Table of Contents[Hide][Show]
- #58 Persona 3 Reload
- #57 Palworld
- #56 Lies of P
- #55 Dredge
- #54 Like a Dragon: Ishin
- #53 Diablo IV
- #52 Hogwarts Legacy
- #51 Little Witch in the Woods
- #50 Borderlands 3
- #49 Dauntless
- #48 The Outer Worlds
- #47 Elex 2
- #46 Torment: Tides of Numenera
- #45 Kingdom Hearts III
- #44 Middle Earth: Shadow of War
- #43 Children of Morta
- #42 The Surge
- #41 Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
- #40 Salt and Sanctuary
- #39 Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen
- #38 Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
- #37 Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition
- #36 For The King
- #35 The Elder Scrolls Online
- #34 Valkyria Chronicles 4
- #33 Dying Light 2 Stay Human
- #32 Ys Origin
- #31 The Division 2
- #30 The Elder Scroll V: Skyrim
- #29 Child of Light
- #28 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- #27 Tales of Arise
- #26 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
- #25 Fallout: New Vegas
- #24 Crypt of the Necrodancer
- #23 Path of Exile
- #22 Final Fantasy XV
- #21 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
- #20 Mass Effect Legendary Edition
- #19 South Park: The Fractured But Whole
- #18 Heroes of Hammerwatch
- #17 Moonlighter
- #16 Wasteland 3
- #15 Yakuza 0
- #14 Dragon Age: Inquisition
- #13 Diablo III
- #12 Dark Souls III
- #11 Fallout 4
- #10 Slay The Spire
- #9 Stardew Valley
- #8 Yakuza: Like A Dragon
- #7 Monster Hunter: World
- #6 NieR: Automata
- #5 Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
- #4 Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
- #3 Divinity: Original Sin II
- #2 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- #1 Elden Ring
The RPG genre is massive and diverse, comprised of numerous subgenres from action RPGs, to strategic RPGs, and many, many more. We’re counting down the best Xbox RPGs that gamers can grab today, with hit franchises such as Final Fantasy and Fallout making the cut along with plenty of lesser-known gems. Find out which RPG you should play next on Xbox One in the list below.
#58 Persona 3 Reload
Platform: PC PS5 XSX|S Xbox One PS4
Release Date: February 2, 2024
Steam | PlayStation | Xbox
While some of you might see Persona 3 Reload as nothing more than an “upgrade” to a title that’s already out, don’t let that dissuade you from trying it out. The graphics have been updated to modern standards, and the gameplay has been improved, too!
For example, there are new strategies and tactics you can employ, such as the Theurgy gauge, where you can unleash devastating attacks on foes! You can also work with your teammates to deliver weakness-invoking attacks one after the other!
With so many Shadows to defeat, you must use these tactics to survive! So dive into Tartarus and see how long you’ll last!
#57 Palworld
Platform: PC Xbox One XSX|S
Release Date: January 19, 2024 (early access)
Putting Palworld on this RPG list will seem very cliché, and that’s because it is! This is absolutely the kind of RPG you’re thinking of, just with some very dark twists.
The title is indeed a “monster catcher” title where you’ll travel around and get “Pals” for your personal collection. Like many RPGs, you’ll train them and raise them so they can get stronger. You can even breed or fuse these Pals to make even better creatures!
Then, what you decide to do with them is up to you. You can treat them like family, or create an army, or maybe you’ll want to outfit them with guns!
Or, you can eat them.
#56 Lies of P
Platform: PC September 18, 2023
Release Date: PS4 PS5 Xbox One XSX|S September 19, 2023
Steam | PlayStation | Xbox
When a brutal and monster-filled city awaits you, you must do what you can to survive and not let monsters take your life. But it’s you who will determine what happens to your soul.
In Lies of P, you’ll play a very grim version of Pinocchio, who is woken up in a dark city with the desire to find Geppetto. But to reach them, you must weave your way through a dangerous place, which means fighting off those who stand in your way!
Your decisions can shape how Pinocchio fights and the weapons that he uses. Create the fighter you want him to be, and then see just how far you can push this puppet’s ability.
#55 Dredge
Platform: PC PS4 Xbox One PS5 XSX|S Switch
Release Date: March 30, 2023
Steam | Playstation | Xbox | Nintendo
You might not think that a game like Dredge would feature RPG elements. After all, it bills itself as a type of fishing game. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t RPG elements for you to partake in here.
For example, on your quest to capture fish, you’ll partake in quests from the locals. When you complete them, you’ll uncover the area’s lore and what makes this place so mysterious.
