Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Buy
Tyranny turned out to be not as outstanding as its similar spirit Pillars of Eternity, but the game's setting makes it stand out from other RPGs. Here we play as the true embodiment of evil, but instead of sadism and cruelty, Tyranny focuses on cold bureaucracy and questions of ideology. As the “Master of Fates” who serves Lord Kairos, you regularly need to make various decisions and negotiate with enemy armies that do not want to submit to the forces of evil.
Often you have to find a compromise between cruelty and complete inaction. The game has a complex reputation system, where, unlike other morality systems, fear and loyalty are important elements of interaction with factions and allies.
As with Pillars, Tyranny's pauseable combat and isometric fantasy world pay homage to classic RPGs in ways that aren't just nostalgic, but creative and timely reimaginings of the genre's once-essential attributes.
Release year: 2013 | Developer: Grinding Gear Games | Download
This beautiful free-to-play action RPG is a paradise for players who love to create fearsome murder weapons. While not the most glamorous ARPG, the game has an incredibly deep progression system and a thoughtful free-to-play model, where paid content is purely cosmetic and does not affect the game experience in any way. And although the game looks a little untidy, and the battles in it are noticeably inferior to the battles in Diablo 3, the pleasure of playing through this RPG is guaranteed.
The multi-level mechanics of Path of Exile reveal themselves already on the hero leveling screen, which can be seen in the screenshot at the link. By fighting your way through crowds of enemies and leveling up your character, you gradually fill this huge board, honing this or that skill. Gear customization is done with the same attention to detail. Path of Exile borrows the concept of interconnected slots from Final Fantasy VII.
Each type of weapon and armor has several slots for magic crystals. These crystals, if distributed in the correct order, have powerful synergy and in total provide significant bonuses to attack parameters (strength, speed, etc.). Ideally, you need to somehow combine these bonuses with your skills to achieve maximum effectiveness in battle. Of course, you will have to work hard for this, but believe me, it’s worth it.
Release year: 2016 | Developer: Red Hook Studios | Buy
The first minutes in Darkest Dungeon are in many ways reminiscent of a campaign in XCOM: we assemble a squad of fighters, come up with beautiful names for them, select powerful equipment and send them into battle. And then we understand the depth of our naivety. Within minutes, your favorite character suddenly contracts syphilis. And your healer exhibits masochistic tendencies and inflicts damage on himself every turn.
Your plague doctor discovers his greed and fills his pockets with gold from the common chest. And after a couple of hours, your team turns from flawless heroes into a bunch of outcasts - in this situation, you either look for an individual approach to everyone, or simply use them until they break and replace them with new ones. Like batteries.
In , heavily inspired by the works of Lovecraft, it is important to be able to make tough but effective decisions. Your heroes will die at the hands of underwater inhabitants, cultists, demons and monsters, but even more often they will return to base with a damaged mind and on the verge of madness. Will you spend gold to try to cure them, or will you prefer to use resources to achieve the end goal?
Darkest Dungeon is a brilliant combination of visual style, sound, story and design. They flash on the screen every now and then
hand-drawn monsters, and their appearance affects each of the heroes. It's a complex game, but once you realize that everyone here can be used up (even the kleptomaniac nun you've become deeply attached to), the cruelty becomes the basis for creating mini-stories within one larger plot. “Overconfidence is a slow, sneaky killer,” as the narrator reminds us.
Release year: 2009 | Developer: TaleWorlds | Buy
The number of games in which medieval battles are presented properly can be counted on one hand, and there are even fewer games where the ability to create armies is added to this. Training a crowd of farmers into warriors is great, but what we love about Mount & Blade is that it lets us play as a hero on the battlefield, where the outcome of the battle depends on our skills.
Add to this the ability to create alliances, marry, manage the economy, and you get Warband - a thoughtful game where the number of enemies and allies is determined by the player’s actions. And when you get tired of the single-player game, multiplayer and many mods for Mount & Blade await you - including those dedicated to a galaxy far, far away.
Release year: 2003 |Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Buy
We love BioWare's original 2002 Neverwinter Nights (and especially its expansions), but Neverwinter Nights 2's single-player campaign surpasses it by leaps and bounds. If the original had a rather weak story mode, created rather to demonstrate the potential of the Dungeons & Dragons universe, then in the sequel Obsidian Entertainment, no longer shy about anything, presented a large-scale story.
And this story is presented with proper humor, and allies like a colorful dwarf named Helgar Iron Fist continue to delight today. The quality of the project grew as new additions were released. For example, in the brilliant add-on Shadow of the Betrayer, where the spirit of the Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past can be traced, the plot tells the story of two halves of one world, and Obsidian elegantly speaks on the topics of religion and faith.
Release year: 2002 | Developer: Piranha Bytes | Buy
We remember Gothic 2 as an open world of incredible proportions and a harsh attitude towards the player. The first time I played through it, I left the city, turned off the main road and came across a crowd of high-level monsters that tore me to pieces in a couple of seconds. I learned from mistakes like these throughout the game.
