2023 best RPG games on Android and PC

Welcome, RPG game lovers! If you’re anything like us, then you know the thrill of immersing yourself in a fantastical world full of adventure and intrigue. RPG games have been around for decades and continue to captivate players of all ages. In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the best RPG games of all time. Whether you’re a fan of classic or modern RPGs or action-packed or story-driven games, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explore the history and evolution of RPGs, discuss what makes a great RPG game, and give you our top picks in each category. So, get ready to embark on a journey through some of the most beloved RPG games ever made.

The History and Evolution of RPG Games

Role-playing games, or RPGs, have been around for over 40 years. The first RPG game, Dungeons, and Dragons was created in 1974 by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. It was a tabletop game that involved players creating characters, going on adventures, and engaging in combat using dice and rule books.

In the 1980s and 1990s, RPG games started to become popular in the video game industry. Games like Ultima, Wizardry, and Final Fantasy became huge hits and set the foundation for what we know as RPG games today.

As technology improved, RPG games became more sophisticated and complex. Graphics improved, and games became more immersive. The 2000s saw the rise of massively multiplayer online RPGs (MMORPGs) like World of Warcraft, which allowed players to interact with each other in a virtual world.

Today, RPG games come in all shapes and sizes, from classic turn-based games to action-packed open-world games. They continue to be popular among gamers of all ages and have even crossed over into mainstream pop culture with movies and TV shows like The Witcher and Game of Thrones.

As RPG games have evolved, so have the elements that make up a great RPG game. Character customization, immersive storylines, and open-world environments are just a few of the factors that gamers look for in an RPG game. With so many great RPG games out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best RPG games of all time, so you can confidently dive into the world of RPGs.

PART 1: Classic RPG Games

Classic RPG games are the foundation of the genre and have laid the groundwork for many of the games that followed. These games typically featured turn-based combat, top-down or isometric views, and immersive storylines.

One of the most famous classic RPG games is the Final Fantasy series. The first game was released in 1987, and since then, the series has spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs. Final Fantasy VII, released in 1997, is often cited as one of the best RPG games of all time and helped popularize the genre in the West.

Another classic RPG game is Chrono Trigger, developed by Square Enix and released in 1995. It was praised for its innovative time travel mechanics, memorable characters, and multiple endings. It has since become a cult classic and is widely considered one of the best RPG games ever made.

Baldur’s Gate, released in 1998, was a classic RPG game that introduced players to the Forgotten Realms universe. It was praised for its engaging story, memorable characters, and open-world exploration. It has since become a fan favorite and has been remastered for modern systems.

Classic RPG games also included the Ultima series, which spanned nine main games and multiple spin-offs. Ultima IV: Quest of the Avatar, released in 1985, is often cited as one of the most innovative RPG games of all time, with its focus on moral choices and player character development.

If you want to experience classic RPG games, many are available on modern systems through digital marketplaces like Steam or GOG. They offer a unique experience that helped shape the genre and are a must-play for any RPG game enthusiast.

PART 2: Modern RPG Games

Modern RPG games have come a long way since the classic RPGs of the past. They have evolved to offer more immersive gameplay, stunning graphics, and complex storylines that capture the player’s attention for hours on end. Whether you prefer open-world exploration or tactical combat, there’s a modern RPG game out there for you. This section will explore some of the best modern RPG games that have taken the genre to the next level.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a masterpiece that sets a new standard for modern RPG games. This game features a massive open-world environment, breathtaking graphics, and a deep storyline that immerses the player in the world of Geralt of Rivia. The game has won numerous awards for its gameplay, narrative, and overall design, making it one of the most critically acclaimed RPG games of all time.

Skyrim

Skyrim is another modern RPG game that has left a lasting impression on players worldwide. The game is set in a vast open world filled with dragons, dungeons, and countless quests to embark on. Players can customize their characters to suit their playstyle and explore the world at their own pace. Skyrim also features an extensive modding community that allows players to create and share their content, making the game’s replay value endless.

Fallout 4

Fallout 4 is a post-apocalyptic RPG game that takes place in a world destroyed by nuclear war. The game features a vast open world filled with dangerous creatures, factions, and a deep crafting system that allows players to customize their weapons and armor. The game also features an engaging storyline with multiple endings, making each playthrough a unique experience.