Plus, like an RPG, there are monsters to “take care of.” Specifically, at night, massive beasts from below will rise as you try to get special catches. If you’re not careful, you’ll be sunk.
Not to mention, you can upgrade your boat to handle these dangers! So yeah, it’s an RPG.
#54 Like a Dragon: Ishin
Platform: PC PS4 Xbox One PS5 XSX|S
Release Date: February 21, 2023
Steam | Playstation | Xbox
While it may not be named after the Yakuza group anymore, nor is the entry in question set in modern-day Japan, that doesn’t mean you should shrug off Like A Dragon: Ishin.
Instead, you should give it a chance to see just how well this game has been made. You’ll trade in the modern-day aesthetics for 1860s Kyoto and embark on a mission of vengeance and justice as you attempt to find the man who murdered your father.
Wielding a gun and a samurai sword, you’ll face all sorts of people in Kyoto. Each fight will bring you closer to the truth. But the real question is whether you can handle that truth.
#53 Diablo IV
Platform: PC PS4 Xbox One PS5 XSX|S
Release Date: June 06, 2023
PC | Playstation | Xbox
It’s been many years since fans of Blizzard’s beloved hack-n-slash franchise had the chance to dive into the struggle between heaven and the underworld.
Plus, the last game in the franchise, the console/PC title, not the mobile knockoff, wasn’t as enjoyed as the publisher likely hoped.
But with Diablo IV, things have changed for the better. The gothic feel is back, and every action you take will be crucial as you attempt to stop Lilith from taking control of the underworld.
Whether you play alone or with a friend, you’ll venture deep into enemy territory and participate in a struggle for life itself!
#52 Hogwarts Legacy
Platform: PC PS5 XSX|S – February 10, 2023
Release Date: (PS4 Xbox One – May 05, 2023) (Switch – July 25, 2023)
Steam | Playstation | Xbox
There is much ado about Hogwarts Legacy, and for a good reason. The title has been anticipated for quite some time, and you’re undoubtedly ready to begin your magical adventure! But no matter what you decide, you must be prepared for magical combat! First, learn spells from your teachers, other students, or books in the library. Then, battle against other houses in duels, against mighty magical creatures, or even against some who stand in your way! Will you use your magical capabilities for good? Or will you venture down the path of a Dark Witch/Wizard and use the Unforgivable Curses to obtain power and glory? It’s your choice.
#51 Little Witch in the Woods
- Release date: May 16, 2022
- Developer: Sunny Side Up
- Publisher: Sunny Side Up
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems
In the world of Little Witch In The Woods, you’ll play as Ellie, an apprentice witch who is assigned to a small village in the woods (obviously) to complete her training.
But to truly complete that training, she must bond with and help the village itself. You’ll talk to the various people and animals in the game and learn more about them, help them with their troubles, and maybe even become friends!
You’ll also explore the woods so you can go and make potions. Ones that’ll help you solve the puzzles that you’ll face in the game.
Do your job right and you’ll be a full witch in no time!
#50 Borderlands 3
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The Borderlands franchise kicked off the looter shooter game genre. While the game franchise has been around since 2009, the third mainline installment didn’t come until 2019.
While this may be the third installment, anyone can join the game without playing the previous titles. If you’re interested in an FPS RPG filled with all sorts of loot to grab along with a wacky storyline, don’t overlook this one. There’s a brand new story for players along with new villains and Vault Hunters, so newcomers are welcome to experience what makes this franchise so beloved. Of course, with that said, the past games are still great, and with the art style the developers used, they hold up incredibly well. Borderlands 2 may have a better story, but Borderlands 3 is an absolute blast.
#49 Dauntless
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Dauntless is a great game for those who enjoy the Monster Hunter franchise. It’s also a great meter for those wondering if Monster Hunter is for them. Since this is a free-to-play title, you can save quite a bit of money picking this game up before attempting something like Monster Hunter: World, a game we have listed down below. With Dauntless, players are tasked with forming parties and joining in on hunts against mythical monsters. With each takedown, players are rewarded with new loot.
With this loot, players can craft new armor and buff their stats when having to face other types of monsters. Some battles can be quite lengthy as you’ll need to not only monitor your vitals but keep track of every move a monster makes. Players will also find a rather active online community enjoying this title.
#48 The Outer Worlds
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
From the creators of Fallout: New Vegas, The Outer Worlds is another excellent demonstration of heavy role-playing mechanics in a shooter. Set in the Halcyon Star System, The Outer Worlds sends the player on a grand adventure across the stars to explore various planets and to assist the mad scientist Phineas Vernon Welles. It’s clear that The Outer Worlds is trying to replicate New Vegas through its dialogue system and overall structure, which was what fans were asking for.