The severity of Gothic 2 is one of the main advantages of the project. The enemies here don't adjust to your level like in the Elder Scrolls series, and you'll have to carefully read quest descriptions and dialogue with NPCs you meet along the way. As soon as you get used to it (and get used to the inconvenient controls), you will understand that in front of you is a huge (and, most importantly, living) RPG world, having studied all the secrets of which you will become invincible.
Release year: 2012 | Developer: Bethesda Softworks | Buy
Choose a direction and run. You will probably immediately find some adventure, some piece of the vast world that will captivate you. It is this richness of content that attracts Skyrim. A trip to the Mages Guild will end with an exciting quest for knowledge. A random conversation with a random NPC will lead you to a cave at the edge of the world, where a legendary relic is gathering dust.
You might just be picking berries under a mountain and run into a dragon. What could be better than a sudden battle with a dragon? And if you somehow find yourself exploring all of Bethesda's content, head over to the Steam Workshop for the latest mods - the Skyrim community has kept the game in the Steam Top 100 since its release and has given us the opportunity to experience new adventures in a familiar world.
Release date: 2018 | Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Buy
In the sequel to the wonderful Pillars of Eternity, we will travel to the Deadfire archipelago. You, together with a company of desperate adventurers, will have to track down the raging god, but before that you will have to master all the intricacies of navigation. While sailing the ocean on the ship “Daring”, you can rob oncoming ships and spend the funds received on upgrading your ship.
When entering the port, the game switches to a top-down mode (like in classic RPGs) so that you can enjoy the locations, detailed and rich in details.
Release year: 1992 | Developer: Blue Sky Productions (aka Looking Glass Studios) | Buy
Once upon a time, designer Paul Nurath came up with the concept of a dungeon simulator that was supposed to turn traditional ideas about role-playing games upside down, calling it Underworld. Together with their team, which would later become the foundation of Looking Glass Studios, they created a game with puzzles and NPC interactions atypical for the genre.
Meanwhile, Origin Systems, the studio behind Ultima, was so impressed by the 3D engine (you could look up and down!) and first-person combat that they bought the rights to the game. This is how The Stygian Abyss was born. Characters that would be enemies in any other game are our allies in Underworld, and that's honestly something to be excited about.
It is no longer necessary to attack goblins here - you can dive with them. And when we saw that you could have gatherings around the fire here, we simply fell in love with the game. Underworld was a technological marvel in 1992, and although the graphics look dated today, the incredible joy of exploring the world of Stygian Abyss has not gone away.
Release year: 2014 | Developer: Larian Studios | Buy
Divinity is not your typical Kickstarter success story. Unlike most RPGs, the project was developed directly for co-op - even in the single-player version, you controlled two protagonists at once, keeping in mind their motivations during dialogues. The Larian studio worked out the dialogues in such a way that one of the heroes always disagreed with the decision of the second and could even kill a plot-important NPC, and therefore the tasks in the quests had to be solved in extraordinary ways.
Divinity's script deserves special praise. Of course, there were sometimes typical missions to kill goblins controlling huge robots, or quests where you had to talk to some dog. But this dog could tell a touching story, because of which it was not a sin to shed a stingy tear. Larian created the world of Divinity with soul, and it shows in every detail. This is a loose, rich RPG we haven't seen since Ultima, and it has everything we love about the genre.
Release year: 2005 | Developer: Obsidian | Buy
While BioWare's first KOTOR stuck to the classic Star Wars style, KOTOR 2 takes the franchise in a bolder direction. Instead of focusing on the light and dark sides of the Force, Obsidian's sequel is about shades of gray. Here fragile alliances are created, which collapse before our eyes and are reunited in a few minutes.
Decisions that seemed optimal to you ultimately lead to betrayal. What we end up with is the most controversial take on the world of Star Wars yet, with a superbly written antagonist. Like many early Obsidian games, KOTOR 2's complex development process meant that a number of locations had to be cut.
However, there is a fan mod that restores this content, including the droid planet, and also fixes a number of bugs - all this shows that PC gamers are willing to move mountains to get the full version of their favorite game.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines
Release year: 2004 | Developer: Troika | Buy
It's all about the atmosphere - from the gothic clubs where we meet contacts, to the dark alleys where we hunt for fresh blood, and the cursed hotel (which is associated with one of the best quests in the game). Bloodlines' ambitious vampire universe stands apart from other sword-and-sorcery RPGs.
Unfortunately, the ambitions of the Troika studio exceeded its abilities - the game is full of bugs and not fully thought out mechanics. Therefore, the final product turned out to be a little crude, but this is perhaps the only game in which you can really feel like a vampire. And therefore, it is deservedly considered a cult classic RPG, and its fan base regularly releases various patches and additions that improve the project.