Persona 5

Persona 5 is a Japanese RPG game that blends traditional turn-based combat with social simulation elements. The game follows a group of high school students as they balance their daily lives with their adventures in a parallel world. The game’s stylish graphics, memorable characters, and catchy soundtrack make it one of the most unique RPG games in recent years.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a tactical RPG game that offers an immersive single-player campaign and a cooperative multiplayer mode. The game features a complex combat system that rewards players for strategic thinking and teamwork. The game also offers unprecedented player freedom, allowing players to make choices that affect the game’s storyline and ending.

Final Fantasy XV

Final Fantasy XV is the latest entry in the legendary Final Fantasy franchise. The game features a massive open world, real-time combat, and a gripping storyline that follows a group of friends on their journey to save their kingdom from an evil empire. The game’s stunning graphics, emotional story, and lovable characters make it a must-play for any RPG fan.

PART 3: Action RPG Games

Action RPG games are an exciting genre that blends elements of role-playing games and action games. They offer players a fast-paced, real-time combat system that rewards quick reflexes and strategic thinking. Here are some of the best action RPG games of all time:

Diablo II

Diablo II is widely regarded as one of the greatest action RPG games ever made. It features a dark, gothic setting and a deep, complex loot system that keeps players coming back for more. With its fast-paced combat and addictive gameplay, Diablo II has remained a fan favorite for over two decades.

Dark Souls

Dark Souls is notorious for its brutal difficulty but boasts a rich, detailed world that rewards exploration and careful observation. Its real-time combat system requires skill and patience, and its deep lore and intricate storytelling keep players engaged from start to finish.

Bloodborne

Bloodborne is another challenging game from the makers of Dark Souls, but with a twist – it’s set in a Lovecraftian world of horror and madness. Its fast, aggressive combat system requires precision and skill, and its intricate story and haunting atmosphere make it a must-play for any fan of action RPGs.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an epic action RPG that offers players a massive open world to explore and a deep, branching storyline that offers countless hours of gameplay. With its intense, visceral combat system and well-developed characters and setting, The Witcher 3 is considered one of the best RPG games ever.

Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata is a unique action RPG that combines fast, fluid combat with a deep, philosophical storyline. Set in a dystopian future where an invading force of machines threatens humanity, Nier: Automata offers players a thrilling, emotionally charged experience that will keep them engaged from start to finish.

Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World is a thrilling action RPG that puts players in the role of a hunter who must track and capture or kill various monsters in a vibrant, living ecosystem. With its deep crafting system, challenging combat, and huge variety of monsters to hunt, Monster Hunter: World offers players a truly epic experience.

PART 4: Open World RPG Games

Open world RPG games allow players to explore vast, immersive, and non-linear game environments, often without being restricted by any linear storylines. The genre has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, with many games offering a seemingly limitless open-world experience. Here are some of the best open-world RPG games of all time.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Released in 2011, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is one of the most beloved open-world RPG games of all time. The game allows players to explore a vast open-world environment, complete quests, and engage in a wide range of activities, including crafting, enchanting, and even cooking. The game’s unique leveling system allows players to customize their character to their liking, with each decision affecting their character’s skills and abilities.

Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn is an open-world RPG game that combines sci-fi and fantasy elements. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humans live alongside robotic creatures, players take on the role of Aloy, a hunter on a quest to uncover the truth behind her origins. The game’s open-world environment is stunning, filled with breathtaking landscapes and a richly detailed world to explore.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is an open-world RPG game set in ancient Greece. Players take on the role of either Alexios or Kassandra, siblings, on a quest to discover the truth about their family’s past. The game’s open-world environment is massive, featuring beautiful landscapes and detailed recreation of ancient Greece. The game also features a unique combat system that allows players to customize their fighting style to their liking.

Open-world RPG games offer a unique experience that allows players to immerse themselves in a vast and detailed game environment. With so many great titles available, it’s no wonder why the genre has gained such a massive following. Whether you’re looking for a captivating story, immersive gameplay, or a world to explore, there’s an open-world RPG game out there for you.