The main campaign is joined by a number of side quests, places to explore, monsters to slay, and loot to be found. While the main campaign can be a bit short, DLC expansions have buffed the overall gameplay experience. Two have been released so far–Peril on Gorgon and Murder on Eridanos.
#47 Elex 2
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Elex 2 is an action role-playing game first released in 2017, developed by Piranha Bytes, and published by THQ Nordic. This game combines elements of science fiction and fantasy, having been described as “edgy, dark, uncompromising, and complex.” Elex 2 is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the protagonist joins a war where people are fighting for the powerful resource Elex, which grants magical powers. The setting is a mix of futuristic and medieval locations where players can use guns, swords, and magic to defeat their enemies.
#46 Torment: Tides of Numenera
Torment: Tides of Numenera acts as the successor to the classic RPG Planescape: Torment. In this game, players are taken into the distant future. In this world, a god of sorts has found a way to leave his body and move his consciousness into a new vessel which has essentially made him immortal. This discovery has triggered the universe to send out an enmity known as The Sorrow, a being that’s aimed to destroy this entity and all of the vessels he’s used in the past.
Players take on the role of the Last Castoff, the final vessel that this unknown being used to stay alive. Now with no memories of what you’ve done in the past and the knowledge that The Sorrow is tracking you down, our protagonist is left with no hope but to find this ancient man and attempt to fight off The Sorrow.
#45 Kingdom Hearts III
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Kingdom Hearts has been an iconic franchise for years, but fans of the series were left to wait a staggering 14 years between the second and third installments. Needless to say, Kingdom Hearts III was one of the most highly-anticipated releases of the last decade. Although known for its baffling story and countless spinoffs, the third title provides plenty of fun. If you’re a fan of Disney, Final Fantasy, or bashing enemies with a collection of unique keys, it’s worth a try–even if you have no idea what’s going on.
This single-player title follows Sora and his gang as he embarks on a journey that takes him to a wide range of Disney-themed worlds such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Toy Story, and Frozen. Overall, the game will have players collecting keyblades and stopping the heartless, bringing peace back to the worlds.
#44 Middle Earth: Shadow of War
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
This action RPG is based on the mega-popular The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings series. Middle-earth: Shadow of War is set after the events of The Hobbit but before The Lord of the Rings. Fans of Tolkien’s work will be very pleased with this open-world title. Players follow Ranger Talion and the spirit of the eld lord Celebrimbor as they forge a new Ring of Power, hoping to use it in the fight against the evil Sauron.
The gameplay has combat that’s often described as being similar to the Batman Arkham games. Players can quickly drop into combat against a variety of enemies and deliver some incredible blows while watching for visual cues to quickly parry an attack. Likewise, the Nemesis system is back from the first installment. Each enemy character that happens to get the best of you during battle may return and could even have some scars from the first bout.
#43 Children of Morta
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Those of you who enjoy an action RPG will want to try Children of Morta. This incredible video game journey transports players into a visually stunning world filled with hostile enemies. Here, you’ll take control of a family of heroes as you deal with a group of menacing baddies.
Each of the family members you’ll take control of will have their own unique set of skills, and fortunately, you’ll have the chance to try them all out. This is also a roguelike, meaning that the dungeon layouts will be different with each playthrough. The incredible storyline follows deep family drama, which we won’t spoil here. For the affordable price and replay value, this one is worth snagging.
#42 The Surge
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The Surge is an action RPG that follows a similar gameplay style as the Souls series. Without spoiling too much of what you’ll endure in the campaign, the world’s resources are scarce and you take a job at a massive corporation. Something goes haywire and now you’re fighting off corrupted humans wielding buffed-up exoskeleton suits. A big portion of this game is all about upgrading and crafting items to further buff your character against opposing enemies.
Overall, players can target a certain gear piece on an enemy and attack it to weaken the suit before ripping it off and making it lootable. Combat can be difficult–this isn’t a game made for those looking to jump into something headfirst without research. As mentioned, it’s a lot like Dark Souls. Knowing when to attack, dodge, and block is necessary to progress.
#41 Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands may have started out in the last mainline game as a DLC to test the waters, but it’s now a full-on experience that you’ll definitely want to play with friends.
In this game, you’ll play the Borderlands version of D&D, complete with Tiny Tina as your dungeon master and plenty of monsters for you to kill with blades, magic, and guns. Players can also customize their character like never before, making the game infinitely replayable. This one will be a little tougher for non-gamers, but it’s worth giving a try.