Release year: 2014 | Developer: Blizzard | Buy
Let's face it: a fan auction to raise money for Diablo 3 was a bad idea. But this is where the list of minuses of the game actually ends. Blizzard's fundraising continued right up until the release of Reaper of Souls, and if it weren't for Adventure Mode, there's a good chance the game would have been labeled a disappointing sequel.
The beauty of this mode lies in the randomly generated tasks and locations, so even after completing the main campaign you can lose yourself in the game for several hundred hours. And today it’s hard to imagine Diablo 3 without this mode.
But RoS had another feature we love in action RPGs: guild support. When you communicate with friends, making your way through gloomy dungeons, the oppressive feeling of loneliness disappears, and at such moments you begin to understand Blizzard's policy of releasing games that require a constant connection to the network. And don’t forget about the spectacular battles and the varied skills of the heroes. RoS is the kind of action RPG that we are ready to play for days on end.
Release year: 2001 |Developer: Troika Games | Buy
Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura was incredibly buggy at release, with most of the battles being as unbalanced as the game's title. Patches and mods corrected the situation, showing how interesting a mixture of fantasy and steampunk was hidden behind the game's numerous glitches.
As we wrote in our review back in 2001: “if you can’t find anything attractive in this game, just throw your PC in the trash.”
And we still adhere to this opinion. Arcanum was gritty and brutal before it was fashionable, and the character editor here allowed you to create anyone from dwarves with a gambling addiction to rogue orcs collecting deadly devices from junk.
Add here non-linear progression and many options for completing the same quest and you get a masterpiece that, even 17 years later, can take your breath away.
Release year: 2010 | Developer: Obsidian | Buy
Although Fallout 3 was a very successful game, it was very different from the classics released by Interplay. Obsidian's project brought the franchise to the West Coast and introduced elements such as reputation and faction combat. Obsidian has expanded every aspect of Bethesda's game, shifting the focus from moral choices to issues of trust. The game also has more humor in the spirit of the classic games - how can you not love a game that gives you a nuclear rocket launcher?
And in the Hardcore mode in New Vegas, survival in the wasteland became even more interesting, because here first aid kits and anti-radin were much weaker than in normal mode. And if you're looking for variety, you can download any of the many mods, one of which was developed by Josh Sawyer himself, the author of the game. What we love most about New Vegas is how effortlessly it manages to combine the atmosphere of the original Fallout with the first-person RPG framework that Bethesda has introduced.
Release year: 2016 | Developer: From Software | Buy
Name any dark RPG of the last five years, and it's likely to be inspired by Dark Souls. However, Dark Souls 3 proves that this style is best handled by the studio. Of course, the project does not shine with originality, as was the case with Dark Souls 1, but it has noticeably improved from a technical point of view.
Control in battles here is more intuitive, and therefore the player is required to have a lightning-fast reaction and a clear understanding of his actions. Mindlessly hitting the buttons will inevitably lead to death. At the same time, Dark Souls 3 is the most beginner-friendly part of the series.
Frequent save points, simplified online co-op, a beautiful (and grotesque) drawing style - all this allows you to join the process from the very first minutes. In addition, Dark Souls 3 strongly encourages the study of the backstory of the world and the search for various secrets, which deservedly makes it the best part in the series.
Release year: 2011 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Buy
The epic scope of The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is great on its own, but what's important is that our decisions have enormous implications. Moral ambiguity has never been presented so gracefully: your choices literally change the world of the game, and their consequences are often unpredictable and not always what you expect.
The most impressive thing about The Witcher 2 is the presence of two full-fledged storylines. At the beginning of the game, Geralt will have to make a choice, after which he will take one of two sides, and all further events can be observed from two points of view if you decide to go through the game again. And, believe me, the second playthrough will be as bright as the first.
You probably think that all your misadventures will ultimately lead you to a happy ending? This is wrong. Geralt is far from a hero, he is an ordinary person trying with all his might to protect himself from the chaos happening around him. His quest is dedicated to personal goals, and his companions are also living people with their own goals and aspirations. And it is precisely because of the characters worked out to the smallest detail that the plot looks extremely convincing.
It's a wonderful and well-told story, layered with solid gameplay mechanics - a flexible character development system, an excellent combat system and an abundance of secondary content. Gloomy, cruel, and sometimes depressing, but at the same time a brilliant game.
Release year: 2009 | Developer: BioWare | Buy
Trying to convey the atmosphere of Baldur's Gate was the main task of the authors of Dragon Age, and, admittedly, they almost succeeded. The game world is similar to the Forgotten Realms universe, but at the same time it does not look like a parody of it, and the interactions between the heroes sparkle with the magic of BioWare.
The local evil looks really menacing, even though most of the monsters can be destroyed in just a couple of hits. We love the way magic is presented in the world of Dragon Age, especially the quests in which you need to decide the fate of creepy creatures - magicians possessed by demons.
And the best part of the game is the combat system: there is the necessary tactical depth (right during the battle you can stop, give orders and continue the battle).
It's sad that BioWare didn't make more RPGs like this - Dragon Age 2 was too straightforward, and Inquisition had a big emphasis on an open world - so this project can in some ways be called the swan song of the old BioWare, symbolizing the end of an era of classic game design.
