This article presents a comprehensive list of the best role-playing games (RPGs) of all time, grouped by generation and console. The RPG genre has evolved from pen-and-paper games to computer-based titles, and certain games have stood out as the very best. The article highlights classic titles from the 8-bit generation like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, groundbreaking RPGs like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI from the 16-bit generation, influential titles like The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and Final Fantasy VII from the 32/64-bit generation, and innovative recent releases like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Persona 5.
The Best Role-Playing Games of All Time: A Comprehensive List
Role-playing games (RPGs) have been around since the early days of gaming. From pen-and-paper games to computer-based titles, the genre has evolved and undergone several notable changes over time. But even amidst all these transformations, certain games have stood out as the very best. In this article, we present a comprehensive list of the best RPGs ever made, grouped by generation and console.
8-Bit Generation
The 8-bit generation of gaming saw the emergence of some of history’s most beloved RPGs. These early titles laid the foundation for the genre and paved the way for many classic games that would come later.
Dragon Quest (1986)
Also known as “Dragon Warrior” in the United States, Dragon Quest was the brainchild of renowned game designer Yuji Horii. The turn-based RPG was an instant hit with gamers, becoming one of the best-selling games in Japan during the late 1980s. Its simple yet addictive gameplay made it a timeless classic that still holds up today.
Final Fantasy (1987)
The first game in what would become one of the most popular RPG franchises of all time, Final Fantasy was also a critical and commercial success when it was released in 1987. The game’s deep storytelling, strategic gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters helped set the standard for future RPGs and cemented the series’ place in gaming history.
16-Bit Generation
The 16-bit generation brought with it the arrival of more powerful consoles, allowing developers to create even more immersive and dynamic RPGs. These games pushed the envelope of what was possible in terms of storytelling, world-building, and gameplay.
Chrono Trigger (1995)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, Chrono Trigger was developed by Square (now Square Enix) and featured a dream team of creatives, including Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi and Dragon Ball artist Akira Toriyama. The time-travel epic was praised for its ambitious narrative, masterful soundtrack, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Final Fantasy VI (1994)
Considered by many to be the pinnacle of the Final Fantasy franchise, Final Fantasy VI was a groundbreaking RPG that pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the Super Nintendo. The game featured a sprawling world, a cast of memorable characters, and a hauntingly beautiful score that has become a classic in its own right.
32/64-Bit Generation
The advent of 32 and 64-bit consoles allowed developers to create even more immersive worlds and more complex gameplay mechanics. The following two games are among the most influential titles of the era.
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002)
Morrowind was the first game in the Elder Scrolls franchise to be fully realized in 3D, allowing for a level of exploration and immersion that was unprecedented in RPGs until that point. The game’s open-world design, intricate lore, and deep customization options made it a trailblazer that would inspire many future RPGs.
Final Fantasy VII (1997)
No list of the greatest RPGs of all time would be complete without Final Fantasy VII, the game that introduced many Western gamers to the genre for the first time. The game’s cinematic cutscenes, memorable characters, and epic storyline helped elevate RPGs to new heights and solidified Final Fantasy as one of the premier gaming franchises of all time.
Modern Generation
Today’s RPGs continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in terms of storytelling, visual design, and gameplay mechanics. The following two games are among the most innovative and beloved RPGs of recent years.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
Based on the bestselling book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher 3 was an instant classic when it was released in 2015. The game’s expansive open-world, mature storytelling, and memorable characters (including protagonist Geralt of Rivia) helped define a new era of RPGs for modern audiences.
Persona 5 (2016)
Released in 2016, Persona 5 is the latest entry in the long-running Japanese RPG franchise. The game’s stylish visuals, catchy soundtrack, and unique social simulation mechanics have won over legions of fans in recent years, cementing its place as one of the most beloved RPGs of the modern era.
Conclusion
The RPG genre has come a long way since its early beginnings, but certain games continue to stand the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of classic turn-based RPGs or modern, cinematic experiences, the titles listed above are all worthy of inclusion on any list of the greatest RPGs of all time.