#40 Salt and Sanctuary
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Salt and Sanctuary holds the distinction of being one of the earliest Metroidvania titles to adopt a second portmanteau; the Soulsborne Metroidvania. It fit the mold perfectly as it is, in essence, a 2D Soulslike. It’s got the grimness and sense of despair down perfectly, that’s for sure.
It also introduces quite a bit of challenge and that one-more-go attitude that embodies a Soulslike. It may look like a Flash game from the Newground days, but stick with Salt and Sanctuary and there’s a deeply rewarding and challenging time to be had.
#39 Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
In Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, players are put into a high fantasy world where dragons have appeared, leaving nothing but destruction across the lands. Our hero attempted to fight off the dragon once but, after failing to do so, the dragon consumed his heart, transforming him into what’s called an Arisen. Now, your life is dedicated to fighting off dragons and helping those in need.
This action RPG received a new edition known as Dark Arisen, giving players a few more enhancements within the game along with additional content. In June, Capcom announced that a sequel to the original title, Dragon’s Dogma II, was in development.
#38 Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
With so many Final Fantasy games to choose from, it’s hard to rank those available on the Xbox One. With that said, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is a game worth checking out on the Xbox One. This is a remastered edition of Final Fantasy XII, which invites players to follow Vaan as he enters a great war taking place in the world of Ivalice.
One of the reasons this game may be appealing to some fans is the Gambit System. This is a system in which players can tweak their party members while in battle. For instance, you can have certain members focus on healing other party members, or triggering a certain attack when the time calls for it. This makes the title more strategy-heavy than other Final Fantasy titles, and those wanting a challenge might want to grab this entry. Some grinding is necessary.
#37 Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
The Tales games have been around for ages, with the first title, Tales of Phantasia, was released back in 1995. Since then, the series has continued with plenty of new installments. Tales of Vesperia was released back in 2008, but an enhanced edition of this game, Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition, released back in 2019.
This time around, players travel a world run mainly by a precious resource that provides power and water for the lands. When this resource is stolen, a group joins together in an attempt to track down the thief and restore peace. This game also features a unique combat system dubbed the Linear Motion Battle System. This adds a brawling style of combat rather than a traditional turn-based combat system found in many Japanese RPGs.
#36 For The King
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
For The King is a tactical strategy RPG title that throws players into a kingdom in chaos. With the king mysteriously murdered, players are tasked with saving the kingdom from ruthless hostiles seeking to claim the realm. Meanwhile, during your escapades of ridding the kingdom from hostiles, you’ll also be on the search for the king’s murderer. This indie title is well worth the playthrough, and best of all, there’s multiplayer support.
#35 The Elder Scrolls Online
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The Elder Scrolls franchise has a massive following, with fans desperate for the next installment. While Bethesda is working on The Elder Scrolls VI, we’ve been left waiting on more information for years. Fortunately, fans looking for something new can grab The Elder Scrolls Online to scratch the itch.
This game takes place a millennium before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Since the game launched back in 2014, there have been tons of new chapters and DLC packs added into the mix. You’ll find expansions that put players back into notable territories, along with past guilds such as the Dark Brotherhood. Developers are still releasing new content for the game on a regular basis, so if The Elder Scrolls is in your blood, you might not want to overlook this MMO.
#34 Valkyria Chronicles 4
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Valkyria Chronicles got its start back in 2008 and has been going strong for over a decade. The last mainline installment was released back in 2018 with Valkyria Chronicles 4, a tactical RPG set within the same period as the first Valkyria Chronicles. In this installment, players progress through the narrative following Squad E of the Federation. Set during a World War, the game follows a band of soldiers as they experience the many hardships of battle.
The journey that sees our cast of characters mature with a storyline full of ups and downs. Being an RPG title, it’s not necessarily as long as some would suspect. Don’t get us wrong–you’ll still be putting in just under forty hours to complete the main storyline. That’s certainly less than some other RPG titles that ask players to set aside a hundred hours.
#33 Dying Light 2 Stay Human
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
One of the more anticipated game releases for 2022 was Techland’s sequel to Dying Light. In Dying Light 2, players are treated to a narrative set a few years after the first game’s events, taking on the role of Aiden and seeking information about where your missing sister might be. Of course, this is set in another haven city as humanity strives to avoid the undead horde. A big part of the game is still very much parkour traversal. Aiden is skilled at quickly moving around the town and using melee combat, which is crucial for avoiding both thugs and the undead. Best of all, if you want to play with friends, Dying Light 2 Stay Human offers up to four-player cooperative support.