Release year: 1999 | Developer: Irrational Games | Buy
Loneliness. This is the main feeling you experience when playing the debut project from Irrational. As the game progresses, you'll often hear audio clips of colorful characters battling eerie creatures that call themselves "The Many." But you won't meet these heroes because they have already died.
And this loneliness in Shock 2 is only intensified by the fact that the game constantly leaves you without resources.
Ammo? You'll probably spend it on droids, although it would be worth saving them for later. First aid kits? There are so few of them here that it’s better not to even go into unchecked rooms. But the main thing that Irrational will take away from you somewhere in the middle of the playthrough is hope. The moment you realize what the AI called Shodan is is deservedly considered one of the best in the history of gaming.
In all projects from Irrational, the environment is one of the full-fledged heroes, and in this case we are talking about the Von Braun starship. It creaks and rattles as you sneak through its corridors. Each door opens with a characteristic hum. The defense systems perceive you as an enemy, as if they think you want to harm the ship.
It's hard to like a character like that, but Shock 2's leveling system, where experience points are awarded for exploring locations, allows you to balance risk and reward. You'll have to choose between psionic, hacking, and military skills to be most effective. For a game that at first glance appears to be a straightforward action RPG, Shock 2 turns out to be truly deep.
Release year: 1992 | Developer: Origin Systems | Buy
The Guardian is remembered by many gamers as one of the most terrifying characters in games. His huge stone face appearing on the screen, accompanied by real voice acting, both scared us and encouraged us to play further.
It was a real technical breakthrough at the time, but Ultima 7 has stood the test of time thanks to Britain's interactivity. Any object on the screen could be picked up, and any NPC could be interacted with, and therefore the passage could take several weeks.
The plot did not lag behind either: it all began with an investigation into a double murder, but very soon it turned into a religious war for the fate of the kingdom. The dialogue in Black Gate still looks decent today, and it also inspired the creators of Divinity: Original Sin - especially the lines related to religion. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best parts of the legendary RPG franchise.
Release year: 2000 | Developer: Ion Storm Austin | Buy
Do you want to shoot your enemies openly or perhaps sneak around in the shadows? Are you more used to playing as a sniper? Or a hacker who can control enemy droids? Or maybe you should talk to the NPC guard and hint to him that it’s time for his squad to go to lunch? The world in Deus Ex is so free that the number of choices makes your head spin.
And although the game looks like a shooter, the whole point of Deus Ex is the role-playing elements. For example, if you shoot from a weapon that you have never held in your hands before, even perfect aiming will not save you - you will miss. The leveling system encourages experimentation, and the most expensive upgrades will turn your character into a superhero. Even your weapon, if desired, can be upgraded to turn a standard pistol into a weapon of mass destruction. The attention to detail here is outstanding and none of the game's elements feel out of place.
The world of Deus Ex rewards the player for exploring dark alleys and ventilation systems, as clues can be found in the most unexpected places. And there are plenty of clues here - every note or sign in the game hints at a new conspiracy, which is why all alliances between the heroes are constantly under threat. And the NPCs themselves fit perfectly into this world full of secrets and conspiracies. Of course, Human Revolution boasts excellent graphics, but this game is many times smarter and offers more freedom of action.
Release year: 2002 | Developer: Bethesda Game Studios | Buy
The release of Fallout 4 showed that Bethesda's traditional open world model was beginning to show serious flaws, but in 2002, when Morrowind hit store shelves, that model was unshakable. There was something magical about the fact that we could run around the entire island of Vvardenfell, enter every building and never stumble upon a loading screen, as well as the fact that the NPC heroes seemed to have their own lives, not limited to communicating with main character.
Many games have managed to replicate this effect over the years, but Morrowind is still very much alive in our memories (we like it even more than its successor, Oblivion). All this thanks to the incredible surrealism of the world, in which racist elves relax inside mushrooms (like Smurfs in someone's acid dreams), and traditional castles coexist with Scandinavian villages.
The AI seems a little primitive by modern standards, but the stories told in the game are superior to most current RPGs.
The game is still thriving today, with the modding community regularly releasing new adventures and patches to improve the graphics (some of them even porting Morrowind to entirely new game engines).
Release year: 2010 | Developer: BioWare | Buy
BioWare's first Mass Effect felt like a KOTOR clone, and not in a good way. The universe was very convincing, but the game was overloaded with various menus and systems that made life difficult for the average gamer. However, when BioWare announced that it would focus on gunplay in the second game, we were pretty scared. As it turned out, it was in vain: in Mass Effect 2 there was room for interesting innovations, including the level of trust of squad members, which could be increased by completing special missions.
Instead of exploring the galaxy in Mass Effect 2, we played out a sci-fi version of Ocean's 11 or The Dirty Dozen. Assembling the squad for the final mission allowed the writers to focus on short but interesting stories. Each special mission allowed us to get to know another ally better and gain insight into his motivation.