PART 4: MMORPG Games

MMORPG, short for Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games, is a sub-genre of RPGs that allow players to interact with a large number of players in a virtual world. The social aspect is crucial to these games, as players can form groups, guilds, and even create their own communities. MMORPGs have been around since the early days of the internet and have evolved significantly since then. Here are some of the best MMORPG games of all time.

Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix. The game takes place in the world of Eorzea and strongly emphasizes the storyline, which is told through quests and cutscenes. FFXIV has a unique class system where players can switch between different jobs and master different skills. The game also has an active community and regularly hosts events like the annual Fan Festival.

Guild Wars 2

Guild Wars 2 is a popular MMORPG that takes place in the fantasy world of Tyria. The game features a unique story that changes based on the player’s choices and has a dynamic event system that encourages players to work together. Guild Wars 2 also has a robust PvP system, where players can battle it out in various game modes, including structured PvP and world vs. world.

Elder Scrolls Online

Elder Scrolls Online is an MMORPG set in the world of Tamriel, the same universe as the popular Elder Scrolls series of single-player games. The game features an open world with a rich and detailed storyline that can be experienced through quests and exploration. Elder Scrolls Online also has an extensive crafting system and allows players to customize their characters in various ways.

Star Wars: The Old Republic

Star Wars: The Old Republic is an MMORPG set in the Star Wars universe. Players can choose to be a part of the Sith Empire or the Galactic Republic and create their own unique characters with their own storylines. The game features engaging story-driven quests, cinematic cutscenes, and various activities, including space combat and crafting. Star Wars: The Old Republic is free-to-play, with optional subscription-based access to additional content and perks.

Black Desert Online

Black Desert Online is a visually stunning MMORPG set in a vast open world with realistic environments and day/night cycles. The game features a unique combat system that requires skill and strategy to master and a deep character customization system that allows players to create their own unique looks. To keep players engaged, Black Desert Online also has various activities, including crafting, trading, and horse taming.

Eve Online

Eve Online is a sci-fi MMORPG that takes place in a vast and complex universe with a player-driven economy and political system. The game features a steep learning curve, with a complex skill system and intricate mechanics, but also offers unparalleled freedom and creativity to players. Eve Online is known for its large-scale battles and player-driven storylines, making it a unique and exciting experience for those who are willing to invest the time and effort into it.

PART 5: Indie RPG Games

Indie RPG games are a type of RPG game that is created by independent game developers rather than established game development companies. These games are typically known for their unique art styles, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics.

One of the most popular indie RPG games is “Undertale,” which was released in 2015 and quickly gained a cult following. The game features retro graphics and a unique battle system where players can choose to spare or fight enemies, which impacts the game’s ending.

Another popular indie RPG game is “Stardew Valley,” which was released in 2016. The game is a farming simulator where players can grow crops, raise animals, and build relationships with other characters in the game. The game has been praised for its relaxing gameplay and charming art style.

Indie RPG games often have smaller budgets than games from established developers, which can lead to creative solutions in their design. They can also focus on niche audiences and create games that larger companies may not have considered profitable.

However, the downside of indie RPG games is that they may not have the same level of polish or production values as games from larger studios. Additionally, some indie games may have limited content or replayability compared to larger games.

Despite these potential drawbacks, indie RPG games continue to gain popularity among players. Many gamers appreciate the creativity and passion that independent developers bring to their games. With the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam and itch.io, indie developers have more opportunities than ever to reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

RPG games have come a long way since the early days of tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons. From classic RPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger to modern titles like The Elder Scrolls and The Witcher, there is a vast variety of RPG games to choose from.

Action RPG games like Diablo and Dark Souls offer a fast-paced combat experience, while open-world RPG games like Skyrim and Red Dead Redemption 2 offer a massive, immersive world to explore.

MMORPG games like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV offer a social, online experience with thousands of other players, while indie RPG games like Undertale and Stardew Valley offer a unique and often experimental take on the genre.

No matter what type of RPG game you prefer, the genre has something for everyone. With advancements in technology, the future of RPG games is bright, and we can expect even more immersive and innovative titles to come.

So, whether you’re a seasoned RPG player or just starting, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of role-playing games.