There is a slight catch–you can’t start the game right off the bat with co-op. Instead, you’ll need to go through the first hour or so to catch up on the narrative and some of the mechanics. After that, you’ll be able to enable co-op support in which you can join or invite friends to a game. Essentially, you’re able to go through the rest of the game with friends. Fortunately, the gear and XP progression you gain during the game will carry over as well, so you’re still able to gain some progress for your character back in the single-player component.
#32 Ys Origin
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
If you haven’t played a Ys game before ,Ys Origin may be the perfect starting point. In this prequel, players follow the knights of Ys who live in a land above the clouds. However, when its discovered that demonic forces below have started to build a tower to reach Ys, our heroes are sent down to save the day. Players will progress through the Devil’s Tower, filled with plenty of puzzles and enemies.
Being an action RPG, you’ll be able to freely move around during combat to dodge attacks or line up for a perfect shot against some of the complex bosses you’ll encounter. Originally launched in 2006, certain aspects may look dated, but the gameplay and narrative still hold up.
#31 The Division 2
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The Division 2 takes place in an open-world Washington DC experiencing a civil war between the survivors of the events from the previous game as well as bands of marauders and bandits. Players can enjoy an online experience with friends in different modes that include Dark Zones which provides players with loot and different raids. Similar to the first installment, players will find that The Division 2 is an action RPG with multiplayer-focused gameplay. There’s also additional DLC content to give players a bit more action to enjoy.
#30 The Elder Scroll V: Skyrim
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Skyrim is a classic example of high-fantasy worldbuilding and still stands the test of time over a decade after it first launched. The game is set in the northernmost province of Tamriel, the world in which the events of all the games in The Elder Scrolls franchise take place. Skyrim, a hardy, cold and mountainous region is a landscape torn by warring factions, bandits, monsters, and religious upheaval. It’s a foundation upon which many open-world games of today build and is a fantastic example of non-linear exploration in an open-world setting. Plus, it still looks beautiful years later, especially with mods. With almost too many quests to count, this is one title you’ll be playing for years.
#29 Child of Light
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Child of Light takes place in a fictional land known as Lemuria where players follow a young child named Aurora who awakens in a dying world. To bring the land back to life, Aurora must seek out the sun, moon, and stars that are being held captive by the Queen of the Night.
Players have fallen in love with this platforming RPG title, and for good reason. As you progress further into the game, you’ll be able to level up various stats, while combat features an active-time battle system. This coming-of-age tale delivers more than meets the eye, and it’s one that anyone should have in their Xbox One library.
#28 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Fans of the Assassin’s Creed franchise may have already jumped into this installment, but if you haven’t, you shouldn’t let it slip by. If you’re a fan of the past two installments, Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, you’ll find that Assassin’s Creed Valhalla follows a similar vibe.
This massive open-world RPG will task players with traversing the land on horseback and fighting off enemies via melee combat. The game pulls from Norse mythology and follows the story of Eivor, a Viking raider who wants to establish a new clan in England. Along with the stealth aspect found in every entry thus far, players also have more of a chance to show off their assassin skills in broad daylight.
#27 Tales of Arise
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Although it’s the seventeenth main entry to the Tales series, Tales of Arise is the first to have a worldwide simultaneous release. The game follows a man and a woman from different worlds. They embark on a quest to end the oppression of the Renan people from the more technically advanced Dahnans. Similar to previous games in the franchise, Tales of Arise is an action RPG, although with a Linear Motion Battle System. The game’s combat focuses on evading and countering, and since its release, it has been applauded as one of the best RPGs released in the past decade. If you haven’t delved into the Tales series, here’s your sign to do so.
#26 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The eleventh installment of the hugely popular Assassin’s Creed franchise takes players back to ancient Greece. Set during an era of war between Athens and Sparta, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey delves more deeply into historical mythology than some of the other games in the series, making for an enormous, lore-rich world in which players can explore freely. It is also a game that deviates a bit from the typical stealth mechanics of the franchise in terms of combat. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is visually stunning and draws players in with its use of naval exploration and combat as well as its main use of open-world traversal. This is definitely a game for lovers of Greek mythology.
#25 Fallout: New Vegas
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Fallout: New Vegas is a spin-off of the popular Fallout series. It is set in a post-apocalyptic open-world consisting of Arizona, California, and Nevada in the US. Atomic technology led to a global nuclear apocalypse in the year 2077, with the game’s story taking place in 2281 and four years after the events of Fallout 3. Players control the character Courier and must transport a package across the Mojave Desert to the city of New Vegas, meeting numerous hostiles along the way.