That’s why the final suicide run hit the heart – we worried about each of the characters on the screen. It's very rare for a game to focus on the characters rather than the overall story, but Mass Effect 2 pulled off this trick. Definitely one of the best scripts in BioWare history.
Release year: 2011 | Developer: From Software | Buy
Yes, Dark Souls breaks the cardinal rule of RPGs: the game can be completed without leveling up. But only on the condition that you know all its secrets and understand its systems - in particular the crafting system. In a genre where the interaction of systems rules the roost, Dark Souls can be called the king, since the interaction of these systems in the game is implemented flawlessly.
Each stat has a significant impact on the character's leveling, and this alone sets the game apart from most D&D-inspired RPGs. Exploring the rich world of Lordran, where the backstory is presented through cryptic dialogue and clues in the environment that are not obvious at first glance, we piece together quite an impressive story.
Everything here is interconnected, and various secrets and secret passages (hiding huge locations) await brave adventurers. It’s also worth noting the summoning system in Dark Souls, unique to the genre, which you can either turn off or get used to the fact that other players will regularly attack you. And don't be afraid of difficulty, otherwise you'll be robbing yourself of the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the best RPGs in history.
Release year: 1998 | Developer: Black Isle Studios | Buy
The original Fallout was Interplay's first success, but the game was not as popular as one might think. The sequel significantly expanded the boundaries of the world and added ambiguity to all the characters - it became even more difficult to distinguish between good and evil.
Playing as a villager instead of a bunker dweller, we looked at the world with different eyes - the hero was not so naive and was well aware of all the dangers of the world, and therefore could play on the feelings and expectations of other characters.
The search for the GEKK (Generator of Edenic Tabernacles Compact) fit well into the style of the 50s and looked even more interesting than the search for the water chip from the first part. I was also pleased by the absence of a strict time frame: I could leisurely study the population of the wasteland, and not rush as fast as I could to an abandoned bunker. If you haven't played the classic games, we recommend starting with this one, and only then moving on to the original.
Release year: 2000 | Developer: BioWare | Buy
The main problem with D&D games is that low-level characters tend to be pretty boring. Baldur's Gate 2 solves this problem by offering you to transfer your squad from the first game or create a new group with seventh level characters. And this radically changes the perception of the game: instead of frail fighters and useless magicians, we get powerful spells and tough warriors who can withstand any battle.
The amazing scale of the world of Amn is also pleasing, which was full of quests and quite interesting content. BioWare's Infinity Engine did an excellent job both with these quests and with depicting battles where it was necessary to actively use tactics with strategy. It's hard to imagine managing a squad of six people without the ability to pause the game and give orders.
Every modern game without this feature makes us longingly remember the days of the Infinity Engine. Yes, this is where the tradition of RPG romances began, but there's nothing wrong with that - after all, BG2 features some pretty colorful characters.
If for some reason you have never played tabletop RPGs, then just install Baldur’s Gate 2 - the atmosphere of sword and sorcery is perfectly captured here. If you have the original version, you can download mods to run it on modern monitors, or, alternatively, try the Extended Edition, which includes a ton of new content.
Release year: 1999 | Developer: Black Isle Studios | Buy
The story of the Nameless One occupies a separate place in the world of gaming. This is a story of redemption in the face of countless sins, a story of trying to become oneself. The tattoos that Nameless One wears are reminders of who he was, who he is, and who he wants to become.
The free interpretation of events in Planescape: Torment is the first thing that attracts you in the game. We literally spend the entire game trying to find out who the Nameless One is, but at the same time, we define his character through our actions. This is just one of many RPG stereotypes that Black Isle is turning on its head.
Rats here turn out to be worthy opponents, people, as it turns out, can be worse than the undead, and you don’t have to fight at all to win many battles. And, more importantly, we don't have to save the world like in thousands of other RPGs. We just need to figure out who we are.
The Nameless One's companions are perhaps the most interesting NPCs in the history of the genre. Most of them have already encountered us in our past incarnations: the pyromaniac magician Ignus was once our student, but what is much more interesting is the fact that he is constantly on fire. Or Dak'kon, who swore an oath of allegiance to us, but cannot remember why he did it.
The rest of the characters are even more unusual. There is Fallen Grace here - a succubus cleric who does not recognize the gods. Being the product of evil, she, oddly enough, does not want to harm anyone. But the best of the companions is Mort - a floating skull, whose sarcasm is as sharp as his teeth (with which he attacks - he can’t swing a sword).
In any other fantasy world, these characters would look at least strange, but Torment uses a D&D setting called Planescape - the most bizarre world in the entire multiverse. Therefore, it is no wonder that the main emphasis in Torment is on the presentation of the story.
Although, when it comes to combat, BioWare's Infinity Engine handles them just as well as in the Baldur's Gate series. This is the RPG we recommend to anyone interested in the genre, a game that embodies everything we love about RPGs.
