Every Major RPG Video Game, Ranked

Dive deep into the morally complex world of Geralt of Rivia, a masterful monster hunter struggling to find his adopted daughter amidst a brewing war. As the third entry in the lauded series, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt showcases a sprawling open-world teeming with vibrant landscapes and rich character interactions. Standout features include an intricate narrative with highly impactful player choices, a complex alchemy-based potion system, and a unique combat mechanic that merges swordplay with magical abilities. From the grand battles against otherworldly creatures to the tense political intrigue, this game truly stands as one of the best examples of RPG storytelling.

Embark on an epic quest to save the mythical land of Hyrule as young hero Link, braving dungeons, solving puzzles, and traveling through time to confront the malevolent Ganondorf. Released in 1998, Ocarina of Time revolutionized the action-RPG genre with its groundbreaking 3D graphics and innovative lock-on targeting system. The game's immersive storyline, unforgettable characters such as Princess Zelda and the enigmatic Sheik, and timeless soundtrack combine to create a true masterpiece. By expertly blending action, adventure, and puzzle-solving, this seminal entry in the Zelda series captures the hearts of generations of gamers.

Travel through the post-apocalyptic wasteland of New Vegas, navigating factions, alliances, and betrayals in a race to control the Mojave Desert's ultimate prize: Hoover Dam. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Fallout: New Vegas builds upon the series' signature blend of first-person shooter mechanics and deep role-playing, while introducing new elements such as the reputation system and distinctive factions like the NCR and Caesar's Legion. Memorable characters, dark humor, and meaningful choices permeate every corner of this irradiated world. With its iconic setting and enhanced gameplay, New Vegas solidifies its place among the greatest RPGs of all time.

Step into the world of Skyrim, a vast and dynamic northern province riddled with dragons, ancient prophecies, and political strife, where player choices directly impact the ever-changing landscape. As the prophesized Dragonborn, players wield exceptional powers to forge their path, deciding whether to fight for or against the empire, join guilds, and master a variety of skill trees. Boasting an impressive open-world design, engaging NPCs, and seemingly endless quests, Skyrim establishes itself as the pinnacle of the Elder Scrolls series. From battling mythical creatures atop mountain peaks to navigating the ethereal realm of Sovngarde, the game offers a level of immersion that remains unparalleled in the RPG genre.

Set in post-apocalyptic Washington D.C., Fallout 3 casts players as a lone wanderer seeking their father while building a new life amidst the ruins of a once-great civilization. The game features an expansive world with visceral first-person combat, a vast range of customization options, and the iconic V.A.T.S. targeting system, which adds a strategic layer to fierce battles. Alongside the main quest, the Capital Wasteland is brimming with side stories, memorable characters, and moral dilemmas. By breathing new life into the classic series, Fallout 3 stands tall as a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and gameplay mechanics in the RPG genre.

Enter the world of Pokémon, where players capture, train, and battle various creatures to become the ultimate Pokémon Master. Pioneering the iconic franchise, Red and Blue versions laid the foundation for future Pokémon games with their unique creature-design, turn-based combat system, and focus on strategy. The games emphasized exploration and discovery, as players traversed through the Kanto region, encountering memorable characters like rival Blue, Team Rocket, and the esteemed Professor Oak. As the catalysts for a global phenomenon that continues to enthrall fans today, Pokémon Red and Blue indisputably earn their place among the greatest RPGs.