If you’re familiar with Fallout, expect the same kind of an experience here. It might not be the prettiest game on the market by today’s standards, but the narrative makes up for the dated look.
#24 Crypt of the Necrodancer
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Crypt of the Necrodancer is an interesting roguelike title. This dungeon-crawling RPG invites players to venture into different dungeons in search of loot, pitting them against waves of different enemies and bosses to defeat. However, what makes this game a bit unique is the fact that the developers added a rhythm mechanic as well. During each run, players have to move along with the beat which adds a coin multiplier to your game, giving you more funds as you slay beasts. If you miss a beat, you’re stuck momentarily, giving you a potential disadvantage if an enemy is nearby.
#23 Path of Exile
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
This free-to-play action RPG takes place in a dark fantasy world where the government has exiled people to a ruined continent called Wraeclast. Path of Exile has players take control of one of these exiled people, choosing from seven character classes: Marauder, Duelist, Ranger, Shadow, Witch, Templar, or Scion. From there, players must fight their way back to their homeland by defeating ancient gods and evil beings. Path of Exile features the explorations of large outdoor areas, caves, and dungeons.
#22 Final Fantasy XV
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Final Fantasy XV offers players a vast open-world environment to explore along with an action-based battle system. Final Fantasy XV takes place in the fictional world of Eos. The world of Eos is almost entirely dominated by the empire of Niflheim, who seek control of the magical Crystal protected by the Lucian royal family. Insomnia, the capital of Lucis, is the only place free from the empire, and on the eve of peace negotiations, Niflheim decides to attack this last stronghold and steal the Crystal they so desperately seek. Noctis, the heir to the Lucian throne, goes on a quest with his buddies to get the Crystal back and kick some Niflheim butt. If you’re not a fan of the traditional turn-based Final Fantasy game, this installment does away with that, allowing players to get into the thick of things in a more action-focused entry.
#21 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night gained quite a bit of attention when it was first announced, as the project was led by former Castlevania series producer Koji Igarashi. This Metroidvania title invites players to explore, craft new weapons, and find new armor as they engage with a stunning narrative. This story follows an orphan named Miriam who has been cursed by an alchemist and is slowly finding her skin turned to crystal. To stop the curse, she must explore a castle to find the one behind it, Gebel, who, as it turns out, had suffered the same condition. It’s been a long wait for Castlevania to make a big comeback, but this game should appease some fans.
#20 Mass Effect Legendary Edition
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
As far as alien games go, Mass Effect Legendary Edition is up there with the best of them. This now-classic series first launched in 2007 with the original Mass Effect game. The remastered collection includes the entire trilogy–Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3–with upgraded graphics that have been completely reworked for modern consoles. The compilation also includes all of the DLC released for each of the three titles throughout the years.
#19 South Park: The Fractured But Whole
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
The South Park IP has been a hit for decades, spawning a number of video games over the years. Two of the more popular releases are South Park: The Stick of Truth and South Park: The Fractured But Whole. Similar to how The Stick of Truth was a parody of Lord of the Rings and other high fantasy franchises, players will find that The Fractured But Whole is South Park’s take on the superhero craze.
Within the game, players take on the role of the New Kid, similar to The Stick of Truth, during a massive war of rival superhero factions. Gameplay features turn-based RPG combat where players can think out attacks before initiating them. Likewise, character classes will be available for players to choose and each will alter character stats such as increasing short-ranged or long-ranged combat.
#18 Heroes of Hammerwatch
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Fans of the Hammerwatch hack and slash title that came out in 2013 will love this spin-off. Heroes of Hammerwatch throws players into a roguelike title where they’ll be venturing into dungeons, battling enemies, grabbing loot, and eventually upgrading their town to further buff their heroes. An 8-bit-style top-down RPG, Heroes of Hammerwatch is a game best played with friends. Its randomly generated levels make for some great replay value and since there are seven different classes to choose from, doing game runs with three players makes things a bit more strategic–or chaotic, if you get overrun.
#17 Moonlighter
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Moonlighter is an interesting little RPG that mixes dungeon crawling with a store management simulator. In this game, players take on the role of a shop owner named Will. Will sells his goods to all sorts of people that make their way into his village, however, to obtain these goods needing to be sold, Will has to venture into dungeons as well. Players will be fighting off all sorts of hostile enemies in search of loot and gear to be sold.