Release year: 2002 | Developer: Arkane Studios | Buy
When creating their first dungeon simulator, Arkane wanted to create something as rich as Ultima Underworld with its magic system, where the player had to memorize runes and draw them with the mouse at the right time. In this game, stealth is critical, as is the crafting system, made in the spirit of the same Underworld. Arx is a complex and leisurely adventure in which you have to think about every action you take. Break through the gorgons using force, or slip through unnoticed and avoid conflict?
Many design decisions will later find their place in another Arkane project - Dishonored, but we cannot fail to mention the classic mechanics that are almost never used today. For example, the need to draw runes on the screen with the mouse - yes, this is not entirely convenient, but it looks spectacular. We hope that Arkane will finally decide to make a sequel to Arx Fatalis and bring mechanics from Dishonored (as well as the excellent combat system from Dark Messiah of Might & Magic) into it.
At the request of our readers, we have compiled the TOP 20 of the best RPG games of all time, in our opinion. Absolutely all the games on this list were released on PC, which makes them accessible and especially popular. The TOP includes both generally accepted masterpieces of the past and the latest blockbusters from the gaming industry. Go!
21. Arcanum: Of Steamworks & Magick Obscura
The game from developer Troika game may seem a little more than just Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines with its fantasy races and magical spells, and by introducing a significant amount of steampunk technology into it, you are on the way to something special.
Arcanum is a tricky beast, with plenty of unbalanced turn-based combat. It's also packed with a compelling story set in a world where magic and technology collide in a non-linear do-what-you-want fashion.
When I first entered the world of Arcanum, almost everyone hated me. I had the intelligence of a baby and could barely hold a conversation, I was an orc and was constantly the victim of fanaticism, I could make a deal with a demon, so everyone thought I was evil. My mechanic Goblin, with his arachnid structures, weapons and sharp tongue, had a much more successful experience. The choices made during character creation have a significant impact on the entire game, with the character's race and background having a tangible impact on their relationships with non-player characters.
More than any other game on this list, Arcanum makes you feel like you're playing a tabletop RPG. Dungeon Masters isn't always fair, and you may be disempowered, but it's still worth it to enjoy the game through character development and how the world reacts to your half-elf demon circus.
20. Shadowrun Returns/Dragonfall
Shadowrun Returns is a welcome relic of the '90s. Based on the classic tabletop role-playing game, it's a neo-noir cyberpunk detective story with lots of magic, fantasy elements and combat that's reminiscent of XCOM. She creates a lot of things and they are all just wonderful. Set in a future land where science and the realm of mysterious struggle coexist and creatures such as elves and trolls walk the streets alongside humans, players find themselves in the guise of a shadow courier, a dark mercenary skilled in espionage.
A Career in Shadowrun Returns is a realistic detective story that begins with an investigation into the death of a friend, with the promise of payback, and evolves into a tale of conspiracy, corrupt police, serial killers and a crazed cult. Without voiceover, the recording carries a story with a twisted sense of humor.
Free-form character building will allow players to create all sorts of unusual species, from spirit casters who can also enter the digital kingdom and fight computer programs to samurai who run around with a bunch of controlled robots. Investing points in charisma also unlocks affinities with different types of people, corporate security, other shadow couriers or street gangs, new streets in your investigation and dialogue options.
While the career path is short and mostly linear, Dragonfall nips this issue in the bud. This is a substantial expansion with a hub, containing many additional missions and a group of suitable characters with their own motivations and stories. The game comes with a comprehensive editor that contains the prospect of the user creating countless campaigns. Someone has already recreated the old game Shadowrun on SNES, which is also worthy of your attention.
19. Mount & Blade: Warband
The top of the line, Mount & Blade: Warband is an open world fantasy RPG meets medieval simulator that basically means you never have to look at the real world again. Warband immerses players in a giant sandbox where six factions fight each other for supremacy, there is no story, and it leaves it up to the player to decide what they want to do.
Perhaps the showman in you will inspire you to become a master of the spear and a champion of many tournaments, or perhaps your eye for making deals will lead you to the path of a wealthy merchant, and you will use your mountains of gold to finance an army of mercenaries who will protect They will bring you fame or maybe you are just a good-for-nothing scammer, and if so, then the gangster life is for you.
As you travel around the map, you will no doubt find yourself ambushed by enemies, or maybe you will become the one who arranges them, but either way, you will undoubtedly find yourself in a brawl. Skill-based combat that requires fancy footwork, excellent timing and the right weapons to attack with precision in different situations. It's hard to figure out what's going on there, but in the long run it's very useful. You will likely have an army on your side, leading to some particularly large conflicts. She can undergo training, gain experience and be equipped with new equipment, although you will have to pay her a salary.
Warband adds multiplayer and a variety of mods, including some impressive overhauls. This game will easily consume your life if you let it.
18. South Park: The Stick of Truth
Surprisingly, South Park manages to be not just great, but one of the best RPGs we've ever had the pleasure of playing.
