The Best Action RPGs Of All Time, Ranked

In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, you'll step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia as he embarks on a quest to rescue his adopted daughter from the clutches of the nefarious Wild Hunt. With its masterful blend of hack-and-slash combat, engaging choice-driven narrative, and sprawling open world, this game single-handedly raised the bar for the RPG genre. To call it a masterpiece would be an understatement; it's a triumph that'll have you slaying monsters and navigating morally grey dilemmas until the wee hours of the morning.

Dive into the depths of darkness in Diablo II as you pick from one of seven classes and embark on a journey to rid Sanctuary of the Prime Evils. The game's randomized dungeons and addictive loot system provide an adrenaline-pumping experience that keeps players on their toes. This legendary hack-and-slash action RPG not only defined a generation but also left a demonic mark on the gaming industry forever.

From Software's Elden Ring combines the intricate lore and brutal combat famously known in Dark Souls with an expansive open world. As you venture through the Lands Between, the rich narrative unfolds around your character, the Tarnished, seeking to reclaim the Elden Ring and become the Elden Lord. With its groundbreaking horseback gameplay and dynamic action, this game sparks a bonfire of innovation that leaves lasting imprints on the souls of gamers everywhere.

Strap yourself in for a galactic adventure in Mass Effect 2 as Commander Shepard battles against the enigmatic Collectors threatening to annihilate humanity. Featuring intense third-person shooter combat and an unforgettable cast of allies, player choices greatly influence the outcome of this thrilling sci-fi saga. Widely regarded as the pinnacle of the trilogy, this game boldly goes where no RPG has gone before, cementing its place in gaming history.

Join Link on his iconic quest to save Hyrule and Princess Zelda from the evil grasp of Ganondorf in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. With its groundbreaking 3D graphics, intricate puzzles, and timeless story, this game revolutionized the action-adventure genre. The impact of Ocarina of Time echoes throughout gaming history, proving that heroism, resourcefulness, and courage stand the test of time.

Prepare to die (a lot) in Dark Souls, a game that transports players to the unforgiving realm of Lordran as they uncover its cryptic lore and face the perils lurking within its twisted corridors. Combining atmospheric storytelling with brutally challenging combat, this title reinvigorated the action RPG, leaving gamers equal parts enthralled and frustrated. Dark Souls' legacy lives on, reminding us that in the darkest depths, there's always a glimmer of hope - or at least another bonfire just around the corner.