This is a roguelike, so if you happen to perish during a run, all of your goods are lost. There are some workarounds to keep your loot, but for the most part, this is a risk-and-reward type of game. It’s up to the players to determine if they have enough resources to continue further into the dungeon or if returning is the more plausible option. Most would suggest checking out Moonlighter if you’re a fan of Binding of Isaac, gameplay-wise.
#16 Wasteland 3
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Wasteland 3 features the squad turn-based RPG mechanics that the series is known for, but this time around, players are experiencing a nuclear winter. Set in what’s left of Colorado, players take the role of a Desert Ranger and must work to keep their group alive in a time where they’ll face not only harsh environments but will have to build a base, train recruits, and face against cutthroat factions.
With that said, you don’t have to face the tough choices and manage resources alone. A cooperative game mode allows multiple players to control their squad of Rangers. Players can go through the campaign together or even split up to reach new grounds or missions. If you’re a fan of the past installments, you should have plenty of fun with Wasteland 3. Additionally, the previous games are also available on the Xbox One.
#15 Yakuza 0
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Yakuza 0 is a prequel to the original game and one of the best-reviewed games of the series. Set in late 1988, seventeen years before the events of the first game, this story follows Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima as they get sucked into a conflict between rival Yakuza factions seeking control of different areas. Because of its popularity, this game is often labeled as the one that raised the franchise’s sales and following in the west, as it was originally deemed too obscure for those audiences. It’s a top-tier game nonetheless and remains the best in the series.
#14 Dragon Age: Inquisition
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Developed by BioWare, Dragon Age: Inquisition is a sequel to 2011’s Dragon Age II. The game follows a character known as the Inquisitor on a journey to settle civil unrest on the continent of Thedas. Dangerous demons are unleashed on the world and this is where the adventure begins. Additionally, players control both the Inquisitor and their companions during gameplay. This open-world RPG was nominated for Game of the Year and received a good deal of praise from both critics and gamers alike. The next installment, Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, was officially announced in April 2022.
#13 Diablo III
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
The Diablo franchise has been around for decades and while we all wait for the next mainline installment to release, we can still pick up and enjoy Diablo 3. This action RPG still holds up just as well today, giving the definitive loot-filled hack-and-slash gameplay experience. A traditional Diablo game, players pick a class, head into different levels, fight off a slew of demonic enemies, and gather all kinds of loot. You’ll find all sorts of equipment to further buff your character and working with another player will make for some epic questing and fast leveling.
#12 Dark Souls III
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Dark Souls is the multiplatform spiritual successor to Demon’s Souls. When FromSoftware couldn’t make a Demon’s Souls 2 without Sony, the company decided to create the Dark Souls series instead. The first game is Demon’s Souls 2 in all but name. More than that, Dark Souls took the original game and refined it into an RPG masterpiece. Dark Souls 3 is arguably the best Souls game there is and must play for any Souls fan.
Without getting too in-depth with the story, the game opens up with the Kingdom of Lothric. Players learn that the First Flame is dying out, which if extinguished, the Age of Dark would be upon the world allowing undead and cursed beings to rise. Much like the past installments, it’s a game that really gives players a struggle.
#11 Fallout 4
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Set in post-apocalyptic future America, Fallout 4‘s game world is a real feast for the senses. The game is set in Boston in the year 2287, around 200 years after the world as you know it was annihilated by nuclear bombs. This all makes for an exciting game premise in the first place, but it’s only once you’re set loose to truly explore the ruined landscape of a once-famous American city that you truly get a sense of immersion. Fallout 4‘s map is huge and encompasses a large region including the city of Boston and other areas of New England. It’s clear how the level design has taken influences from the modern-day landmarks and geography of Boston and the surrounding area, which really pulls you in and gives Fallout 4‘s environmental storytelling plenty of authenticity.
#10 Slay The Spire
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Slay the Spire combines deckbuilding and roguelikes to create a truly original entry into this list. As a single-player deckbuilding game, players must choose their cards wisely in order to do battle with and defeat a range of enemies. As players set out on their path up the Spire, the layout of their journey will change each time, as will the cards and relics that can be collected on each run. Seeing your deck of cards blast away the enemies is pretty satisfying stuff, so this game will have a particular appeal to those who enjoy their roguelike games with a good deal of strategic thinking.
#9 Stardew Valley
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Taking some inspiration from the Harvest Moon franchise, Stardew Valley was created by indie developer ConcernedApe. The game put players in control of a rundown farm with the goal of making it profitable again by raising healthy crops and livestock. This will mean tending the weeds, clearing fields, planting seeds, watering crops, maintaining the livestock, supplying food, and harvesting goods. Working together to make the best possible farm manages to be both engaging and eternally relaxing, and most call this the ultimate ‘zen’ game.