This is South Park at its best. Oto perfectly recreates the city with a piercing, insightful, and often grotesque satire of gaming and pop culture. Fantasy tropes, the Kardashians, Nazi zombies, Morgan Freeman's mystical powers - they're all there.
And it's all wrapped up in an RPG that draws on many sources, from JRPG-style combat to Western open-world deals. There's even a sizable dose of metroidvania exploration. Progress never stops - there's always something new around the corner, be it new combat mechanics or a giant dildo.
South Park is a game where you can dress up your child as a punishing Valkyrie and fight Jack Daniels-slurping hobos or anus-possessed aliens - it's incredible.
17. Deus Ex
More than an FPS/RPG hybrid, Deus Ex more than deserves a place on this list, as even after 13 years it remains a joy to play. It is one of the best games ever released. It's probably a little old-fashioned to sing its praises, since it's been a consistent feature of almost every best PC games list since its release in 2001.
I could spend a lot of energy recalling a dramatic story that interweaves themes of conspiracy, terrorism and transhumanism, with intriguing characters and a believable dystopian future. I could go on and on about the extent of character customization, allowing players to mourn JC Denton's shadow and long cape as a cybernetically enhanced soldier, a professional hacker, or a ghost lurking in the shadows. But what I really want to discuss is the incredible level design.
Each map is a comprehensive sandbox for experimentation. Each combat encounter has the potential to be played in strikingly different ways. Should you actually engage in said fights instead of walking past them? Secret paths, hidden caches, informants waiting to be bribed and confidential information revealing new routes and features that spread out the levels, ensuring that when players discuss their experiences, they seem to be talking about different games.
And it's all so organic. There's usually a strong temptation for developers to clearly highlight the choices that can be made, essentially explaining the mission objectives - where you can go and what you should do, but in Deus Ex this is a surprise to everyone. You don’t know that hacking a computer and reading personal letters will give you a code that allows you to defeat a tough enemy without a fight, and you don’t know that a product hidden within the level will open up a previously invisible, unimaginable route to the mission goal - you you should just go and explore.
Thanks to my bad memory, and all the places I'd never gone, the fights I'd missed, and the people I'd never met before, going back to it a couple of years ago and playing it again felt like it was the first time. I can't wait to play Deus Ex again in a couple of years. But you must do it now.
16. Dark Souls
Dark Souls is a masochistic RPG game. Brutal, merciless combat in a dark, dead land where the words “You're dead” begin to become an old friend, albeit a mocking one, is grueling gaming scum, but endlessly rewarding. Each battle is a puzzle that requires skill, good timing and observation of the enemy's stories. It is exhausting because death is always a missed attack or a misunderstanding of the opponent. But this is what makes every victory a worthy prize, creates the potential for increasing power, and moving on to a new, even more difficult area.
The free-form character development and enemy design are top notch, both in terms of their grotesque appearance and tricky mechanics that are highly commendable, and in the sense of completion that comes from surviving despite the oddities, which makes Dark Souls worth continuing to play. despite constant failures.
A gratuitously old-fashioned game design philosophy permeates throughout the tense adventure, but it's also equipped with modern complexity and scale. Different weapons and armor completely change the flow of battle and the feel of the character, with a hefty sword and heavy armor covered in armor having a huge, tangible impact on strikes and movement. Hidden throughout the vast, semi-open world are cornucopia trinkets and magical items, rewarding inquisitive players for their adventurous explorations of long-forgotten tombs and underground cities.
15. Divinity: Original Sin
The latest version of the Divinity series from developer Larian is not just a return to classic RPGs, but a continuation of them. It's a modern game, but builds on the classic design philosophy of games like Ultima and Baldur's Gate.
From our review of Divinity: Original Sin: “When I play Divinity, I'm back in my parents' office, happily avoiding homework as I explore the vast city of Atkatla. I'm overstaying my welcome at my friend's house and chatting with Lord British. And it's not because the game captivates me with nostalgia, but because it can evoke the same feelings: that excitement of doing something crazy and watching it work, the surprise when an inanimate object starts talking to me and sends me into a portal jumping around the world. There is fantasy and excitement there, and these things have become rare values. But Divinity: Original Sin is full of them.”
This is an RPG game that focuses on what the genre could be, rather than what it has become. Where conflict isn't just about fighting, where magic can be used to solve puzzles and manipulate the environment rather than just kill enemies, and where simple, non-main quests can be turned into rewarding, huge undertakings.
And it comes with a robust editor so you can create your own adventure, and expand the game's co-op mode so you don't have to wander the world alone. Stopping the evil in him is, after all, a job for friends.
A sequel called Divinity: Original Sin II was launched on Kickstarter.
14. Legend of Grimrock 2
Legend of Grimrock 2 was released relatively recently, but it actually comes from a time when playing an RPG meant you needed a constant stream of graph paper and the patience to draw lots of maps.