#8 Yakuza: Like A Dragon
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
The Yakuza series is well-known as an over-the-top brawler series. However, this was changed with Yakuza: Like A Dragon. The development studio opted to give players a new protagonist, storyline, and even new combat mechanics this time around, stepping away from what the series was known for. In this installment, players step into the role of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking Yakuza family member that ends up taking the fall for a crime that he didn’t commit.
From there, our protagonist is thrown into jail where he’s forced to live out an 18-year sentence. After getting out of prison, Ichiban finds no one waiting for him–his family has been killed, prompting him to discover what happened. As mentioned, the series was known to be a third-person brawler, but in Yakuza: Like A Dragon, players are instead given a classic turn-based RPG which has proven to be just as popular.
#7 Monster Hunter: World
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
If you enjoy slaying a range of mythical beasts in a low-fantasy setting, you’ll love Monster Hunter: World. The game’s primary setting of the New World is ripe for questing and exploration. Of course, it’s perfectly crafted for hunting a variety of intelligent monsters as well. The New World is comprised of six huge zones that players can venture into freely, encountering different creatures and exploring unique environments. A world where wilderness features heavily, Monster Hunter: World gives players the freedom to explore the different ecosystems in-game and offers an incredibly expansive game world for players to enjoy. We’d recommend taking on the beasts with friends, as this game falls on the more difficult side.
#6 NieR: Automata
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
PlatinumGames developed NieR: Automata as a sequel to 2010’s Nier. The game is set during a proxy war between alien-created machines and human-crafted androids, and this particular game requires multiple playthroughs in order for players to unlock key story elements and progress through the game. NieR: Automata combines role-playing with hack-and-slash action, as well as elements of the shoot ’em up genre. The game has been praised for its story, gameplay, and music, and is a fantastic addition to your Xbox One library.
#5 Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic is based on a comic series set in the Star Wars universe, with gameplay inspired by Dungeons and Dragons. Combat is divided into separate rounds where enemies attack and react simultaneously. The game introduces several new characters, lightsaber types, and colors which include silver, cyan, and orange. A whole new expansion titled Star Wars: Knights of The Old Republic – Legacy of the Sith launched this year, introducing a whole new story for fans to playthrough.
#4 Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age keeps the same formula that players have grown to expect from a Dragon Quest title. In this game, players explore a massive world and fight against a variety of monsters as they go through an expansive RPG narrative. As expected, the combat system remains turn-based, leaving players to strategize before choosing different attacks or using items.
This time around, players take the role of a young boy who must climb a mountain, as it is tradition for all young children to do so during a coming of age ceremony. However, after the climb, our protagonist finds out that he is the reincarnation of a former hero, leading him to set out on a new adventure as he helps those in need and battles against evil monsters that have spawned across the land.
#3 Divinity: Original Sin II
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
Divinity: Original Sin II takes place after the first installment. During a time of war and religious persecution, Bishop Alexandar the Innocent declares all Sorcerers to be criminals to rid the horrid creatures their powers lure into the game’s lands. Players can make up a team of four as they play through a deep and meaningful narrative, taking on quests around the world and potentially slaying the Bishop.
This is a multiplayer RPG title inviting friends to play together. However, if you’re already a bit into the campaign and don’t want to start over, other players can take control of a character in your party. Likewise, the game offers a plethora of choices to help alter the narrative or means of completing a quest.
#2 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
PC | Xbox | PlayStation | Nintendo
No list of the best RPGs would be complete without championing The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Masterful storytelling aside, this game’s maps and environments truly invoke the spirit of the Slavonic mythology that the fantasy world was built upon. Stepping foot inside the world of Geralt of Rivia really does feel as though you’re visiting an era that’s not so far removed from our own historical reality, albeit with added magic, monsters, and mystery thrown in for good measure. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is widely acknowledged as being a masterpiece of gaming, and takes the number one spot on this list. If you’re looking to truly escape into a high fantasy setting with a truly human undertone, then this is the game to do it in.
#1 Elden Ring
PC | Xbox | PlayStation
Another contender for game of the year, Elden Ring is the product of a collaboration between George R. R. Martin and Hidetaka Miyazaki. This dark title takes what everyone loves about previous soulslike games and turns it on its head, and players can take on big baddies with their friends in a kind of drop-in co-op. This is one title that everyone has been talking about since its release in February 2022, and playing it with your best friends brings a whole new joy to the experience. This is one title you won’t want to miss.