It builds on the excellent foundation laid by its impressive predecessor, taking four adventurers within one, large dungeon and giving them an entire incredibly diverse island to explore. There are towers, crypts, dungeons, forests, swamps, beaches and all sorts of fantastic locations that are waiting to be explored. She's huge. So big that I admit I needed the automap a lot more than I did in the previous game. I have so much graph paper.
Hero parties take up one tile, and are essentially just their strength and combat abilities, but that's not what they're about. Journey through dark and dank dungeons, intense real-time combat with disgusting, often hulking monsters, the terrible fear you experience when lost in a maze, riddles that sometimes require factual notes - that's what it's about.
Class and race selection has been greatly improved, allowing parties to hold off gun-carrying informers, or farmers who gain experience by eating a variety of foods. Complete nonsense.
13. Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn
While my love for RPGs stems from Ultima, which is missing from this list due to being outdated, I also love Baldur's Gate from developers Black Isle and BioWare. From the first issues of 1998's Baldur's Gate to 2001's expansion Baldur's Gate II: Throne of Bhaal, the successive plans, trials and tribulations of adventurers from the rugged Sword Coast to the wealthy city of Atkatla, where magic is at mostly illegal, and beyond to the turbulent kingdom of Tetur.
However, in Baldur's Gate II there are a lot of inaccuracies in the action sequences.
Dungeons and Dragons of the Land of Forgotten Realms is meticulously recreated and filled to the brim with a luxurious setting just waiting to be explored. And what kind of quests are there! Hundreds of hours of saving villages, diving into mines, fighting mad wizards, killing gnolls, and even a trip to the Plains, explored in more detail in Planscape: The Trial, and a deadly adventure into the Underdark.
Baldur's Gate juggles wit and satire with solemnity and significance, drawing players into seemingly simple quests. It's a party of adventurers joining the hero, who of course gets none other than the notorious Ranger Minsk talking to his space hamster Boo. Baldur's Gate II also has the distinction of having one of the best adversaries of any game in John Irenicus, masterfully voiced by top-notch villain stunt double David Warner. Arrogant, powerful and disfigured with a hint of tragedy around him, Irenicus has all the hallmarks of a classic villain, and even though he is not present for most of the game, his influence permeates everything around him.
12. Torchlight II
If you are looking for an action RPG game, then Torchlight II is definitely for you. There's no time for an intriguing plot or interesting characters, they'll only get in the way of the many - and I do mean tons - of loot and the ruthless horde of monsters.
Torchlight II has a frantic pace, seeing its players running across a huge map, killing oceans of enemies, and never stopping to catch their breath (unless you're on a fishing trip). Gold and items explode from fallen enemies in absurd quantities, covering the land in treasures and trinkets. There's always some new trinket to play, some new, colorful armor to show off, or powerful items to purchase, giving the game a constant sense of progression and trapping that will draw you into its world for many hours.
Even though there are only four classes in the game, each of them has three separate skills associated with different fighting styles that completely change the class. One Engineer might be a heavily armored tank charging into battle with a comically large hammer, while another might stalk enemies from afar with equally comically large guns. Within each class there are tons of completely different skills, inspiring experiments and multiple playthroughs.
And, of course, everything looks bloody beautiful. It may be a game of robbery and murder, but there's no rule that says the setting can't be bright and colorful. The monster designs are worth emulating, featuring a range of bizarre abominations to kill, and colossal bosses that are both mechanically and visually impressive.
Torchlight II also allows you to travel with your pet. Having good taste, I am never without my faithful bulldog, unless I send him to the stores to sell the loot. Yes, these animals are mercantile specialists. If all of this isn't worth the price of admission, then I don't know what is.
11. Mass Effect 2
Wedded to the subgenres of speculative fiction and soap opera, Mass Effect 2 is BioWare's greatest achievement in terms of peace, or rather, the rise of the galaxy. The exploration and pseudoscience of Star Trek, the cinematic action of Battlestar Galactica, and the fantasy elements of Star Wars or the wimpy science fiction of the early 20th century are all here and combined expertly.
Humans are newcomers to the galactic community, and they must stir things up to get the elder races to acknowledge the growing threat to their existence. How do they do this? With the help of a temperamental soldier, of course. Commander Shepard is a great character because he's my character. It's impossible to characterize him because for many he is really a she, and instead of being a grizzled, oppressed, glory-hunting hero like he or she was in my game, he or she may be cruel, a racist bastard, or a paragon of virtue , which does not allow anyone to die.
There is an entire galaxy to explore, with realistic alien races steeped in knowledge, settlements to escape, smugglers to kill, or desperate cases to complete. But Mass Effect 2 is really focused on preparing for a suicide mission despite the possible benefits. All good company of aliens must be recruited and their loyalty must be won if there is any hope of destroying a threat that most of the galaxy seems to ignore.
Dramatic and artful set-pieces, if not particularly interesting, are the team combat highlighted by BioWare's trademark, excellent dialogue and just wandering around alien locations that are seriously captivating. Suspend your disbelief for ten minutes and you'll find yourself on a sci-fi ride from hell.
